Welcome back to Drop the Act, the podcast brought to you by Performing Perfectly, where we explore the power of communication, presence, and performance in leadership. Hosted by Christopher Key, this show draws from the worlds of theatre, aviation, sport, and business to reveal what it really takes to perform when it matters most.

In Part 2 of this episode, Chris is joined by Daniel Lowes, former Red Arrows pilot and RAF Qualified Weapons Instructor. Strap in for an intense, inspiring conversation about leadership in high-stakes environments, the role of trust and communication in elite performance, and what business leaders can learn from one of the most precise teams on the planet.

🎧 What You'll Learn:

How the Red Arrows use tone and timing for split-second decisions

Why communication isn’t optional—it's life or death

What business teams can learn from military preparation and debriefs

The power of visual signals and body language

How Daniel mentally prepared to fly at 1,300 mph, 250 ft off the ground

Why self-belief and ego (in the right measure) are essential to performance

👨‍✈️ About Daniel Lowes:

Daniel is a former Red Arrows pilot and RAF Qualified Weapons Instructor who served for over 16 years. His experience spans global combat training missions, elite-level aerobatics, and the kind of trust-driven teamwork that only exists at 700 mph in tight formation.

Connect with Dan Lowes: 🌐 Website: www.daniellowes.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @daniel.lowes 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/daniellowes 🐦 X (Twitter): @Daniel_Lowes

🎭 About Christopher Key & Performing Perfectly:

Christopher Key is a theatre director, communication coach, and founder of Performing Perfectly—a training company that helps business leaders improve how they connect, influence, and lead through the power of performance.

Connect with Performing Perfectly: 🌐 Website: www.performingperfectly.com 📸 Instagram: @performingperfectly 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/performing-perfectly

🔁 Don’t Miss Part 2:

This episode is just the beginning. In the next instalment, Chris and Dan dive even deeper into the mindset of elite performers, sharing more stories, strategies, and takeaways for anyone serious about communication and leadership.

📢 Like What You Heard?

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