Flowers of Leadership Wisdom

since The Culture Colonel podcast launched, has brought unexpected joy and so many powerful revelations about the importance of effective leadership. Our pod guests have brought wisdom, laughter and learning. There have been tears too; reinforcing that there is still more work to be done.

Outstanding organisations are those where their people feel safe, believe they belong and their leaders care. These conditions make recruitment and retention easier; enable people to thrive and do their best work. Furthermore, productivity, performance and operational effectiveness increase.

It has brought numerous unexpected connections; it feels like we are growing The Culture Colonel community and also strengthening the sense of belonging. Above all, I am reminded of Jim Rohn’s quotation, “you are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with”. My average, after spending time with our pod guests, launch guests and BFBS Creative crew, has definitely gone up! Here are the leadership lessons that stood out for me:

·       “Get out of your comfort zone – it may be what helps others get into theirs!” Toni Harding

·       “Be strong, you never know who you are inspiring” Rosie Wild

·       Joanna Vann: "Know your people; take the time to really stop and listen; not just to what they say, but what they don’t say."

·       Dr Victoria Kinkaid FRSA: Remain curious all the time, keep open minded and welcome being challenged.

·       Gemma Morgan: Create an environment where people feel genuinely heard and valued; they feel safe enough to speak up. This is the type of workplace where everyone can thrive.

·       Jane Oremosu & Maggie Semple, OBE, FCGI: Education and learning are essential for leaders at all levels of every organisation. Radiating happiness and joy is infectious!

·       Samuel Landau: Vulnerability, authenticity, honesty, trust and values can make hard edged fighting forces more effective and enable operational advantage.

·       Adam Powney: Have the courage to be yourself and this will ensure you come alive and thrive.

·      Steve Prest: Put people first and remember your duty, as a leader, to develop people so they can do the job better than you!

·       Never lose the appetite to learn and be committed to curiosity. This can feel difficult, but as Fiona Blyth says the risks are worth taking because of the richness of the rewards.

Thank you for being part of The Culture Colonel community! There is so much more to come.

Please let me know what stood out for you and why at [email protected]