Picture a product launch gone wrong, with a team scrambling to point fingers rather than solve the problem. Instead of tackling the root cause, individuals deflect responsibility to others, poisoning team morale and trust.

In today’s episode, we dive into one of the most destructive patterns that can derail a team—blame shifting. We uncover why this behavior is common, how it sabotages learning and growth within organizations, and how leaders can address it effectively.

By understanding this behavior, leaders can take proactive steps to model accountability and create an environment where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth rather than threats. Tune in for practical strategies to confront blame shifters and foster a more resilient, adaptive team.

In this episode:

00:00 Introduction to blame shifting

01:52 Why blame shifting exists and its impact on teams

03:47 Real-world examples: Apollo 1 & Volkswagen emissions scandal

05:02 How leaders can counteract blame shifting

06:38 Conclusion and key takeaway

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