From Cockpits to Coaching: Warren James CB CBE DL. on how to be amazed by the people you lead.

Warren James CB CBE DL on Leading within the RAFNicola welcomes Warren James, a leader whose career spans more than three decades in the Royal Air Force. Along the way, Warren rose to positions of command, took on significant responsibility in training and career development, and later transitioned into the world of education and mentoring. Today, he is a mentor and consultant who uses his rich experience of leadership to help others grow and thrive.Warren reflects on his early experiences of stepping into leadership roles as an 18-year-old, learning the realities of responsibility, and gradually understanding what truly helps people flourish.Their conversation moves beyond job titles and traditional ideas of success, exploring the realities of self-awareness, communication, learning through mistakes, and creating environments where people can do their best work. Themes of vulnerability, humility, empowerment and trust run throughout the episode, alongside honest reflections on handling pressure and being the leader people need during times of crisis.Warren also shares insight into the quieter and less visible aspects of leadership: when stepping back, listening carefully, or simply creating space for others can make the greatest difference.This episode will resonate with anyone interested in human-centred leadership, military leadership, and building strong team cultures rooted in trust and accountability.In This ConversationEarly lessons learned as a young leader in the militaryWhat it means to really listen and connect with peopleSelf-awareness, vulnerability, and the willingness to ask for helpBuilding team culture where people feel empowered to contributeHandling risk, uncertainty, and challenge with calm and perspectiveTaking responsibility, especially during moments of crisisThe power of curiosity and seeing situations through others' eyesMaking space for reflection and big-picture thinkingBalancing enthusiasm and drive with patience and moderationMoments That Stood Out“You learn as much from your mistakes as you do from your success.” 12:10“The why always matters. It’s amazing how easy it is to forget that in the heat of the moment.” 30:40“There’s a belief that people are constrained. Actually, when they’re not, they’ll do amazing things.” 19:21“You start to realise your version of truth is not the truth. It takes someone around you to hold up a mirror sometimes.” 15:10“Leadership is about being visible, setting an example, and being prepared to say when you’ve got it wrong.” 32:23Resources & MentionsJohn Adair’s leadership model: team, task and individualReflections on executive coaching, mentoring, and self-awareness in leadershipInsights on team culture and empowerment from both military and civilian settings“Never underestimate the ingenuity of an idiot” — a personal mantra on learning and challenging assumptionsReferences to NLP perspectives on human potential and possibilityConnect & ExploreNicola Ellwood: executive coaching, leadership programmes and podcast updates at www.nicolaellwood.co.ukExplore more about the PRINT® tool, a next-generation insight tool that Nicola uses with leaders and teams to support self-awareness, transformation and high performanceBrowse other podcast episodes exploring leadership, identity, communication and personal growthNicola Ellwood - Be Your Best