Consensus Isn’t Certainty

Consensus Isn’t Certainty

From Learn to Lead by Abilitie

September 10, 2025 · 8 min · Episode 141

About this episode

This episode explores the surprising stories behind some of history’s most spectacularly wrong predictions and the leadership truth that progress often begins when someone questions the consensus.

Imagine being told that cars were a passing fad, that no one would want a computer in their home, or that phones without buttons would flop. In hindsight, these predictions seem absurd—but at the time, they were the prevailing wisdom. In this episode of the Learn to Lead Podcast , we explore the surprising stories behind some of history’s most spectacularly wrong predictions. From the birth of the automobile to the rise of Japanese carmakers and the launch of the iPhone, these moments remind us of a powerful leadership truth: progress often begins when someone dares to question the consensus. — Learn To Lead is brought to you by Abilitie, a leading provider of experiential learning. Abilitie’s simulations andleadership programs have inspired over 100,000 professionals in more than 50 countries. To learn more about Abilitie and about our host Matthew Confer, visit the links below: Abilitie Leadership Development - https://www.abilitie.com The Learn To Lead Podcast - https://www.abilitie.com/learn-to-lead-podcast/ Host Matthew Confer: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewconfer/ Matthew’s TEDx Talk on Decision Making…

People in this episode

Host: Matthew Confer

Topics covered

  • leadership
  • predictions
  • innovation
  • automobile history
  • decision making

Keywords

  • leadership
  • predictions
  • automobile
  • innovation
  • decision making
  • history

Sponsors

Abilitie

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Learn to Lead Podcast, TEDx Talk on Decision Making

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