

E87 - Alastair Campbell: What I've learnt about winning in politics, sport and business
Nov 1, 2021
Alastair Campbell, a renowned writer and strategist known for his role as Tony Blair's spokesman, shares pivotal lessons on success across politics, sports, and business. He discusses the delicate balance between high performance and mental health, revealing strategies for managing depression. With insights into leadership styles and the importance of personal narratives, Campbell highlights the need for self-compassion in competition while encouraging lifelong learning. His reflections make it clear that embracing vulnerability can enhance both personal and professional growth.
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OST: Objective, Strategy, Tactics
- Define objectives, strategies (the big "how"), and tactics (the specific actions).
- Tactics should flow from strategy, not the other way around, to avoid "messes" like Brexit.
Misjudging Armstrong
- Alastair Campbell interviewed Lance Armstrong multiple times, initially blinded by admiration.
- He missed signals of doping, only recognizing them later, highlighting the power of bias.
Clinton's Crisis Strategy
- Bill Clinton, during the Lewinsky scandal, focused on his objectives: survive and stay president.
- His strategy involved focusing on presidential duties, demonstrating OST in crisis management.