What Happens When Kokoda Doesn't Go To Plan? A Conversation with Angela

In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, I sit down with Angela to discuss a Kokoda experience that didn't quite go the way she expected.

Like many trekkers, Angela arrived on the Track excited, prepared and ready for what she thought would be one of the most rewarding adventures of her life. Instead, she found herself navigating a series of unexpected challenges that tested her physically, mentally and emotionally.

Together, we unpack her experience, exploring the lessons she learned about preparation, communication, leadership and the importance of asking the right questions before committing to a trek.

Angela speaks openly and honestly about what went wrong, from misunderstandings around food and trek logistics through to concerns about leadership, flexibility and support on the Track. She also shares how her own determination, expectations and preparation played a role in shaping the experience.

This isn't an episode about criticising people or organisations. It's about learning. Kokoda is one of the most challenging personal development experiences on earth, and sometimes the greatest lessons come from the things that don't go according to plan.

Whether you're considering your first Kokoda trek, preparing for an upcoming crossing, or simply interested in hearing a real and honest account from someone who has walked the Track, Angela's story offers valuable insights that could help you have a better experience yourself.

If there's one thing this conversation highlights, it's that preparation goes beyond fitness. Understanding the operator you're travelling with, the leadership you'll be relying on and the expectations on both sides can make all the difference.

Join us for a candid conversation about resilience, adaptability and the lessons that can only be learned when things don't go exactly as planned.



This podcast is brought to you by Adventure Professionals.

KOKODA FITNESS PROGRAM

OTHER ADVENTURES 

What Happens When Kokoda Doesn't Go To Plan? A Conversation with Angela
In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, I sit down with Angela to discuss a Kokoda experience that didn't quite go the way she expected.
Like many trekkers, Angela arrived on the Track excited, prepared and ready for what she thought would be one of the most rewarding adventures of her life. Instead, she found herself navigating a series of unexpected challenges that tested her physically, mentally and emotionally.
Together, we unpack her experience, exploring the lessons she learned about preparation, communication, leadership and the importance of asking the right questions before committing to a trek.
Angela speaks openly and honestly about what went wrong, from misunderstandings around food and trek logistics through to concerns about leadership, flexibility and support on the Track. She also shares how her own determination, expectations and preparation played a role in shaping the experience.
This isn't an episode about criticising people or organisations. It's about learning. Kokoda is one of the most challenging personal development experiences on earth, and sometimes the greatest lessons come from the things that don't go according to plan.
Whether you're considering your first Kokoda trek, preparing for an upcoming crossing, or simply interested in hearing a real and honest account from someone who has walked the Track, Angela's story offers valuable insights that could help you have a better experience yourself.
If there's one thing this conversation highlights, it's that preparation goes beyond fitness. Understanding the operator you're travelling with, the leadership you'll be relying on and the expectations on both sides can make all the difference.
Join us for a candid conversation about resilience, adaptability and the lessons that can only be learned when things don't go exactly as planned. 
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

What Happens When Kokoda Doesn't Go To Plan? A Conversation with Angela

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/0acafd64-bd0b-4e2b-b3f7-b464004cb65d/transcript

Episode Show Notes

This week's episode is a special one for me.

I'm joined by my good mate Michael, who has just completed his second crossing of the Kokoda Track with me. What makes this achievement even more impressive is that Michael first crossed Kokoda 22 years ago at the age of 40, and has now returned at 62 years of age to tackle the challenge once again. This time he brought his son along, alongside a group of mates, colleagues, and their sons, creating an experience that spanned generations.

Throughout our conversation, we reflect on the lessons Kokoda continues to teach, not just about resilience and perseverance, but about leadership, teamwork, and personal growth.

Michael is the owner and leader of a highly successful business employing around 700 people, so I was particularly interested in hearing his thoughts on leadership in the jungle and how those lessons compare to leadership in the corporate world. We discuss the difference between leadership and management, the importance of clear communication, setting expectations, and creating an environment where people can thrive without being overled.

We also explore the unique challenge of returning to Kokoda more than two decades later. Michael shares how his mindset, leadership style, and perspective on hardship have evolved over time, and why stepping outside your comfort zone remains one of the most powerful ways to grow, regardless of your age.

One of my favourite parts of the conversation centres around the idea that great leaders don't always need to have all the answers. Sometimes leadership is about staying calm under pressure, trusting your team, and allowing others to have their own experiences rather than trying to control every outcome.

Whether you're considering your own Kokoda adventure, leading a team, running a business, raising a family, or simply looking for ways to challenge yourself and grow, I think you'll find plenty of value in this conversation.

I hope you enjoy this honest and insightful discussion with a man who has spent a lifetime leading people, learning lessons, and continuing to prove that age is no barrier to growth, adventure, and personal development.



This podcast is brought to you by Adventure Professionals.

KOKODA FITNESS PROGRAM

OTHER ADVENTURES 

Episode Show Notes
This week's episode is a special one for me.
I'm joined by my good mate Michael, who has just completed his second crossing of the Kokoda Track with me. What makes this achievement even more impressive is that Michael first crossed Kokoda 22 years ago at the age of 40, and has now returned at 62 years of age to tackle the challenge once again. This time he brought his son along, alongside a group of mates, colleagues, and their sons, creating an experience that spanned generations.
Throughout our conversation, we reflect on the lessons Kokoda continues to teach, not just about resilience and perseverance, but about leadership, teamwork, and personal growth.
Michael is the owner and leader of a highly successful business employing around 700 people, so I was particularly interested in hearing his thoughts on leadership in the jungle and how those lessons compare to leadership in the corporate world. We discuss the difference between leadership and management, the importance of clear communication, setting expectations, and creating an environment where people can thrive without being overled.
We also explore the unique challenge of returning to Kokoda more than two decades later. Michael shares how his mindset, leadership style, and perspective on hardship have evolved over time, and why stepping outside your comfort zone remains one of the most powerful ways to grow, regardless of your age.
One of my favourite parts of the conversation centres around the idea that great leaders don't always need to have all the answers. Sometimes leadership is about staying calm under pressure, trusting your team, and allowing others to have their own experiences rather than trying to control every outcome.
Whether you're considering your own Kokoda adventure, leading a team, running a business, raising a family, or simply looking for ways to challenge yourself and grow, I think you'll find plenty of value in this conversation.
I hope you enjoy this honest and insightful discussion with a man who has spent a lifetime leading people, learning lessons, and continuing to prove that age is no barrier to growth, adventure, and personal development. 
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>

Michael McNab on Trekking Kokoda twice - 22 years apart

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/d164129a-52d5-45a6-8f13-b46d004a2f42/transcript

What Happens When Leadership Doesn't Meet the Environment?

This is one of the most important episodes we've ever recorded on The Kokoda Track Podcast.

After receiving numerous messages from listeners, trekkers and trek leaders regarding a recent review posted online, Glenn takes a deep dive into the lessons that can be learned when a Kokoda experience doesn't meet expectations.

This episode is not about naming companies, assigning blame or creating controversy. Instead, it's about examining the role leadership plays in shaping every aspect of a Kokoda trek and why leadership is often the difference between a difficult experience and a rewarding one.

Drawing on over 100 Kokoda crossings, 25+ years leading expeditions around the world and 17 years in the Australian Army, Glenn explores the critical importance of communication, decision-making, duty of care, risk management and emotional control in remote environments.

Whether you're planning your first Kokoda trek, preparing to become a trek leader, or simply interested in leadership under pressure, this episode provides valuable insights into what trekkers should look for, what operators should strive for and how we can all contribute to a stronger and more sustainable future for Kokoda.

In This Episode
Why Glenn decided to tackle a controversial topic
The review that sparked the discussion
Leadership versus experience
Why communication matters more than most people realise
Duty of care in remote environments
Managing uncertainty and expectations on the track
The concept of being "the calm in the chaos"
Why feedback should be welcomed, not feared
Lessons every operator can learn from difficult experiences
Questions every trekker should ask before booking Kokoda
How leadership training impacts safety, culture and overall experience
Raising standards across the Kokoda trekking industry

Key Message

Every challenge on Kokoda gets amplified by poor leadership and minimised by good leadership.

Bullet Point Takeaways
Kokoda is unpredictable. Strong leadership is what helps people navigate that unpredictability.
Weather, injuries, delays and difficult conditions are inevitable on Kokoda. How leaders respond to them matters most.
Communication is one of the most important leadership skills on the track.
Trekkers don't need perfect conditions, but they do need clear, honest and consistent information.
Good leaders don't avoid difficult conversations; they lean into them.
Feedback should be viewed as an opportunity to learn and improve, not as a personal attack.
Leadership is not about titles; it's about responsibility, decision-making and accountability.
Experience alone does not create great leaders. Training, mentorship and development do.
Kokoda exposes weaknesses. Any gaps in communication, planning or leadership will quickly become apparent in the jungle.
Emotional control is a critical leadership skill. The ability to remain calm under pressure creates confidence in those around you.
Duty of care should always be a priority when managing people in remote environments.
Leaders must be prepared to make difficult decisions when safety and wellbeing are at stake.
Every operator should have systems, processes and contingency plans in place before things go wrong.
Trekkers have every right to ask detailed questions before committing to a company.
The quality of leadership can have a significant impact on the overall Kokoda experience.
A sustainable future for Kokoda relies on operators continually learning, improving and raising standards.
The focus should always remain on the history, the local people, the trekkers and the future of the track—not individual personalities or egos.

Questions to Ask Before Booking Your Trek
Who will be leading my trek?
Will there be a second-in-command?
What experience and training do they have?
How are medical emergencies managed?
What happens if someone requires evacuation?
How are dietary requirements handled?
What food is supplied during the trek?
What support is provided to local PNG carriers?
What happens if someone struggles physically on the track?
Do you provide a structured training plan before departure?
How do you handle feedback and complaints?

Quote of the Episode

"Kokoda doesn't expose your strengths. Kokoda exposes your weaknesses. And nowhere is that more evident than in leadership."

Final Thought

The goal is not perfection.

The goal is continuous improvement.

If we genuinely care about Kokoda, its history, its people and its future, then we must be willing to listen, learn and keep raising the standard for everyone who walks the track.



 

This podcast is brought to you by Adventure Professionals.

KOKODA FITNESS PROGRAM

OTHER ADVENTURES 

What Happens When Leadership Doesn't Meet the Environment?
This is one of the most important episodes we've ever recorded on The Kokoda Track Podcast.
After receiving numerous messages from listeners, trekkers and trek leaders regarding a recent review posted online, Glenn takes a deep dive into the lessons that can be learned when a Kokoda experience doesn't meet expectations.
This episode is not about naming companies, assigning blame or creating controversy. Instead, it's about examining the role leadership plays in shaping every aspect of a Kokoda trek and why leadership is often the difference between a difficult experience and a rewarding one.
Drawing on over 100 Kokoda crossings, 25+ years leading expeditions around the world and 17 years in the Australian Army, Glenn explores the critical importance of communication, decision-making, duty of care, risk management and emotional control in remote environments.
Whether you're planning your first Kokoda trek, preparing to become a trek leader, or simply interested in leadership under pressure, this episode provides valuable insights into what trekkers should look for, what operators should strive for and how we can all contribute to a stronger and more sustainable future for Kokoda.
In This Episode
<ul data-start="1303" data-end="1918">
<li data-section-id="7jw1uk" data-start="1303" data-end="1354">Why Glenn decided to tackle a controversial topic</li>
<li data-section-id="4kskox" data-start="1355" data-end="1395">The review that sparked the discussion</li>
<li data-section-id="w65izf" data-start="1396" data-end="1426">Leadership versus experience</li>
<li data-section-id="59bhb7" data-start="1427" data-end="1484">Why communication matters more than most people realise</li>
<li data-section-id="vj21hp" data-start="1485" data-end="1522">Duty of care in remote environments</li>
<li data-section-id="drcks1" data-start="1523" data-end="1575">Managing uncertainty and expectations on the track</li>
<li data-section-id="19w119p" data-start="1576" data-end="1622">The concept of being "the calm in the chaos"</li>
<li data-section-id="13xj3kv" data-start="1623" data-end="1668">Why feedback should be welcomed, not feared</li>
<li data-section-id="10fwntz" data-start="1669" data-end="1730">Lessons every operator can learn from difficult experiences</li>
<li data-section-id="cncit5" data-start="1731" data-end="1789">Questions every trekker should ask before booking Kokoda</li>
<li data-section-id="17gpfrq" data-start="1790" data-end="1862">How leadership training impacts safety, culture and overall experience</li>
<li data-section-id="eqzb0z" data-start="1863" data-end="1918">Raising standards across the Kokoda trekking industry</li>
</ul>
Key Message
Every challenge on Kokoda gets amplified by poor leadership and minimised by good leadership.
<hr data-start="2036" data-end="2039">
Bullet Point Takeaways
<ul data-start="2068" data-end="3795">
<li data-section-id="1lajd62" data-start="2068" data-end="2165">Kokoda is unpredictable. Strong leadership is what helps people navigate that unpredictability.</li>
<li data-section-id="7gq8k8" data-start="2166" data-end="2286">Weather, injuries, delays and difficult conditions are inevitable on Kokoda. How leaders respond to them matters most.</li>
<li data-section-id="1hbxx1j" data-start="2287" data-end="2363">Communication is one of the most important leadership skills on the track.</li>
<li data-section-id="1b3qsqh" data-start="2364" data-end="2464">Trekkers don't need perfect conditions, but they do need clear, honest and consistent information.</li>
<li data-section-id="1s0zdhr" data-start="2465" data-end="2537">Good leaders don't avoid difficult conversations; they lean into them.</li>
<li data-section-id="15eqval" data-start="2538" data-end="2631">Feedback should be viewed as an opportunity to learn and improve, not as a personal attack.</li>
<li data-section-id="1e1j08z" data-start="2632" data-end="2728">Leadership is not about titles; it's about responsibility, decision-making and accountability.</li>
<li data-section-id="12lodu4" data-start="2729" data-end="2819">Experience alone does not create great leaders. Training, mentorship and development do.</li>
<li data-section-id="1ir0ib3" data-start="2820" data-end="2942">Kokoda exposes weaknesses. Any gaps in communication, planning or leadership will quickly become apparent in the jungle.</li>
<li data-section-id="1r7nl9e" data-start="2943" data-end="3076">Emotional control is a critical leadership skill. The ability to remain calm under pressure creates confidence in those around you.</li>
<li data-section-id="1dzldj0" data-start="3077" data-end="3164">Duty of care should always be a priority when managing people in remote environments.</li>
<li data-section-id="j256im" data-start="3165" data-end="3259">Leaders must be prepared to make difficult decisions when safety and wellbeing are at stake.</li>
<li data-section-id="wckria" data-start="3260" data-end="3362">Every operator should have systems, processes and contingency plans in place before things go wrong.</li>
<li data-section-id="yhdnoo" data-start="3363" data-end="3448">Trekkers have every right to ask detailed questions before committing to a company.</li>
<li data-section-id="1bxkk6u" data-start="3449" data-end="3540">The quality of leadership can have a significant impact on the overall Kokoda experience.</li>
<li data-section-id="177fno6" data-start="3541" data-end="3649">A sustainable future for Kokoda relies on operators continually learning, improving and raising standards.</li>
<li data-section-id="mrukfx" data-start="3650" data-end="3795">The focus should always remain on the history, the local people, the trekkers and the future of the track&mdash;not individual personalities or egos.</li>
</ul>
Questions to Ask Before Booking Your Trek
<ul data-start="3844" data-end="4341">
<li data-section-id="1d085ri" data-start="3844" data-end="3874">Who will be leading my trek?</li>
<li data-section-id="lxtje9" data-start="3875" data-end="3911">Will there be a second-in-command?</li>
<li data-section-id="1fudqyh" data-start="3912" data-end="3956">What experience and training do they have?</li>
<li data-section-id="s1lb80" data-start="3957" data-end="3995">How are medical emergencies managed?</li>
<li data-section-id="u0bpmc" data-start="3996" data-end="4042">What happens if someone requires evacuation?</li>
<li data-section-id="18t4het" data-start="4043" data-end="4082">How are dietary requirements handled?</li>
<li data-section-id="1xss01h" data-start="4083" data-end="4123">What food is supplied during the trek?</li>
<li data-section-id="8ws80v" data-start="4124" data-end="4173">What support is provided to local PNG carriers?</li>
<li data-section-id="106b8ri" data-start="4174" data-end="4234">What happens if someone struggles physically on the track?</li>
<li data-section-id="175k8ma" data-start="4235" data-end="4296">Do you provide a structured training plan before departure?</li>
<li data-section-id="97bmm3" data-start="4297" data-end="4341">How do you handle feedback and complaints?</li>
</ul>
Quote of the Episode
<blockquote data-start="4369" data-end="4495">
"Kokoda doesn't expose your strengths. Kokoda exposes your weaknesses. And nowhere is that more evident than in leadership."
</blockquote>
Final Thought
The goal is not perfection.
The goal is continuous improvement.
If we genuinely care about Kokoda, its history, its people and its future, then we must be willing to listen, learn and keep raising the standard for everyone who walks the track. 
&nbsp;
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>

What happens when Leadership doesn't meet the Environment

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/93a70cc1-7139-4884-a0b6-b46a0018645a/transcript

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>

Kokoda Leadership Training

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

What Happens When Kokoda Doesn't Go To Plan? A Conversation with Angela

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