The Strategic Leader

Hosted by Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig

Business Management Education

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Aug 2026

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The Strategic Leader is a podcast for busy leaders to learn how to be naturally strategic, so that you can operate with impact and sit at the top table with confidence, with clear and actionable tips to demystify strategy and help you to succeed. With your hosts Gemma Bullivant, Executive Coach and Strategic HR Consultant, and Fiona Craig, strategist, founder and coaching lead at Good Thinking.

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September 8, 2026Episode 534 min

6.05 How to Build Self-Awareness to Become a More Effective Leader

How well do you really understand the impact you have on other people, not just the impact you intend to have? Self-awareness becomes increasingly important as you become more senior because leadership effectiveness depends on far more than your technical expertise. We discuss how your assumptions, preferences, habits, strengths and behaviours shape how you lead, and why understanding how others experience you is essential for strategic leadership. We also consider the difference between intention and impact, and why feedback is valuable data rather than something you automatically need to accept as fact. We introduce a five-part approach that moves from awareness to effectiveness. It helps you turn greater self-awareness into intentional choices about how you show up in different situations, rather than relying on your default behaviours. We also share practical ways to build your self-awareness. You will discover how to gather useful feedback, identify patterns and blind spots, and adapt your leadership approach without feeling that you need to change who you are. Key points discussed Why self-awareness is fundamental to effective strategic leadership. How the gap between your intention and your impact can affect how others experience your leadership. Why treating feedback as data can make it easier to hear and use constructively. Why senior leaders need to ask proactively for feedback rather than simply having an “open door”. Practical feedback tools - “What went well, even better if” and Ask 5 – and how they can make gathering useful feedback simpler and less threatening. Key takeaway Self-awareness is not simply knowing your strengths, weaknesses and preferences. Its value comes from understanding your impact on others and using that knowledge to make more intentional choices about how you lead. The goal is not to change who you are, but to adapt your approach when doing so will make you more effective. Want more? Read Gemma’s blog for more about this topic and the models/graphics we refer to in the episode. Thank you for tuning into this episode of The Strategic Leader podcast. If you enjoyed the show, please give us 5 stars! It will help others find the show. Check out our previous episodes and remember to subscribe so you don’t miss our future episodes. If you have any questions or want to discuss anything, we’d love to hear from you: www.gemmabullivant.co.uk (for Gemma) www.wearegoodthinking.co.uk (for Fi)

August 25, 2026Episode 438 min

6.04 Handling Conflict Well: The Five Skills Every Leader Needs

What if getting better at conflict could make you a more effective leader, strengthen relationships and help you make better strategic decisions? Conflict is part of leadership. Different perspectives, priorities, beliefs and ways of working mean disagreement is inevitable. In fact, we’d be concerned if a senior team agreed on everything. Constructive conflict can provide the challenge we need to test our thinking, improve decisions and reach better outcomes. We talk about the important distinction between task conflict and relationship conflict, and why understanding our own relationship with disagreement matters. Our past experiences can shape how comfortable we feel with challenge, while previous leadership cultures can leave teams reluctant to speak up even when the environment has changed. We explore ideas from Smart Conflict : - a practical framework for handling difficult conversations at work more effectively, from understanding our personal conflict settings and regulating emotions to preparing properly, choosing our response and repairing relationships afterwards. Key points discussed The difference between task conflict and relationship conflict. Why healthy disagreement can be beneficial. The five Rs of conflict Why leaders need to be willing to be temporarily unpopular when making difficult decisions. Key takeaway Conflict does not have to be destructive. Handled well, it can strengthen thinking, relationships and leadership. The challenge is to understand what we bring to conflict, regulate our response, prepare well and create an environment where people can disagree safely and constructively. More resources For more detail and a handy one-page reminder of the 5 conflict habits discussed, check out Gemma’s blog here The books we mention Smart Conflict by Alice Driscoll and Louise Van Haarst Have a Nice Conflict by Scudder, Patterson & Mitchell Previous episodes to check out The Strategic Leader, Series 2, Episode 3: How to Overcome Conflict Avoidance in the Workplace The Strategic Leader, Series 4, Episode 10: Is It Possible to Be Too Nice at Work?

August 11, 2026Episode 333 min

6.03 The Prioritisation Tools Every Leader Should Be Using

If you're constantly busy but still feel like you're not making the progress you want, it may may be a sign that you need to sharpen your prioritisation skills. Effective prioritisation is a strategic leadership skill that creates space for better thinking, stronger decisions and greater impact by focusing on what matters most. This episode explores why leaders are rarely asked to do less and why becoming more senior often means balancing increasing demands with limited time, energy and resources. We discuss how operational work can keep leaders trapped on the hamster wheel and why intentionally creating time for strategic thinking is essential for long term success. We talk through two practical tools that have helped us to prioritise more effectively: The Eisenhower Matrix - helps separate urgent work from genuinely important work, encouraging you to spend more time on strategic activities before they become crises. The Impact Effort Matrix - a framework for identifying which activities are likely to deliver the greatest value and avoiding work that consumes effort without creating meaningful results. You can read more about these tools in Gemma’s blog Key points discussed Why prioritisation is a foundational strategic leadership skill, not simply a time management technique. How to move away from constant operational busyness and create more space for strategic thinking. Using the Eisenhower Matrix to distinguish between urgent and important work. Understanding how different thinking styles influence the way we approach important tasks. Applying the Impact Effort Matrix to prioritise projects, change initiatives and strategic decisions. Recognising opportunities to delegate, automate or redesign recurring tasks. Identifying work that delivers little value despite consuming significant effort. Asking "What are the things that only I can do?" to improve delegation and leadership focus. Key takeaway Strategic leadership is not about getting more done. It is about making better choices about where your time, energy and attention create the greatest value. Prioritisation is the tool that makes this possible. Check out our previous episodes on similar themes: S1.11 - How to prioritise more strategically S5.01 - Moving between detail and big picture Thank you for tuning into this episode of The Strategic Leader podcast. If you enjoyed the show, please give us 5 stars! It will help others find the show. Check out our previous episodes and remember to subscribe so you don’t miss our future episodes. If you have any questions or want to discuss anything, we’d love to hear from you: www.gemmabullivant.co.uk (for Gemma) www.wearegoodthinking.co.uk (for Fi)

July 28, 2026Episode 229 min

6.02 How to Develop Strategic Clarity

Do you ever leave a meeting wishing you'd made your point more clearly? Have you ever presented a great idea only to find the conversation getting lost in the detail? Whether you are presenting to a board, writing a one-page proposal, leading a team meeting or responding to a senior executive, your audience doesn’t need every detail. They need the information that helps them understand the issue, why it matters and what happens next. This episode explores practical ways to structure your thinking so your communication is concise, purposeful and audience focused. As part of building your strategic toolkit, we discuss simple frameworks that make strategic communication easier, including the What, So What, Now What model, using signposting to keep discussions on track, structuring documents around five key questions, and communicating from the headline down rather than the detail up. We also explore why strategic summaries are different from status updates, how to avoid overwhelming people with information, and why leaders who communicate with clarity build greater credibility, confidence and influence. Key points discussed Why strategic summaries are a foundational tool in your strategic toolkit and different from status updates. How audience and purpose should shape every communication. Using signposting to keep meetings focused and avoid circular discussions. Applying the What, So What, Now What framework as a repeatable strategic tool. Structuring strategic papers using five simple questions. Why headline first communication is more effective than leading with detail. Knowing when detailed information belongs in supporting documents rather than presentations. How strategic clarity demonstrates leadership, builds confidence and helps move decisions forward. Key takeaway Strategic leadership is not about communicating everything you know. It is about using the right tools to communicate what your audience needs to know. Clear thinking, clear structure and clear messaging help people make better decisions and take meaningful action. Thank you for tuning into this episode of The Strategic Leader podcast. If you enjoyed the show, please give us 5 stars! It will help others find the show. Check out our previous episodes here - and remember to subscribe so you don’t miss our future episodes. If you have any questions or want to discuss anything, we’d love to hear from you: www.gemmabullivant.co.uk (for Gemma) www.wearegoodthinking.co.uk (for Fi)

July 14, 2026Episode 124 min

6.01 Strategic Leadership Essentials: Defining the Essential Tools

What if you could cut through leadership complexity and focus on the handful of tools that consistently make the biggest difference? Every leader collects ideas, models, frameworks and approaches throughout their career. The challenge is not finding new tools. The challenge is remembering which ones matter most and knowing when to use them. This episode launches Series 6 of The Strategic Leader and introduces the concept of the strategic leadership toolkit. Rather than chasing every new model or leadership trend, we explore how to identify the essential tools that deserve a permanent place in your toolkit and help you navigate complex situations with greater confidence and intention. We touch on a couple of ones likely to make the shortlist – self-awareness as a foundational leadership capability and the ability to create a clear, succinct one-pager, which will no doubt form a couple of future episodes where we will go into more depth. Throughout the conversation, we explore how strategic leaders can become more intentional about the tools they use, avoid default habits and build a toolkit that supports better leadership decisions every day. Key Points Discussed Why Series 6 focuses on essential strategic leadership tools The concept of a leadership toolkit and why intentional tool selection matters How leaders often accumulate too many models, frameworks and ideas Self-awareness as a cornerstone of effective leadership The importance of summarising complexity through a strategic one pager How clear thinking improves communication and decision making Using priorities and "even overs" to make better strategic choices Key Takeaway Strategic leadership is not about collecting more tools. It is about understanding which tools matter most, knowing when to use them and applying them with intention. Thank you for tuning into this episode of The Strategic Leader podcast. If you enjoyed the show, please give us 5 stars! It will help others find the show. Check out our previous episodes here - and remember to subscribe so you don’t miss our future episodes. If you have any questions or want to discuss anything, we’d love to hear from you: www.gemmabullivant.co.uk (for Gemma) www.wearegoodthinking.co.uk (for Fi)

October 31, 2023Episode 232 min

1.2 - Crafting a Simple Yet Effective Strategy

Welcome back to The Strategic Leader Podcast with your hosts, Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig. In this episode, we're delving deep into the art of crafting a strategy that is simple, yet highly effective. We explore the importance of simplicity in strategy, how to differentiate a strategy from an action plan, and why it's crucial to align your strategy with the overarching goals of your business. Do you ever wonder what it truly means to be strategic? Are you tired of overly complex strategic documents that seem impossible to decipher? Well, you're in luck! In this episode, we dive into the complex world of strategy, break it all down for you, and we discuss how simplicity in strategy is the key to effective leadership. Join us for this insightful episode and learn how to demystify strategy, prioritize effectively, and lead with confidence. We discuss: - The difference between a strategy and an action plan. - How to create a concise and clear strategy that anyone can understand. - The importance of aligning your strategy with the overall goals of the business. - Using strategy as your North Star to guide decision-making. - The power of asking, "What is the most important thing here?" Key Takeaway: Simplicity in strategy is essential for effective leadership. By distilling your strategy into clear, concise, and unambiguous terms, you can guide your team with greater focus and motivation, align with the business's overall objectives, make more informed decisions, and ultimately achieving your goals with confidence. FREE DOWNLOAD – Your HR Strategy Toolkit: Ready to take your strategic thinking to the next level? Download Gemma’s comprehensive HR Strategy Toolkit, packed with actionable tips and templates to help you develop and implement an effective HR strategy for your organization. DOWNLOAD HERE Key Timestamps: [01:02] - we look at the key components of a strategy, how to put that together, how to differentiate a strategy from an action plan, and how to make sure that what is in our strategy is aligned to the overall goals of the business. [03:08] - the difference between a strategic plan and a list of actions. Sometimes when we think we've presented someone with a strategy, what we've actually done is a list of actions, and that can not be what's desired. [05:01] - Strategy doesn't need to be something incredibly complex or full of corporate jargon. It should be simple, succinct, and something that anyone can understand. If you can't explain it clearly, it's too complicated. [06:23] - We should be able to articulate the strategy in one page. The actual strategy itself should be able to live on one page. We explore how to achieve this. [07:47] - Your strategy is like a North Star guiding your organization's efforts. It's clear, unambiguous language should help steer your actions, ensuring they align with your goals. [12:26] – We talk about how strategy anchors off the overarching organizational strategy. [15:26] - Your strategy is less about what your business does; it's more about what it aims to achieve and where it wants to be in the future. [18:13] – How a strong strategy can drive employee motivation and engagement. [25:43] - The Power of Simple Language - your strategy document should be clear and straightforward. It should be something that even a child could pick up and understand. [29:51] - Strategic Thinking in Action - A daily discipline of a strategic leader is asking, "What is the most important thing I could do today?" Your strategy gives you the answer by reminding you of your overarching purpose. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Strategic Leader podcast. If you enjoyed the show, don't forget to check out previous episodes, and subscribe for more insightful discussions and practical advice on becoming a more naturally strategic leader. If you have questions about crafting a simple yet effective strategy or need guidance on strategic leadership, we'd love to hear from you. Check out the free download (link above) and feel free to contact us via www.gemmabullivant.co.uk (Gemma) or www.wearegoodthinking.co.uk (Fiona). Your queries could inspire future episodes to help you become a more strategic leader.

October 24, 2023Episode 126 min

1.1 - The 3 Essential Keys to Being Strategic

In this episode, hosts Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig delve into the fundamental concept of what it means to be strategic. They break down strategy into three key components: Future Focus, Breadth, and Purpose. Through engaging discussion and practical examples, they emphasize how anyone can become more naturally strategic by applying these principles to their daily work. Show Highlights: Gemma and Fiona introduce the podcast and emphasize that being strategic isn't as complex as it seems. They aim to demystify the concept and provide practical tips for their audience. The Three Key Elements of Being Strategic:: - Future Focus: Being strategic means having a clear line of sight on the horizon, looking beyond the immediate tasks, and thinking about future objectives and goals. - Breadth : A strategic perspective involves considering the bigger picture, identifying stakeholders, and understanding the broader impact of decisions on the organization. - Purpose: Being strategic requires understanding why a particular direction or decision is chosen and aligning it with the organization's overall objectives and mission. COACHING TOOL - The "What, So What, Now What" Framework (Rolfe et al): Gemma and Fiona discuss the importance of asking these three questions in strategic thinking. - What : Identifying the challenge or initiative. - So What : Understanding the significance, impact, and purpose behind the challenge. - Now What : Formulating actionable steps based on a deeper understanding of the challenge and its purpose. Key Takeaways: Applying the three elements of strategic thinking—Future Focus, Breadth, and Purpose— inserting strategic thinking into day-to-day tasks can lead to more effective decision-making and problem-solving.as well as the "What, So What, Now What" framework can instantly make your approach more strategic and improve the quality of your output. Download my HR Strategy Toolkit: Ready to take your strategic thinking to the next level? Download our comprehensive HR Strategy Toolkit, packed with actionable tips and templates to help you develop and implement an effective HR strategy for your organization. DOWNLOAD HERE Key Timestamps [02:38] - we discuss the idea of being naturally strategic, the need to understand what it means to be strategic, and why we are starting with exploring the concept of being strategic and how it can be achieved naturally. [04:15] - the difference between having a future focus (eyes on the horizon) and managing what's in front of you (eyes on the ground), and the importance of having a future-focused perspective in strategic thinking. [07:00] - the importance of a longer time frame in strategic thinking, and the significance of considering longer time frames when developing a strategy. [09:03] - the concept of breadth in strategy, considering a broader perspective beyond immediate tasks, and why it's essential to look at the bigger picture and consider broader impacts in strategic thinking. [11:01] - the importance of connecting the strategy to the organization's overarching objectives and purpose, and goals. [13:38] - we introduce the "what, so what, now what" reflective model for strategic thinking, and explain how the model can enhance strategic thinking by prompting important questions. [18:29] - the value of the "so what" question in making strategic decisions, and how the "so what" question helps in thinking through implications and obstacles in strategic decision-making. Got Questions or Comments? We love hearing from our listeners! If you have any questions about strategic thinking or want to share your experiences, email us at gemma@gemmabullivant.co.uk. We might feature your question in a future episode! Thank you for tuning in to the first episode of The Strategic Leader podcast. If you enjoyed the show, don't forget to subscribe for more insightful discussions and practical advice on becoming a more naturally strategic leader.

May 13, 2025Episode 125 min

4.01 How to Tackle Challenges More Strategically

Strategic thinking isn’t about having the strongest opinion in the room – it’s about knowing how to take a step back and ask better questions. In this episode, we talk about what it really takes to move from personal opinion to a more strategic viewpoint, especially when you're dealing with big, complex topics that people often feel strongly about. We explore a simple approach: start by getting some perspective (take the balcony view rather than getting stuck on the dance floor), stay open to other possibilities (two things can be true at once), and always come back to context – what problem are we actually trying to solve? We’ve both seen this in action and we talk about tangible examples, such as designing a bonus scheme and everyone comes to the table with strong preferences, on we have tackled these situations and how the approach we suggest can really help. It creates space to listen, explore alternatives, and let go of the idea that there’s one perfect answer. You don’t need to have all the answers to be strategic. But you do need to stay curious, ask the right questions, and be willing to think differently. This episode sets the tone for the rest of the series, where we’ll explore big hairy questions, and how to navigate these more strategically. Key Points Discussed Why strong opinions can hinder strategic clarity The importance of moving from opinion to strategic viewpoint The “balcony vs dance floor” metaphor for gaining perspective How curiosity unlocks better thinking in group discussions The danger of seeking to “win” over others in strategic debate The value of considering context over personal preference Using the “disagree and commit” mindset in leadership The three-part strategic approach: Perspective, Alternatives, Context Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Strategic Leader podcast. If you enjoyed the show, please give us 5 stars! It will help others to find the show. And don't forget to check out previous episodes, and subscribe for more insightful discussions and practical advice on becoming a more naturally strategic leader. If you have questions about anything we've been talking about, or need guidance on strategic leadership, we'd love to hear from you. Feel free to contact us via www.gemmabullivant.co.uk (Gemma) or www.wearegoodthinking.co.uk (Fiona). Your queries could inspire future episodes to help you become a more strategic leader.

July 23, 2024Episode 830 min

2.08 Building Core Strength: The Key to Confident Leadership

In this episode, hosts Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig discuss the multifaceted nature of confidence. They address how confidence is often misunderstood as mere extroversion and bravado, but true confidence comes from a deeper sense of self-worth and capability. Fi shares her personal journey in understanding confidence, emphasising the importance of courage and the ability to act despite fear. Gemma contrasts self-esteem, which relies on external validation, with intrinsic self-worth that remains intact regardless of external outcomes. She refers to Viv Groskop's book "Happy High Status," which introduces various confidence styles, including vulnerable confidence and the ability to hold competing ideas without feeling threatened. The hosts also propose a practical model of the three Cs—competency, courage, and curiosity—as anchors for building confidence in challenging situations. This insightful conversation equips listeners with a broader perspective on confidence, encouraging them to find and nurture their unique styles of self-assuredness. Key Points Discussed: - Different definitions and perceptions of confidence - The impact of age and wisdom on understanding confidence - The distinction between self-esteem and self-worth - Examples of confidence styles from Viv Groskop's "Happy High Status" - Practical model: Competency, courage, and curiosity as confidence anchors - The importance of recognising and reducing stress responses - The role of core strength in maintaining confidence Key Timestamps: [05:48] - Gemma's take on quiet confidence and growth mindset [07:25] - Discussion on self-worth versus self-esteem [14:48] - Viv Groskop's "Happy High Status" and different confidence styles [22:17] - The importance of quiet confidence in strategic leadership [24:16] - Operating in competency mode vs. stress mode [27:12] - Introducing the practical model of the three Cs [29:01] - Core strength as a metaphor for inner confidence Key Takeaway: True confidence is not about external validation but an intrinsic sense of self-worth and capability. By understanding and nurturing different styles of confidence, leaders can navigate challenges with core strength and strategic calm. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Strategic Leader podcast. If you enjoyed the show, please give us 5 stars! It will help others to find the show. And don't forget to check out previous episodes, and subscribe for more insightful discussions and practical advice on becoming a more naturally strategic leader. If you have questions about anything we've been talking about, or need guidance on strategic leadership, we'd love to hear from you. Feel free to contact us via www.gemmabullivant.co.uk (Gemma) or www.wearegoodthinking.co.uk (Fiona). Your queries could inspire future episodes to help you become a more strategic leader.

May 14, 2024Episode 332 min

2.03 - How to Overcome Conflict Avoidance

In this episode Gemma is talking to special guest Jo Bamford. We talk about the dynamics of workplace conflict and ways to embrace diverse perspectives which can lead to better outcomes. By inviting challenge, conflict can drive innovation, by prompting us to consider alternative viewpoints and solutions. Staying actively curious and active listening are essential tools for overcoming conflict avoidance and promoting constructive dialogue. A key highlight from our discussion is the insight drawn from Matthew Syed's book 'Rebel Ideas', particularly the chapter on Rebels vs Clones. Syed advocates for seeking out individuals who challenge the status quo, as their perspectives often lead to more innovative outcomes. We also stress the importance of expecting positive outcomes when addressing conflicts, reframing them as opportunities for growth and learning. And we explore the concept of viewing fear as excitement, shifting our mindset towards conflict as a pathway to innovation and strategic success. Our Tips for Overcoming Conflict Avoidance include: Recognise that conflict isn't inherently negative – it’s healthy and necessary (with the right approach) Acknowledge that it's natural to have different perspectives – give yourself permission to disagree Invite challenge, and then... Focus on listening and understanding the other person's perspective. Aim for a third, better outcome rather than ‘winning the argument’ Avoid procrastination. Reframe your approach to conflict as an opportunity to explore differences and reach better outcomes. About Jo Bamford: Jo is an Occupational Psychologist with 30+ years of experience and an even bigger bucket of passion about maximising potential, raising performance, removing obstacles and enabling people and organisations achieve outcomes that are extra ordinary. Her company Bacon6 create bespoke solutions to support people, teams and the wider business to achieve ambitions around growth, change, culture and leadership. Jo brings a positive energy to everything she does – she is curious and collaborative and approaches the challenges faced with these same key principles. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Strategic Leader podcast. If you enjoyed the show, please give us 5 stars! It will help others to find the show. And don't forget to check out previous episodes, and subscribe for more insightful discussions and practical advice on becoming a more naturally strategic leader. If you have questions about anything we've been talking about, or need guidance on strategic leadership, we'd love to hear from you. Feel free to contact us via www.gemmabullivant.co.uk (Gemma), www.bacon6.co.uk (Jo) or www.wearegoodthinking.co.uk (Fiona). Your queries could inspire future episodes to help you become a more strategic leader.