Episode 6

Moral leadership in a time of crisis

Published on: 24th June, 2025

In this episode of So Now What, host Catherine Galloway engages with Gates Cambridge scholars Julie Pham, Chris Tooley, and Robin Scott to explore the nuances of leadership in turbulent times. The conversation delves into the importance of moral leadership, the opportunities presented by crises like COVID-19, and the significance of self-leadership and community building. The guests share their experiences and insights on how to lead effectively, emphasising curiosity, respect, and the power of local action.

Takeaways

  • Leadership is about bringing people with you, not telling them what to do.
  • Curiosity can transform workplace dynamics and leadership styles.
  • Crisis often creates opportunities for innovation and transformation.
  • Moral leadership is crucial in times of flux and uncertainty.
  • Local leadership is essential for meaningful change.
  • Self-leadership involves being open to learning from others.
  • Community building can counteract polarization and division.
  • Radical honesty in leadership fosters trust and collaboration.
  • Cultural forms of leadership can have transformative potential.
  • Leadership should be shaped by lived experience and engagement.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leadership in Turbulent Times

09:50 The Role of Moral Leadership

20:05 Crisis as Opportunity: Leadership During COVID-19

30:09 Self-Leadership and Community Building

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About the Podcast

So, now what?
So, now what? Gates Cambridge
Fed up with bad news story after bad news story? So, now what? is the podcast from Gates Cambridge, a cutting-edge scholarship programme for international postgraduates at the University of Cambridge. The podcast is for anyone looking for ideas, vision and optimism about how we can practically tackle some of the world's most complex and challenging problems. Scholars from a range of different backgrounds and disciplines will share the actions they are taking to change the world for the better.

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