Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has been leading the company for over 30 years, guiding it through financial struggles and emerging as one of the world’s most valuable companies. In a recent interview with Joe Rogan, Huang shared his candid thoughts on leadership, vulnerability, and the mental toll of running a multi-trillion-dollar company.
Huang, who has led Nvidia through several near-bankruptcy situations in the 1990s, said he still feels “vulnerable,” “insecure” and “fearful” about making mistakes. He believes that being vulnerable as a leader is essential, allowing him to be open to feedback and consider alternative strategies.
The CEO’s drive is fueled by his fear of failure, not success. Huang said he’s “always in a state of anxiety” and often wakes up early to read thousands of emails daily. His work ethic has been passed down to his children, both of whom work at Nvidia.
Huang’s words highlight the importance of acknowledging the challenges of leadership, rather than presenting a picture of invincibility. By sharing his own vulnerabilities, he aims to inspire others to be more open and honest in their leadership roles.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/nvidia-ceo-jensen-huang-joe-rogan-2025-12