In this captivating episode of the Science of Leadership, host Tom Collins welcomes distinguished military leader General Vince Brooks.

General Brooks is a West Point graduate and a veteran of three wars. He led 650,000 personnel as Commander of U.S. Forces Korea, Combined Forces Command, and U.N. Command, and served on the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Highly decorated, his honors include the Army Distinguished Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters and a Bronze Star. Post-retirement, he has joined the boards of several corporations.

General Brooks, with his extensive background in commanding vast forces and his profound leadership insights, shares valuable lessons on leadership, particularly focusing on the concept of servant leadership. His discussion with Dr. Collins spans from recounting personal experiences in Iraq to articulating the essence of humility, courage, and the significance of creating a lasting legacy through effective leadership.

Dr. Collins and General Brooks delve deep into the principles of servant leadership, emphasizing that true leadership is centered around the lead, not the leader. General Brooks shares a poignant story from his time in Iraq that exemplifies this approach, highlighting the importance of selflessness and prioritizing the well-being and success of those you lead. Throughout the conversation, the two underscore the importance of humility, self-reflection, and continuous learning in cultivating a leadership style that inspires trust and collective achievement.

Key Takeaways:

🔸Leadership Focus: True leadership is about prioritizing the needs and growth of those you lead, rather than seeking personal glory.

🔸Servant Leadership: Exercising servant leadership involves setting an example and subordinating personal interests for the collective good.

🔸Humility in Leadership: Humility is crucial in effective leadership; it helps leaders stay grounded and better connect with their teams.

🔸Continuous Learning: Great leaders are always open to learning and improving, valuing feedback and reflecting on their experiences.

🔸Creating a Legacy: The ultimate success of a leader is measured by the success and growth of their followers.

Resources: Connect with General Vince Brooks on LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-brooks-757116189/

United States Military Academy at West Point | https://www.westpoint.edu/

Book References:

"Servant Leadership" by Robert Greenleaf ISBN-13:‎ 978-0809105540

"Leading with a Limp" by Dan Allender ISBN-13:‎ 978-1578569526

We hope this episode has provided you with profound insights into effective leadership. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on the Science of Leadership, and remember to keep striving for character, competence, and caring in your own leadership journey.