Most Leaders Focus on the Wrong Skills. Here's What Actually Matters.

In this inspiring episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance, leadership coach Estelle Read sits down with Lawrence Armstrong, artist, architect, bestselling author, and seasoned CEO, to explore whole-brain leadership. Lawrence shares his journey from building a company through recession and fear to mastering a creative, analytical, and balanced leadership style. Learn how cultivating both sides of your brain can fuel business growth, inspire your team, and secure your legacy. Discover practical strategies for developing your “number two,” delegating effectively, and blending creativity with strategic execution to lead your industry.



What You Will Learn:

💡 How embracing whole-brain leadership—balancing creative vision with analytical rigor—drives sustainable growth and innovation
💡 The crucial role of developing a reliable “number two” to ensure business continuity and leadership longevity
💡 Practical insights from Lawrence’s career and creative pursuits to inspire your own leadership journey and foster a resilient, forward-thinking team



Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth!



Estelle Read

Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker



Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:53) Welcome & Host Introduction

(01:19) Guest Introduction — Lawrence Armstrong

(01:56) Lawrence's Routine & Non-Negotiables

(03:20) How Work-Life Imbalance Cost Him His Health

(07:12) What Is Whole Brain Leadership?

(13:31) Practical Examples: Inspiring Strategy from Creativity

(23:36) Origin Story — From Ohio to Architect, Artist & Author

(35:04) The Challenge Behind the Book: Surviving a Recession

(38:19) Lawrence's Framework for Growth & Succession

(44:26) Key Takeaways & Final Advice

(44:27) Developing Your Number Two — Overcoming Resistance

(47:11) Pause, Reflect & Act — Mini Coaching Practice



📱FOLLOW OR CONTACT:

⭐ Lawrence Armstrong: larmstrong@waremalcomb.com | @lawrencerarmstrong


⭐Estelle Read: linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee or @EstelleReadCoach


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⚠️ DICLAIMER

This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. Don’t suffer alone ❤️

#LayeredLeadership #LeadershipBurnout #CEOMindset #CreativeLeadership #SuccessionPlanning

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