Trust, Strategy and the Big Dog Effect: Leadership Lessons from The Celebrity Traitors

The Celebrity Traitors has sparked conversation for many reasons here at the Academy it goes beyond the entertainment factor. It is more than just a game. For us, it has offered an insightful study in group dynamics and a credible simulation of what happens in the workplace when you bring together a group of peers and ask them to organise themselves around a common purpose.

Herds, Hierarchies and the Hunger for Leadership

What’s stood out this Traitors season is the need for leadership. Whether it’s discussions about “lead traitors” and their underlings, the so-called “Big Dog theory”, or the deference displayed at the round table, the series has revealed what we subconsciously look for in our leaders: maturity, extroversion, perceived status, and sometimes even gender.

The hesitation to vote Jonathan out spoke volumes about group dynamics and psychological safety. Few wanted to take the first step, and that reluctance mirrors what often happens in workplaces: fear of repercussions or of standing out can hold teams back from making necessary decisions.

The Power of Influence vs. the Weight of Leadership

Every workplace has its influencers, those who shape opinions, lift morale, or steer discussion without formal authority. Cat Burns and Nick Mohammed both fulfilled this role in the series: influential, observant, and respected, yet not ultimately leading.

Leadership, however, requires something deeper to be effective so clarity, communication, and accountability comes to the fore. Suprisingly that’s where Joe Marler’s journey becomes particularly interesting.

Joe Marler: The Reluctant Leader Who Found His Voice

When Joe Marler, a professional rugby player, asked early on, “Why is nobody listening to me?”, it reflected a common experience among emerging leaders. His insights were sharp as he correctly identified Jonathan but his quiet logic wasn’t yet cutting through.

The turning point came when Joe M began to show emotion and articulate not just what needed to happen, but why as he witnessed the faithful die one by one at the hands of the encumbant traitors. By advocating for aligned voting, clear strategy, and shared purpose while inviting others’ opinions he transformed from a participant into a leader.

This shift illustrates a timeless truth: leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice; but the one that brings others together and focus on a common goal.

7 Leadership Lessons from The Traitors

Beneath the show’s tension lies a masterclass in leadership psychology:

1. Strategy under pressure: Strong leaders stay calm, read the situation, and adapt as new information emerges.

2. Trust and alliances: Influence flows through relationships built on credibility and integrity.

3. Communication is key: Clear, consistent messaging builds confidence and cohesion.

4. Authenticity matters: Teams respond to honesty and transparency, even in uncertainty.

5. Purpose unites: Shared goals and defined roles prevent confusion and division.

6. Self-awareness counts: Emotional control and humility enable better decisions.

7. Inclusion strengthens leadership: Inviting others’ perspectives fosters engagement and trust.

The Final Round Table

Beyond the drama of who ultimately wins, The Celebrity Traitors offers something far more enduring: a lesson in what authentic leadership looks like under pressure.

Joe Marler emerged as a model of adaptive leadership showing that influence is not defined by title, seniority, or status, but by behaviour and clear communication. True leadership lies in the courage to speak up, the skill to listen, and the ability to unite the faithful around a common goal – find the traitors!

The series ultimately reminded us that leadership isn’t confined to the boardroom or the battlefield. Instead, it’s a human quality that surfaces when clarity meets integrity. When trust, transparency, and empathy are present, leadership doesn’t just appear, in fact it thrives.