Why Most Leadership Training Doesn’t Work. And What to Do Instead | #41

In this Leadership Unscripted episode, Dave and Rich explore one of the biggest myths in leadership development: that you can “train” people into becoming better leaders.They unpack why so many leadership programmes fail to create real behavioural change and deliver a return on both investment and expectation. They introduce a different approach, a concept that does work, transformational learning.Drawing on real-world examples, including Rich’s advanced motorcycle training with IAM RoadSmart, they discuss why leadership development must go beyond tools and content to focus on mindset, reflection, and cultural alignment. You’ll hear about Zentano’s SORTed learning model, adult development theory, and what it really takes for leadership growth to stick.This is an insightful, thought-provoking conversation for anyone who’s ever wondered whether their investment in leadership development truly makes a difference.Key Talking PointsWhy leadership “training” often fails to deliver lasting resultsThe crucial difference between transactional and transformational learningWhy mindset and motivation come before methods and modelsWhat Robert Kegan’s stages of adult development teaches us about leadership maturityThe importance of reflection, feedback, and real-world practice in shaping new habitsHow Zentano’s SORTed Model (Stuff happens → Objective view → Rethink & Challenge → Take Action) turns learning into behaviour changeWhy culture and context determine whether development succeeds or stallsHow organisations can design learning journeys, not isolated learning eventsThe importance of humility and self-awareness in adult learningWhy Zentano doesn’t sell training, it develops leaders