For this episode of the Security Clearance Careers Podcast, we we explore leadership, ethics, and excellence in high-stakes environments. Today’s episode will reshape how you think about leadership, especially leadership where character and trust are at the foundation of leading groups in national security missions.
We are joined by Harry Wetherbee, a former senior executive officer of the CIA, and author of The Character of a Leader: Lessons on Honor and Integrity in Command. In this short but powerful book, Harry draws on decades of work at the intersection of national security, intelligence, and moral responsibility to show what truly separates fleeting authority from enduring leadership.
Entering on duty in 1967, Wetherbee served multiple tours overseas in operational positions, commanding major elements both in the field and at headquarters. His most recent challenge was to head up a joint interagency program that brings together elements from multiple intelligence agencies, across a broad range of professional disciplines.
We discuss:
- What inspired him to write The Character of a Leader, and why the book is especially timely today.
- Defining “character” in the context of leadership, and how it differs from competence or technical skill.
- Lessons from his time in national security and intelligence work and how they translate most directly to civilian and corporate leadership.
- Common leadership pitfalls he’s seen, even among highly skilled professionals, and how can they be avoided.
- Practical strategies or habit that leaders can adopt right away to build stronger trust and integrity in their organizations.
Leadership without character may achieve temporary success, but it rarely inspires true loyalty or leaves a positive legacy.
From battlefield decisions to boardroom dilemmas, from earning trust to inspiring loyalty, Harry distills practical lessons about integrity, competence, initiative, and decision-making rooted in character. We unpack the real-world examples he uses, hear what he believes makes a leader’s character not just admired, but actionable, so if you lead a team, serve your country, manage risk, or hold clearance, you’ll want to listen closely.
