Unpacking Leadership Failures Through the Titanic’s Lens

A large ocean liner with four smokestacks travels across the sea, emitting black smoke under a partly cloudy sky.

In the latest episode of our podcast, Jerome and Julienne delve into the profound lessons that can be learned from one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters: the sinking of the Titanic. This episode of Leadership Story Talks explores the critical importance of leadership, accountability, and storytelling in navigating both personal and professional challenges based on their conversation with Titanic author, researcher and speaker, Kelly Skwarcan.

Throughout the episode, we reflect on the actions—or lack thereof—of Captain Lord of the Californian, who, despite receiving multiple distress signals from the Titanic, chose to ignore them. This tragic oversight serves as a poignant reminder of the dire consequences that can arise from a failure to listen and act. Jerome and Julienne emphasize that effective leadership requires more than just authority; it demands a commitment to empathy and integrity.
As they dissect the events leading up to the Titanic’s demise, Jerome and Julianne highlight the necessity of fostering an environment where all voices are heard, regardless of rank or position. They argue that today’s leaders must prioritize open communication and empower their teams to speak up, as the failure to do so can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
The episode also touches on the importance of owning up to mistakes, a quality that is often lacking in corporate culture. Jerome and Julienne encourage leaders to embrace vulnerability and transparency, as these traits can build trust and foster a more engaged workforce. By sharing their own experiences and insights, they inspire listeners to reflect on their leadership styles and consider how they can improve.
Listeners are invited to explore the concept of storytelling as a powerful tool for connection and influence. Jerome and Julienne urge everyone, whether in leadership roles or not, to uncover their personal narratives and the experiences that shape their approach to leadership. By turning over the stones of past experiences, individuals can better understand their motivations and how to effectively lead others.
This episode is a compelling reminder that leadership is not merely about making decisions; it’s about creating a culture of accountability, integrity, and empathy. As Jerome and Julienne conclude, the lessons from the Titanic tragedy remain relevant today, urging us all to reflect on our priorities and the impact of our actions.
LISTEN HERE to this insightful discussion to gain valuable perspectives that can enhance your leadership journey.

Narativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:
Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course)
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Learn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome.

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About The Author

Narativ

Our editorial team at Narativ is a group of experts led by CEO and business storytelling craftsman, Jerome Deroy. We aim to create educational and informative content relevant to the emerging trends in business leadership, sales, team building, and onboarding.

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