What if the challenges we label as engagement problems, culture problems, leadership problems, or performance problems are actually trust problems at their core?

In this episode of The WiLD Conversation Podcat, Dr. Rob McKenna and Sabeth Kapahu sit down with trust expert and researcher David Horsager to explore why trust remains the foundational driver behind organizational health, leadership influence, team performance, and human connection.

David shares the story of how a late-night realization transformed his career and led to the development of the Eight Pillars of Trust, a framework now used by leaders and organizations around the world. Together, they discuss the relationship between trust and leadership development, why trust can be measured, the practical behaviors that build credibility, and what it means to cultivate trust in an age shaped by AI, uncertainty, and increasing skepticism.

The conversation moves beyond theory into the deeply personal, touching on family, humility, continual learning, vulnerability, and the responsibility leaders carry to become more trustworthy themselves.

This episode is a powerful reminder that trust is the leading indicator behind every outcome that matters.

Key Takeaways

Why most organizational challenges are trust challenges in disguise.
The origin and application of David Horsager's Eight Pillars of Trust.
How trust can be measured, developed, and strengthened intentionally.
The connection between leadership development, culture, and trust.
Why personal trust is becoming increasingly important in the age of AI.
The role of humility and continual learning in trustworthy leadership.
Practical ways leaders can build trust within teams and organizations.