Episode 73 with Cheryl Lawson-Wright
Leadership is often seen as a position of power and authority. However, Cheryl Lawson Wright, a mental health advocate and cancer survivor, presents a different perspective. She embodies a leadership style that is rooted in servant leadership, where vulnerability is not a weakness but a superpower that uplifts and serves others.
Cheryl's journey is not one of a smooth path to success but a tumultuous voyage through childhood trauma and personal challenges. Her resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to her strength and her unwavering commitment to service. Her leadership philosophy centers on the concept of Purposeful Accountable Leadership (PAL), which emphasizes the importance of serving others and being accountable for one's actions.
In her discussion with podcast host Joshua K. McMillion, Cheryl delves into the intricacies of effective leadership. She highlights the importance of understanding the individual strengths and weaknesses of team members, adapting management styles accordingly, and recognizing one's potential to lead. Her insights reveal that leadership is not about asserting dominance but about nurturing and developing the potential in others.
The episode further explores the Rule of Refraction, an intriguing concept where leaders reflect their success onto their teams, thus magnifying the brilliance of those around them. This paradigm shift underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of every team member, fostering an environment where everyone can share in collective achievements.
Cheryl's story also underscores the importance of self-care and the regenerative powers of education and writing. She shares how teaching can be a transformative influence, and how the simple habit of writing can clear the path for self-discovery and inspiration. Her dedication to her nonprofit organization, Real Hope for Help, exemplifies the power of servant leadership in action, as she tirelessly works to support those in need.
As the episode draws to a close, listeners are left with a profound understanding of how storytelling can guide us through the darkest of times towards a fulfilling life of service and leadership. Cheryl's narrative serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that adversity can be transformed into an opportunity for growth and the empowerment of others.
In summary, this podcast episode with Cheryl Lawson Wright is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their leadership skills and transform their approach to leadership. It is a reminder that true leadership is about serving with purpose, being accountable, and cultivating brilliance in those we lead.
Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/McMillionLeadership
Resilence-Based Leadership Program: https://resiliencebuildingleader.com/
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My Mission: I will end toxic leadership practices by equipping leaders with transformational leadership skills.
Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!
Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
Joshua K. McMillion | Founder MLC
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In this powerful episode of Tales of Leadership, I sit down with Jake Larson—affectionately known as “Papa Jake”—a 102-year-old World War II veteran and national treasure whose story has captivated millions across the world.
Born during the Great Depression and raised on a farm in rural Minnesota, Jake’s journey took him from poverty to the front lines of history. At just 15 years old, he joined the National Guard by lying about his age. That bold decision would place him on the path to help plan the D-Day invasion as part of G3 Operations. Armed with a skill most overlooked—typing—Jake was responsible for processing the very orders that sent thousands of men onto Omaha Beach, including himself.