In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, I want to talk about something that can make or break your experience on the Track, but doesn't get discussed nearly enough: leadership.

Most people spend a lot of time researching boots, backpacks, training programs and gear. Very few spend enough time thinking about who will actually be leading them through one of the most physically, emotionally and historically significant journeys of their life.

After more than 100 crossings of the Kokoda Track, I've come to believe that great leadership has very little to do with how many times someone has walked the Track and everything to do with how well they understand people.

A great Kokoda leader needs more than experience. They need communication skills, emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, patience and the ability to bring out the best in people when they're tired, uncomfortable and being challenged by the environment around them.

In this episode, I share my thoughts on what makes a great trek leader, how we develop leaders within Adventure Professionals, and why I'm so passionate about investing in training, mentoring and ongoing development. From structured learning and practical experience to understanding the history, culture and people of Papua New Guinea, I believe leadership should never be left to chance.

I also discuss the responsibility we have as leaders to build strong relationships with the local communities, respect cultural traditions and create positive outcomes for everyone involved—not just the trekkers who have paid to be there.

Whether you're planning your first Kokoda trek, have already walked the Track, or you're simply interested in leadership and personal development, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of what good leadership looks like and why it matters so much.

Because on Kokoda, the Track is only part of the journey. The people who lead you through it can shape the experience for a lifetime.



This podcast is brought to you by Adventure Professionals.

KOKODA FITNESS PROGRAM

OTHER ADVENTURES 

In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, I want to talk about something that can make or break your experience on the Track, but doesn't get discussed nearly enough: leadership.
Most people spend a lot of time researching boots, backpacks, training programs and gear. Very few spend enough time thinking about who will actually be leading them through one of the most physically, emotionally and historically significant journeys of their life.
After more than 100 crossings of the Kokoda Track, I've come to believe that great leadership has very little to do with how many times someone has walked the Track and everything to do with how well they understand people.
A great Kokoda leader needs more than experience. They need communication skills, emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, patience and the ability to bring out the best in people when they're tired, uncomfortable and being challenged by the environment around them.
In this episode, I share my thoughts on what makes a great trek leader, how we develop leaders within Adventure Professionals, and why I'm so passionate about investing in training, mentoring and ongoing development. From structured learning and practical experience to understanding the history, culture and people of Papua New Guinea, I believe leadership should never be left to chance.
I also discuss the responsibility we have as leaders to build strong relationships with the local communities, respect cultural traditions and create positive outcomes for everyone involved&mdash;not just the trekkers who have paid to be there.
Whether you're planning your first Kokoda trek, have already walked the Track, or you're simply interested in leadership and personal development, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of what good leadership looks like and why it matters so much.
Because on Kokoda, the Track is only part of the journey. The people who lead you through it can shape the experience for a lifetime. 
This podcast is brought to you by <a href="https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/">Adventure Professionals</a>.
<a href="https://buildingbetterhumans.thinkific.com/courses/kokoda-fit-8-week-program">KOKODA FITNESS PROGRAM</a>
<a href="https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/our-trips/">OTHER ADVENTURES&nbsp;</a>

An insight into the lessons learnt from people that have trekked the Kokoda Track in PNG. We will interview trek leaders, local PNG villagers and trekkers who have undertaken the arduous 96km jungle trek.

Kokoda Track

Kokoda Leadership Training

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/e1fbc067-ebde-47a5-83f1-b46400489a22/transcript