Elevating knowledge with powerful experiential activities results in lasting and applicable outcomes. Leadership programmes that truly raise the performance of top managers and their organisations require an understanding of the neuroscience of leadership as well as the theory and practice of cutting-edge leadership models. JB Kurish and Jason Caldwell, captain of the four-person rowing team holding the transatlantic world record, will address the dramatic impact of experiential activities within executive education. As one example, they will highlight the advantages of rowing for the development of leadership skills and the enhanced retention and transference of key knowledge when participants engage physically and mindfully in the learning process.