What happens when there is no clear path to follow?

In this episode of the Leader-Connect podcast, Neil Jurd speaks with Johnny Fenn — soldier, explorer and Field Director of the Gurkha Welfare Trust — about leadership, resilience and decision-making in uncertain environments.

Filmed in Pokhara, Nepal, the conversation begins with an unexpected moment as two Steppe Eagles clash overhead — a fitting introduction to a discussion shaped by unpredictability and real-world experience.

From combat to exploration

Johnny reflects on his time commanding 94 Squadron Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment in Iraq, where the realities of leadership under pressure quickly replaced expectation — including the moment he mistook incoming fire for raindrops hitting the sand.

The conversation also explores his ventures beyond the military, including founding Photo Journeys and working with a range of high-profile individuals — from Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh to explorer Levison Wood and mountaineer Hari Budha Magar.

Walking across Nepal without a map

At the heart of the discussion is Johnny’s 16-week journey walking the length of Nepal without a map.

Navigating by instinct, local knowledge and persistence, he shares what it’s like to:

• face real physical and environmental risk
• make decisions without complete information
• overcome fear and uncertainty
• keep moving forward when the route isn’t clear

The journey raised over £50,000 for the Gurkha Welfare Trust — and reinforced a simple but powerful leadership truth:

You don’t always need a map to lead — but you do need the confidence to keep going

Leadership grounded in purpose

Now leading the Gurkha Welfare Trust’s work in Nepal, Johnny supports Gurkha veterans and their communities through vital initiatives including healthcare, housing and education.

This conversation offers a rare insight into leadership shaped not by theory, but by experience — in some of the most challenging environments imaginable.

Why listen

This episode is particularly relevant for anyone interested in:

• leadership in uncertainty
• decision-making under pressure
• resilience and adaptability
• real-world leadership beyond theory

Leadership doesn’t always follow a clear path. Sometimes, you have to find your way as you go.