• Home
  • Episodes
  • Books for Leaders
  • About Us
    • Our Team
    • Contact Us
  • Our Sponsors
  • Blog
  • Our Newsletter
The Leadership Podcast

The Leadership Podcast

We Study Leaders

October 14, 2020

TLP224: Respect Trumps Harmony

https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/theleadershippodcast/TLP_224.mp3
Play in New Window Download

Rachael Robertson is the author of the best-selling book Leading on the Edge, an account of leading a year-long expedition to Antarctica. She is a keynote speaker on the topics of leadership and teamwork and her latest book, Respect Trumps Harmony, is out now. When you’re sharing close quarters with a team of diverse people, small issues can boil over and turn into massive problems that can halt a multi-million dollar project. Rachael shares her leadership strategy to develop the self-awareness, the priorities, and the communication skills needed to have an open and transparent culture so that everyone can focus on doing their best work and not on the interpersonal conflicts.

Key Takeaways

[3:55] Looking through a newspaper one day, a photo of a penguin in the job section caught Rachael’s eye. It was a call to lead an Antarctic expedition and they were looking for people with certain characteristics, not skillsets. Rachael already had a job, but she was curious.

[7:10] The recruitment process was so different than anything Rachael had ever experienced. It wasn’t a job interview, it was a boot camp. She was the only woman who applied and when she was selected, she was the youngest leader in the group.

[10:25] There is absolutely no sunlight during winter. In summer, it’s 0 degrees celsius.

[12:00] The experience taught Rachael that she can overcome anything. Whenever she has a tough challenge in her life, she refers back to this expedition.

[14:25] Rachael has applied for jobs before and not gotten them, and nothing bad happened to her! These mini “failures” gave her the resilience to at least try and see what happens.

[16:10] Rachael shares a challenging experience she had as a leader that she affectionately calls the “great bacon war.” Her team was split: Should bacon be crispy or soft and chewy? Upon further inspection, the problem was actually much deeper than that.

[21:10] Rachael faced a crisis when a part of her team was stranded with less than 10 days worth of food. An important leadership lesson there was, be visible to the rest of your team and be transparent about the crisis and how it’s unfolding.

[24:05] Part of being a leader, you have to also take out the politics. You do that by putting systems and processes in place so that everybody feels like they got a fair shot.

[26:50] Rachael had to work with a lot of different dynamics when it comes to how people get along. You’re in darkness for half a year and sharing quarters with your workmates 24/7, things can get bitter quite quickly if you don’t address the different personality types and styles in the room.

[35:00] When you’re living so closely and you have no privacy, the smallest things can manifest into big issues. The biggest source of conflict was leaving things around and disrespected common areas.

[38:40] After Rachael came back over a year, the biggest feeling she experienced was overwhelm. There was so much to process and take in, in such a busy world.

[40:55] Listener challenge: Practice optimism.


The Leadership Podcast is sponsored by W.S. Darley & Company.  

Founded in 1908, Darley remains a family owned and operated business, providing the highest quality equipment solutions to our country’s warfighters and firefighters.  

Learn more at darley.com and darleydefense.com


Quotable Quotes

“A really basic rule for me is, resilience is thinking about thinking. It’s resting your thoughts before they continue [down a negative path].” Share on X “As a leader, if you have self-awareness, you can learn everything else.” Share on X “I don’t expect you all to love each other, but I do expect you to treat each other with respect.” Share on X “The aim, going in, was to create a culture where people will speak up and deal with things because I was worried about someone spiraling with depression or exploding with anger.” Share on X “We created a thing called ‘no triangles.’ If somebody has something to say, you go directly to the person, don’t take it to a third party.” Share on X “We don’t know what’s around the corner. Just be optimistic. Just keep hope alive.” Share on X

Resources Mentioned

  • Rachael’s website: Rachaelrobertson.com.au/
  • Rachael on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter.
Rachel Robertson

These are the books mentioned in Rachel’s podcast

Leading on the Edge: Extraordinary Stories and Leadership Insights from The World’s Most Extreme Workplace

Buy This Book Online
Buy from Amazon
Leading on the Edge: Extraordinary Stories and Leadership Insights from The World’s Most Extreme Workplace
Buy now!
Leading on the Edge: Extraordinary Stories and Leadership Insights from The World’s Most Extreme Workplace

Respect Trumps Harmony: Why being liked is overrated and constructive conflict gets results

Buy This Book Online
Buy from Amazon
Respect Trumps Harmony: Why being liked is overrated and constructive conflict gets results
Buy now!
Respect Trumps Harmony: Why being liked is overrated and constructive conflict gets results

The Leadership Podcast is proud to announce a new initiative with thoughtLEADERS to provide very short podcasts called “chalk talks.” They’re “bitesize” hacks on common (but challenging) leadership issues. Interested in learning more? 

You can only access the Chalk Talks by subscribing to our newsletter at The Leadership Podcast.

Beyond the Uniform offers over 300 free episodes to help military Veterans succeed in their civilian career. This includes overviews of potential career paths, deep dives on necessary skills to succeed, and reviews of other free services that support the military Veteran community. You can find more info at BeyondTheUniform.org.

Filed Under: Podcast Tagged With: antarctica, conflict, diversity, expedition, harmony, leadership, respect, stories

TLP223: YOU CAN Change Culture
TLP225: The Democratization of Innovation

Related Posts

  • TLP042: Dinner Party with The Leadership Podcast – Can Autonomy & Selflessness Coexist?
  • TLP060: Want to Know What A “Best Boss” Knows?
  • TLP123: A Futurist on the Future of Leadership
  • TLP278: Passive-Aggression is Toxic
  • TLP378: Leading with Questions with Bob Tiede
iTunes
Spotify
Audible
SoundCloud
iHeartRADIO

Instagram Feed

westudyleaders

#leadership #leadershiptraining #leader #westudyleaders

Coaching shouldn't be a punishment—it should be Coaching shouldn't be a punishment—it should be a tool for growth! 🚀 If leaders see coaching as a last resort before someone gets the boot, they'll never embrace it as a way to improve. Dr. Hope Zoeller explains why shifting this mindset is crucial for leadership success. https://bit.ly/TLP-454?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #CoachingMatters #WorkplaceCulture #GrowthMindset #LeadershipDevelopment
Leadership isn't just about decisions and directiv Leadership isn't just about decisions and directives—it's about showing up as human. Vulnerability, when practiced with intention, creates space for others to connect, contribute, and be real. Sabina Nawaz shares how even a simple "I'm having a tough day" can shift culture. https://bit.ly/TLP-464?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#LeadershipDevelopment #VulnerabilityInLeadership #HumanCenteredLeadership #WorkplaceCulture #ToxicPositivity #RemoteWorkChallenges #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadershipPodcast #AuthenticLeadership #ExecutiveCoaching #LeadershipGrowth #CorporateCulture #SelfAwareness #LeadershipTips #LeadWithEmpathy #JanRutherford #TheLeadershipPodcast #LeadershipMatters #FutureOfWork
TLP456: The Curiosity Switch: How Leaders Stay Ahe TLP456: The Curiosity Switch: How Leaders Stay Ahead with Jamie Beaton Our latest episode with Jamie Beaton https://bit.ly/TLP-456?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders&utm_content=TLP456%3A%20The%20Curiosity%20Switch%3A%20How%20Leaders%20Stay%20Ahead%20with%20Jamie%20Beaton #leadership #GrowthMindset #CuriositySwitch #TopTalent #BusinessSuccess #GlobalLeadership #Entrepreneurship #CEO #ScalingUp #LeadershipDevelopment
It's never too late to become the speaker—and le It's never too late to become the speaker—and leader—you want to be. Linda Ugelow didn't just overcome fear, she reclaimed her voice at 60. Start small. Stay curious. Step in. https://bit.ly/TLP-462?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#NeverTooLate #GrowthMindset #OwnYourVoice #SpeakToServe #LeadershipJourney #FearToConfidence #PodcastInspo #EmpoweredLeadership
Finding the perfect hire can feel like chasing a u Finding the perfect hire can feel like chasing a unicorn, but adaptability and initiative often matter more. Focus on the qualities that will help your team grow and evolve with the company. Tune in to learn how to align your expectations and build stronger teams! https://bit.ly/TLP-461?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #HiringTips #Teamwork #Adaptability #CareerGrowth #LeadershipPodcast #BusinessSuccess #Entrepreneurship #HiringStrategy
TLP453: Delegation Isn’t About Losing Control wi TLP453: Delegation Isn’t About Losing Control with Dr. Steven Stein Our latest episode with Dr. Steven Stein https://bit.ly/TLP-453?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders&utm_content=TLP453%3A%20Delegation%20Isn%27t%20About%20Losing%20Control%20with%20Dr.%20Steven%20Stein #leadership #EmotionalIntelligence #ExecutiveCoaching #LeadershipDevelopment #CorporateCulture #BusinessStrategy #Resilience #SelfAwareness #TeamDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #DecisionMaking #RemoteWork #HighPerformance #Psychology #GrowthMindset
Struggling with sleep? Focus on relaxation and men Struggling with sleep? Focus on relaxation and mental quiet. Small habits can make a big impact! https://bit.ly/TLP-457?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#BetterSleep #HealthyLeadership #SleepHacks #Mindfulness #Performance
Too many meetings and not enough real conversation Too many meetings and not enough real conversations? Dr. Hope Zoeller shares why leaders should prioritize one-on-one check-ins to build strong teams. https://bit.ly/TLP-454?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #EmployeeEngagement #WorkplaceCulture #FutureOfWork #IntentionalLeadership
Thinking of a career pivot but unsure what's next? Thinking of a career pivot but unsure what's next? Kasey D'Amato recommends taking a full break from your daily routine to gain clarity. Discover why this method works and how to apply it to your life. https://bit.ly/TLP-455?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #CareerChange #SelfImprovement #Coaching #Entrepreneurship #Success #Mindset
Power struggles in the boardroom often arise from Power struggles in the boardroom often arise from misalignment on what's truly important. The key to overcoming this? Focus and critical thinking. Learn how to shift your perspective and align your team on the critical questions that matter. https://bit.ly/TLP-458?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#BoardroomLeadership #BusinessSuccess #LeadershipTips #CriticalThinking #ExecutiveCoaching #OrganizationalGrowth #Focus #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessStrategy #StrategicThinking #PowerStruggles #LeadershipMindset #GrowthMindset
We used to wear sleep deprivation like a badge of We used to wear sleep deprivation like a badge of honor. "I'll sleep when I die," right? But science proves we've got it all wrong. Sleep fuels success—it's the foundation of performance, decision-making, and well-being. Time to rethink the hustle. 🎧 https://bit.ly/TLP-457?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #SleepMatters #PeakPerformance #Podcast #WorkLifeBalance #Neuroscience #SuccessMindset #SleepBetter
Success isn't just about credentials—it's about Success isn't just about credentials—it's about learning agility, ambition, and adaptability. Jamie Beaton, founder of Crimson Education, shares how mentorship, global leadership, and curiosity shaped his journey from student to CEO. If you want to know how top leaders stay ahead, this episode is for you! Listen now. https://bit.ly/TLP-456?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #CuriositySwitch #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #TopTalent #LearningAgility
Most leaders focus on productivity, but what if sl Most leaders focus on productivity, but what if sleep is the missing piece? In this episode, Giles Watkins shares insights from his 30-year business career and personal struggle with insomnia, revealing how sleep impacts decision-making, performance, and leadership.If you're running on empty, this is your wake-up call. 🎧 https://bit.ly/TLP-457?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #SleepMatters #HighPerformance #WorkplaceWellness #BetterSleep
TLP455: Break Free from Self-imposed Limitations w TLP455: Break Free from Self-imposed Limitations with Kasey D’Amato Our latest episode with Kasey D’Amato https://bit.ly/TLP-455?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders&utm_content=TLP455%3A%20Break%20Free%20from%20Self-imposed%20Limitations%20with%20Kasey%20D%27Amato #leadership #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #CareerChange #EmotionalIntelligence #TimeManagement #Resilience #SelfImprovement #Coaching #Success
Great leaders don't just push through exhaustion—they optimize their rest to perform at their best. 🎧 Tune in to this episode to learn how to make sleep your leadership advantage. https://bit.ly/TLP-457?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #BetterSleep #HighPerformance
Join us for a powerful chat with Dr. Steven Stein—renowned psychologist & author—on how emotional intelligence shapes top leaders! 🧠💡🔹 The "Three Cs" of Hardiness: Commitment, Challenge & Control🔹 How EI training boosted U.S. Air Force recruiter retention🔹 Why authenticity & empowerment are key to great leadership🎧 Don't miss this episode! https://bit.ly/TLP-453?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#EmotionalIntelligence #Leadership #Resilience #Authenticity #EmpowerYourTeam
Leadership, Legacy & the Power of Character In th Leadership, Legacy & the Power of CharacterIn this special Mastermind Episode of The Leadership Podcast, retired four-star General Stanley McChrystal returns for a powerful conversation on the defining choices that shape who we become.Hosts Jan Rutherford and Jim Vaselopulos go deep with General McChrystal, former commander of U.S. and international forces in Afghanistan, bestselling author of Team of Teams, and CEO of the McChrystal Group to explore how conviction and discipline build real character.From candid stories of failure at West Point to the lessons learned through loss, moral dilemmas, and war, this episode is an unfiltered look into the heart of leadership.Whether you're leading in business, the military, or your own personal growth, this conversation is a reminder that leadership is not about the leader. It's about the mission, the team, and the values we refuse to compromise.🎧 Listen now: https://bit.ly/TLPMM012?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-qnt0VWJ1S8?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders
Leaders often rush to solutions without truly unde Leaders often rush to solutions without truly understanding the problem. What if AI could expose flaws in our decision-making and help us think more critically? In this episode, we dive into how AI can refine leadership decisions. https://bit.ly/TLP-458?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #CriticalThinking #AIinBusiness #DecisionMaking #ExecutiveCoaching
Endurance is necessary, but perseverance is what d Endurance is necessary, but perseverance is what drives real leadership growth. Learn how to navigate challenges with Brandon Young explaining why perseverance, not just endurance, is the key to success. https://bit.ly/TLP-452?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #Resilience #GrowthMindset #Perseverance #Endurance
Leadership isn't just about making decisions—it' Leadership isn't just about making decisions—it's about making the right ones. Dr. Hope Zoeller joins the show to discuss why leadership training fails, the impact of institutional memory, and how to build strong leaders for the future. Don't miss this powerful conversation! https://bit.ly/TLP-454?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #EmployeeDevelopment #FutureOfWork #IntentionalLeadership #BusinessGrowth
Follow on Instagram

Recent Posts

  • TLPMM012: On Character with General Stanley McChrystal
  • TLP464: Become the Boss You Want to Be with Sabina Nawaz
  • TLP463: Functional Art and Leadership with Sibley Bacon
  • TLP462: Overcome Your Fear of Being Seen with Linda Ugelow
  • TLP461: Looking for Unicorns: The Hiring Dilemma with Jim and Jan

Recent Comments

  • Anonymous on TLP459: Small, Consistent Actions Over Time with Adam Contos
  • Anonymous on TLP460: Lessons on Leadership from Native American Elders with Susan Kelsey
  • Anonymous on TLP460: Lessons on Leadership from Native American Elders with Susan Kelsey
  • Anonymous on TLP459: Small, Consistent Actions Over Time with Adam Contos
  • Anonymous on TLP445: Glue Guys: Identifying Hidden Leaders with Jim and Jan

Tags

adaptability assumptions athletics authenticity business change coaching communication corporate crucible culture Curiosity education emotional intelligence entrepreneur financial healthcare hiring history humor influence innovation interview Jim & Jan leader leadership military neuroscience Patagonia philosophy practitioner productivity relationships resilience sales science speaker sports stories team development teamwork thought leader trust values veterans

Copyright © 2025 Rafti Advisors, LLC & Self-Reliant Leadership, LLC - All Rights Reserved. | Privacy Policy