I think that one of the best ways to learn leadership isn’t studying “leadership” at all. Instead, study individual leaders in their natural habitat and decide what they do that you want to try. Articles by and about leaders and interviews with them are mini-case studies that show you an actual leader in a real situation.

That’s why, every week, I bring you a selection of post about individual leaders. This week I’m pointing you to pieces by and about Tony Thompson, Neha Sampat, Anthony Bay, Susan Story, and David Girodat

From Catherine Carlock: How CEO Tony Thompson will take Krispy Kreme beyond doughnuts

“Tony Thompson has been president and CEO of Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Inc. for about 90 days. The former Papa John’s International executive this week laid out early plans for how he intends to capitalize on the growth potential of the 77-year-old Krispy Kreme and take the company beyond its sweet-treat namesake.”

From Elizabeth Segran: The Upsides Of Being A Non-Technical CEO

“Neha Sampat is not your typical tech CEO: She runs a team of web developers at the cloud software firm Raw Engineering, but unlike most of her staff, she hasn’t had an ounce of technical training. With degrees in French and mass communications, she’s more adept at writing poetry than code. Yet Sampat rose through the ranks in tech PR, then pivoted into product marketing before landing the top job at the tech company. Her unconventional background hasn’t prevented her from rising to the top of her industry: in fact, it’s arguably the secret to her success.”

From Josh O’Kane: In a noisy music streaming market, Rdio CEO searches for profit

“One of the chief crusaders for the future of music is a failed bass player.”

From Adam Bryant: Susan Story of American Water: A Job Description Is Just the Start

“A chief executive says that throughout her career, she has always seen part of her work as ‘looking around for what’s not getting done that would bring value.'”

From Frank Witsil: Fifth Third Bank CEO rises from teller to the top

“In an interview, the 51-year-old banker talked about the Cincinnati-based bank’s strategy to attract customers and grow in Michigan by raising its profile in the community — and he detailed his own rise through the corporate ranks.”