“Remember, teamwork begins by building trust. And the only way to do that is to overcome our need for invulnerability.”
In The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, leadership expert Patrick Lencioni uncovers the root causes of why teams often struggle to work together effectively — and what leaders can do to fix it. Told through a compelling business fable, the book reveals how even the most talented groups can fail when trust breaks down, conflict is avoided, or accountability is missing. Lencioni presents a practical model built around five interconnected dysfunctions that undermine collaboration and results, offering leaders a clear framework for creating cohesive, high-performing teams.
In this episode, we unpack each of Lencioni’s five dysfunctions — absence of trust, fear of conflict, lack of commitment, avoidance of accountability, and inattention to results — and explore how they show up in real organisations. We discuss how leaders can replace blame with transparency, foster healthy debate, and align their teams around shared goals and values. Through relatable insights and actionable steps, this episode helps listeners understand how to move from siloed thinking to a culture of openness, ownership, and trust.
Whether you’re leading a project team, managing an organisation, or working to strengthen collaboration across departments, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team offers a roadmap for transforming team dynamics. This episode will leave you with practical tools to build trust, encourage honest dialogue, and create a team culture where everyone is committed to collective success.
Episode 9 - The 5 Dysfunctions of a Team
By Patrick Lencioni

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About the Author
Patrick Lencioni is a bestselling author, speaker, and founder of The Table Group, a firm dedicated to improving organisational health and teamwork. Widely regarded as one of the foremost experts on leadership and collaboration, his books — including The Advantage, The Ideal Team Player, and The Motive — have sold millions of copies worldwide. Lencioni’s work has shaped how leaders build trust, clarity, and accountability within their organisations. Known for his engaging storytelling and practical frameworks, Patrick continues to help leaders and teams achieve sustainable success through honesty, vulnerability, and shared purpose.
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“A leadership classic — The Five Dysfunctions of a Team is essential reading for anyone who wants to build strong, cohesive teams that deliver results.” — Harvard Business Review












