On this episode of Adapt or Die: Transformative Leadership Conversations, Andreas Pettersson sits down with award-winning educator, consultant, and podcast host Scott J. Allen, Ph.D.—a leadership expert who’s trained organizations like NASA, Cleveland Clinic, and Toyota. Scott unpacks why most leaders fail not because of change, but because they cling to control. From psychological safety to adaptive leadership, this conversation rewires how we think about effective teams and decision-making in complexity.
Challenge → Too many leaders believe they must have the answers—creating environments where silence, blame, and outdated mindsets prevent growth.
Adaptation → Scott leans on strategic vulnerability, curiosity, and co-creation to build organizations that solve real problems instead of protecting egos.
Success → A culture of experimentation, breakthrough thinking, and empowered teams—backed by 60+ peer-reviewed publications and global impact across education and executive leadership.
🔥 60-Second Hot Seat:
The two leaders Scott admires most? John Wooden and Terry Francona—for winning with humility, constraints, and constant reinvention. His must-read book for leaders is Mindset by Carol Dweck. And his definition of real leadership? Vulnerability, humility, curiosity, intention, and consistency.
Want more Scott?
🔗 LinkedIn
🔗 scottjallen.net
🎙️ Practical Wisdom for Leaders – Ranked in the top 2.5% of podcasts globally
Visit www.leadersadapt.com/adaptordie for show notes, free resources, and coaching programs.
Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/andreas-pettersson
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