Leading into the Unknown: Tod Bolsinger on Adaptive Leadership

This podcast features a deep conversation with Tod Bolsinger, who emphasizes the vital importance of adaptive leadership in a rapidly changing world. He draws on his experience as a pastor and consultant to highlight how leaders must not only adapt their strategies but also transform themselves and their communities to thrive. Tod shares insights from his book, "Canoeing the Mountains," using the historical context of Lewis and Clark's expedition as a metaphor for navigating uncharted territory in leadership. Throughout the episode, he discusses the critical characteristics of effective leaders, including technical competence, relational congruence, and adaptive capacity, while providing practical advice on how to cultivate these traits. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on fostering communal transformation and the courage required to embrace uncertainty as they lead their organizations through change.

Takeaways:

• Leadership is about energizing a community towards transformation to accomplish a shared mission.
• Adaptive capacity is crucial as leaders face changing environments and shifting cultural contexts.
• Trust is essential for transformation, but it does not guarantee that transformation will occur.
• Best practices may not work in new contexts, requiring leaders to adapt and innovate.
• Relational congruence fosters trust, enabling leaders to effectively guide their communities through change.
• To lead effectively, one must discern core values and adapt them wisely in a changing world.