693: An Invitation for Kindness in Leadership, with James Rhee

Coaching for Leaders

James Rhee: Red Helicopter

James Rhee is a former high school teacher and Harvard Law School graduate who became a private equity investor and unexpectedly an acclaimed CEO. He bridges math with emotions by marrying capital with purpose, while composing systems that bridge peoples, disciplines, and ideas. James is the author of Red Helicopter: Lead Change With Kindness (Plus a Little Math)*.

Bad news: leaders are often the ones who make the rules that prevent kindness. Good news: leaders are also the ones who can change the rules. In this conversation, James and I explore how leadership (and results) improve when kindness is at the center of our work.

Key Points

• We all know the power of intuitive, childhood truths. Leaders should champion these, even if that means challenging the establishment.
• Brené Brown says, “Clear is kind.” Clarity emerges by also ensuring an alignment with reality by leveraging math.
• Kindness is not random or entertaining. It’s an intentional, consistent practice.
• Leaders make the rules that encumber kindness — and they have the capacity to change those rules.
• The cost centers of an organization are a creative opportunity for kindness.

Resources Mentioned

• Red Helicopter: Lead Change With Kindness (Plus a Little Math)* by James Rhee
• Arirang Amazing Grace for a Red Helicopter

Interview Notes

Download my interview notes in PDF format (free membership required).

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• How Leaders Build, with Guy Raz (episode 491)
• The Power of Leadership Through Hospitality, with Will Guidara (episode 688)

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