Your brain is designed to be lazy—and that’s exactly why most people stop learning.

Most leaders believe they’re constantly learning—but are they really? In this episode, we dive deep into what it actually takes to grow as a leader, why so many people stop learning after childhood, and how to reignite that spark.

Phil Cross, founding partner at Leaders for Good, shares insights on creating better team conversations, avoiding common leadership blind spots, and using learning as a tool for real transformation. Whether you’re leading a team or just looking to develop yourself, this conversation will change how you think about growth.

Key Takeaways

1. Learning isn't just for kids—it’s the key to unlocking better leadership. If you’ve lost the excitement of learning, it might be holding you back more than you think.
2. Diversity and inclusion aren’t just checkboxes—they require real, ongoing conversations. The best leaders challenge their assumptions and create space for new perspectives.
3. The best leadership development isn’t about what you teach—it’s about the conversations you start. Shaping the right discussions leads to real, lasting change.

Timestamps:

[01:32] – How leaders can create better conversations

[03:47] – Why most training programs fail

[06:25] – The key to running inclusive meetings

[08:59] – The role of AI in learning & development

[11:43] – What leaders should outsource vs. develop

[14:18] – Overcoming the biggest blind spot in leadership

[17:05] – The “complacency of good intentions” in diversity

[20:36] – The one question every leader should ask themselves

[23:51] – Why referrals are the ultimate success metric

Links Phil Cross on LinkedinLeaders for Good WebsiteTom Bailey on LinkedInTom Bailey Website