New Podcast: Leading with Character

Leading with Character: Why Integrity, Judgement and Courage still Matter

In this episode of Leadership Learned, Rona and I speak with Professor Tom Harrison, Director of the Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues at the University of Birmingham and a leading voice on character and virtue in education and leadership.

Together, they explore the real meaning of character – how it’s defined, how it’s developed, and why it matters more than ever in leadership today. From the classroom to the boardroom, Tom shares insights on the power of moral and civic virtues, the limits of rules-based cultures, and what it takes to lead with authenticity and purpose.

We also discuss the expectations of the next generation of leaders, the shift from performative to principled leadership, and why embedding character into organisational culture is not just idealistic – it’s essential.

A must-listen for anyone invested in creating values-led, future-ready schools and organisations, the future of leadership, the expectations of Gen Z, or building a culture rooted in more than just performance.

Learn more about Professor Tom Harrison – https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/staff/profiles/education/harrison-tom

Tom’s book – THRIVE: How to Cultivate Character So Your Children Can Flourish Online