Description

In this episode we explore what it means to lead with authenticity, courage, compassion and wisdom when the pressure is on. Our guest, Martin Farrell, author of Good Leaders in Turbulent Times, shares insights from six decades working for and with civil society organizations including the Red Cross and Save the Children.

Through the metaphor of coffee roasting—the “second crack” that releases a bean’s full flavor—Martin reminds us that it’s often the heat of turbulence that helps leaders grow, if they have the courage to face it.

Highlights

• The heat transforms: Growth happens in challenge, not comfort. Leaders evolve by facing turbulence, not avoiding it.
• Authenticity matters: Good leadership begins with self-awareness and alignment between inner and outer worlds.
• Avoidance fuels crisis: Many problems stem from ignoring early signals. Awareness and reflection are the antidotes.
• Listen to learn: Deep listening and “thinking partners” help leaders see what they can’t see alone.
• From ego to eco: Real wisdom comes from seeing oneself as part of a larger whole—organization, community, planet.
• Three enduring qualities: Compassion, courage, and wisdom form the foundation for leading well in uncertain times.

Reflection questions

• When I’m going through turbulent times as a leader, what are the signals I might be missing — or perhaps don’t want to see? How can I stay more open to them?
• So even if there is a crisis, how can I create space for reflection and ask myself, “What’s really going on here?”
• And whatever the outcome, success or failure, ask: what can I learn from it, and how can that learning become part of who I am as a leader?
• How can I turn discomfort or pain from crisis, into fuel for growth, rather than something to resist or suppress?

About Martin Farrell

He is an author and long-time international facilitator with over 60 years’ experience in civil society organizations. His book ‘Good Leaders in Turbulent Times’ is available through major booksellers.

Learn more at martinfarrell.org

Martin has also published leadership articles on his Substack

About Second Crack
More information about us and our work is available on our website: secondcrackleadership.com. Contact us now to explore how we can support your leadership development in a company-wide initiative or withindividual executive coaching: hello@secondcrackleadership.com.
 
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Martin Aldergård
Gerrit Pelzer