8 QUESTIONS WITH C. TODD LOMBARDO
Where is your hometown?
I grew up in Lowell, Massachusetts. Yes, it’s the setting for the movie “The Fighter.” No, I was not a boxer.
What do you teach?
I teach two electives in the International MBA program: Presentation Design and Creativity, Design Thinking & Innovation. I also lead the Design Thinking modules during the Change-in-Action week.
Your favorite spot in Madrid?
La Gastrocroquetería. Best. Croquetas. Ever. Also, Taberna de Tempranillo is my favorite wine bar.
What is one of the most valuable, yet underrated skills in business?
Asking the right questions.
What books are currently on your nightstand?
Playing to Win by AG Lafley and Roger Martin and Designing the Conversation by Unger, Nunnally and Willis
How do you relax?
I cook.
What do you enjoy about teaching?
My philosophy is “spend out,” meaning I expend all my energy when I teach. It’s exhausting, but the students deserve nothing less! I also learn just as much from my students as (I hope) they learn from me.
Your favorite quote?
Those who say it can’t be done are usually interrupted by others doing it. – James A. Baldwin
Professor C. Todd Lombardo was photographed by Kerry Parke in Somerville, Massachusetts (May 2013.)