Shows
the word is leadershipthe word is goblinIn this episode I offer you a framework for managing difficult relationships at work.
On my birthday week the dictionary gave me by a gift – the random word goblin – and I know a thing or two about Goblins, given some of my clients call me "Gobi the goblin" (affectionately I a told).
In this episode I tackle a universal workplace challenge - dealing with those difficult personalities who seem supernaturally skilled at making our professional lives complicated.
Rather than simply complaining about these "workplace goblins," I offer a new perspective by challenging us to examine whether these difficulties are real or c...2025-06-1521 min
the word is leadershipthe word is charterWhat if the secret to transformative leadership lied in a single concept?
In this episode of The Word is Leadership, I dissect the multifaceted idea of “charter” – far beyond its dry legal definitions – to reveal three frameworks every leader needs.
Ditching generic mission statements, the episode redefines organisational success through external, internal, and personal charters.
The external charter challenges leaders to move beyond competitive slogans to forge an authentic pact with their audience: What unique truth do you offer that aligns with your customers’ unmet needs?
Meanwhile, the internal charter demands radical congruence – if your company claims fairness to clients but exploits...2025-06-0817 min
the word is leadershipthe word is fermentWhat if the key to transformative leadership lies in a barrel of fermenting wine?
In this week’s episode of The Word Is Leadership, I uncork a surprising metaphor for organisational innovation: the science and art of fermentation.
Drawing on Burgundian winemaking traditions and a revealing conversation with a South African master maker, the episode dissects how leaders can cultivate environments where creativity thrives based on the random word “ferment”.
Like winemakers adding cultured yeast to grape must, businesses often rely on external consultants or hires to spark change. But I argue that this “inoculation” risks homogenising strategies into bland corporate...2025-06-0117 min
the word is leadershipthe word is espressoIn Episode 71 of The Word is Leadership, I serve up a steaming blend of wisdom and practical strategies to energise your team inspired by this week’s random word: espresso.
Drawing on my nostalgic mornings in French cafés, I show you how intentional rituals can ignite focus, connection, and innovation in your daily routine.
This isn’t just about caffeine; it’s about crafting moments that sharpen your mindset and amplify your impact.
Discover the 5 Espresso Shots every leader needs:
• Game Face On: Transform your mindset before stepping into the fray
• Meet & Greet: Move beyond polite "hellos" and create space for a...2025-05-2521 min
the word is leadershipthe word is simpleIn this milestone 70th episode of The Word is Leadership I am faced with the random word simple - a concept every leader champions but rarely masters.
I argue that far from superficial; simplicity emerges as a strategic balancing act between subtraction and coherence, dissected through analogies that reframe how we tackle complexity.
The episode begins by untangling “complicated” from “complex”: a watch, with its myriad parts, exemplifies complication, while a murmuration of starlings - a self-organising system where the whole transcends its parts - embodies complexity. This distinction matters because leaders often misdiagnose challenges, applying subtraction (removing parts) to problems...2025-05-1818 min
the word is leadershipthe word is immemorialIn 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 t...2025-05-1116 min
the word is leadershipthe word is emptyIn 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...2025-05-0418 min
the word is leadershipthe word is jamDiscover 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 re...2025-04-2730 min
the word is leadershipthe word is opticThis 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...2025-04-2017 min
the word is leadershipthe word is artificialThis 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 t...2025-04-1322 min
the word is leadershipthe word is porcupine2025-04-0618 min
the word is leadershipthe word is hourglassIn 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 th...2025-03-3018 min
the word is leadershipthe word is constellationIn 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...2025-03-2319 min
the word is leadershipthe word is carnageIn 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...2025-03-1619 min
the word is leadershipthe word is peaceIn 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 humani...2025-03-0920 min
the word is leadershipthe word is compositionIn 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 out...2025-03-0219 min
the word is leadershipthe word is feverIn 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 f...2025-02-2318 min
the word is leadershipthe word is quellIn 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 rebe...2025-02-1617 min
the word is leadershipthe word is skaldIn 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...2025-02-0918 min
the word is leadershipthe word is handleIn 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...2025-02-0200 min
the word is leadershipthe word is cruiseIn 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 a...2025-01-2617 min
the word is leadershipthe word is radicelThis 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 l...2025-01-1914 min
the word is leadershipthe word is journalIn 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 seas...2025-01-1217 min
the word is leadershipthe word is bostryxWelcome 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 wha...2025-01-0500 min
the word is leadershipthe word is reattachWelcome 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 ho...2024-12-1520 min
the word is leadershipthe word is fulminateWelcome 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 defi...2024-12-0818 min
the word is leadershipthe word is ironmanWelcome 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-c...2024-12-0118 min
the word is leadershipthe word is succinicWelcome 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 e...2024-11-2421 min
the word is leadershipthe word is flockWelcome 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 th...2024-11-1717 min
the word is leadershipthe word is oboeIn 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 simp...2024-11-1019 min
the word is leadershipthe word is acetumIn 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 ho...2024-11-0320 min
the word is leadershipthe word is glibIn 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 import...2024-10-2719 min
the word is leadershipthe word is pheasantThis 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...2024-10-2017 min
the word is leadershipthe word is kachumberEpisode 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...2024-10-1319 min
the word is leadershipthe word is discordWelcome 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...2024-10-0621 min
the word is leadershipthe word is roséWelcome 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 c...2024-09-2916 min
the word is leadershipthe word is continuumFor 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 inte...2024-09-2215 min
the word is leadershipthe word is hockIn 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 as...2024-09-1516 min
the word is leadershipthe word is enamelIn 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...2024-09-0815 min
the word is leadershipthe word is protractIn 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 o...2024-09-0116 min
the word is leadershipthe word is everAs 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 an...2024-08-2515 min
the word is leadershipthe word is soupIn 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 le...2024-08-1815 min
the word is leadershipthe word is experienceIn 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 fi...2024-08-1114 min
the word is leadershipthe word is cutaneousIn 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 noti...2024-08-0415 min
Download Latest Full Audiobooks in Health & Wellness, Mental Health & PsychologyThis Is Not A Leadership Book: 20 Rules for Success by Emmanuel GobillotPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/803341to listen full audiobooks.
Title: This Is Not A Leadership Book: 20 Rules for Success
Author: Emmanuel Gobillot
Narrator: Liam Gerrard
Format: Unabridged Audiobook
Length: 5 hours 44 minutes
Release date: July 30, 2024
Genres: Mental Health & Psychology
Publisher's Summary:
Part leadership book, part business book, and 100% true, this is like hearing a wise, honest, and humorous mentor finally tell you about the world of business as it is and how to find your place in it. Many leadership books are either shallow (focusing on only one element of leadership), narrow (examining leadership out of context), or biased (selling...2024-07-305h 44
the word is leadershipthe word is prevailFor 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 fol...2024-07-2816 min
the word is leadershipthe word is mercuryIn 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 posse...2024-07-2116 min
the word is leadershipthe word is logosIn 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.2024-07-1416 min
the word is leadershipthe word is craftIn 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"...2024-07-0716 min
the word is leadershipthe word is surveyFor 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...2024-06-3016 min
the word is leadershipthe word is amissIn 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 promp...2024-06-2315 min
the word is leadershipthe word is palmThis 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...2024-06-1615 min
the word is leadershipthe word is grainIn 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 i...2024-06-0916 min
the word is leadershipthe word is dumbIn 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 view...2024-06-0214 min
the word is leadershipthe word is nectarIn 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...2024-05-2616 min
the word is leadershipthe word is eagleAnother 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...2024-05-1914 min
the word is leadershipthe word is presumeIn 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...2024-05-1215 min
the word is leadershipthe word is dismastEpisode 18 of ‘The Word is Leadership’ sees Emmanuel once again open his new dictionary (but this time accompanied by a new jingle) to select the random word dismast.
Despite his acknowledged limited knowledge of sailing, he draws parallels between avoiding dismasting in sailing and crisis management in leadership. He emphasizes the importance of meticulous planning, team coordination, and preparation to prevent crises.
However, given that, regardless of preparation, unexpected events will happen leaders need to recognise when to call for help and ask for assistance. Emmanuel highlights the difference between mistakes and failures as a way to gauge how to prep...2024-05-0518 min
the word is leadershipthe word is prelogicalIn Episode 17 of "The Word is Leadership," we look at what the random word "prelogical" can teach us about leadership.
Using personal anecdotes from France and Sweden backed by psychological research into why we do what we from the US, I delve into the intricate relationship between logic and emotions.
We discuss the human tendency to simplify complex concepts by dividing logic and emotions and show how successful leadership is about understanding how both drive decision making.
To succeed in building trust and followership leaders need to understand emotional biases and how to generate prelogical responses. I conclude by emphasising...2024-04-2814 min
the word is leadershipthe word is maceFor this Episode 16 of ‘The Word is Leadership’, we keep our format but change our dictionary! However, the hope that this would lead to selecting new words was short lived as our random word is mace.
Contrasting the spiked club and the ceremonial staff of office, we explore the various forms of assertive power in leadership. By distinguishing between power that makes others feel smaller (spiky club) and power that uplifts and supports (staff of office), we look at the significance of understanding power as the ability to impact and influence and highlight the transformative potential of the socialised form of a...2024-04-2116 min
the word is leadershipthe word is broilIn this 15th episode of ‘The Word is Leadership’ the random word of the week is broil.
Emmanuel uses the definition of broil, to make a link between the uncontrolled/controlled use of fire and the responses leaders have to unexpected events and crises. He emphasises the need for leaders to master the skill of broiling (the dynamics of controlling and directing high heat) instead of engaging in aimless firefighting.
Exploring the concept of broiling further he offers the equation E + r or R = O (where E represents the event, r stands for react, R denotes respond, and O signifies the...2024-04-1419 min
the word is leadershipthe word is parishIn Episode 14 of ‘The Word is Leadership’ our random word is ‘parish’ prompting Emmanuel to highlight the dichotomy between the organisation (a formal structure such as a parish council) and the company (a social structure such as a religious parish), reminiscent of last week’s distinction between employees and companions.
The episode delves into the organisational challenges faced by leaders, emphasising the need for both the structure (organisation) and the social fabric (company). The term "parish" serves as a metaphor, encapsulating the duality of a district and a community, mirroring the dual nature of businesses requiring both organisational efficiency and social ene...2024-04-0719 min
the word is leadershipthe word is companionIn Episode 13 of ‘The Word is Leadership’, our random word of the week is ‘companion’, defined as one who accompanies another.
Recounting the story of Jacques and the medieval "compagnonnage" guild, Emmanuel uses this movement, with its rites of passage and communal journeys, as a metaphor for the intertwined nature of organisational accountabilities and individual social identities.
The episode delves into the dichotomy between employees and companions, stressing the crucial link between engaged and committed individuals and the harmonious integration of organisational expectations and social roles.
It encourages leaders to use clarity, standards, and commitment to guide individuals in understanding the broad...2024-03-3128 min
the word is leadershipthe word is prideWelcome to Episode 12 of "The Word is Leadership." Where this week’s random word is ‘pride’.
Instead of simply focusing on pride as an emotion, Emmanuel explores the word itself to demonstrate how, given the words we chose impact our emotions, whether you see pride as an underused or overused word, the truth is that it is, too often, simply the wrong word to use.
After exploring both the positive and negative aspects of pride such as providing a sense of self-worth or diminishing self-awareness) Emmanuel shows us how we can create better outcomes by altering the words we use.
The pr...2024-03-2417 min
the word is leadershipthe word is graftThis week, for episode 11 of ‘The Word is Leadership’, the random word is ‘GRAFT’ (inserting a shoot or scion into another stock to receive sap). Emmanuel draws parallels between biological grafting and organizational grafting, emphasizing the challenge of integrating new elements without rejection.
To address this Emmanuel introduces the ABC of grafting: Analyse, Be clear, and Clean-up. Analysing involves understanding both what the gaps in capability are in the existing organisation as well as why they exist. Being clear emphasises transparent communication with both the new hire (shoot) and the existing team (stock) about the purpose of the graft. Finally, the clea...2024-03-1717 min
the word is leadershipthe word is myxomaFor this 10th episode of "The Word is Leadership." Our random word is "MYXOMA," a term related to a rabbit virus. Using the example of rabbits in Australia, Emmanuel decides to focus on what he calls the action, reaction, adaptation cycle and its implications for leaders.
He explains how the introduction of rabbits led to unforeseen consequences, triggering the need for actions and adaptations. The lesson for leaders is to recognize that any action produces a reaction, but over time, adaptation occurs. This cycle, known as the action, reaction, adaptation cycle, is crucial for anticipating and understanding changes in various...2024-03-1016 min
the word is leadershipthe word is archaicWelcome to Episode 9 of "The Word is Leadership," this week, Emmanuel is faced with the word ‘archaic’ as his random word to improvise a leadership lesson with.
Highlighting the negative connotation of the word archaic (i.e. seeing the past as outmoded and irrelevant) Emmanuel discusses the need for leaders to be objective about their relationship with time and illustrates this with two stories. The first revolves around Gustave Eiffel and his iconic tower, and the second involves the Louvres’ pyramid in Paris.
He uses these to introduce three different ways to look at the past which he calls Museum (the pa...2024-03-0316 min
Future-Proof206. Not another leadership book, with Emmanuel GobillotIn this episode, we welcome another longtime friend of MACPA, leadership expert and author of the new book, "This is NOT a Leadership Book: 20 Rules for Success", Emmanuel Gobillot. Emmanuel has been my go to source for all things leadership for many years. I speak to him about leadership as it relates to recruitment and retention, which is top of mind for everyone these days. Where do we find new CPAs? How can we get students interested in accounting again? It's important for leaders to express why our profession is important and why our work matters...2024-02-2648 min
the word is leadershipthe word is whichIn this 8th episode of ‘The Word is Leadership’, our host, Emmanuel Gobillot has to work with the random word ‘which’ to build a leadership lesson.
He begins with Rudyard Kipling's ‘six honest serving men’ - what, why, when, where, who, and how in order to emphasize their importance in studying and reporting on situations, but also to show that for leaders, an additional W is crucial to making choices – that W is ‘which’.
If leading is all about choosing, specifically choosing what is right over what is popular or expedient then “which” forces leaders to contend with the emotional involvement and commit...2024-02-2514 min
the word is leadershipthe word is liabilityEpisode 7 of ‘The Word is Leadership’ focuses on the word liability. Whilst there is clearly an association between with finance, Emmanuel steers away from this conventional focus preferring instead to explore the mindset attached to the word liability and its implications for leadership.
The central question posed is why does the word liability have a negative connotation when, in reality, it goes hand in hand with asset? The critical insight for leaders is how their attention shifts between liability and asset depending on circumstances.
For leaders, success lies in the differentiation between the liability mindset (deficit-focused, centred on "should" and judg...2024-02-1817 min
the word is leadershipthe word is crayonIn this sixth episode of ‘The Word is Leadership’ we once again find ourselves with a word starting with the letter C as our random word this week is crayon.
Emmanuel explores the concept of drawing with crayons as a metaphor for expressing one's true colours and personality in leadership and focuses on how we can draw our personal leadership brand with a crayon, showcasing authenticity and individuality. To structure the discussion, he uses the word ‘CRAYON’ as an acronym where each letter represents a key aspect of building a colourful leadership brand.
He goes on to illustrate how, for a leader...2024-02-1115 min
the word is leadershipthe word is commonWelcome to Episode 5 of ‘The Word is Leadership.’ Another week, another jingle, and another random word.
This week, using the word ‘common’ we delve into a leadership challenge related to the definition provided in our previous episode. How can leaders ensure that autonomous employees choose the organization’s goal over their own?
We contrast the default strategy of finding a compromise which leaves no one satisfied with the idea of finding common ground, which involves using individual goals to achieve organisational one’s and vice versa. Emmanuel provides a route map to success showing that the key to finding common ground is to...2024-02-0414 min
The Secret ResumeEpisode 21 - Emmanuel Gobillot - 'Words and Pictures Make Your World'I was so excited when my guest this week said 'yes' to coming on the podcast. It's not every day that you have a sought-after leadership speaker and author of multiple leadership books agree to sit down and have a chat with you!
Emmanuel Gobillot is described as ‘the first leadership guru for the digital generation’ and ‘the freshest voice in leadership today’, He has advised organisations across the globe for over 20 years, and his consulting work includes developing leaders, establishing teams, and changing cultures - all of which has been based on his mantra – ‘there must be a better w...2024-02-011h 24The Secret ResumeEpisode 21 - Emmanuel Gobillot - 'Words and Pictures Make Your World'I was so excited when my guest this week said 'yes' to coming on the podcast. It's not every day that you have a sought-after leadership speaker and author of multiple leadership books agree to sit down and have a chat with you!
Emmanuel Gobillot is described as ‘the first leadership guru for the digital generation’ and ‘the freshest voice in leadership today’, He has advised organisations across the globe for over 20 years, and his consulting work includes developing leaders, establishing teams, and changing cultures - all of which has been based on his mantra – ‘there must be a better w...2024-02-011h 24
the word is leadershipthe word is tugWelcome to Episode 4 of ‘The Word is Leadership’ where, once again, Emmanuel Gobillot picks a random word to improvise a leadership lesson. With a new jingle in place, the random word this week is tug. A word which finally presents an opportunity to define what leadership is.
Using tug of war and tug boats to illustrate McGregor's Theory X and Y of management and motivation, Emmanuel challenges our assumption, by highlighting the power of employees. With his central argument that leadership is about creating the conditions for others to positively engage with a goal, he encourages leaders to shift from a fo...2024-01-2816 min
the word is leadershipthe word is squeakIn episode 3 of ‘The Word is Leadership’ Emmanuel Gobillot continues to build leadership lessons inspired by random words. The chosen word this week is squeak (and there's even a jingle to introduce it).
This episode takes a personal turn as Emmanuel recalls a joke from his uncle Roger which becomes a metaphor to discuss the dangers of becoming over sensitized or desensitized to organisational squeaks.
Having identified the three leadership challenges of squeaks (Inability to Distinguish between significant and inconsequential squeaks, neglect of the silences that accompany the positive aspects of the organization, and deafness to squeaks that leads them to b...2024-01-2115 min
the word is leadershipthe word is gentryWelcome back to another episode of "The Word is Leadership." In this second instalment, global leadership speaker, author and consultant, Emmanuel Gobillot continues the unique approach of selecting a random word and deriving leadership lessons from it.
This time, the chosen word is gentry.
Drawing parallels between the social structure of royalty, court, and gentry and the organizational structure of executives, senior management, and middle managers, the episode highlights the critical role of the ‘gentry’ or middle managers in ensuring the success and well-functioning of an organization.
Emmanuel encourages senior leaders to create an environment that makes it easy for the...2024-01-1417 min
the word is leadershipthe word is sockWelcome to the first episode of ‘The Word is Leadership’ podcast, where each week, our host, global leadership speaker, author and consultant, Emmanuel Gobillot, embarks on a unique journey by selecting a random word to extract valuable leadership lessons from it. In this inaugural episode, our word is surprisingly simple yet profound – SOCK.
We reflect on the unnoticed habits in our organizations, akin to the automatic act of putting on socks each day. Drawing parallels between organizational routines and the habitual nature of wearing socks, Emmanuel highlights the potential for embarrassment when we overlook ingrained practices.
This episode delves into the im...2024-01-0716 min
Caos CorporativoEp. 08 - Controle-se: Como colaborar mais?Colaborar é algo inerente ao ser humano. Segundo Emmanuel Gobillot essa é a natureza humana. Nos contrariamos quando fazemos as coisas isoladamente. Neste episódio vamos falar sobre as barreiras da colaboração e os benefícios de praticá-la e estimular que sua equipe a pratique.
2023-10-3018 min
The Agenda#13 - Emmanuel Gobillot - Making people stronger and more capableWhy leaders should listen to understand before they talk so that people followThe Agenda podcast series uncovers the path leaders take from challenge to decision. In this podcast, leadership author, speaker and consultant, Emmanuel Gobillot, speaks with former BBC interviewer, Nisha Pillai, about ways for leaders to listen so that they understand before they talk, and ways to make people stronger and more capable. For more podcasts, stay connected at podcast.sherpany.com The Agenda is brought to you by Sherpany #Leading TogetherThank you for listening! Visit us at Sherpany.com...2022-02-0821 min
Money Espresso - no-froth conversations exploring money and lifeEmmanuel Gobillot – The two things not spoken of at dinner parties; money & sexIn this episode I chat to Emmanuel Gobillot who shares his journey from a ‘railway estate’ in Burgundy to becoming one of Europe’s most sought after Key Note Speakers, author and consultant in Leadership and Collaboration
Emmanuel talks about luck and the teacher who spotted his talent which changed the trajectory of his life. We speak about status signalling, how using an Incentive Scheme to teach his daughter about the value of money backfired and why money is not the best way to motivate people.
We ask why so few people have mature conversations around money and conclude that all ch...2021-10-1844 min
Future-ProofExtraordinary Leadership in Times of Crisis | with Emmanuel GobillotEmmanuel Gobillot is one of the world’s leading experts on leadership. He’s the best-selling author of a number of great books, including “Leadershift,” “The Connected Leader,” “Follow the Leader,” and “Unleash Your Leader.” He has also recently co-authored a book specfically for this moment in time: “Crisis Leadership: Principles and tactics for success when your world turns upside down.” There aren’t many leaders out there who can help their teams grow and thrive and feel more capable in the middle of a crisis — and we have a lot to learn from those who can.To learn more, and for the c...2020-04-2938 min
Future-ProofBuilding Tomorrow's Leaders Today | with Emmanuel Gobillot & Katherine ThomasWhere are we going to find tomorrow’s leaders? We’ve been doing these podcasts for almost a year now, and as much talking as we’ve done about the future, the missing ingredient in all of those conversations has been leadership. We just haven’t spent much time talking about future leadership, and with 10,000 baby boomers retiring every day, that’s a critical part of becoming future-ready. So this week, we are talking to Emmanuel Gobillot and Katherine Harris, co-authors of Unleash Your Leader: How to Win in Business. It's a blueprint...2019-04-1537 min
Ewan@icluod.comWhich Episode Should I Play First?In this mini-episode, Pete quickly offers a curation of a dozen episodes to help achieve one of four key objectives: 1) Tackling overwhelm 2) Getting quicker promotions 3) Collaborating better 4) Presenting better 1) Tackling overwhelm 15 - David Allen 32 - Chris Bailey 38 - Greg McKeown 2) Getting quicker promotions 2 - Arla Lach 12 - Claire Pederson Patel 18 - Kara Eschbach 25 - Dan Rust 3) Collaborating better 34 - Kevan Hall 36 - Steve Ritter 45 - Emmanuel Gobillot 4) Presenting better 1 - Mawi Asgedom2016-08-1202 min
The Archive of Awesome045: Collaborating Beyond the Org Chart with Emmanuel GobilottLeadership thinker/author/speaker/consultant Emmanuel Gobilott lays out how people really work best together. You’ll learn: What charisma really is and how to project it When collaboration is ideal vs. inappropriate The four steps to collaborative success About Emmanuel: Emmanuel Gobillott is one of Europe’s most sought after leadership speakers and has been described as ‘the first leadership guru for the digital generation’ and ‘the freshest voice in leadership today’, He is the author of Kogan Page’s UK and US bestsellers The Connected Leader, Leadershift, and Follow The Leader. His new book Di...2016-08-0535 min
How to Be Awesome at Your Job045: Collaborating Beyond the Org Chart with Emmanuel GobillotLeadership thinker/author/speaker/consultant Emmanuel Gobillot lays out how people really work best together.You’ll learn:1. What charisma actually is and how to project it2. When collaboration is ideal vs. inappropriate3. The four steps to collaborative successAbout EmmanuelEmmanuel Gobillot is one of Europe’s most sought-after leadership speakers and has been described as ‘the first leadership guru for the digital generation’ and ‘the freshest voice in leadership today’, He is the author of Kogan Page’s UK and US bestsellers The Connected Leader, Leadershift, and Follow The Leader. His new book Disciplined Collaborationprovides further insight into new leadership a...2016-08-0535 min
OutsideVoices with Mark Bidwell007 Emmanuel Gobillot – Disciplined Collaboration, Followership and PurposeEmmanuel Gobillot has been described as 'the first leadership guru for the digital generation' and is a sought after speaker on leadership. He is also the author of three bestselling leadership books and offers a completely fresh perspective on how to tackle leadership successfully. On the show, Emmanuel gives a quick overview of his books, as well as answers key questions on how a leader can really help their team shine and what followers truly desire from a leader.
For full show notes, including timestamps, tweetables and a link to download a PDF of the transcription, please vi...2016-03-3044 min