Episode Description

What does effective leadership look like when the path forward is uncertain?

In this episode, Paul sits down with Glen Babington, Chief Operating Officer at the University of Technology Sydney, to explore leadership, culture, change, and the lessons learned across a career that spans the military, global corporations, public services, and higher education.

Glen shares insights on building trust, leading through uncertainty, understanding organizational culture, and why great leaders focus less on having all the answers and more on asking the right questions. Through stories from military service, major organizational transformations, and executive leadership, he offers practical wisdom for leaders navigating complex environments.

Together, they discuss the importance of conviction, resilience, humility, and creating environments where people can thrive. This conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership is not about perfection. It is about clarity, courage, and helping others succeed.

What We Discuss

• Why trust matters more than authority in leadership
• The importance of defining clear objectives and empowering others
• Lessons from leading large scale organizational change
• How culture influences the success of transformation efforts
• Why leaders need resilience, humility, and self awareness

Takeaways and Action Items

• Focus on asking better questions rather than having all the answers
• Take time to understand the culture before driving change
• Build trust by being honest, humble, and consistent
• Create environments where people feel heard and valued

If you are not a leader by title, these lessons still apply. Understanding people, building trust, and adapting to change are skills that can improve every area of life.

Links and Credits

Guest: Glen Babington

Host: Paul Findlay

Podcast: Leader Experience Podcast

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a rating and review, and share it with someone who is committed to becoming a more intentional leader.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast or its hosts.