99. BRETT SIMPSON

What happens when everything you have learned about leadership is tested in minutes? Brett Simpson has experienced that reality twice. A senior NSW Ambulance leader at Paddington and President of the Australian Paramedics Association NSW, Brett was the first paramedic and initial ambulance commander on scene at both the Bondi Westfield mass-casualty incident and the later Bondi Beach incident. But this conversation is not simply about commanding major emergencies. It is about what makes someone capable of leading when the pressure becomes almost unimaginable. Brett talks openly about the mentors who shaped him, the importance of remaining calm, preparing repeatedly for situations you hope will never occur, trusting people from other organisations, accepting difficult feedback and having the humility to accept help when your own capacity is overwhelmed. He also speaks with extraordinary honesty about what happened after Bondi Westfield. Brett tried to convince himself he was fine. He wasn't. Eventually, support from colleagues, friends and professional psychological care changed his approach to recovery — and his approach to looking after the people he leads. Perhaps most importantly, Brett believes leadership is about developing people who eventually become better leaders than you.   His goal? For the people he mentors to surpass him.   An extraordinary conversation about Relationships, Reputation and Resilience — and what leadership looks like when it really matters. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM. The Courage to Lead - The Book Listen now to The Courage to Lead Podcast and explore more stories of leaders who are redefining courage into action, empowering others to create supportive and inclusive workplaces where people can thrive.