In this thought-provoking episode of The Secret Life of Great Leaders, Michael Bunting speaks with UK consultant and author Paul Sweeney about the hidden dysfunctions, fashionable management trends, and “corporate nonsense” that quietly shape modern organisations. Drawing on experience from frontline operations to the C-suite, Paul challenges many common assumptions about organisational culture and leadership change.Together, they explore why so many culture initiatives fail, how fear and image management drive reactive leadership behaviours, and why genuine transformation requires far more than new frameworks or slogans. The conversation also unpacks the importance of self-awareness, accountability, and vertical development in creating healthy, high-performing workplaces.If you’re interested in leadership, organisational psychology, behavioural change, or building more authentic organisations, this episode offers a refreshingly honest and insightful perspective on what truly drives sustainable performance and trust.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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