TLP254: Something is Going to Happen – Insights from The Seven Summits

Suzanne Nance is a world-class record holder, professional speaker, and executive coach. Having climbed to the top of the tallest mountain on each of the seven continents, and skiing the Last Degree (100 miles) to both the North and South Poles, Suzanne is the first American woman to accomplish the Explorer’s Grand Slam. Suzanne shares her unique experiences and dives into the things she’s learned about leadership when summiting some of the toughest mountains in the world.

Key Takeaways

[3:15] Suzanne’s climbing adventure all got started when she experienced an injury. She had to focus on the small steps that she could do.

[5:25] Despite Suzanne being in these very remote mountain tops and locations, she was still parenting her children and telling them to go to the dentist!

[8:50] At one point, Suzanne thought she was going to lose her toes. Things were dire.

[11:45] When it comes to bringing out your duct tape to save toes, every leader goes through these moments where they’ve had to plan ahead in case of an emergency.

[15:05] It can be maddening trying to tackle small tasks when you’re at such a high altitude and have very little oxygen available to you. Leaders are always under pressure, but if you take a step back and just recognize your mental state, that goes a long way in making calculated, and calm, decisions.

[17:35] There are three things Suzanne likes to focus on when she’s climbing a mountain with a team.

[19:25] We all have conflict, but it’s important to remember the big picture. You need these people just as much as they need you.

[21:55] At one point, Suzanne wanted to turn back, but she didn’t because she knew that it meant that it would rob another team member of their opportunity to summit.

[23:00] The biggest adversary is often yourself. Suzanne shares how to conquer your mind.

[29:45] We are all on our own little journey to get to the top.

[32:45] Suzanne doesn’t have any regrets. She’s made mistakes, but they’ve been excellent learning opportunities.

[34:00] Listener challenge: Take your opportunity to climb your own Everest.

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.

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