Episode #12
Why vulnerability is a leadership strength, with Darren Smith
In this episode Adrian chats to Darren Smith Darren is an experienced technology leader who has spent his career helping organisations build high-performing teams, lead large-scale transformation, and create cultures built on trust. Drawing on leadership experience across multiple organisations, he shares practical lessons on vulnerability, communication, organisational change, and the growing impact of AI on today's workplace. What separates good leaders from great leaders? Darren believes the answer starts with trust. In this episode, Adrian and Darren explore why vulnerability is one of the most underrated leadership strengths, how trust becomes the foundation of high-performing teams, and the practical behaviours leaders can adopt to build stronger cultures, navigate change successfully, and lead with authenticity. In this episode: Darren's career journey and the experiences that shaped his leadership approach Why vulnerability is a leadership strength rather than a weakness How leaders build trust through credibility, reliability, authenticity and transparency Creating psychological safety by leading through openness and honest conversations The importance of having a clear North Star to align teams and drive performance Adapting communication styles to different people, cultures and situations How reverse mentoring helps leaders gain valuable insight from every level of an organisation Recognising healthy and unhealthy organisational politics Practical advice for making an impact during your first 90 days in a new leadership role How AI is changing leadership, organisations and the future of work Building a culture where trust, collaboration and continuous improvement thrive Darren is participating in this podcast in a personal capacity. The views, opinions and experiences he shares are his own and do not necessarily represent those of any employer, client, company or organisation with which he is associated. Darren's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-smith-60919031/ Adrian's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianprodger/ www.exalto-consulting.com
