TRAITS podcast: Building Higher Performing Organizations

Episode 21: T-Shaped Leadership – Unlocking Growth & Resilience with Carmine Militano
In this episode of the TRAITS Podcast, Carmine Militano unpacks what it means to be a T-shaped leader and how this leadership model can transform a company’s ability to grow through uncertainty. He shares personal insights from leading in family-owned businesses, facilitating culture shifts, and navigating the complexities of scaling a team.
You’ll hear how to identify and develop leaders with both depth and breadth, why soft skills are as critical as technical ones, and how to stay competitive in an AI-driven world. Whether you’re facing growing pains or want to future-proof your team, this episode is packed with practical lessons.
Show Notes:2:05 – Carmine Militano’s journey in leadership
5:00 – What is a T shaped leader?
9:35 – How does experience help become resilient
11:35 – How do we identify T-shaped leaders?
14:10 – How do we develop T-shaped leaders?
15:05 – Coming into a family company
20:30 – Hurdles for growth
22:35 – Relearning muscle memory
26:55 – The importance of soft skills
29:00 – How to facilitate ‘robust discussions’
30:25 – Simplicity is HARD!
32:05 – AI and the importance of competitive advantage
39:55 – Some personal questions… and some thoughts on becoming a lightning rod
46:05 – Fostering a meritocracy
47:55 – Some other lessons learned in Carmine’s journey 50:55 – What is proactive sales?
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