In this episode of The Leaders Kitbag, I’m busting one of the biggest leadership myths out there: the idea that we must choose between being a leader or a manager.

Here’s the truth - real leadership isn’t an ‘either/or’ game. It’s about mastering both disciplines and knowing when to step into each mode.

Whether you're leading a small team or steering the ship at the top of an organisation, this episode is packed with insights that will help you lead with more clarity, confidence, and impact.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. Why leadership and management are not opposites
2. The core difference between doing the right things and doing things right
3. What chaos looks like without good management, and what stagnation looks like without leadership
4. My personal definition of leadership, rooted in military principles but proven in the business world
5. How to be intentional in shifting between leader and manager mode, depending on your team's needs

Whether you're in the trenches or at the top, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on the balance required to lead effectively in today’s fast-paced world.

Ben’s Key Takeaway

Your role doesn’t ask you to be just a leader or just a manager.

It asks you to be both, sometimes in the same hour. The real skill lies in recognising what your team needs in the moment… and responding accordingly.

Want to take your leadership skills to the next level?

The waitlist is now open for the cohort of my ‘Leader in Me’ programme.

If you're ready to:

1. Build confidence and capability as a leader
2. Break free from firefighting and become more proactive
3. Learn how to inspire your team and deliver results…

Join the waitlist here for early access and updates on the next open programme.

Prefer bite-sized learning?

Check out the 10-4-10 Leadership Programme, my free online course that delivers powerful, practical leadership tools in just 10 minutes a week.

You’ll get:

1. Weekly lessons on topics like delegation, motivation and prioritisation
2. A short video, podcast, and book recommendation each week
3. Simple tactics you can use straight away

It’s practical, no-nonsense leadership training that fits into your busy schedule.

Learn more about the 10-4-10 programme here.

As always, look after yourself and those you’ve got the privilege and responsibility to lead.

Until next time…

#LeadOn