Episode 112 - What can we learn about optimising teams from a Royal Marines Commando Sniper part 1

 

In the first part of our compelling two-part series of Battling with Business, Chris and Gareth sit down with Dave Anderson, a former sniper and platoon weapons instructor from the Royal Marines, to explore the intricacies of leadership, hierarchy, and information influence. Drawing from military experiences and historical case studies, Dave shares powerful insights into the dynamics that shape decision-making, communication, and innovation within organisations.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. The Power of Hierarchy and Authority:

• Dave examines a fascinating case study of a 1974 United Airlines flight, where the reluctance to challenge authority had fatal consequences.

• He highlights the importance of creating environments where constructive challenges are encouraged.

• Learn why psychological safety is essential for open communication and how it can prevent critical mistakes.

2. Understanding Organisational Culture:

• Using the iceberg metaphor, Dave explains how visible artefacts often mask the deeper beliefs and values that define organisational culture.

• Explore how cultural artefacts can be misinterpreted without context and how shared beliefs shape behaviours.

• Gain insights into fostering a growth mindset that promotes learning and innovation.

3. Building Psychological Safety:

• Discover the key principles of psychological safety and why it’s foundational for high-performing teams.

• Dave shares strategies to test and ensure psychological safety within organisations.

• Learn how leaders can create trust, encourage feedback, and facilitate open communication.

4. Adaptability and Innovation in Teams:

• Dave, Chris and Gareth discuss the shift from traditional, transactional leadership to inclusive leadership approaches.

• Understand the value of diverse thinking in dynamic environments.

• Explore how growth mindsets and psychological safety drive innovation and resilience.

Why Listen? Whether you’re a business leader, team manager, or simply curious about leadership lessons from the military, this episode offers actionable insights to foster stronger teams and enhance organisational culture. Dave’s experiences and thought-provoking perspectives provide a unique lens on navigating complexity and driving success.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where Chris, Gareth, and Dave continue the conversation, delving deeper into leadership, culture formation, and the role of embracing mistakes and the risk of normalising deviancy.