Mar 27 2025 44 mins
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Leadership isn't just about making decisions—it's about knowing exactly when to say yes, when to say no, and having the confidence to stand by those choices. In this thought-provoking conversation with executive coach Doug Thorpe, we explore the transformative journey from individual contributor to strategic leader, uncovering the hidden challenges that emerge when subject matter experts assume management roles.
Doug shares fascinating insights from his unique background as both a licensed pilot and former military officer, drawing surprising parallels between flight training and leadership development. He explains why being promoted among peers creates immediate psychological hurdles, and why sometimes joining a new company as a manager can actually be easier than climbing the ranks internally.
The most powerful revelation comes when Doug distinguishes between the science of leadership (data, analysis, spreadsheets) and the art of leadership (reading the market, trusting instinct). Through compelling real-world examples—from a bank chairman's counterintuitive decision to delay ATM implementation to Chick-fil-A's unwavering commitment to Sunday closure despite Wall Street criticism—we see how strategic patience and values-driven leadership create distinctive competitive advantages.
Whether you're a new team leader struggling to manage former colleagues, a director transitioning from tactical execution to strategic thinking, or a C-suite executive balancing growth with core values, this episode offers invaluable wisdom for navigating your leadership journey. Connect with Doug at headwayexec.com or explore his podcast "Leadership Powered by Common Sense" to continue developing your leadership toolkit.
https://podcasts.dougthorpe.com/
Sponsored by Nico Van de Venne CommV
Host Linkedin: Nico Van de Venne
Host site: https://nicovandevenne.com/
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https://nicovandevenne.com/#podcasts-blogposts
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