Rob Swan - Leadership Lessons from 40 Years of Polar Exploration

OutsideVoices with Mark Bidwell

My guest in this episode is Robert Swan, a world renowned polar explorer, environmental leader, public speaker and the first man in history to walk to both the North and South Poles. He is currently an advocate for the protection of Antarctica and renewable energy. Robert is also the founder of 2041, a company which is dedicated to the preservation of the Antarctic and the author with Gil Reavill of Antarctica 2041: My Quest to Save the Earth's Last Wilderness.

Read the article HERE. What Was Covered:

• What decision-making strategies can increase the chances of success in high risk undertakings such as polar expeditions
• The importance for leaders to be flexible and ensure they remain relevant
• The power of deep listening and understanding different perspectives

Key Learnings and Takeaways:

• Why diversity of skills and strict division of labour in a team is key to achieving goals in hostile environments
• Keeping promises as a crucial leadership trait and a powerful motivator
• How to quickly turn failure into success with deep thinking and support

Links And Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Rob Swan's website
• Get in touch with Rob by email
• Antarctica 2041: My Quest to Save the Earth's Last Wilderness, a book by Robert Swan and Gil Reavill
• 2041 Foundation
• The Climateforce Challenge
• Scott of the Antarctic, a film directed by Charles Frend (1948)