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Episode Description

In this episode, Julia Middleton is joined by Stefanie McCollum to explore one of the toughest leadership challenges of ‘reversing a decision’. Leaders are often expected to be decisive and unwavering, but what happens when a course correction is needed? Stefanie shares insights on the complexities of changing direction, the risks involved, and the strategies leaders can use to manage the process effectively.

She discusses the importance of transparency, communication, and humility when undoing a decision, offering practical examples of how leaders can navigate these moments with integrity. Stefanie also highlights the psychological and organisational barriers that can make reversal difficult and how to overcome them.

This conversation is an eye-opener for all who have faced the dilemma of sticking with a decision or having the courage to change course.

About the Guests

Stefanie McCollum

Stefanie McCollum is an experienced diplomat and leadership expert with a distinguished career in international relations and public service. With a background in senior governmental roles, she has developed deep expertise in strategic decision-making, crisis management, and organisational leadership. Stefanie is passionate about fostering resilient, adaptable leaders who can navigate complex challenges with confidence.

About the Host

Julia Middleton

Julia Middleton is the host of the Women Emerging podcast and a best-selling author of “If that’s leading, I’m in” as well as two previous books: “Leading beyond Authority” and “Cultural Intelligence”. She is deeply committed to helping people from all backgrounds to find their own approach to leading.

In 2020, Julia launched Women Emerging and in 2022 she lead an expedition of 24 women to find ‘an approach to leading that resonates with women’. She now leads expeditions with women all over the world based on 4Es methodology, discovered in the first expedition.

Prior to that, Julia was founder and, for over thirty years, Chief Executive of Common Purpose, which grew to become one of the biggest leadership development organisations in the world.
Julia is also an Ambassador for the Aurora Prize based in Armenia, on the boards of Alfanar Venture Philanthropy in the Arab World and Equality Now, which operates globally, and on the Advisory Councils of Fundacao Dom Cabral in Brazil and Synapse in Pakistan.

Born in London and brought up in New York, Julia was educated at French Lycées and graduated from the London School of Economics. She is married, with five children and lots of grandchildren.