In an exclusive interview, Rob Lawrence sits down with Dean Stott, a former member of the elite UK Special Forces unit, the Special Boat Service. Stott, now a global security expert, Guinness World Record holder and star of Netflix’s “Toughest Forces on Earth,” opens up about his remarkable career.
From clandestine operations and high-stakes evacuations to a record-breaking cycling challenge, Stott’s journey is filled with lessons on leadership, resilience and the importance of team dynamics.
During this interview, we dig into:
- How Dean prepared for and executed a record-breaking 14,000-mile cycling journey from Argentina to Alaska, and how a royal wedding invitation from Prince Harry added unexpected pressure.
- How Dean transitioned from military life after a career-ending injury to founding a successful private security company, including high-stakes evacuations during the Arab Spring.
- Dean’s unique insights into maintaining mental and physical resilience, and the crucial role of physical activity in mental health.
- Dean’s experiences on the Netflix show “Toughest Forces on Earth,” where he and his team train with elite special forces units around the globe.
- How family support has been the cornerstone of Dean’s success.
Join us as we explore the experiences that shaped this extraordinary individual and the invaluable leadership and resiliency insights he offers for those in public safety.
Memorable quotes from Dean Stott
“Manage your ego and listen to your team. A good leader respects their team and understands that everyone is unique, from the youngest guy to the most experienced.”
“Lead by example, never ask of them that you can’t do yourself. I saw instructors telling people to do things they couldn’t do themselves, and that doesn’t inspire respect.”
“Don’t just scream and shout at the students; they’re just going to switch off. You have to humanize yourself as an instructor because these folks are going to be working alongside you one day.”
“Being reactive to the situation changes on the ground was the success of this project. Even to the very last day, I was having to change the way I planned and executed my mission.”
“Everyone in the team is special; everyone has a role and responsibility. Make sure everyone feels valued, because that’s how you get the best out of your team.”
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