In this episode of Leadership Actually, hosts Lee Rogers and Lisa Powney engage with Brendan, a leader who has transitioned from sailing to leadership coaching. Brendan shares his journey of becoming a skipper in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, emphasising the importance of team culture, self-reflection, and learning from crisis moments. The conversation explores grounding practices for leaders, the preparation required for leadership roles, and the significance of empowering teams. Brendan reflects on his experiences, the challenges faced during the race, and the lessons learned that can be applied to leadership in various contexts.

In this episode of "Leadership Actually," Baroness Dido Harding shares her remarkable journey through leadership, offering insights that resonate deeply with senior executives. Known for her courage and authenticity, Dido reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her career, from her early days at McKinsey to leading major organisations like TalkTalk and NHS Test and Trace. She emphasises the importance of being true to oneself and fostering diverse teams, highlighting how these principles have guided her through challenges such as the TalkTalk cyber attack and the COVID-19 pandemic. Dido's leadership style, rooted in trust and inclusivity, serves as a powerful example for executives aiming to navigate complex environments. Her story is a testament to the impact of authentic leadership and the strength found in embracing one's unique path.

In this conversation, the speakers explore the importance of leadership, team dynamics, and personal growth. They discuss how injecting fun into leadership can enhance team performance, the significance of building trust within teams, and the lessons learned from coaching world champions. The conversation emphasises the value of accountability, integrity, and consistency in leadership, as well as the need for ambitious goal-setting and the role of discipline in achieving success. Ultimately, the speakers highlight that culture often outweighs talent in determining team success, and finding balance in life is crucial for personal fulfillment.