The Age of Distrust

I learned a new word this week, “Cowed.” I've never heard that before. I heard many a ‘cow’ comments, but never in the context of “having given in to intimidation.”

The source: Malcolm Gladwell. Context: As a guest on the “The Real Science of Sport” podcast by Ross Tucker, Gladwell shared this comment regarding his facilitation of a panel both were on in 2022. Conflict: Gladwell bowed his head, or “cowed” to the pressure at the time in 2022 to not stand against transgender participation in women's athletics.

"I'm ashamed of my performance at that panel because I share your position 100 percent, and I was cowed," shared Gladwell.

Gladwell is one of the most endearing voices for non-establishment thinking of the 21st century. His books, Tipping Point, and most recently, Revenge of the Tipping Point, stand in direct line with going along to get along.

His research and compelling ideologies from those books changed how people think, how they push against the status quo, and get caught up in ‘that's just the way it is.”

So hear this loud and clear, when that guy says he was “COWED,” I am floored.

Tearing Down and Building Back Better

Only time will tell if the revelation by Gladwell will impact others. That they, too, might step forward and admit they bought into a narrative because it was easier to do so than stand for different beliefs.

For me, this is the very essence of this current age of distrust. People in positions of influence are creating a narrative for their own benefit, gain, or prestige.

As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago in my podcast with Rachel DeAlto, the fastest way to destroy or stifle trust is to say, “Trust Me!”

So it takes, maybe a bit of a radical personality and character like my guest this week to step into the fold and “say not so fast, my friend.”

To build a better way, the old must be torn down. It is tough for me today to see a political or ideological vantage where you can say, “I fully trust them.”

It's long-standing that politicians have said whatever they wanted to garner the support they desire to get what they desire.

Seldom does one have the chutzpah as Mr. Gladwell did to recant his position publicly, without coercion at least.

But here lies the real challenge: trust is not built back from torn-down rubble by destroying the very foundation for which the pillar should be built.

Here lies the great paradox: tearing down to build back up, while not destroying everything that establishes trust in the process.

Telling the truth, being authentic and genuine, being present and empathetic without personal agendas.

THE CHALLENGE

If you believe you can learn something from anyone, would you still sit with a person who doesn't necessarily agree with you?

Most people would consider that question rhetorical, even going as far as ‘well, yes,’ but do we do it?

It’s not hard to find people today who disagree. Shoot, it seems we can stumble upon each other without trying.

But just because people might have different opinions doesn't mean they should act like enemies.

I chose to become friends with a Michigan fan, and at that, a member of the Michigan football staff, no less. That's like Israel and Palestine becoming a unified country!

Now take that context and imagine a lovely older gentleman sitting at a coffee shop, striking up a conversation with his polar opposite (looks, political, ideological, etc) who happens to be seated next to them.

No judgment, no fear, no angst. Just genuine humanness. The wonder and desire to be curious, compassionate, and kind.

It is surreal to imagine this scenario due to the damage distrust has caused to our country. This is the exact challenge facing our society. The ability to be human!

The most significant headwind facing leaders in any sector of society today is a lack of trust. Gaining, fostering, establishing, and maintaining trust.

Because we have chosen to polarize and villainize preferences, beliefs, and ideologies rather than discovering, fostering, and embracing values.

Before my podcast conversation with Gary Franchi, I had never known about his program, platform, or political ideologies.

It was easy to discern, though. Some of you may align with his content and views, and some may not. I totally understand.

I took one thing away from our time together. He simply wants to help people cut through the noise and be able to sit down at a coffee shop, with a stranger or even a family member, and have a conversation, rather than be consumed by fear, judgment, angst, and prejudice fueled by narratives that destroy human connections.

How do I know this? He told me. He shared a story of how he yearns for that very conversation with a person meaningful to him.

Yet in the Age of Distrust, just sharing a meal with another human seems like betrayal, because fake news has caused more division than consensus.

The only way to build pillars of trust is to create a foundation based on authenticity and doing what Mr Gladwell did, face the music and be human!

Who’s in your Circle?

Before I sign off today, I want to pause and talk about something that matters deeply in leadership: trust. None of us leads well in isolation—it’s the people we surround ourselves with who give us perspective, encouragement, and the kind of honesty that helps us grow. That’s what the IDL Community is built on.

The FALL Roundtable Cohort kicks off September 17th. For 12 weeks, we’ll meet on Zoom—not just to talk about leadership, but to build trust with one another. These conversations create a space where you don’t have to have it all figured out. Past participants have said the experience gave them confidence and clarity, but more importantly, it reminded them they weren’t alone. Together we lean into authenticity, vulnerability, and steady growth—because trust is the foundation of all three.

Looking further ahead, the 3rd IDL Summit is scheduled for May 7–8, 2026. It’s designed to leave you encouraged, grounded, and connected with leaders who understand what it’s like to carry the weight of responsibility and still lead with integrity. If you’re an Annual Roundtable member, a VIP ticket will be waiting for you.

I’d love for you to join us in one—or both—of these spaces. Leadership doesn’t have to feel lonely when you’re surrounded by people you can trust. Together, we grow stronger.

Did you catch this podcast? If not, listen to it here.