EP177 - How to Stay Calm Under Pressure Like the Special Forces with Dean Stott
In this episode of the Impact Driven Leader, Tyler Dickerhoof sits down with Dean Stott, a retired British Special Forces operator, world record-breaking cyclist, and crisis management expert, to uncover the mindset that drives success on and off the battlefield.
From stories of high-stakes evacuations to reshaping leadership principles, Dean shares how his military background and life experiences have shaped his approach to mentoring, building trust, and taking decisive action. Whether you're navigating boardroom challenges or personal obstacles, this conversation will inspire you to lead with impact and resilience.
Meet DEAN STOTT
Former British Special Forces Soldier, 2x World Record Setting Cyclist, Adventurer, Philanthropist, Author, Global Speaker
Known by many simply as “The Frogman,” Stott served in Britain’s Special Boat Service (SBS). After making it through the British Special Forces gruelling six-month selection process, Dean Stott became one of the very first army members to join the SBS (Special Boat Service). Throughout his esteemed military career, he has conducted deployments to overseas hostile environments and been involved in counter terrorism operations; he has travelled to some of the most dangerous places in the world.
After his military career was ended by a parachuting accident in 2011 after 16 honorable years of service, he continues to live by the Special Forces’ ethos of ‘the unrelenting pursuit of excellence.’ The determination required throughout his career has become an integral part of Stott’s character.
Post-military, he transitioned to the private security sector. He has gone on to become a world-leading security consultant. From corporate assignments to ultra-high net worth individuals, he has delivered security solutions at all levels, for clients including governments, presidents, and royal families. In that role, he has successfully dealt with extortion, kidnapping, civil war, pirates, and military coups. In 2014, he single-handedly evacuated the Canadian Embassy in Libya, rescuing four diplomats and 18 military personnel. More recently, he assisted hundreds in safely departing Afghanistan during the military withdrawal and helped evacuate more than 200 people from Israel.
In 2016, Stott was ready for a new project and wanted to do something impactful that would help others. He began training to cycle the longest motorable road in the world – The Pan American Highway. Stott completed the 14,000 miles route from Argentina to Alaska in May 2018, achieving two world records and raising more than $1.4 million US dollars for mental health awareness charities in the process. Stott passed through 14 countries on his expedition, crossing some of the most dangerous passages in the world. In the final stretch, Stott continued for 17 hours and, driven by his determination, covered 340 miles on his longest day.
Dean has also established a media career being hosts of “SAS Australia” and Netflix “Toughest Forces on Earth”.
In the Kings Birthday honors list 2024, Dean was awarded the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for his services to Sport and to humanitarian and Mental Health Awareness.
Stott continues to operate in the security sector and non profit space being an advocate for Veterans mental health. He is now a renowned international speaker, presenting to FTSE 100 companies, sporting bodies, military departments, schools and businesses.
IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:
00:00 Intro
02:08 Dean joining the military
05:47 How empathy builds better soldiers
10:30 Applying military leadership to crisis management
13:40 Proactive vs. Reactive
15:24 Being on Netflix’s Toughest Forces on Earth
17:40 Crisis management under pressure and risk during Israel's evacuation
23:53 Why family offices are turning to security experts
30:32 How ethical practices build a lasting reputation
35:34 Why the best leaders let others speak first
40:27 Balancing empathy and logic in crisis situations
51:12 Constant growth is key to avoiding stagnation
54:30 The Blue Rose Foundation
Resources, books, and links mentioned in this episode:
Connect with Dean:
https://www.instagram.com/deanstott/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-stott-24725880
https://www.facebook.com/deanstottsbs/
https://twitter.com/deanstottsbs
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About the Impact Driven Leader Podcast
The Impact Driven Leader Podcast, hosted by Tyler Dickerhoof, is for Xillennial leaders who have felt alone and ill-equipped to lead in today's world. Through inspiring interviews with authors from around the world, Tyler uncovers how unique leadership strengths can empower others to achieve so much more, with real impact.
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