The Power Paradox
Show notes
In this episode:
- Why the motivation to seek power matters more than we think.
- Two contrasting drivers behind leadership:
- Power as the goal — advancing oneself.
- Purpose and responsibility — advancing something larger.
- Why we often don't see the difference in hiring.
- What the "power paradox" reveals about how power changes behaviour.
- How even well-intentioned leaders get pulled into unhealthy power dynamics.
- Why destructive leadership is a selection problem, not a development problem.
- What the dark triad traits (narcissism, Machiavellianism, and subclinical psychopathy) reveal about leadership.
- Why psychological safety acts as a structural countermeasure to misuse of power.
Next Reflection episode: Which areas to watch so power doesn't draw us to the dark side.
New comment