In this episode of Battling with Business, Gareth Tennant and Chris Kitchener are joined by Lieutenant Colonel Michael Harvey to explore how games—from ancient board games to modern war gaming and gamified business practices—can teach powerful lessons about leadership, decision-making, strategy, and team behaviour. They challenge the idea that games are childish or trivial and show how, when used properly, they become serious tools for simulating complex situations, developing strategy, breaking down biases, building trust, and improving communication. From role-playing games and corporate war gaming to gamified cybersecurity and leadership development, the trio dive deep into how games can help leaders and teams thrive in uncertainty.

If you think games are just for kids, think again.

In this episode of Battling with Business, Gareth and Chris delve into the life and leadership of Arthur Tedder, Marshal of the Royal Air Force and one of the most underrated military figures of WWII. Far from the front-page headlines, Tedder played a crucial strategic role as Eisenhower’s deputy, reshaping how air power supported ground operations and building the logistical frameworks that helped win the war.

We explore Tedder’s journey from fighter pilot to senior commander, highlighting his diplomatic skills, cross-service curiosity, and ability to combine strategy with operational execution. This is a conversation about what it really takes to lead at scale—and why the best leaders are often not the loudest ones.

In the Second of two episodes of Battling with Business, Chris and Gareth visit the Royal Air Force Tedder Leadership Academy to explore the core themes of leadership, management, and command with: Group Captain Emma Keith and Warrant Officer Mark Willis.

Together, they delve into:

• The distinct but interrelated roles of leadership, management, and command in military and civilian contexts.
• How the RAF develops and nurtures leaders across all ranks and trades.
• The importance of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and authenticity in effective leadership.
• The evolving challenges of leading in a modern, multi-domain environment.
• Reflections on how leadership theory is translated into practical delivery through real-world experience and education.
• Insights into how the Tedder Academy is shaping the next generation of RAF leaders and contributing to wider Defence thinking.
• What is the role of legacy and handing over command.

This episode provides a fascinating window into the RAF’s leadership philosophy and raises thought-provoking questions about what it takes to lead well under pressure, whether in uniform or in business.