Hawthorn Football Club President Andy Gowers’ leadership beliefs do not reveal themselves through grand declarations or certainties but through a willingness to embrace complexity.
It is an effort to find connection where others might see only division.
"The feedback I got when I was considering running for the board was confronting. Some people thought I'd be wasting my time. Others warned me it would be the hardest thing I've ever done."
He understood the full weight of leadership would soon settle onto his shoulders. His eyes were wide open, and if they weren’t, they soon would be, such were the cautionary tales from those who understood the complexity of what lay ahead for this storied football club, some of whom had travelled the path before, as well as those who cared for Andy.
"But I couldn't walk away. This club gave me so much. When it needed someone to step up, I felt a responsibility to give back."
This is a very generous podcast, with a very generous and humble leader.
Play on!