The weekly podcast for Emerging Leaders everywhere, this show will arm you with the knowledge you need to ensure you too can lead in an exceptional manner.
Mathew is an experienced people leader and holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
The weekly podcast for Emerging Leaders everywhere, this show will arm you with the knowledge you need to ensure you too can lead in an exceptional manner.
Mathew is an experienced people leader and holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
In this episode of The Exceptional Leadership Podcast, we explore how strong leaders turn adversity, suffering, and challenge into growth, resilience, and purpose. Adversity is inevitable — but great leaders use it as fuel. Drawing powerful lessons from Neil Danaher’s inspiring response to his MND diagnosis, this episode dives into how to build resilience, lead through hardship, and develop a mindset of strength and determination.
Learn how adversity can become your greatest teacher, why resilience is a core leadership skill, and how to cultivate perseverance, emotional intelligence, and courage when everything feels against you.
Perfect for anyone interested in leadership development, personal growth, overcoming adversity, motivation, mindset, and resilience, this episode will help you turn life’s toughest challenges into your greatest leadership advantage.
As leaders, our instinct is to step in, protect our people, and prevent failure. But sometimes, the most powerful growth happens when we don’t intervene. In this episode of The Exceptional Leadership Podcast, we explore why great leaders must occasionally let their team members fail — and how those moments can lead to deeper accountability, resilience, and long-term success.
You’ll learn:
If you’ve ever struggled with watching someone make a mistake you could’ve prevented, this episode will challenge your instincts and strengthen your leadership mindset.
🎧 Tune in to The Exceptional Leadership Podcast for practical leadership insights every week — built for modern leaders who want to grow, inspire, and perform at their best.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
In this episode of The Exceptional Leadership Podcast, we explore Sun Tzu’s “Energy” chapter from The Art of War — and how its ancient wisdom applies to modern corporate leadership. Discover how mastering the balance between direct and indirect energy can transform the way you lead your team, make decisions, and drive results.
We’ll unpack what “energy” means in a business context — from the direct approach of leading meetings, negotiating deals, and having tough conversations, to the indirect approach of delegation, influence, and strategic empowerment. Learn how great leaders know when to act and when to guide from behind the scenes, using momentum and leverage instead of force.
If you’ve ever wondered how to lead with precision, efficiency, and strategic intent, this episode offers practical insights drawn from Sun Tzu’s timeless leadership philosophy — reimagined for today’s fast-moving corporate world.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
In this episode of The Exceptional Leadership Podcast, we explore one of the most common traps leaders and professionals fall into: the dangers of impulsivity and jumping to conclusions. From business deals and partnerships to personal relationships and team dynamics, the urge to act fast or assume motives without evidence can cost us dearly.
We’ll unpack how rushed decisions can backfire — whether it’s assuming staff know exactly what you want without clear communication, failing to properly assess finances before making a major purchase, or misjudging intentions in a business relationship. Through real-world examples and practical takeaways, you’ll learn why patience, curiosity, and due diligence are essential traits of strong leadership.
If you’ve ever found yourself regretting a snap judgment or an impulsive choice, this episode will give you tools to slow down, think clearly, and lead with intention.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
In this episode of The Exceptional Leadership Podcast, we explore how Dr. Gary Chapman’s famous 5 Love Languages can be adapted into the workplace to help leaders communicate more effectively, build trust, and inspire their teams. Known in the corporate world as The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace, this framework gives leaders practical tools to recognise, motivate, and connect with their people in ways that truly resonate.
You’ll discover how words of affirmation, acts of service, tangible gifts, quality time, and appropriate physical touch translate into powerful leadership practices that boost employee engagement, improve team dynamics, and create a culture of belonging. Whether you’re leading a small team or a large organisation, understanding these languages can help you unlock higher performance and stronger relationships.
Tune in to learn how to adapt appreciation to individual team members, avoid the “one-size-fits-all” trap of recognition, and lead with empathy that drives results.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
Stepping into a new leadership role can feel exciting — and overwhelming. For many high achievers, promotion brings not just new responsibilities but also the shadow of imposter syndrome: the nagging belief that you don’t deserve your success or that others will “find you out.”
In this episode, we explore the science behind imposter syndrome, why it often strikes after a promotion, and how leaders can reframe self-doubt into confidence and growth. You’ll learn practical strategies to silence negative self-talk, build authority without losing authenticity, and thrive in your new leadership position. Whether you’ve just been promoted or are preparing for the next step in your career, this conversation will help you lead with confidence, resilience, and clarity.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
In this milestone 50th episode of The Exceptional Leadership Podcast, I tackle a powerful question: “How do you balance being approachable with maintaining authority?”
It’s a challenge every leader faces. Lean too far into approachability and you risk being taken for granted; lean too heavily on authority and you may seem distant or unrelatable. In this episode, I share practical strategies for finding that sweet spot where you can foster genuine connection, openness, and trust, while still holding firm to your leadership values and the respect your role requires.
Whether you’re leading a small team or a large organisation, this conversation will help you refine your leadership presence and ensure you remain both respected and relatable.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
In this episode of The Exceptional Leadership Podcast, we take a fresh look at leadership through the lens of personal and family finance. I break down the power of index funds—why they’ve become one of the most accessible, low-cost, and effective ways for everyday people to build wealth—and why understanding them is a leadership skill in its own right.
We’ll also explore the magic of compounding interest, showing how small, consistent investments over time can create life-changing financial security. With investing now more accessible than ever before, leaders have an opportunity (and responsibility) to educate themselves, guide their families, and set an example of financial stewardship for others to follow.
If you’ve ever thought investing was too complicated, too expensive, or only for the wealthy, this episode will show you how index funds level the playing field and empower anyone willing to start.
'Money - Master the Game'
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
The latest Hays Salary Guide reveals a deeper story: while competitive pay and great conditions are essential, they’re no longer enough to keep top talent engaged long-term. Employees are searching for something more—a sense of meaning, purpose, and emotional investment in the mission of the organisation.
In this episode of The Exceptional Leadership Podcast, we explore why leaders must go beyond pay and perks to inspire their teams. Discover how to craft a compelling narrative around your organisation’s vision, connect people to a higher purpose, and create a culture where employees don’t just work for a salary—they stay because they feel part of something bigger.
Whether you’re a business owner, executive, or manager, this episode will help you understand how to lead with purpose and unlock true employee loyalty.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
In this episode of The Exceptional Leadership Podcast, we explore the timeless story of The Emperor’s New Clothes and the critical leadership lesson it holds: the importance of having the courage to speak the truth, even when everyone else stays silent.
Strong leaders understand their north star—their core values and guiding principles—and use it to anchor their decisions. But knowing what you stand for is only half the battle. The real test comes when peer pressure, politics, or fear of rejection make silence seem easier than honesty.
Drawing on classic storytelling and modern leadership challenges, I break down why courageous leaders who are unafraid to “call it out” not only protect organisational health, but also inspire trust, integrity, and lasting influence.
If you want to strengthen your leadership by learning how to stay true to your principles—even in the face of pressure—this episode is for you.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
Getting promoted is a career milestone worth celebrating—but it can also create friction with colleagues who feel overlooked. In this episode of The Exceptional Leadership Podcast, we tackle the all-too-common challenge of navigating colleague jealousy after your promotion.
I share four practical strategies every leader should know:
We also discuss the emotional toll this situation can take and the importance of having regular stress-relief practices in place to protect your wellbeing as a leader.
Whether you’ve just stepped into a new role or want to prepare for the future, this episode offers the mindset and tools to transform post-promotion tension into lasting trust and respect.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
Your leadership potential is directly influenced by the people you surround yourself with. In this episode of The Exceptional Leadership Podcast, we explore why great leaders must be intentional about their inner circle—both personally and professionally.
Discover how negative energy, toxic team members, and poor cultural fit can erode morale, stifle innovation, and damage organisational health. More importantly, learn how successful leaders identify, avoid, and actively remove toxic influences to build high-performing, positive environments.
Drawing on the powerful story of Oprah Winfrey’s rise from adversity to global success, we reveal how curating the right relationships can be a game-changing leadership strategy. From the front lines of personal development to the boardroom, this episode offers actionable insights on:
Whether you’re leading a team or managing your own mindset, this episode is a must-listen for any leader committed to sustainable success.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
In this episode, we unpack the leadership dynamics behind the OceanGate Titan submersible disaster — a tragedy not just of engineering, but of ego, culture, and silenced dissent.
We explore the stark contrast between OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush, whose charismatic but unchecked leadership style punished criticism and glorified risk, and David Lochridge, the whistleblower whose integrity and courage stood as a rare example of balanced leadership.
David displayed something rare — the integration of both light and dark personality traits. He wasn’t just kind or ethical — he was strong, assertive, and unafraid to challenge authority. This yin–yang balance enabled him to speak truth to power, even when it cost him everything.
This case study serves as a powerful lesson for leaders: cultivating only the “nice” or agreeable side of ourselves isn’t enough. To lead exceptionally, we must also harness our darker qualities — discernment, confrontation, even defiance — when facing unethical or dangerous forces in the workplace and beyond.
Whether you’re leading a team, a company, or your own life, this episode is a must-listen on the dangers of ego-driven leadership — and the courage it takes to stand against it.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
Middle management is often the most demanding layer of leadership—caught between frontline realities and executive expectations. In this episode, we explore why middle managers have one of the toughest jobs in any organisation.
I unpack the unique pressures middle managers face: staying connected to daily operations, acting as the escalation point for junior leaders, and serving as the crucial link between the executive team and the broader workforce.
We also dive into the challenge of translating high-level strategy into meaningful, practical actions—often for teams who aren’t emotionally invested in the process. And we explore the hidden risk: middle management is frequently the first target in cost-cutting initiatives.
Whether you’re currently in middle management or aspiring to move through the ranks, this episode offers practical insights on how to lead effectively from the centre and stay resilient under pressure.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
Failure isn’t the opposite of success — it’s part of it. In this episode, we explore why exceptional leaders don’t just accept failure, they learn how to fail well. From reframing setbacks to building resilience and extracting the right lessons, this episode gives you a practical mindset shift that separates great leaders from average ones. Learn how to embrace calculated risks, bounce back faster, and create a culture where learning from failure drives growth.
Whether you’re navigating a tough project, facing a career setback, or mentoring your team through challenges, this powerful episode will show you how to fail forward and lead better because of it.
🎧 Key takeaways:
Tune in and turn your next failure into your next big win.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
In this episode of The Exceptional Leadership Podcast, we dive into a common but complex workplace challenge: when an employee skips their direct supervisor and takes a complaint or concern straight to the next level.
I share a personal example of a time I did this myself — not out of strategy, but driven by fear, uncertainty, and a lack of trust. It’s a reminder that bypassing the chain of command often reveals deeper issues around psychological safety and leadership gaps.
From a leader’s perspective, what should you do when someone comes to you about their manager? This episode explores why nuance and critical thinking are essential. I discuss how to identify whether the employee’s action is justified or if they are undermining their supervisor — and how to respond accordingly.
You’ll learn:
Whether you’re a frontline manager or a second-line leader, this episode will sharpen your instincts and help you lead with both clarity and compassion.
🎧 Tune in to strengthen your leadership in moments that test your judgment.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
In this episode of Exceptional Leadership, we explore the powerful concept of positive disruption — and why the ability to lead change without waiting for permission is a defining skill of exceptional leaders.
You’ll learn why this courageous approach sets leaders apart in environments where risk aversion often leads to default “no” responses, even from other leaders. We dive into the reality that people rarely follow words alone — they need to see leadership in action.
You’ll also hear why critical thinking and risk analysis are essential before acting, so you can lead bold change with clarity, confidence, and purpose. If you’re ready to challenge the status quo responsibly and inspire through action, this episode is for you.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
In this episode of Exceptional Leadership, we tackle a challenge that holds many leaders back: decision paralysis. Using Kodak’s infamous failure to embrace digital photography as a real-world example, we explore how overthinking and the pursuit of a “perfect” decision can lead to missed opportunities—and even the downfall of industry giants.
You’ll learn why perfection is a myth in leadership, and how delaying decisions often does more harm than good. I’ll share a practical framework: think critically, plan strategically, and then execute with boldness and confidence. Because once a decision is made, decisive action doesn’t just move things forward—it builds trust and inspires those you lead.
If you’re a leader who struggles with hesitation or fears making the wrong call, this episode will give you the mindset and tools to move forward with clarity and conviction.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
In this episode of The Exceptional Leadership Podcast, we explore why critical thinking is one of the most important leadership skills in 2025—and why its value now extends far beyond the boardroom.
With endless information, competing narratives, and increasing pressure to make fast decisions, leaders today must be able to filter the noise, challenge assumptions, and think independently. Whether you’re steering a team, managing a business, or simply trying to make better personal decisions, critical thinking is the edge that separates reactive leadership from exceptional leadership.
I discuss practical workplace examples where critical thinking leads to better outcomes—from navigating change and avoiding groupthink, to driving innovation and building trust. I also unpack how you can build this muscle as a leader: not through rigid frameworks, but by consistently asking sharper questions, staying open to multiple perspectives, and thinking beyond the obvious.
Tune in to sharpen your thinking and strengthen your leadership in a world where clarity is currency.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.
If you’re trying to do everything yourself, you’re not leading — you’re surviving. In this episode, we break down why real leadership means stepping back, zooming out, and mastering the art of delegation.
You’ll learn why effective delegation becomes non-negotiable as your team grows, and how your true value as a leader lies in aligning your team’s strengths toward larger strategic goals — not grinding through the details yourself.
We’ll also unpack the guilt some leaders feel about delegating, especially if they’re naturally kind or empathetic. But here’s the truth: competent people expect to be trusted with responsibility. Delegation isn’t selfish — it’s smart.
Plus, we touch on the nuance: how to approach delegation when team members are still developing, and why “hands-on” doesn’t have to mean micromanagement.
If you want to lead at scale, this episode is your reminder that doing less is how you achieve more.
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Mathew Hamilton leads a high performing team of professionals and has worked across numerous industries in both the public and private sector.
He holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business.