The Mammoth in the Room

Explore how Napoleon Bonaparte’s early decisions and the chaotic environment of revolutionary France shaped his leadership style. Discover key insights into human instincts and behavior, decision-making under pressure, and leadership evolution through history.Introduction to Napoleon's background: Corsican origins, outsider status, early discipline and focus.The chaos of revolutionary France: from political upheaval to societal collapse, and the need for fast action.How societal fracture creates a search for new leaders: Napoleon’s emergence from instability.Napoleon's ability to capitalize on moments of crisis by acting decisively—Toulon as a pivotal example.The psychology of decisiveness: risk-taking leads to recognition and promotion.Overconfidence rooted in success: how early victories reinforce belief in infallibility.The importance of conditions over greatness: Napoleon’s rise driven by need for stability and competence.Lessons on leadership and human behavior: chaos, uncertainty, and the power of decisive action under pressure.

In this episode, Nicolas Pokorny explores the essence of leadership, emphasizing that it often manifests in moments of uncertainty and pressure rather than through theoretical frameworks. He introduces the concept of observing leadership in action, particularly through historical examples, starting with Napoleon Bonaparte. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding human behavior and instincts in leadership dynamics.Leadership shows up in moments under uncertainty and pressure.Understanding leadership is different from observing it unfold.Leadership lives in motion, not just in language.History provides a powerful laboratory for observing behavior.Human behavior is consistent across time, despite changing contexts.Confidence, fear, and ambition are key elements in leadership.Observing leadership can reveal patterns in organizations and individuals.The journey of leadership can be understood through historical figures.Napoleon Bonaparte's leadership journey serves as a case study.The invitation is to watch leadership happen, not just learn about it.

The stakes for leaders today have never been higher. Power that’s applied indiscriminately can erode trust, lower morale, and damage a company’s culture. But leaders who master the art of flexible power use can navigate complex challenges with resilience and success.In this episode, we examine leadership power as a precision instrument. We explore how business leaders can move beyond traditional, blunt approaches to power and adopt a more adaptable, context-sensitive strategy. Drawing from historical examples, we explore how the smartest leaders know when to exercise authority and when to lean on soft power for better outcomes. You’ll learn how to apply power strategically, balance hard and soft approaches, and lead with precision.In this episode:- Power as a precision instrument- Historical examples: Ashoka, Paul Polman, & Shackleton- Playbook for applying power with precision- Key takeaway and series wrap-upResources Used in the Episode:French, J. R. P., & Raven, B. (1959). The bases of social power: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/215915730_The_bases_of_social_power  Keltner, D., Gruenfeld, D. H., & Anderson, C. (2003). Power, approach, and inhibition. Psychological Review, 110(2), 265–284: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2003-00307-004 Peyton, T., Zigarmi, D., & Fowler, S. (2020). Examining the Relationship Between Leaders' Power Use, Followers' Motivational Outlooks, and Followers' Work Intentions. Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 1070: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6367254/ Wisse, B., Rus, D., Keller, A., & Sleebos, E. (2019). Fear of losing power corrupts those who wield it: The combined effects of leader fear of losing power and competitive climate on leader self-serving behavior. The Leadership Quarterly, 30(5), 101313: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/334007112_Fear_of_losing_power_corrupts_those_who_wield_it_the_combined_effects_of_leader_fear_of_losing_power_and_competitive_climate_on_leader_self-serving_behavior Yukl, G. (2013). Leadership in Organizations (8th ed.). Pearson: https://nibmehub.com/opac-service/pdf/read/Leadership%20in%20Organizations%20by%20Gary%20Yukl.pdfGet Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny a...

Picture a product launch gone wrong, with a team scrambling to point fingers rather than solve the problem. Instead of tackling the root cause, individuals deflect responsibility to others, poisoning team morale and trust. In today’s episode, we dive into one of the most destructive patterns that can derail a team—blame shifting. We uncover why this behavior is common, how it sabotages learning and growth within organizations, and how leaders can address it effectively.By understanding this behavior, leaders can take proactive steps to model accountability and create an environment where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth rather than threats. Tune in for practical strategies to confront blame shifters and foster a more resilient, adaptive team.In this episode:00:00 Introduction to blame shifting01:52 Why blame shifting exists and its impact on teams03:47 Real-world examples: Apollo 1 & Volkswagen emissions scandal05:02 How leaders can counteract blame shifting06:38 Conclusion and key takeawayGet Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences  

George Washington shocked the world by surrendering power after winning the Revolutionary War. That single decision didn’t just define a leader; it helped shape the foundations of modern democracy. It remains a powerful example of how intentional power design, not personal ambition, builds trust and resilience in organizations.In today’s episode, we explore what this means for today’s business leaders. Drawing on research and other real-world cases, we unpack the invisible levers that either keep power healthy or allow it to corrupt. You’ll hear how institutional structures, role design, and even evolutionary psychology determine whether leaders remain mission-focused or drift toward self-interest under pressure.If you’re leading a team, a company, or a culture, this discussion will arm you with three proven strategies to design power systems that support performance and safeguard against ego-driven misuse. We also share how to spot hidden risks before they derail your leadership and what to do about them.In this episode:- Why power design matters in leadership- Real-world examples: Washington, Lee Kuan Yew, & NASA- How to design power systems- Final takeaway: Design beats default powerResources Mentioned in the Episode:French, J. R. P., & Raven, B. (1959). The bases of social power. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1960-06701-004  Peyton, T., Zigarmi, D., & Fowler, S. (2020). The relationship of leader power use and follower motivational outlook and work intention. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30774619/   Wisse, B., Faber, N. R., van Vugt, M., & Evers, A. (2019). Fear of losing power corrupts those who wield it: The combined effects of leader fear of losing power and competitive climate on leader self-serving behavior. https://www.scienceopen.com/document?vid=5b6d9055-a12a-425a-a6d0-c924189655f9  Get Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences   

When leaders feel their authority slipping, something ancient is triggered. Fear triggers an instinct not just to survive, but to protect status at all costs. In this episode, we uncover the evolutionary psychology behind power loss and explore how fear can quietly corrupt even the most principled leadership. We explore groundbreaking research showing how perceived status threats cause leaders to act selfishly, even at the expense of their teams. You'll hear case studies from politics and business on how fear distorts decision-making under pressure. When power feels unstable, you don't just risk poor choices. You risk becoming the very leader you vowed not to be. Join the conversation now and learn how to prevent power panic, stabilize legitimacy, and future-proof your leadership with science-backed strategies.In this episode:- Evolutionary roots of status threat and fight-or-flight- Research results on leadership insecurity- Real-world examples: Marcos, Kalanick, & middle managers- Three strategies to prevent power-loss panic- Key takeaway and conclusionResources Mentioned in the Episode:French, J. R. P., & Raven, B. (1959). The bases of social power.Peyton, T., Zigarmi, D., & Fowler, S. (2020). The relationship of leader power use and follower motivational outlook and work intention.Wisse, B., Faber, N. R., van Vugt, M., & Evers, A. (2019). Fear of losing power corrupts those who wield it: The combined effects of leader fear of losing power and competitive climate on leader self-serving behaviorGet Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences   

A silent saboteur can quietly dismantle team cohesion, sabotage leadership, and derail productivity without anyone realizing until it's too late. In this episode, we explore the subtle yet destructive behavior of organizational sabotage, where colleagues, bosses, or subordinates undermine others and erode trust from within. Drawing on evolutionary psychology and organizational research, we explore why people sabotage one another and the damaging impact this has on teams and organizations. We’ll also share different forms of sabotage and provide practical strategies for addressing them.Recognizing and confronting sabotage is crucial for maintaining healthy, productive teams. If you’re a leader or team member experiencing sabotage, or simply want to future-proof your organization against this behavior, you won’t want to miss these insights. In this episode:- Evolutionary roots and research on sabotage- The dynamics and impact of sabotage on teams- Strategies to combat sabotage- Summary and closing thoughtsGet Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences  

Leadership is often about influence, but how you wield power matters. In today’s episode, we explore the evolutionary psychology of leadership and the profound difference between hard and soft power, exploring how leaders can leverage their power to not only get results but also foster long-term motivation in their teams. From Florence Nightingale’s impact during the Crimean War to contemporary leadership models, we unpack why certain leadership styles inspire trust and innovation, while others only maintain short-term compliance. Plus, we share strategies for balancing hard and soft power, enabling you to make more informed decisions that drive sustainable success.As a leader, your approach to power affects your team's engagement and performance. Remember to lead with influence by default, not authority, if you want to build a long lasting motivated, loyal team that drives results.In this episode:- The evolutionary psychology behind following power- Research findings on power bases and motivation- Practical strategies for balancing hard and soft power- Key takeaway and CTAResources Used in the Episode:French, J. R. P., & Raven, B. (1959). The bases of social power. In D. Cartwright (Ed.), Studies in Social Power (pp. 150–167). University of Michigan. https://web.mit.edu/curhan/www/docs/Articles/15341_Readings/Power/French_&_Raven_Studies_Social_Power_ch9_pp150-167.pdf Wisse, B., Rus, D., Keller, A., & Sleebos, A. (2019). Fear of losing power corrupts those who wield it: The combined effects of leader fear of losing power and competitive climate on leader self-serving behavior. The Leadership Quarterly, 30(5), 101313 https://www.researchgate.net/publication/334007112_Fear_of_losing_power_corrupts_those_who_wield_it_the_combined_effects_of_leader_fear_of_losing_power_and_competitive_climate_on_leader_self-serving_behavior Peyton, T., Zigarmi, D., & Fowler, S. (2020). Examining the Relationship Between Leaders' Power Use, Followers' Motivational Outlooks, and Followers' Work Intentions: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6367254/ Get Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences   

Ever had a teammate show up just in time to take credit but rarely pitch in during the grind? In this episode, we confront a subtle yet corrosive leadership challenge: the piggyback rider. These are the team members who contribute little but expertly manage up, claiming wins and dodging accountability, all while morale takes a hit. We break down the evolutionary roots of this behavior, how modern work structures enable it, and why leaders often fall for the charm. More importantly, I share how you can spot the early warning signs and use evidence-based strategies to prevent team exploitation and performance decay.  If you want to build a culture where contribution, fairness, and trust thrive, this episode is for you. I’ll share practical tools to reinforce team accountability, expose flattery bias, and re-align incentives for collective success.In this episode:- Evolutionary roots of freeloading and its impact- Identifying and dealing with piggyback riders - Coaching, consequences, and correction- Three takeaways to prevent freeloadingGet Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences   

Power is a multifaceted tool in leadership, not a single monolithic force. Join me as we kick off a brand new miniseries that will dissect the nuances of power, from its evolutionary origins to its modern-day application in leadership. We begin by examining the foundational elements of power, focusing on the distinctions between hard and soft power. Drawing on insights from social psychologists, we break down the various bases of power that underpin effective leadership strategies, which can make or break team dynamics.Leaders who master these different bases and know when to apply each will not only improve their influence but also enhance motivation and engagement within their organizations. Join the conversation to deepen your understanding of how to diversify your leadership toolkit and lead with both authority and respect.In this episode:- Introduction to leadership and power- Evolutionary roots of power- The bases of social power- Hard power vs. soft power- Strategies to apply the manual of power- Final thoughts and takeawaysResources Used in the Episode:French, J. R. P., & Raven, B. (1959). The bases of social power: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1960-06701-004  Wisse, B., Faber, N. R., van Vugt, M., & Evers, A. (2019). Fear of losing power corrupts those who wield it: https://research.vu.nl/en/publications/fear-of-losing-power-corrupts-those-who-wield-it-the-combined-eff/  Peyton, T., Zigarmi, D., & Fowler, S. (2020). Examining the Relationship Between Leaders' Power Use, Followers' Motivational Outlooks, and Followers' Work Intentions: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6367254/ Get Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences   

A selfish team member is a common yet tricky issue that every leader faces. When a colleague hoards resources, withholds vital information, and prioritizes personal success over collective progress, it can undermine trust, morale, and ultimately, productivity. How should you respond to such behavior and turn things around? In today’s episode, we explore the roots of selfishness in teams, tracing it back to evolutionary psychology, where human survival depended on both cooperation and hoarding resources. We unpack the psychological and social factors that drive selfish behavior today and explore tips for turning a selfish team member into a collaborative one. As a leader, your actions set the tone for the entire team. You must address both the selfish behavior and the culture it creates to foster a climate of collaboration and trust in your organization.In this episode:- Evolutionary roots of selfishness in teams- The role of psychological safety in collaboration- Practical strategies to combat selfishness- Key takeaways and call to actionResources Used in the Episode:Boehm, C. (1999). Hierarchy in the Forest: The Evolution of Egalitarian Behavior. Harvard University Press: https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674006911  Grant, A. (2013). Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success. Viking. https://a.co/d/30A7pbi Henrich, J., & Gil‑White, F. J. (2001). The evolution of prestige: freely conferred deference as a mechanism for enhancing the benefits of cultural transmission. Evolution and Human Behavior, 22(3), 165–196: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2001-17993-001  Van Vugt, M., & Smith, J. E. (2019). A dual model of leadership and hierarchy: evolutionary synthesis. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 23(11), 952–967: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31629633/ Get Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences  

Today, we kick off a new series, "Mammoth Encounters," with Anton Luchner, a seasoned leader with diverse expertise ranging from business to sports. We explore leadership from a raw, real perspective as Anton shares pivotal moments in his career where he faced hidden forces, or what we call the "mammoths," shaping his decisions and actions.Anton opens up about the challenges of transitioning from peer to leader, where emotional responses like fear and overconfidence from others can feel like mammoths lurking in the room. He also shares the impact of trust-building as a key strategy for navigating such situations and explains how leadership isn't just about solving problems but also about understanding the evolutionary forces that influence human behavior.Leadership is a constant learning process. Even the toughest leadership moments hold valuable lessons for those willing to reflect and adapt. Join me in this series as we go beyond conventional advice and learn from leadership challenges faced by real leaders in real situations.In this episode:- Introduction to "Mammoth Encounters" series- Mammoths in the room: Transitioning from peer to leader- The power of building trust in leadership- Handling small vs large mammoths as a leader- The importance of asking questions in leadership- Leadership in soccer: Confidence and trust dynamics- Balancing confidence and overconfidence in leadership- The continuous challenge of spotting small "mammoths"- Conclusion and what to expect from "Mammoth Encounters"Resources Mentioned in the Episode:- The Mammoth in the Room by Nicolas Pokorny: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/ - Questions Are the Answer by Hal Gregersen: https://a.co/d/fkEQlIQ Get in Touch With Anton Luchner:LinkedIn: https://at.linkedin.com/in/anton-m-luchner-38439825 Get in Touch With Me: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences   

We’ve all been there. A team meeting is derailed by one person who can’t stop talking. The “gunner” who jumps in, interrupts others, and takes over the conversation. In this episode, we explore what’s really behind that behavior and how leaders can turn it from a frustration into a strength. Through the lens of evolutionary psychology, we uncover why some people seek dominance in groups and how our brains respond to unfairness. You’ll learn why these ancient instincts still shape today’s workplace dynamics and how you can use them to restore balance and collaboration in your team. Plus, we share four actionable strategies to redirect over-talkers, foster fairness, and build a culture rooted in prestige-based leadership, not dominance. If you’ve ever struggled with a domineering colleague or want to make your meetings more inclusive and effective, this one is for you.In this episode:- Evolutionary roots of dominance and prestige- Tip 1: Establish fair participation norms- Tip 2: Channel the gunner’s energy into teaching roles- Tip 3: Use private coaching to increase awareness- Tip 4: Model prestige-based leadership & psychological safety- Key takeaways and course of actionResources Used in the Episode:Boehm, C. (1999). Hierarchy in the Forest: The Evolution of Egalitarian Behavior. Harvard University Press: https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674006911  Henrich, J., & Gil‑White, F. J. (2001). The evolution of prestige: freely conferred deference as a mechanism for enhancing the benefits of cultural transmission. Evolution and Human Behavior, 22(3), 165–196: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2001-17993-001  Van Vugt, M., & Smith, J. E. (2019). A dual model of leadership and hierarchy: evolutionary synthesis. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 23(11), 952–967: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31629633/ Get Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences   

Powerful leadership doesn’t have to mean rigid hierarchies. We wrap up our hierarchy miniseries with a practical playbook on how to design effective and scalable hierarchies that lead to success. We’ll explore lessons learned from our evolution and how to adapt traditional structures to modern leadership needs, ensuring clarity, fairness, and transparency.We’ll show you how to create a system where prestige, not coercion, is the primary mode of leadership. You’ll also learn how to build an organization that values competence and fairness while maintaining a flexible and adaptable structure. In this episode:- How to design effective hierarchies- Building equality into hierarchies- Cultivating a service-oriented culture- The complete hierarchy playbookGet Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences   

In this week’s episode, we explore the concept of prestige as a form of leadership influence. Unlike dominance, which compels obedience through fear, prestige attracts followership through admiration and respect. This distinction is crucial for modern leaders who wish to build lasting, trust-based influence that empowers others to excel. Through an exploration of evolutionary biology and historical context, we examine how prestige evolved as a way to coordinate around competence, fairness, and shared knowledge. We’ll uncover how prestige fosters trust, learning, and collaboration in organizations. Mastering the balance of prestige and dominance will enable you to create a robust leadership style that thrives in both calm and crisis situations. If you are ready to build long-term influence, this one is for you.In this episode:- Introduction to prestige and its evolution- Group-level payoffs of prestige leadership- Limits of prestige & the dual strategy model- Final thoughts on the power of prestigeGet Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Resources Used in the Episode: Henrich, J., & Gil-White, F. J. (2001). The evolution of prestige: freely conferred deference as a mechanism for enhancing the benefits of cultural transmission. Evolution and Human Behavior, 22(3), 165–196: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11384884/ Van Vugt, M., & Smith, J. E. (2019). A dual model of leadership and hierarchy: Evolutionary synthesis. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 23(11), 952–967: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31629633/  Boehm, C. (1993). Egalitarian behavior and reverse dominance hierarchy. Current Anthropology, 34(3), 227–254: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1993-41011-001 Cheng, J. T., Tracy, J. L., Foulsham, T., Kingstone, A., & Henrich, J. (2013). Two ways to the top: Dominance and prestige as distinct routes to social rank. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 104(1), 103–125: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2012-31075-001 Margoni, F., Baillargeon, R., & Surian, L. (2018). Infants distinguish between leaders and bullies. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 115(38), E8835–E8843: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30181281/ Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences

Throughout history, leaders have relied on fear, intimidation, and punishment to compel obedience. But does dominance actually sustain power? In today’s episode, we explore the paradox of coercive leadership: why it works in moments of crisis yet almost always collapses over time.We’ll talk about the hidden costs of fear-based leadership, why dominance is so tempting to executives under pressure, and how business leaders can avoid its most dangerous traps.Don’t settle for short-term obedience fueled by fear. Start cultivating the kind of authority that earns respect, unlocks innovation, and sustains long-term performance in your organization.In this episode:- Dominance in leadership & its evolutionary roots- Why dominance works- Fragility of fear-based leadership- The human side of dominance: China's unifications- Why leaders fall back on dominance despite its costsGet Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Resources Used in the Episode: Henrich, J., & Gil-White, F. J. (2001). The evolution of prestige: freely conferred deference as a mechanism for enhancing the benefits of cultural transmission. Evolution and Human Behavior, 22(3), 165–196: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11384884/ Turchin, P., & Gavrilets, S. (2009). Evolution of complex hierarchical societies. Social Evolution & History, 8(2), 167–198: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/266884396_Evolution_of_Complex_Hierarchical_Societies Van Vugt, M., & Smith, J. E. (2019). A dual model of leadership and hierarchy: Evolutionary synthesis. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 23(11), 952–967: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31629633/  Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences   

In every growing business, there comes a breaking point when the flat, egalitarian model that once fueled creativity begins to collapse under its own weight. In this episode, we explore why hierarchies emerge as organizations scale and how leaders can use them not as power plays, but as vital tools for efficiency and clarity.Through history, research, and practical examples, we uncover how hierarchy reduces chaos, fosters specialization, and makes large groups manageable. From military structures to modern corporations, hierarchy has repeatedly proven itself as the backbone of human coordination. The challenge lies not in rejecting hierarchy, but in designing it well so that it empowers your team. Join me for a clearer understanding of how to implement hierarchy thoughtfully, ensuring your organization remains agile, adaptive, and human-centered as it grows.In this episode:- The necessity of hierarchy when scaling- Hierarchy as a tool for specialization- Military and historical examples of hierarchy- Conclusion and leadership insights on hierarchyGet Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Resources Used in the Episode: Garvin, D. A. (2013). How Google Sold Its Engineers on Management. Harvard Business Review, December 2013 Issue: https://hbr.org/2013/12/how-google-sold-its-engineers-on-management Grant, R. M. (2008). Contemporary Strategy Analysis (6th ed.). Wiley-Blackwell. (See Chapter 6 on hierarchy and modularity for discussion of coordination benefits) https://www.blackwellpublishing.com/content/GrantContemporaryStrategyAnalysis/6th_Edition/CSAA01.pdf  Mengistu, H., Huizinga, J., Mouret, J.-B., & Clune, J. (2016). The evolutionary origins of hierarchy. PLoS Computational Biology, 12(6), e1004829: https://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.1004829  Perret, C., Hart, E., & Powers, S. T. (2020). From disorganized equality to efficient hierarchy: how group size drives the evolution of hierarchy in human societies. Proceedings of the Royal Society B, 287(1928), 20200693: https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2020.0693 Simon, H. A. (1962). The architecture of complexity. Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, 106(6), 467–482: https://faculty.sites.iastate.edu/tesfatsi/archive/tesfatsi/ArchitectureOfComplexity.HSimon1962.pdf  Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn:

As your organization grows, you've probably experienced the moment when consensus-based decision-making starts breaking down. What worked for your startup team of 10 suddenly becomes chaos with 100 people. This isn't leadership failure; it's an evolutionary inevitability.  In this episode, we explore how our ancestors faced this exact challenge thousands of years ago, and why understanding their solution is crucial for modern leaders navigating organizational growth. The transition from egalitarian bands to complex hierarchies wasn't just ancient history but a blueprint for understanding why flat organizational structures eventually failed.  We’ll discuss why resistance to hierarchy is hardwired into our brains, yet embracing it strategically can be the difference between organizational success and failure. If you're leading any group larger than a campfire circle, you need to know evolutionary forces are still shaping your workplace dynamics.In this episode:- Introduction to the evolution of hierarchy- Efficiency and coordination in large groups through hierarchy- Transition from egalitarian bands to ancient states- Modern implications of hierarchical structuresGet Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Resources Used in the Episode: Mengistu, H., Huizinga, J., Mouret, J.-B., & Clune, J. (2016). The Evolutionary Origins of Hierarchy. PLoS Computational Biology, 12(6), e1004829.https://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.1004829  Perret, C., Hart, E., & Powers, S. T. (2020). From disorganized equality to efficient hierarchy: how group size drives the evolution of hierarchy in human societies. Proceedings of the Royal Society B, 287(1928), 20200693. https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2020.0693 Turchin, P., & Gavrilets, S. (2009). Evolution of Complex Hierarchical Societies. Social Evolution & History, 8(2), 167–198. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/266884396_Evolution_of_Complex_Hierarchical_Societies   Van Vugt, M., & Smith, J. E. (2019). A dual model of leadership and hierarchy: evolutionary synthesis. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 23(11), 952–967. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31629633/ Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipsciences.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube:

Why do we follow leaders at all? Today, we kick off a new mini-series on the history of leadership from prehistoric campsites to the rise of kingdoms. As leaders and decision-makers, understanding why humans abandoned egalitarian structures for centralized authority helps us better grasp the hidden forces shaping organizations today.We’ll explore how early humans lived in remarkably flat social structures, where leadership was temporary and earned through respect, rather than dominance. But everything changed once survival required unity against external threats. By the end of this series, you’ll understand the evolutionary pressures that led humans to embrace hierarchy, the trade-offs that came with it, and the lessons this holds for modern leaders navigating power, authority, and organizational survival.In this episode:- Introduction to the evolution of hierarchy- Evolving from egalitarian bands to complex hierarchies- The role of warfare in hierarchy formation- How early states and empires were established- Conclusion and next episode previewGet Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Resources Used in the Episode: Mengistu, H., Huizinga, J., Mouret, J.-B., & Clune, J. (2016). The Evolutionary Origins of Hierarchy. PLoS Computational Biology, 12(6), e1004829.https://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.1004829  Perret, C., Hart, E., & Powers, S. T. (2020). From disorganized equality to efficient hierarchy: how group size drives the evolution of hierarchy in human societies. Proceedings of the Royal Society B, 287(1928), 20200693. https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2020.0693 Turchin, P., & Gavrilets, S. (2009). Evolution of Complex Hierarchical Societies. Social Evolution & History, 8(2), 167–198. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/266884396_Evolution_of_Complex_Hierarchical_Societies   Van Vugt, M., & Smith, J. E. (2019). A dual model of leadership and hierarchy: evolutionary synthesis. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 23(11), 952–967. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31629633/ Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MammothLeadershipSciences  

Overconfidence isn't just a leadership trait. Sometimes, it’s a strategic weapon for manipulation. But the very confidence that drives business leaders to the top can be their downfall when unchecked. Today, you’ll hear how figures like Elizabeth Holmes and Adam Neumann leveraged overconfidence to build empires that ultimately crumbled beneath them.When confidence overrides competence, it can create toxic cultures where hard questions go unasked, and risk is ignored. The dangerous dynamic can play out in our boardrooms, and how we often reward boldness over actual results. As a leader, it's crucial to recognize and break this pattern in your organization early. Be willing to question the certainty around you and challenge your assumptions. Whether it's in your leadership style or within your team, invite friction and reward healthy dissent to protect our leadership legacy. In this episode:- Elizabeth Holmes: Consequences of overconfidence- The Adam Neumann case study- Four strategies to combat overconfidence in leadershipGet Your Copy of The Mammoth in the Room: https://mammothleadershipsciences.com/book/Resources Used in the Episode: Trivers, R. (2011). The Folly of Fools: The Logic of Deceit and Self-Deception in Human Life. Basic Books: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2011-24018-000  Jain, K., & Bearden, J. N. (2011). Machiavellianism and Overconfidence. Judgment and Decision Making, 6(6), 534–539: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=1774523  Belmi, P., Neale, M. A., Reiff, D., & Ulfe, R. (2020). The Social Advantage of Miscalibrated Individuals. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 118(2), 254–282: https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/releases/psp-pspi0000187.pdf  Moore, D. A., & Healy, P. J. (2008). The Trouble with Overconfidence. Psychological Review, 115(2), 502–517: https://healy.econ.ohio-state.edu/papers/Moore_Healy-TroubleWithOverconfidence.pdf  Carreyrou, J. (2018). Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup. Knopf: https://www.amazon.com/Bad-Blood-Secrets-Silicon-Startup/dp/152473165X Isaac, M., & Carey, M. (2019). WeWork: How a Startup Went Wrong. The New York Times.Get in Touch: Website: https://www.mammothleadershipscien ces.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaspokorny YouTube: