David Cordani, chairman and CEO of The Cigna Group, has a clear and consistent message to emerging leaders: Remain authentic, stay open to learning, and embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth.

Cordani, who recently announced he will retire as CEO of The Cigna Group in July and will transition to a new role as Executive Chair of the Board of Directors, shared this message and other leadership advice on a recent Aggie Legends podcast from Texas A&M. He also reflected on his journey from a modest, working-class childhood in Connecticut to leading a global health care company with almost 70,000 employees.

During the conversation, Cordani shared his approach to earning trust and leading with integrity, particularly in moments of uncertainty such as the COVID‑19 pandemic. He also discussed why embracing innovation, AI, and personalization are critical to long‑term progress in health care. He underscored how active listening – to colleagues on the front lines and customers navigating an increasingly complex health care system – transformed his business decision-making. Beyond his professional work, he spoke about pushing personal boundaries through Ironman competitions and volunteering as a guide for disabled veteran athletes with Achilles International, reflecting on how early exposure to discipline and service for others continues to influence the life he leads today.