#44. Quinntessential Questions with David Easton: Learning is the Real Leadership Skill
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In this insightful episode of The Quinntessential Questions Podcast, Paul Quinn speaks with David Easton — CEO & Founder of Blazing Pines, former C-suite leader, and an experienced coach whose philosophy is simple: no nonsense, just real-world, actionable help for leaders and their businesses.
David’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From serving in the Royal Household at Buckingham Palace — learning diplomacy, discretion, and security awareness at the highest level (a life reminiscent of something out of James Bond 007) — to transitioning into the finance sector, taking on senior Head of HR leadership positions, and ultimately becoming COO in London, his career is rich with lessons in responsibility, adaptability, and alliance-building.
He shares the core values that have guided him, the pivotal moments that shaped his sense of self-belief, and the experiences that taught him the difference between theoretical leadership and practical, results-driven business management. We also discuss the launch of Blazing Pines, the three-month road trip across Singapore, Hong Kong, Geneva, and London that inspired it, and his unique approach to leadership coaching rooted in both qualifications and decades of senior corporate experience.
The conversation explores entrepreneurship, building a strong support system, the role of mentorship in self-growth, and how parenting has influenced his leadership style. If you’re looking for grounded, practical leadership wisdom from someone who’s led at the highest levels, this episode is for you.
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Guest Bio
David Easton served in the Royal Household at Buckingham Palace for 5 years, before joining a major bank where he worked for over 12 years and eventually ascended to the role of Chief Operating Officer for their London branch.
Minutes
(00:50) Introduction
(01:26) Working at the Royal Household
(03:38) First Lesson in Leadership (07:04) Diplomacy & Discretion (11:19) Joining Finance
(13:35) Most Fulfilling Experience (14:19) Core Values
(17:25) Becoming the Head of HR (18:41) Sense of Responsibility (20:28) Adaptability
(22:08) Developing Alliances (23:58) Self Belief
(26:28) Becoming the COO in London
(31:57) Launching Blazing Pines (34:05) 3 Month Road Trip
(37:57) Leadership & Coaching (41:06) Sense of Self
(42:30) Entrepreneurship
(45:23) Support System
(50:29) Self Growth & Mentorship (54:05) Parenting
(58:10) Rapid Fire Questions Behind-The-Scenes
