This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.
I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.
In this episode, Tom Alexander flips the script on what modern leadership really demands, showing why the old “command-and-control” playbook keeps failing today’s workforce.
We dive into the mindset shift leaders must make if they want to build organizations where people feel energized, purposeful, and proud of the work they do.
Tom shares hard-earned wisdom from moving between government, entrepreneurship, and fatherhood—and how those experiences shaped his belief that action beats perfection every time.
You’ll hear why optimism is a practical leadership tool, not a fluffy one, and how embracing uncertainty can actually unlock your team’s potential.
If you’re ready to lead with more courage, clarity, and heart, this conversation will give you the spark you’ve been looking for.
You can find Tom Alexander at the links below
- https://www.holisticindex.com/
- tom@holisticindex.com.
In the interview, Tom shares
- “Leadership isn’t a title—it’s a choice we make every single day.”
- “Environments change, industries change, but the heart of great leadership never does.”
- “People don’t just want a job anymore—they want their work to matter.”
- “Uncertainty isn’t an excuse for inaction. Leaders move even when the path isn’t crystal clear.”
- “Sustainable cultures are built when leaders balance organizational goals with genuine care for people.”
- “Optimism isn’t fluffy—it’s a strategic advantage in a world that won’t stop shifting.”
- “Adaptability is no longer optional. The faster the world moves, the calmer leaders must become.”
- “Remote work proved something big: when you trust people, they almost always rise to the occasion.”
- “Sometimes leadership is as simple as seeing right and wrong with the clarity of a child—and acting on it.”
- “Human potential is the greatest asset in any organization; the boldest leaders design everything around it.”