Ever find yourself questioning whether leadership fundamentals have really changed, or if we’re simply in another cycle of bold claims and louder voices?
I recently joined Chris Kitchener and Gareth Tennant from the ‘Battling With Business’ podcast and traded places for a challenging conversation in a pub - complete with parking cars and pints!
We unravelled whether leadership values like empathy and psychological safety are still as vital as ever, or if hard-nosed approaches really deliver better results. I shared how, amidst the noise of quick wins and rapid change, taking time to define what ‘success’ actually means is what helps leaders and managers nurture work cultures where people can thrive, stay well, and perform at their best.
Key moments include:
- How good leadership isn’t about avoiding tough conversations - it’s about clarity, accountability and connection
- Why performance and wellbeing start with making space for genuine dialogue
- The difference between leading for short-term applause or building trust for lasting results
- The risks of confusing empathy with just being ‘nice’
There’s practical insight for anyone who wants to stop firefighting, get beneath the surface, and create conditions where people and business both excel.
More about Battling with Business:
In the Battling with Business podcast, Gareth Tennant, a former Royal Marines Officer, and Chris Kitchener, a veteran of the software development world, explore ideas and concepts around teams and teamwork, leaders and leadership, and all things in between. It’s a discussion between a former military commander and a business manager, comparing and contrasting their experiences as they attempt to work out what makes teams, leaders, and businesses tick.
Get in touch with: Gareth Tennant & Chris Kitchener
Resources & References
Listen to this episode on YouTube
The Human Factor Behind High-Performing Teams: Why Leadership Isn’t As Easy As It Looks
Battling with Business Podcast
Contact details for Lisa
LinkedIn: lisapsychology
Ways to work with me: itstimeforchange.co.uk/tailored-support
Join The Leadership Lens: itstimeforchange.co.uk/lets-connect
Email me for a friendly chat: [email protected]
