What does it take to lead one of the most recognised and respected flying teams in the world?
In this insightful episode of the Just Great People podcast, Barry Eustance sits down with Tim Miller, former leader of The Red Arrows, to explore his unique leadership journey – from having no interest in aviation to commanding one of the most elite aerobatic teams on the planet.
Tim unpacks what real leadership looks like in high-pressure environments.
He reflects on the values of integrity, humility and trust, and why accepting criticism and learning from mistakes are not signs of weakness but strengths that hold teams together.
His experience also offers a rare glimpse into how these leadership principles apply in the commercial environment and beyond.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
• Why The Red Arrows prioritise teamwork and character over technical skills
• How to build trust quickly when performance depends on it
• Why humility is essential for leading high-performing teams
• The importance of resilience in career transitions and leadership challenges
• Advice for young leaders on ambition, courage and self-belief
Notable sound bites:
– “I had no interest in aviation at all.”
– “You have to trust people implicitly.”
This conversation offers grounded leadership insights from someone who has led with precision, responsibility and character at the highest level.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Tim Miller’s Journey
04:18 From Northern Ireland to The Red Arrows
06:29 Transitioning to The Red Arrows
08:49 Leadership in High-Stakes Environments
10:49 The Importance of Trust and Integrity
13:02 Crew Resource Management in Aviation
15:10 Cultural Differences in Leadership
17:15 Key Leadership Traits for Success
19:37 Learning from Mistakes and Criticism
21:30 Life After The Red Arrows
23:44 Advice for Young Ambitious Leaders
25:31 Conclusion and Reflections on Leadership
Useful Links
The Red Arrows – Quiver of Silver Documentary. First aired on BBC1 boxing day 1989. Written by Sean Maffett Produced by Peter Hylton Cleaver Narrated by Nigel Havers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHhARHMmvMQ&t=95s&pp=ygUSYSBxdWl2ZXIgb2Ygc2lsdmVy
25 Years of The Red Arrows
Hardcover – 26 April 1990 by Tim Miller, Arthur Gibson
The Sixsess Consultancy
https://sixsess.org/
The Sixsess Consultancy’s Training Courses
https://sixsess.org/training/
Barry Eustance – LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/barry-eustance/
Subscribe to Just Great People for more conversations that inspire real leadership.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1mLL4YkJ9LEUPsjaZwBLAjoR-h8YEXpu
Keywords
Leadership, Red Arrows, Tim Miller, aviation, integrity, humility, teamwork, ambition, personal development, resilience,
#Leadership #RedArrows #Teamwork #Trust #Resilience #AviationLeadership #MilitaryToBusiness #JustGreatPeople #PodcastInterview #LeadershipDevelopment
