the word is leadership

In what I hope is another thought-provoking episode of The Word is Leadership, I challenge leaders to combat institutional amnesia by rediscovering their organisation's founding purpose. The discussion centres on the organisational flip law – the tendency for companies to transition from being “a purpose in search of assets” to “assets in search of purpose” as they grow. This shift creates bureaucratic processes that bury the original mission that once fuelled innovation. The solution lies in in memoriam im memoria– a Latin-inspired principle meaning “no memory in memory of.” Leaders must become organisational archaeologists, reviving core values through founder story rituals. I argue that true leadership requires temporal stewardship – using historical purpose as an “acid test” for modern decisions. Rather than chasing futuristic visions, sustainable success comes from answering: What has been true in your organization since time immemorial?1. In an age of AI disruption, this episode offers a contrarian anchor: the past holds keys to undying relevance. For CEOs, HR directors, and scaling startups, it's a clarion call to transform dusty archives into living legacies. I hope that this episode will show you how excavating yesterday's dreams can fuel tomorrow's breakthroughs – because purpose remembered is future reimagined.

In this episode of "The Word is Leadership," I explore the implications of our random word "empty" for leaders. I share three key insights to challenge conventional leadership wisdom: The Empty Generalist Do leaders need to be experts in everything? I argue that credibility stems not from encyclopaedic knowledge, but from your ability to: • Codify your experience • Articulate expertise in broader contexts • Demonstrate how diverse experiences apply to current challenges The Empty Raincoat Inspired by Charles Handy's work, I examine the human element in leadership: • The risks of treating employees as "empty vessels" • The importance of preserving humanity in an AI-driven world • Why leaders must grapple with philosophical questions about their impact The Empty Cup Finally I emphasise the critical role of energy management in leadership: • Leadership as an exchange of energy • The dangers of becoming "drained" and how to refill your cup • Why focusing on organisational energy flows is key to long-term success I hope this episode serves as a powerful reminder that effective leadership requires a delicate balance of expertise, humanity, and personal energy management. I conclude by challenging you to reflect on your own leadership journey, asking: "What comes to mind for you, as a leader, when you hear the word empty?"

Discover the secret to breaking free from your career jam in this week's episode of "The Word is Leadership"! Are you feeling stuck in your professional life? Do you wonder why you're not getting that promotion you deserve? In this week's episode I discuss the concept of being "jammed" in your career and offer insights on how to escape this all-too-common predicament. Highlights of this episode: Uncover the paradox of why your greatest strength might become your biggest weakness Learn about the intriguing "hired, mired, fired" cycle that affects leaders Explore the Japanese concept of "ikigai" and how it relates to career fulfilment Discover the JAM principle: Joy, Ability, and Money - your key to professional satisfaction Don't miss this opportunity to reassess your career path and find your true calling. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an aspiring leader, this episode will challenge your perspective and inspire you to take control of your professional destiny. Tune in now and ask yourself: "Have you found your jam?"

This week on The Word is Leadership, we explore the word “Optic” and how it connects to the idea of vision and focus in leadership. While “visionary leadership” is often romanticised as the ability to foresee the future, this episode argues that focusing on clarity, culture, and climate - the Three Cs - can deliver far more tangible results than the often elusive notion of vision. Our word, optic, reminds us that successful leadership requires a clear focus. Here's how clarity, culture, and climate provide that focus: Clarity is about setting clear goals and expectations. Unlike vision, clarity is practical and immediate. It provides a roadmap that teams can act on today. Culture is about the unspoken rules and shared beliefs that guide behaviour in an organisation. It shapes how employees work together, make decisions, and solve problems. If culture is “how we do things,” climate is “how it feels to work here.” While clarity and culture contribute to climate, it's the human connections that create a sense of belonging and engagement. People work better when they feel valued and supported. Clarity, culture, and climate work together to create an environment where people can thrive. While vision can inspire, it's often fuzzy and difficult to operationalise. Instead of striving to predict the future, focus on leading effectively in the present by ensuring clarity of goals and expectations, a culture that embodies shared values and a climate where people feel engaged and supported. As promised here is a link to mind friends at mindtools https://www.mindtools.com and one to our season 1 edited transcripts https://amzn.to/4hwCUwd

This week on The Word is Leadership, our random the word is “Artificial” which leads me to talk about artificial intelligence (AI). However, instead of adding to the noise, this episode focuses on the four key questions leaders must ask before engaging with AI AI is not magic—it's made by humans, trained by humans, and marketed by humans. Leaders must critically ask: “Who designed this AI and for whose benefit?” in order to assess the credibility of claims and the true value AI brings. AI often claims to enhance efficiency or innovation, but leaders need to ask: “What exactly does this AI do and What is it replacing?” to know whether AI is solving a real problem, or is it being implemented for the sake of novelty? AI mimics intelligence but lacks true creativity, emotional depth, or critical thinking which forces leaders to ask “What aspects of humanity remains irreplaceable?” to understand where the depth of human insight and connection remains critical. Finally, as leaders, we must ask “What is intelligence?” to think critically about whether we want to shape our future or just maximise the benefits from a future shaped for us. Thank you for listening, and as always, if you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share. Until next time!

In this week's episode of The Word is Leadership, I use the metaphor of an hourglass to reframe how leaders approach career development. When planning your career trajectory, the hourglass provides a unique lens for gaining clarity and momentum. Leaders often view their careers as a funnel, narrowing with specialisation and limiting opportunities. However, a career is better understood as an hourglass: The Upper Chamber - Realising Potential: Early in your career, focus on building skills, gaining experiences, and proving your value. The Narrow Neck - Avoiding the Mid-Career Trap: Many professionals get stuck here, believing their specialisation restricts their opportunities. The Lower Chamber - Broadening Impact: Leadership involves moving beyond expertise to apply your experiences across the organisation. Key Takeaways Leadership isn't just about expertise; it's about leveraging experience to create value across the organization. Avoid the mid-career trap by asking how your experience can serve others outside your immediate role. If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, share and, I hope, join me next week!

In this week's episode of The Word is Leadership, we explore the word "Constellation" and what it means for leadership. Just as stars exist within a larger system and context, leadership operates across three interconnected units: the individual leader, the team, and the organization. Understanding the dynamic interplay between these levels is essential for intentional and effective leadership. 1. You - The Star: Leaders are shaped by a group of ideas that impacts the team and organisational environment. 2. The Team - The Gathering of Stars: Teams are constellations—individual stars with unique preferences, roles, and contributions that must be harmonised for optimal performance. 3. The Organisation - The Galaxy: The organisation is the broader system that shapes individuals and teams. Like gravitational forces, its culture, structures, and dynamics influence behaviour and performance. The key lesson of Constellation is that leadership requires a multi-level perspective: • Look deep within yourself and your team to understand drives, roles, and responses. • Look up to see the broader system—how individuals, teams, and the organization interact and adapt in a changing context. True leadership involves navigating these dynamics intentionally, ensuring that every element is seen and aligned. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to rate, review, and share. I'll see you next time!

In this episode of The Word is Leadership, we explore the word "Carnage," using its more colloquial sense of “total disaster” to discuss how leaders can rebuild after major failures. Whether stepping into a role amidst chaos or managing through a significant organizational breakdown, every leader will face a moment when they must recover from carnage. So, how do you rebuild? This episode gives me the chance to offer a practical 3-step framework to lead in the aftermath of a leadership or organizational disaster: 1. Start with a Clean Sheet (Clarity and Standards) To rebuild, start by wiping the slate clean and resetting expectations. Focus on clarity (what needs to be done and why) and standards (how it needs to be done). 2. Rebuild the Basics (Trust and Team Dynamics) After setting the foundation, focus on trust and team dynamics. You need discretionary effort from your team to truly recover. 3. Don't Think It's Over (Realism and Monitoring) Carnage often happens when leaders are caught off guard. To prevent future failures, stay vigilant by monitoring performance with objective metrics and feedback. Recovering from carnage isn't about perfection—it's about laying a stronger foundation, building trust, and remaining adaptable to navigate the unexpected. If this episode resonated with you, don't forget to rate, review, and share it with others!

In this episode of The Word is Leadership, we explore the word “Peace”. Peace doesn't have to be the absence of conflict, it can also suggest a state of harmony, where conflict can exist but be managed constructively. As leaders, embracing "peaceful conflict" enables growth, creativity, and stronger relationships. To navigate conflict effectively, I offer a practical series of questions to ensure a peaceful, resolution-focused approach: 1. Do you want to win, or do you want to resolve the conflict? Your mindset determines your approach (competition or a shared challenge) 2. Do you see the person behind the conflict? Recognizing the humanity in your counterpart helps you value their input, enhancing the path to resolution. 3. Ask the ‘W' questions (Why, When, Where, What, Who) and How. These guide the process by focusing on facts and issues rather than assumptions and emotions. 4. Monitor emotions with “How do you feel?” This question allows you to check the emotional temperature throughout the discussion. Conflict, when managed with a foundation of peace, can be a valuable tool for growth and innovation. Leaders who embrace this approach are not only better equipped to resolve issues but also to build teams that are resilient and open to diverse perspectives. Join me next time as we continue exploring leadership through random words. Until then, consider this: Are you using conflicts to grow or diminish your potential as a leader? If you found value in this episode, please rate, review, and share!

In this episode of The Word is Leadership, we explore the word “Composition” and its implications for leadership. Rather than focusing on legacy or vision, which can feel abstract and out of reach, we're asking a simpler, yet profound question: What will your impact be? Using the definition ‘composition' I identify two key themes: The first is composition as the act of bringing together elements to create a cohesive whole. For leaders, this means working ON the organisation rather than just IN it. It's about identifying what works, nurturing it, and replicating it to create a high-leverage impact that can outlast any single task or role. The second theme is composition as the act of creating something new. As leaders, this doesn't necessarily mean inventing new goals or radical visions. Instead, it's about bringing a fresh approach, a unique perspective, and a genuine impact to how you lead. This episode challenges leaders to reflect on their unique contributions and value. The answer lies not in the destination but in the distinct way you guide, inspire, and compose the experiences and success of those around you. So, join me on this journey of self-reflection, and until next time, consider this question: “What will your verse be?” If you found value in this episode, don't forget to rate, review, and share it with others!

In this week's episode of The Word is Leadership, we explore the word “Fever” and its implications in leadership and organisational health. Just as a fever is both a warning that something is wrong and a reassurance that our body is fighting it, the same can be said for our organisations - knowing when things are heating up can be both a red flag as well as a sign that the system is working hard to resolve underlying issues. So key questions are: 1. How do you know when your organization is running a fever? 2. Do you know when to call for help versus when to let the system heal itself? Answering the first question requires a number - a measure of what's normal and what's not. Just as a thermometer helps us gauge our body temperature, leaders need to identify key metrics to determine when things are running smoothly and when they're not. But numbers alone aren't enough; you also need a range (a scale) to define what constitutes a normal fluctuation versus a real problem. Yet, leaders who constantly scan for problems and catastrophise small deviations can cause more harm than good, acting as if every minor issue is a crisis. Focusing solely on problems can blind us to what's working well. This episode encourages leaders to reframe their approach. The question is : ‘Do you know the symptoms of your organization at its best, or are you just focused on the signs of failure?' Don't forget to rate, review, and share if you found this episode valuable!

In this week's episode of The Word is Leadership, we dissect the verb "quell" and its implications in leadership scenarios. We explore the dual aspects of this powerful verb: suppressing rebellion and alleviating pain or grief, both of which are essential skills in a leader's toolkit. We discuss how rebellion, while overtly disruptive, is charged with the energy of change and can be redirected constructively. On the other hand, quelling pain or grief requires a deeper understanding and a more empathetic approach, as these states often involve a lack of visible energy and action. To effectively address both rebellion and emotional distress, I propose a strategic approach using the acronym "QUELL": • Q for Question: Start by questioning the reality of the situation. • U for Unpack: Delve deeper into the causes. • E for Explain: Use your access to broader information to explain your perspective and actions. • L for Listen: Active listening is crucial. Show genuine respect and attention to the concerns being raised, validating the experiences and emotions of your team. • L for Loop back: Revisit your assumptions and understanding continuously. This episode encourages leaders to view disruptions not merely as obstacles to be overcome but as opportunities for deeper engagement and understanding. By applying the QUELL strategy, leaders can transform potential conflicts into constructive dialogue, fostering an environment where every team member feels valued and heard. Join us next time as we continue to explore the dynamic world of leadership and don't forget to rate, review, and share if you found this episode insightful!

In this episode of The Word is Leadership, I look for lessons in the ancient role of the Skald, or bard, and draw parallels to modern leadership. Our journey brings us to understand how these figures weren't just entertainers but crucial historians and advisors who used the power of words to influence courts and leaders. This leads me to ask: should leaders today embrace the poet within? The episode focuses on the importance of leaders as storytellers and poets. While facts are crucial, the context and emotions behind how they are presented can significantly alter perceptions and decisions. We discuss the "four Cs" of storytelling for leaders: Credible, Clear, Concise, and Compelling. But I also argue that leaders need to transcend the role of mere storytellers to become poets - those who choose their words not just for their direct meaning but for their rhythm and emotional impact. This poetic approach can transform mundane business narratives into compelling leadership dialogues that inspire and motivate, acknowledging the human condition and the deeper truths of our experiences. Join me as, together, we consider how integrating the artistry of a skald can elevate the way we lead and connect. Until next time, ponder this: In your leadership, are you a reporter, a storyteller, or a poet? Don't forget to rate, review, and share if this episode sparked new insights for you!

In this episode of The Word is Leadership, we unpack the concept of “Handle” and its deeper connections to leadership. A handle allows us to move, use, and pick up an object, but how does this apply to leading people and organisations? We explore three key ways this metaphor illuminates the leader's role. First, we discuss how leaders “move” things—whether it's managing resources or emotionally inspiring teams. Great leaders don't just move people physically but energise them to achieve more. Then, we explore how leaders “use” their teams effectively, ensuring both people and processes are maximised while balancing the need for empathy and support. Finally, we look at how leaders help others “pick up” their responsibilities, offering both accountability and encouragement, coaching teams to handle challenges with confidence. This episode reminds us that leadership is a balance between the practical and the emotional, between managing the formal work and fostering the discretionary effort that leads to true success. Join me for fresh insights on how leadership is much like a handle - it helps us lift, guide, and support. Until next time, ask yourself: What mental image of leadership do you hold, and how does it shape your actions? Don't forget to rate, review, and share if you enjoyed this episode!

In this episode of The Word is Leadership, we explore the metaphor of “Cruise” as it applies to leadership and career development. Is your career a crossing - a direct path with a clear destination - or a cruise, where the journey itself is filled with meaningful stops along the way? We discuss the psychology of both approaches. A crossing focuses on reaching a destination quickly and efficiently, while a cruise emphasises the value of each experience during the journey. But what if your career could be a balance of both? Like the iconic Queen Mary 2 crossing, where the journey is as enriching as the destination itself. As leaders, it's essential to guide and mentor others, helping them navigate their own career paths without imposing our personal views. Our role is to ensure they have the best journey possible (whether it's a cruise, a crossing, or a unique blend of both). We discuss how to foster engagement and create meaningful experiences for your team, making the trip as important as the destination. Tune in to gain insights on how to approach your leadership journey—and ask yourself this: Crossing or cruise, have you thought about what life can bring on the sea? Don't forget to rate, review, and share the podcast!

This week on The Word is Leadership, we explore the significance of small, often overlooked elements in leadership, symbolised by the word of the week—Radicel, a small root. Just as radicels are crucial for sustaining a tree, it is small things in an organisation that are often what keep it thriving. I discuss the “radicel conundrum” faced by many leaders. Ignore the small things and they can become large problems but focus too much on them and you will get derailed by micromanagement. From the smallest details in interactions to the broader organisational strategies, this episode reminds us that true leadership is knowing when to focus on the radicels and when to see the forest. Discover practical insights into how leaders can manage their time, attention, and decision-making through a 360-degree view - seeing in, on, and outside of their organisation. I explain a simple approach to use the small in order to thinking bog and find opportunities to strengthen the entire system. Tune in for strategies to help you lead from root to canopy and please don't forget to rate, review, and share!

In this week's episode of The Word is Leadership, we're diving into the multifaceted concept of ‘Journal'. What does it mean to be a leader who not only reports but reflects, analyses, and learns? Discover how the simple act of journaling can transform your leadership approach—from being a reporter who clarifies the "what" and "why," to an analyst who connects actions to values, and even a mirror that reflects on personal growth and priorities. Join me as we explore these unique perspectives and more, helping you reshape your leadership style by incorporating the power of the journal. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with insights to elevate your leadership game. Don't miss out—tune in now to gain a fresh perspective on what it means to lead with intention and clarity. Remember to rate, review, and share if you find value in this episode! 

Welcome to the first episode of the second season of ‘The Word is Leadership'. I hope you had a chance to recharge over the break. If you're new here, you can catch up on season one by listening to previous episodes or checking out our eBooks and paperback on Amazon ( https://amzn.to/3DlzlKv ). Today, the word is "bostryx," a botanical term for a type of cymose inflorescence and, honestly, I have no idea what this means, so we're in uncharted territory. This situation is a perfect opportunity to discuss how to generate possibilities when we have no idea what's going on. I outline four techniques I use to create possibilities in such situations: Be Literal: Stick closely to your purpose and apply it literally (n our case, it's finding a leadership lesson from a random word not from its definition). This broadens your horizons. Be Analogue: Use analogies to relate the unknown to something familiar. It will help you to travel down new paths while keeping to the destination. Be Random: Use your immediate environment to spark ideas. Everything around you can serve as inspiration if you remain open to it. Be Contrarian: Challenge assumptions by looking at the opposite perspective. Turn a negative connotation into a positive lesson or vice versa. In closing, I invite you to share your techniques for generating possibilities. Comment on thewordisleadership.com or on the platform where you listen to this podcast. What methods do you use to create new ideas? Thank you for joining me as we kick off season two. I'm excited for the journey ahead and look forward to uncovering more leadership insights with you.

Welcome to our 50th episode of "The Word is Leadership." We've made it through a full season, and I am incredibly thankful for your support and encouragement. Our final word for the season. As always, I closed my eyes, opened the dictionary, and chose a word at random. This week's word is "reattach," which means to attach something again. "Reattach" brings to mind the idea of reengagement, especially in the context of the recent trend of "quiet quitting." Many people feel less connected to their work, not due to external factors but internal ones. The challenge is figuring out how to reattach ourselves to our work. Based on my own experience, reattaching yourself to your work involves three key elements: the past, the future, and the present. First, look to the past. Identify what initially motivated you. Was it the colleagues, the nature of the work, or the benefits? Write down these initial motivators. Second, focus on the future. What are your goals and aspirations? Whether personal or professional, write them down. Finally, consider the present. Does your current job still have elements that motivated you in the past? Can it help you achieve your future goals? Reflect on these questions to find a renewed sense of purpose and reattach yourself to your work. As we close this season, I won't leave you with a question but with my best wishes. Merry Christmas, if you celebrate it, and a happy new year. I hope 2025 brings you love, peace, harmony, and the motivation to reattach yourself to your passions. Join us again on January 6th for a new season of "The Word is Leadership." Thank you and stay safe. Couple of announcements – first we are releasing our second volume of edited transcripts, free for a limited time as a thank you gift (you can find it here …. Or on your local amazon site). Second, for those who prefer paper books, we are also releasing a complete season one book with all 50 lessons, available for purchase here … or again on your local amazon site.

Welcome to our penultimate episode of "The Word is Leadership." As we approach the end of our first season, I am filled with gratitude for your continued support. Producing this podcast has been more work than I anticipated, but it's also been incredibly rewarding. This week's random word ‘fulminate,' (to make criticisms or explode with violence) which provides an interesting lens for examining leadership. It raises a number of questions. Why do some leaders fulminate? Does it achieve anything, and is it ever acceptable? To answer these, I consider scenarios to see appropriate either or both elements of our definition - the message (criticism or denunciation) and the delivery (explosive and noisy) – are to support your desired impact. I point out how the effectiveness of fulminating will depend on both the cultural context as well as the leader's versatility in using numerous styles. I conclude that different situations call for different tones and styles. Fulminating can establish standards, but it should be used sparingly and complemented with other forms of communication. As we close this episode, consider this: In avoiding strong emotions, are you at risk of becoming too monotone? Balancing emotion and message is the key to effective leadership communication.

Welcome to Episode 48 of "The Word is Leadership." As we near the end of our season, I want to thank you for your continued support. Whether you're a regular listener or new to our podcast, your engagement means the world to me. This week's random word is ‘ironman' and this gives us a perfect metaphor for leadership. Both an ironman competition and leadership require versatility, endurance, and discipline. In this episode we discuss the need for Leaders must have a comprehensive view of their organization and understand various functions beyond their primary expertise. We look at the importance of self-care. Leaders must take care of their mental and physical health to maintain their stamina. Just as athletes train, leaders must also prepare and maintain their resilience to lead effectively. We tackle the need for leaders to find outlets for their drive to achieve. Engaging in individual sports like running or cycling can help leaders satisfy their personal achievement needs without interfering with their team's development. The lessons from the ironman metaphor are clear: leadership requires versatility, proper training, self-care, and finding a balance between personal achievement and team success. As we conclude this episode, consider this question: Have you thought about what setting yourself a leadership target could look like?

Welcome to episode 47 of The Word is Leadership. this week, our random word is one I had never come across before: ‘succinic', an adjective related to amber, specifically referring to compounds derived from succinic acid. While initially baffling, this discovery provides a unique lens to examine leadership communication. I explore how leaders can effectively communicate complex ideas that might initially seem as obscure as the term "succinic" to their teams. Understanding and communication are fundamentally about making connections. Leaders often operate with a wealth of specialised knowledge, much like a chemist understands "succinic" in relation to amber. However, the challenge is ensuring this knowledge is accessible and relatable to others who do not share the same background or perspective. To bridge this gap, I propose a three-step approach: Assessment: Consider your message from the standpoint of someone with different experiences. Would it make sense to them without your level of expertise? Association: Use analogies and references that are familiar to your audience to create a connection between known concepts and new ideas. Deduction: Explicitly unpack your reasoning. Don't skip from A to Z without explaining the intermediate steps, ensuring clarity and avoiding assumptions. This approach not only facilitates better understanding but also enhances engagement by making complex ideas more accessible. As we wrap up, I encourage you to think about your own "succinic dialogues." Are you ensuring your communication is clear and relatable, or could it be seen as obscure? Reflecting on this can significantly enhance how you lead and connect with your team.

Welcome to Episode 46 of ‘The Word is Leadership', where I explore insights from our weekly random word: ‘flock'. This term not only refers to a group of animals like sheep or birds but also metaphorically to a congregation of people, providing a powerful lens for examining leadership dynamics. The concept of a flock underscores the importance of unity and shared direction in leadership. It's about transforming a collection of followers into a cohesive group with a common purpose. I use this to explain how effective leadership is about cultivating a strong culture within an organisation. This culture, defined as "how we do things around here," acts as the glue that binds the team, fostering a sense of community and shared values. This episode challenges traditional views on leadership progression, focusing on the essential questions of 'what' rather than just ‘why' and 'how.' Effective leadership isn't just about gathering followers but about creating a flock that moves together towards a vision. Drawing parallels with self-organising systems like bird flocks, we discuss how leaders can influence their teams not by overt commands but by embodying the group's values and setting a clear, compelling vision. Join us as we reflect on whether you are merely leading a group of individuals or truly guiding a flock and consider how you might enhance the culture and cohesion of your team for collective success.

In this 45th episode, faced with the random word ‘oboe' I look at leadership challenges through the metaphor of musical instruments as I introduce the "Oboe/Recorder Rule of Development," a concept that illustrates the complexity of learning and leading effectively: Understanding the Instruments: Discover how the oboe, with its complex and demanding nature, contrasts sharply with the more straightforward recorder. This comparison sheds light on the varying levels of difficulty and mastery in leadership tasks. Quick Wins vs. Long-Term Mastery: Reflect on how some challenges in leadership (recorder problems) can give a false sense of accomplishment due to their simplicity and immediate feedback, while others (oboe problems) require persistence and depth to truly master, often giving a false sense of failure at initial attempts. Leadership and Learning: I discuss how leadership is akin to mastering a language or an instrument (initially accessible but intricate and nuanced upon deeper engagement). Just like mastering English or German, leadership involves navigating apparent simplicity and underlying complexity. The episode draws from personal anecdotes and experiences with language learning with a nod to my wife's childhood oboe lessons, to emphasise the importance of recognising the nature of the challenges we face as leaders. Tune in to uncover whether the challenges you're facing are more like the oboe or the recorder! 

In today's episode of "The Word is Leadership," we discuss the Essence of Community and Creativity in Leadership thanks to our random word 'acetum' (better known as vinegar). This episode promises to distil (see what I did there!) unique insights from the common and versatile substance, exploring themes of adaptability, solution-finding, and the invaluable role of community and creativity. I delve in the parallels between vinegar's transformative process and effective leadership: Versatility and Adaptability: Just as vinegar serves various purposes from cleaning to cooking, effective leaders must adapt to diverse situations, turning challenges into opportunities. Acidity and Clarity: Explore how the acidic nature of vinegar can symbolise the leader's role in stripping back layers to reveal the core issues, clarifying complex situations to find solutions. Community and Creativity: Inspired by a my grandmother (Mémé Carmen), and her vinegar-making, we uncover how leadership thrives on community support and creative resourcefulness. This episode also marks a first for our podcast as it begins without a predetermined path, reflecting the real journey of leadership, which often involves stepping into the unknown and relying on the collective strength and creativity of the community. Join me as I explore how these elements can enhance your leadership approach, ensuring that just like vinegar, you can enrich and preserve the values of your team or organisation. Tune in for an episode that blends personal anecdotes with leadership strategies, proving that sometimes, the best insights are like vinegar: simple, yet profoundly transformative.

In this week's 43rd episode of ‘The Word is Leadership', we dive into the world of leadership communication courtesy of our random word ‘glib'. Often described as fluently easy, yet potentially insincere or deceptive, this small but powerful word opens a fascinating question about where the fine line is between being convincingly articulate and deceptively smooth. Join me as we explore the dual nature of ‘glib' through a mnemonic that offers a fresh perspective on effective communication. Discover how to harness the positive aspects of being glib without falling into the traps of insincerity. We'll dissect: • G for Gibberish: Learn the importance of acknowledging when our knowledge is limited, and how this honesty can enhance credibility. • L for Listen: Delve into the art of listening—not just to respond, but to understand and be genuinely influenced by the dialogue. • I for Invite: See how inviting others into your thought process can demystify your intentions and strengthen trust. • B for Beat: Master the tempo of your speech to ensure clarity and foster genuine connections. Whether you're a seasoned leader or a newcomer eager to refine your communication skills, this episode provides valuable insights into how to express your visions persuasively and authentically. Tune in to navigate the complexities of leadership talk and leave equipped to engage and inspire with sincerity. Don't miss this blend of theory, practical advice, and engaging storytelling!

This week we dive into the rich and unpredictable realms of leadership through the random word: "pheasant." I focus on the vibrant imagery of the pheasant, known for its brightly coloured plumage and presence in both art and nature, to steer the discussion tying the pheasant's characteristics to essential leadership qualities, focusing on visibility, attraction, and distinction. I emphasise the importance of standing out in a competitive environment, much like the male pheasant does with its striking feathers to attract mates despite the risks. I invite and help you to ponder your own 'pheasant' (their unique traits) and how it can be leveraged rather than hidden by challenging conventional norms and encourage you to not only find their distinctive voice but to use it boldly to shape your path and attract the right kind of attention. This episode of "The Word is Leadership" is not just a discussion; it's an invitation to reflect, stand out, and lead with authenticity. If you are eager to rethink leadership and personal branding in a way that's as colourful and impactful as the pheasant itself join the journey at thewordisleadership.com or your preferred podcast platform and ask yourself: "Have you ever forgotten your pheasant?"

Episode 41 of ‘The Word is Leadership' and our random this week is ‘kachumber', the delightful Indian salad of chopped onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, chilli and coriander that serves as the perfect metaphor to build the three rules of collaboration. The first, the salad rule, reminds us that just like not all salads are kachumber, not all collaborative efforts are the same. It's essential to assess whether collaboration is indeed the right approach for your situation. A simple green salad might be all you need. The next rule, the ingredients rule acts as the cornerstone of effective collaboration. Just as a kachumber requires the right mix of onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers, collaboration thrives on a diverse blend of skills, experiences, and personalities. Our final rule is the mixing rule. Just as a skilled chef knows how to balance flavours and textures in a kachumber, a leader must understand how to navigate the dynamics of collaboration. Until next time, keep mixing, and as always, thank you for tuning in to ‘The Word is Leadership.' I am grateful for your presence.

Welcome back to "The Word is Leadership," Episode 40! Today, we delve into the multifaceted concept of "discord" and its implications for effective leadership. Drawing parallels between discord in social dynamics and musical dissonance, I suggest that planned discord can awaken us from complacency and generate valuable insights. I reflect on Solomon Asch's conformity experiments, to acknowledge the tendency to prioritise harmony over dissent in group settings and look at how to cultivate constructive discord. I argue that, to succeed, we must prioritise psychological safety over positional safety, encourage profusion over profession, and address points rather than personalities during moments of discord. As we contemplate the question, ‘Do you see discord as division or as a process of unification?' let's recognise the potential of discord to unite us in pursuit of shared goals.

Welcome to Episode 39 of ‘The Word is Leadership' in which we explore the unexpected leadership insights behind the word ‘rosé'. In the world of wine, rosé often occupies a middle ground, neither white nor red, and is frequently perceived as less sophisticated. Leadership, too, faces the dilemma of choosing between opposites. Yet, there's more to rosé than meets the eye. It reflects the challenge of navigating complexity and ambiguity, much like the transition from black and white to grey in leadership. Traditionally, mixing red and white wines to create rosé is viewed as subpar, except in the case of Champagne, where it's celebrated as a mark of quality. The difference lies in methodology and culture. Rosé is a reminder that blending two things should result in something rooted in purpose and excellence. Leadership isn't about choosing between extremes but finding harmony in diversity. Like viticulture and viniculture shape wine, understanding the "what, where, and how" of your business (nature) and the "who and how" of your operations (culture) define effective leadership. So, let's strive to be more like champagne and craft our unique blend rooted in purpose, adaptable in approach, and unafraid to embrace the richness of our diverse experiences. Cheers to that!

For episode 38 of ‘The Word is Leadership' I dive into the concept of ‘continuum' and its implications for leaders. Defined as a continuous series with no perceptible differences between adjacent parts, "continuum" prompts me to think about the notion of compromise and linear progression. A continuum is a reminder that every action, no matter how small, contributes to our journey towards our goal. each incremental step, even if seemingly insignificant, shapes our path forward. Our goal as leaders isn't just to plan a route from A to B but to navigate the continuum consciously. We avoid straying too far from our intended path by understanding incremental changes and their cumulative impact. By constantly positioning ourselves on the continuum from where we are to where we hope to be we can be both deliberate and intentional in our pursuit of our goal whilst remaining flexible in adapting and responding to events.

In this, our 37th episode of ‘The Word is Leadership', I tackle our random word ‘hock' to uncover insights into leadership development and personal growth. Defined as the joint in a horse's leg, "hock" prompts images of forward and backward motion, connections, and adaptation which lead me to use the letter of a word itself to delve into development and change. I use the letters of the word HOCK as the foundations of our inquiry into continuous leadership development and personal evolution. I argue that we start by "Having" a clear vision of our goals and aspirations along with a clear assessment of our current situation. Next, we must decide if we will achieve our goals by acquiring new skills, knowledge, or resources ("Obtain"), make sure we play to our strengths (“Keep”) or adjust our existing situation to our desired state ("Change”). Through this cyclical learning loop, we harness the power of connections and forward-backward motion inherent in the definition of "hock." As we ponder our own leadership journey, it is always worth considering if we have a strong "hock" to propel us forward.

In Episode 36 of "The Word is Leadership", helped by our random word ‘enamel', I ponder the question ‘do I possess the qualities necessary to be attractive without compromising my identity?' which prompts reflections on the intricate artistry of leadership. We explore the profound parallels between enamel's protective surface and the essence of effective leadership. Just as enamel shields what lies beneath, leaders must strike a delicate balance between authenticity and the need to appeal to others. I introduce the two crucial principles of leadership attraction: understanding your tribe and donning your game face. I discuss how attraction alone isn't sufficient – leadership demands resilience and strength - like enamel, leaders must remain steadfast and unwavering in their beliefs. I explain why consistency and conviction are paramount for fostering trust and respect among followers. Join me on what I hope is a thought-provoking foray into resilience and leadership.

In episode 35 of "The Word is Leadership," we reflect on the word "protract" and its implications for decision-making processes in leadership. I focus on the concept of “decision making protraction” - the idea that extending time in decision-making can add value. I highlight the difference between delaying, procrastinating, and protracting. Borrowing from the theory of system 1 and system 2 thinking, I emphasize the need for deeper, more deliberate decision-making processes, particularly in situations of dilemmas where opposing values are at play. I argue that protracted decision-making involves extending the breadth of thinking to explore innovative solutions. By asking deeper questions focused on outcomes rather than processes, leaders can reconcile opposing viewpoints and avoid suboptimal compromises. Ultimately, I prompt leaders to consider whether they have efficient system 1 decision-making processes while maximising the benefits of protracted system 2 decisions.

As we bid farewell to August and summer holidays, we're diving deep into the essence of leadership with this week's random word: "Ever." In episode 34, we explore what it means to lead at all times, in any context, and in your own unique way. Join us as we break down the definition of "ever" and uncover four enduring truths of leadership: 1. Lead Anytime: Discover how leadership is an equal opportunity endeavour—you can step up at any moment, regardless of your position or experience. 2. Lead Anywhere: Understand why true leadership transcends context, thriving in both good times and bad, in any setting. 3. Lead Always: Learn about the continuous nature of leadership and the importance of consistency and visibility in your actions. 4. Lead Your Way: Embrace the power of authentic leadership and the importance of finding your own style rather than imitating others. Listen now to discover how the word ‘ever' reveals the foundational elements of resilient and impactful leadership. Don't forget to rate, share, and comment on our show!

In episode 33 of The Word is Leadership, we are discussing the word "soup" which brings me back special memories from my grandfather. Reflecting on different types of soups we discuss the important topic of creating clarity and in particular, the common misconception of clarity in leadership which is similar to trying to turn soup into broth. I present the three levels of clarity leaders should provide: Crux, Contribution, and Context, enabling employees to understand the mechanics of their roles, how they link to the organisation's objectives in the context it operates under. Continuing our parallels with cooking, I encourage leaders to focus on "liaising a sauce," by linking the complexities of the context to organisational goals, rather than trying to eliminate ambiguity entirely. We end this week, as usual, with a question to reflect on: When it comes to creating clarity, are you trying to turn soup into broth or liaise a sauce?

In episode 32 of ‘The Word is Leadership' our random word is experience. I use it to explore the conundrum of needing experience to gain experience. We discuss tenure versus knowledge and the importance of active learning outside traditional roles seeking alternative opportunities to gain relevant experience. I look at how individuals can mitigate their lack of direct experience by demonstrating their accumulated characteristics and past actions and advise aspiring leaders to act, speak, and model leadership behaviours, leveraging their existing knowledge and skills to showcase their suitability for desired roles. Ultimately, I aim to challenge the notion that experience is a fixed attribute, emphasizing the value of continuous learning and adaptability.

In the 31st episode of ‘The Word is Leadership' I recall my nephew Evan's advice on avoiding analogies that might use future words as I use our random word ‘cutaneous' to explore the concept of authenticity I argue that while authenticity pertains to surface-level consistency, it is integrity with its alignment between thoughts, words, and deeds that followers want. I emphasise that, like healthy skin, leadership requires permeability, allowing others to understand their motives while continually improving themselves. Being oneself is important, but it should involve conscious effort and skilful adaptation, not mere complacency. Ultimately, my aim is to challenge the notion that leadership is superficial, urging leaders to consider whether their "skin" serves as a connector or a disguise.

For Episode 30 of ‘The Word is Leadership' our random word is the verb to prevail. I continue to reflect on what it means for a leader to have power and break down the definition of prevail into four imperatives of leadership power. First, I discuss ‘the mastery imperative', emphasising the importance of gaining mastery in one's field to stand out as a leader. I, then, explore ‘the safety imperative', highlighting the need for leaders to be the prevalent feature that provides safety and stability for their teams. Next, I introduce ‘the community imperative', stressing the importance of building a strong community of followers as a leader. Lastly, I outline 'the possibility imperative', which involves persuading and inspiring others to believe in the limitless possibilities ahead. I conclude with a, hopefully thought-provoking, question of the week asking you: "Are you prepared to prevail over yourself in order to lead others?"

In episode 29 of ‘The Word is Leadership,' we tackle the word mercury. Inspired by Gordon Mackenzie's delightful book ‘Orbiting the Giant Hairball' I look at what it takes to navigate the complexities of organizations without getting stuck in them, along with the importance of maintaining the right distance to make an impact. I propose three key steps for anyone aspiring to leadership, or wanting to affect change: being good at their role, gaining perspective to avoid fixedness, and cultivating gravitas to engage senior leaders effectively. As usual, I conclude with a question to encourage listeners to reflect on whether they possess the expertise, perspective, and gravitas necessary for success in their orbit.

In this new episode of "The Word is Leadership," I have to find insights using the random word ‘logos' (defined as the rational principle expressed in words and things). I discuss the significance of rhetoric in leadership, emphasizing Aristotle's three elements: logos (logic), pathos (emotion), and ethos (credibility) and look at how leaders can create followership as well as give examples of how they craft (last week's word!) resonance using each of them. I conclude by highlighting the importance of coherence, credibility, and emotional appeal in effective leadership communication, urging listeners to consider these factors in their own messages.

In Episode 27 of ‘The Word is Leadership', I use our random word ‘craft' to try to finally put to the bed the needless management versus leadership conversation. Putting aside my dislike for quotes and memes, while reiterating my caution against blindly accepting and sharing them without verification, I mention Steve Jobs' ideas about innovation and the iterative process of turning ideas into products, emphasizing the importance of craft in this journey. Taking craft as the convergence of science and art, combining precision with imagination and experience with experimentation, I argue that it represents the blending of what is often perceived as "hard" and "soft" elements in leadership and management. I challenge the distinction between leadership and management, describing it as a flawed and oversimplified caricature of reality, I argue for the need to see management and leadership as one for organizational success. As always please I welcome your comments at thewordisleadership.com along with your ratings, subscriptions, likes and shares!

For episode 26 of ‘The Word is Leadership' our random word is survey. Emmanuel highlights the significance and prevalence of surveys in organizational processes and offers the concept of working IN/ON/ OUT of the business as a way to understand whether we are surveying the right things that add the right value. Akin to surveying a body, he explains that working "IN" involves performing tasks that bring immediate value, contrasting this with the survey of a house which entails working "ON" to build capabilities and processes for future value. Finally, he shows how to survey the landscape leaders need to work "OUT" by observing external factors to anticipate opportunities and disruptions. Emmanuel emphasizes underscores the increasing significance of working "ON" and "OUT" as individuals progress, challenging listeners to reflect on whether they are effectively surveying the body, the house, and the landscape. ‘The Word is Leadership' Ebook was launched this week. Containing the first 25 lessons from this first podcast series you can find it online by logging into your local amazon store.

In episode 25 of ‘The Word is Leadership' the random word ‘amiss' helps us tackle a fundamental area of leadership - vision. While there is an abundance of literature on the importance of having a vision and how to communicate it, there is a real scarcity of resources on how to formulate it. In the context of leadership, a vision is essentially about hope, defined as goal + will + way. To find a vision, I encourage leaders to reflect on what is amiss (i.e. aspects of the current situation that are incorrect, inappropriate, or defective), concluding, as usual with a question to prompt listeners to consider potential areas for improvement and envision a future state that addresses current deficiencies.

This week, for episode 24 of ‘The Word is Leadership' our random word is ‘palm'. We focus on the symbolism of the palm tree, drawing parallels between its resilience and ability to thrive in adverse conditions to the potential for leadership growth in any context. Building on previous episodes, I emphasise the importance of a strong core (trunk) in leadership, supported by flexible roots and flourishing leaves. I underscore the necessity for leaders to develop their core values and adaptability while maintaining a clear vision of their impact. I outline the steps necessary to build a strong root and trunk system. As usual, I conclude the episode with a question to prompt listeners to reflect on their leadership approach and consider the strength and flexibility of their core values: ‘Are you a palm tree or a broom handle with dead leaves on top?'.

In this 23rd episode of ‘The Word is Leadership' our random word is ‘grain'. Associating the notion of seed with change and the notion of the grain of the wood with resistance (as in going against the grin) Emmanuel focuses on unveiling why people resist change and what leaders can do about it. Introducing the notion that not all change is resisted, using the mnemonic HURT, we discussed the elements that make some changes painful (Hurried, Unnecessary, Relentless, and Top-down). Emmanuel emphasises the importance of understanding the existing structure and social networks within organisations to transform potential irritating grains of change into pearls of progress. The episode concludes with a thought-provoking question prompting leaders to reconsider their approach to change and embrace strategies that align with the existing organisational fabric. ‘Have you thought about going with the grain rather than against it to turn your grain of sand from an irritant to a pearl?'

In this episode of ‘The Word is Leadership' our random word of the week is dumb (lacking the power of human speech). Delving into its leadership implications of the word, Emmanuel introduces the concept of leaders having the power to facilitate or impede speech. He identifies three crucial areas of impact: giving people a voice, a platform, and a mic. Giving a voice highlights the importance of leaders helping individuals find their unique contributions by providing content, context, and confidence. Giving a platform is about creating conditions where people feel safe and appreciated so they feel able to express their views is crucial. Giving a mic is about leaders ensuring that individuals' messages are not only heard by them but also reach the right audience. Emmanuel concludes, someone colloquially, by challenging leaders to consider how ‘dumb' they might be if they fail to give their team the power to speak.

In this episode of ‘The Word is Leadership', Emmanuel has to draw a leadership lesson from the random word: nectar. Highlighting the association between the word nectar and value, level he poses the question, ‘How do we find our nectar?' emphasising the uniqueness that attracts others. He looks at how listeners can uncover the core value (CV) that lies in their or their organization's unique story, choices, successes, and struggles. Emmanuel emphasises that whatever your core competence is, it only becomes nectar if it creates value for others, attracting followers or customers just like nectar attracts bees. He therefore warns against becoming caricatures of oneself by overly focusing on core competencies rather than combining these with what customers are looking for, ensuring this uniqueness translates into valuable nectar. To prompt listeners to reflect on their unique value propositions the episode concludes with the question, ‘Do you understand what attracts bees to your nectar?'

Another milestone as we reach episode 20 of ‘The Word is Leadership'. Our random word this week from which Emmanuel Gobillot derives leadership lessons is "eagle." Emmanuel delves into the symbolism of the eagle in various cultures and summarises the appeal of eagle as a symbol of leadership with the words power (strength and reassurance), vision (seeing the bigger picture and planning for the future), and grace (creating a climate of effectiveness in the organisation). However, Emmanuel challenges the notion that they, alone, are sufficient for leadership success by introducing the perspective of the pigeon. He suggests that the eagle's attributes are essential, leaders must also embody the pack mentality, street-fighting spirit, and agility of pigeons. He encourages leaders to reflect on the balance between soaring like an eagle and sweating like a pigeon, leaving the audience with the question, ‘Have you thought about your pigeon as you soar like an eagle?'.

In Episode 19 of "The Word is Leadership," Emmanuel unveils the randomly selected word for the week: presume. He draws a distinction between assuming and presuming, emphasising that presumption involves more confidence and evidence. Illustrating with a story from his latest book ‘This is Not a Leadership Book' he recounts a scenario where a high-performance leadership team faced a divergence of opinions regarding the future percentage of advertising going online based on different assumptions, Emmanuel shows how we need to understand the continuum assuming-presuming-knowing, stressing the challenges of questioning presumptions compared to assumptions and the need for leaders to differentiate between the two. He highlights the risks of using presume and assume interchangeably, emphasising the importance of clarifying what one thinks they know (presume) and what they do not know (assume). The episode concludes with the question, ‘How often do you know whether you presume or assume before you resume?'