In this episode of The Mike Litton Experience, host Mike Litton sits down with international conflict strategist and author David Ross—the founder of Phoenix Strategic Management and a recognized Fragile World Strategist. With decades of experience navigating the complex intersections of government policy, corporate strategy, and community impact, David shares how modern leadership is failing—and what we must do to fix it.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

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  Why traditional leadership models are crumbling

  
  


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  How to rebuild trust and connection in toxic or disconnected workplaces

  
  


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  The secret to effective conflict resolution—deep listening and legitimate empathy

  
  


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  How “heroic leadership” is being replaced by co-creation and collaboration

  
  


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  Why inclusive decision-making is the secret weapon for innovation and employee engagement

  
  


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  How leaders can move from reaction to strategic clarity in a complex world

  
  

About David Ross:

David Ross is an internationally respected strategist and the author of Confronting the Storm, a powerful exploration of how organizations can navigate today’s turbulent social, environmental, and economic conditions. He has advised CEOs, government leaders, Indigenous communities, and corporate boards. His unique title—Fragile World Strategist—captures the essence of his work: helping organizations thrive in uncertain times by listening deeper, thinking wider, and leading with vulnerability, curiosity, and humility.

Takeaway:
If you’re a leader, manager, entrepreneur—or just someone trying to create positive change in your organization—this conversation will leave you inspired, challenged, and better equipped to lead with empathy, purpose, and clarity.

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Connect with David Ross:

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  LinkedIn: David Ross – Fragile World Strategist

  
  


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  Website: Phoenix Strategic Management