12: Lead Well Live Well with Dee Blick - Episode 12

12: Lead Well Live Well with Dee Blick - Episode 12

What drives someone to seek a life that’s brave, bold and a bit storm-chasing, both literally and metaphorically? This episode of Lead Well Live Well brings together courage, leadership and everyday growth in a way that feels surprisingly down-to-earth. Host and recovering alcoholic Dee Blick sits down with guest Richard Betts, whose CV reads like an adventure novel: first response firefighter, station commander, mountain guide, motivational speaker, IT business owner and tornado chaser.

Yet the heart of the conversation is about mindset, values and stepping into fear rather than running from it. Richard shares how the fire service taught him that "you have to find a solution" when people call for help, and how that mindset of stabilising chaos now shapes his life in business and on the mountains.

One pivotal story sees him and a teammate leaving a burning room purely on gut instinct and training, only to watch the floor collapse moments later – a powerful reminder to "listen to your gut". On the mountains, he talks about trust as a "greatest honour", whether guiding high-profile clients like Richard Branson or everyday walkers working through fear and self-doubt. His reframe of imposter syndrome is a standout: "I don't rate the imposter syndrome.

I actually welcome that place," seeing it as proof that you’re stretching yourself rather than a sign you’re failing. Back in the boardroom, Richard explains how his consultancy, Trigpoint Consulting, is built on a "reality" model rooted in integrity, evidence and honest conversations clients may not want, but need, to hear. Dee blends his stories with her own reflections on family inspiration, values and the danger of "playing it safe" for too long.

Anyone in recovery, in leadership, or simply stuck in their comfort zone will find plenty here to chew on. What small step could you take this week that feels a bit scary – but also a bit overdue?