In this short, pointed episode, Dr. Ayers explains that one of the fastest ways for a safety professional to lose trust is by avoiding or delaying tough decisions. Leaders don’t earn credibility by being perfect — they earn it by being decisive, consistent, and willing to take responsibility. Sources: Podbean, iVoox, YouTube
Dr. Ayers emphasizes that when leaders hesitate, waffle, or avoid making a call, employees begin to doubt:
Their competence
Their confidence
Their commitment to safety
Silence or delay is itself a decision — and usually the wrong one.
Safety leaders are routinely faced with:
Conflicting priorities
Production pressure
Incomplete information
Disagreement among stakeholders
The episode stresses that leaders must still choose a direction and own it.
Employees respect leaders who:
Make timely decisions
Explain their reasoning
Stand behind their choices
Adjust when new information emerges
Decisiveness signals strength and clarity.
Dr. Ayers reinforces that:
You won’t always get it right
You will always lose trust if you avoid choosing
Leadership is about progress, not perfection
Indecision erodes trust faster than a wrong decision.
Leaders must choose, communicate, and move forward.
Employees follow clarity, not hesitation.
Decisiveness is a core safety leadership skill.
