Ditch the Dictatorship: Why 'Because I Said So' Leadership Fails with Geoff McLachlan
September 17, 2025
Why "Because I Said So" Leadership Is Dead (And What Actually Works)
Ready to ditch the dictatorship approach to leadership? This episode tackles one of the most persistent myths in management: that leaders can simply bark orders from their ivory towers and expect stellar results. Spoiler alert: it doesn't work, whether you're managing kindergarteners or seasoned professionals.
Our hosts dive deep into the messy reality of modern leadership, sharing war stories from the classroom, construction sites, and corporate boardrooms. You'll discover why even five-year-olds reject authoritarian approaches and how the most effective leaders have learned to blend authority with collaboration.
The Real Talk on Leadership Myths
Why the "sit on high and pronounce edicts" approach fails spectacularly
How safety-critical industries balance authority with input
The difference between leading in a vacuum versus leading with wisdom
From Classroom to Boardroom: Leadership Lessons That Actually Work
Real-world examples of inclusive decision-making that drives results
Why asking "What do you think?" is a leader's secret weapon
How to maintain authority while inviting authentic participation
Breaking Down the Crystal Palace Complex
The danger of making decisions that affect people without involving them
Why consensus isn't always possible (or necessary) in today's polarized world
How to engage your team as critical information providers, not just order-takers
The Bottom Line
True leadership isn't about being the smartest person in the room—it's about making sure you're in the right room with the right people. When leaders trade edicts for engagement, magic happens.
Tune in for:
Practical strategies for moving from dictator to collaborator
How to balance authority with inclusivity in high-stakes situations
Why self-awareness beats know-it-all attitude every single time
Real stories of leadership transformation across industries
Because leadership isn't about having all the answers—it's about asking the right questions and actually listening to the responses.
Have questions, suggestions or just a great story to tell about some Leadership BS you have experienced? Let us know by
emailing us Today's Featured Coach - Geoff McLachlan - Motivational Speaker, Trainer and Coach, Bringing Fun Back Into the Workplace, Owner/Founder of Professionals At Play Reach Geoff directly at [email protected] or 509-869-4506
The rest of the gang:
- Jeff Conroy - Organizational and Non-profit Expert, Motivational Speaker, Coach - Executive Leader | Difference Maker for nonprofits in strategic planning, operations, and fundraising and development. Owner/Founder of Conroy Leadership Consulting, LLC. Reach Jeff at [email protected] or 208-215-6285
- Geoff McLachlan - Motivational Speaker, Trainer and Coach, Bringing Fun Back Into the Workplace, Owner/Founder of Professionals At Play Reach Geoff directly at [email protected] or 509-869-4506
- Myra Hall - Individual and Team Coaching, Midlife Mentoring- Helping you get excited about life again as you overcome the things that keep you from living and loving a life that counts. - Owner/Founder Waypoint Coaching Group Reach Myra at [email protected] or 765-623-9711
- Jeffrey Geier - Motivational Speaker, Trainer, and Coach - Helping You Win in Work & Life Owner/Founder of Phoenix Coaching LLC Reach Jeffrey at [email protected] or 509-553-9248