What if the most courageous leadership decision you ever make isn't about charging forward, but about stepping aside?

And what if the key to authentic influence isn't having all the answers, but mastering the paradox of deep confidence paired with genuine curiosity?

This episode explores the delicate balance between ego and humility that defines transformational leadership. We dive deep into how brutal self-honesty can become your greatest strength, why emotional intelligence is no longer optional for leaders, and how creating space for others to contribute might be the missing piece in your leadership approach.

Andrew Little is a figure who redefined political courage in New Zealand by making one of the gutsiest calls in the country's political history: resigning as Labour Party leader just weeks before an election to make way for Jacinda Ardern. A former union leader turned politician, Andrew brings a unique perspective on leadership forged through decades of navigating complex stakeholder relationships, from representing workers to serving as a cabinet minister. His journey from a conservative household to progressive leadership offers profound insights into how our views can evolve while our core values remain steadfast.

You'll discover:

• How to balance confidence with "wonderance": the art of remaining curious while holding firm convictions
• Why reading your opponents' views strengthens rather than weakens your position
• How to create psychological safety where no viewpoint is considered "dumb" and everyone has access to leadership
• Why the phrase "you're either there to make decisions or make friends" misses the point of collaborative leadership
• How to process significant setbacks without letting them derail your purpose or self-worth
• Why showing appropriate emotion in leadership is a superpower rather than a weakness
• How to navigate opposing views by finding shared values and common ground
• Why the question "what is the why?" becomes your most powerful tool for building understanding

(00:00) - The Paradox of Leadership

(11:18) - The Decision to Step Aside

(14:39) - Processing Emotions in Leadership

(20:44) - The Role of Collective Leadership

(26:00) - Navigating Opposing Views

(30:33) - The State of Leadership Today

Other references:

• 1981 Springbok Tour in New Zealand
• Andrew Little resignation as Labour Leader
• Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union
• Andrew Little to run for Wellington Mayoralty

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