Episode 92 - Influencers #15 - Niccolò Machiavelli, good or bad?

Battling with Business

In this engaging episode of Battling with Business, Chris and Gareth take a deep dive into the life, philosophy, and legacy of one of history's most influential and controversial thinkers—Niccolò Machiavelli. This instalment in their Influencers Series brings Machiavelli's ideas to life as Gareth sets the historical context behind his most famous works, such as The Prince, and explains how his concepts have shaped leadership, politics, and philosophy over centuries.

The conversation takes an intriguing turn as Chris and Gareth explore one of the central questions surrounding Machiavelli: Was he a force for good or bad? They tackle the complex and often misunderstood notion of being "Machiavellian," discussing whether this term is still relevant in today’s leadership landscape. Chris uses a compelling series of Machiavelli’s quotes to challenge modern leaders to rethink how they approach power, ethics, and decision-making. Meanwhile, Gareth delves into key Machiavellian concepts such as realpolitik, strategic deception, and the balance between virtue and pragmatism. He explores how these ideas continue to influence contemporary leadership, politics, and even corporate strategy.

This episode isn’t just about history—it’s a thought-provoking exploration of how ancient wisdom applies to modern leadership. Whether you're a business leader, strategist, or history enthusiast, this episode promises to deliver actionable insights and fresh perspectives on power, virtue, and success in today’s complex world.