Your Questions,

I'm grateful for your curiosity. Here are some of the most common questions I receive about my journey, the Nautical Leadership model, and how we can work together. If your question isn't here, please don't hesitate to reach out.

About Dave and His Journey

Why the nautical theme for a leadership book?

That's a question I love. For me, the metaphor of a ship on the sea is the most honest and powerful way to describe modern leadership. We aren't in control of the weather or the tides—the market shifts, the global crises, the disruptions. But we are in control of how we navigate. The nautical theme isn't a gimmick; it's a deep-seated belief that leaders are navigators, not controllers. It’s about reading the currents, trusting your crew, and having an unwavering compass of values to guide you home.

Your background is in project management and operations. How did that lead to a leadership philosophy?

It's because I lived it from the ground up. My philosophy wasn't born in a lecture hall; it was forged on factory floors and in high-stakes project meetings. I spent nearly two decades in the 'engine room' of business, seeing where the beautiful theories of leadership broke down under real-world pressure. I saw the burnout, the confusion, and the 'drift' firsthand. The Nautical Leadership Model is my answer to that—a practical, grounded framework built for the messy reality of the modern workplace, not just the textbook.

Who are your biggest influences?

I stand on the shoulders of giants, of course. I have immense respect for the work of Simon Sinek on the power of 'Why,' and Brené Brown's research on courage and vulnerability has profoundly shaped my understanding of human-centred leadership. I also draw inspiration from thinkers like Adam Grant on intellectual humility and the timeless wisdom of explorers like Ernest Shackleton. But honestly, my biggest influences have been the everyday leaders and team members I've worked alongside—the ones who taught me what real grit, empathy, and integrity look like in action. And to be brutally honest, there are so many others who have influenced my life and have shaped me into who I'm and it would be a very long list if i start to write everyone's name and I'm confident that I would still manage to miss a few names.

Who is this book for?

This book is for any leader—or aspiring leader—who feels that there has to be a better way. It’s for the emerging manager feeling overwhelmed by uncertainty, the seasoned executive tired of the 'hustle' culture, and the entrepreneur trying to build a business with purpose. If you believe leadership should be both effective and human, and you're ready for a practical framework instead of more fluff, then this book is for you. Learn more on the official book page.

About the Book: Captain, Set Sail

How is this different from other leadership books?

Many books tell you what to do. My goal is to help you build the inner compass to know why and how to navigate any situation. Captain, Set Sail is different because it offers a simple, memorable framework—The Beacon, Wayfinder, and Seafarer—that is deeply human and immediately applicable. It’s less about rigid rules and more about building your capacity for values-driven judgment, adaptability, and courageous action.

Do I need to be a sailor to understand the concepts?

(I'm writing this with a smile) Absolutely not! The nautical theme is a powerful metaphor for the universal challenges of leadership. You don’t need to know port from starboard. You just need to have experienced the feeling of navigating a team through a complex project or a period of uncertainty. The principles are human, grounded, and designed for every leader, in any industry.

Is Dave available for speaking engagements?

Speaking & Collaboration

Yes, absolutely. I am passionate about sharing the Nautical Leadership message through keynotes, workshops, and panel discussions. My goal is to deliver an experience that is inspiring, thought-provoking, and, most importantly, practical. You can explore my signature topics and start a conversation on my Speaking Page.

What are your speaking fees?

Because every event is unique in its scope, location, and needs (virtual vs. in-person, keynote vs. multi-day workshop), I prefer to discuss fees after an initial conversation. This allows me to understand your goals and provide a tailored proposal that delivers the most value for your audience and your budget. The best first step is to book a brief introductory call.

Do you offer consulting or advisory services?

Yes. Through my advisory, Purple Spark, I work with a select number of socially conscious organisations & leaders on operations, strategy, and building purpose-led cultures. If you feel your organisation could benefit from a deeper dive into the Nautical Leadership framework, please reach out via the contact form to discuss a potential collaboration.

You still have further questions for me?

Too easy... schedule a call with me and let's make this connection human!!