This episode is a bold and unapologetic exploration of leadership in the toughest situations. Josh Anderson and Bob Galen dive into the moments when leaders must make hard, unpopular decisions, advocate fiercely for their teams, and challenge the status quo. From addressing ethical dilemmas to pushing for necessary but uncomfortable change, this conversation provides real-world insights and strategies for becoming the kind of leader who steps up when it matters most. Key Takeaways Sometimes you need to be a jerk as a leader.Decision-making can require a firm approach.Establishing boundaries is crucial for accountability.Cross-functional challenges often require assertiveness.Protecting the team from external criticism is essential.Maintaining standards is a key part of leadership.Being perceived as an a*****e can be a badge of honor.Ethical leadership involves making tough decisions.Confidence in leadership can prevent misunderstandings.Leadership is about responding well when things get tough. Stay Connected and Informed with Our NewslettersJosh Anderson's "Leadership Lighthouse" Dive deeper into the world of Agile leadership and management with Josh Anderson's "Leadership Lighthouse." This bi-weekly newsletter offers insights, tips, and personal stories to help you navigate the complexities of leadership in today's fast-paced tech environment. Whether you're a new manager or a seasoned leader, you'll find valuable guidance and practical advice to enhance your leadership skills. Subscribe to "Leadership Lighthouse" for the latest articles and exclusive content right to your inbox. Subscribe here Bob Galen's "Agile Moose" Bob Galen's "Agile Moose" is a must-read for anyone interested in Agile practices, team dynamics, and personal growth within the tech industry. The newsletter features in-depth analysis, case studies, and actionable tips to help you excel in your Agile journey. Bob brings his extensive experience and thoughtful perspectives directly to you, covering everything from foundational Agile concepts to advanced techniques. Join a community of Agile enthusiasts and practitioners by subscribing to "Agile Moose." Subscribe here Do More Than Listen: We publish video versions of every episode and post them on our YouTube page. Help Us Spread The Word:  Love our content? Help us out by sharing on social media, rating our podcast/episodes on iTunes, or by giving to our Patreon campaign. Every time you give, in any way, you empower our mission of helping as many agilists as possible. Thanks for sharing! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy