S2E02: From Google to Leading Change

We often think great leadership is about having all the answers and staying composed under pressure. But what if the real key to leading a high-performing team is being open about your mistakes?In this episode, Kim Wylie reflects on two decades of leadership experience at Google, Farfetch, and scale-ups—sharing what actually builds trust and performance when you’re stepping into a new team.We talk about:• Why trying to be the perfect manager backfires• How Kim built psychological safety in a team that didn’t trust her at first• How to handle resistance to new ways of working in distributed teams• The team rituals she uses to foster connection, even across regions• What to do when your team gives you negative feedback• The neuroscience of why solving everyone’s problems is not good leadership• And how even senior leaders still struggle with imposter syndromeThis is a masterclass in human-centred leadership—with practical tools, real stories, and the kind of honest reflection most leaders wish they heard more often.🧠 Some Takeaways“If you’re a manager and you’re always solving everyone’s problems, you’re robbing them of that dopamine hit.”“One of the biggest lessons I learned is that being vulnerable builds trust—and trust drives performance.”“People need to see that how you show up on day one is how you’re going to keep showing up.”🔗 Links & ResourcesFollow Kim on LinkedInWatch the full video interview on YouTubeSubscribe to the podcast for more real stories and practical leadership insights.Connect to me and ask me about coaching! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit scaleupleaders.substack.com