#31: Lessons from a Warzone: Interview with Louai Al Roumani

Book Talk Today with Aun Abdi

On Episode #31 of the Book Talk Today podcast we are joined by Louai Al Roumani. Louai was the head of finance and planning at Banque Bemo Saudi Fransi (BBSF), the largest privately-owned bank in Syria when the conflict broke out in 2011. He has over 14 years of experience in various finance and strategic planning roles across the Middle East and the UK. Today we will be discussing his book, 'Lessons from a Warzone: How to be a resilient leader in times of crisis.'

Timestamps

[0:00] - Intro

[1:51] - Louai’s reasons behind writing the book.

[6:04] - What was the experience like leading a bank through a war?

[12:54] - Mistakes made during Louai's time leading.

[16:17] - Dealing with someone turning their back on you during bad times.

[21:19] - Misinformation during a time of crisis.

[27:35] - How to manage a stressful job and family life.

[31:32] - Louai's personal life lessons during that time.

[33:21] - The difference between being passive and still.

[34:23] - Should we actively seek out crisis?

[36:45] - Louai’s transition to moving to London.

[39:31] - Feedback from the book and Louai's story.

[43:57] - The importance of talking honestly.

[47:29] - Louai’s experience as a first-time writer.

[51:58] - Some book recommendations.

[54:15] - Outro

*At times the audio and video may be out of sync. Apologies.

Find Louai here - www.louaialroumani.com

Visit our website - https://www.booktalktoday.com