In this episode of Morning Air, John Morales chats with leadership guru and former CEO Harry Kraemer about what Pope Leo XIV teaches us about real leadership: it’s not about power moves or boardroom bravado… it’s about humility, purpose, and radical service.
Key Takeaways from Harry Kraemer’s Wisdom: 👣 Servant Leadership All the Way Down
Harry paints Pope Leo XIV as the guy who doesn’t just talk about servant leadership; he lives it. While most leaders are trying to climb to the top, Pope Leo flips the whole triangle. He’s at the bottom, lifting everyone else up: Cardinals, priests, laypeople, the whole Church.
“He’s not the king of the hill; he’s the foundation under the hill.”
💬Communication is Connection
Whether he’s speaking Spanish, Latin, or Chicago-style English, Pope Leo communicates with clarity and compassion. Harry notes that his multilingual ability is personal. He makes everyone feel seen and heard, whether you’re from Peru or Peoria. 🌎
Humble AND Confident
Leo XIV has this disarming humility, but he’s no pushover. Harry calls him “a regular guy” who happens to be extraordinarily reflective and grounded. He knows what he knows, admits what he doesn’t, and isn’t trying to impress anyone; he’s just here to serve.
Leadership as a Mirror
Harry challenges us to see Pope Leo’s leadership as a mirror. Are we leading with humility? Are we serving the people around us? Are we making it about others… or about us?
“Everybody watches the leader. What kind of example do you want to be?”
Final Thought:
Pope Leo XIV may have stepped onto the balcony with tears in his eyes, but his heart was already set on the people below. That’s not weak leadership; that’s the strongest kind. 👏
So, whether you’re managing a company, a classroom, or just trying to wrangle your toddlers through Mass, Pope Leo’s example has something for you: less spotlight, more service.
Want more? Check out Harry’s article on Forbes: “The Powerful Lesson Pope Leo the 14th Can Teach Leaders”.
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