Innovating Leadership:
Co-Creating Our Future

Episode Content:

Leaders Who Lust: Power, Money, Sex, Success, Legitimacy, Legacy

In this episode of the Innovative Leadership Institute podcast, host Maureen Metcalf engages in a riveting discussion with Barbara Kellerman, co-author of the book Leaders Who Lust: Power, Money, Sex, Success, Legitimacy, Legacy. This episode delves into the concept of leadership driven by various forms of lust and explores how these powerful desires shape leaders’ actions and legacies. This podcast shares insights for anyone interested in understanding the complex motivations behind leadership and the impact of these motivations on organizations and society.

Understanding Leadership Lust

Barbara begins by defining the concept of leadership lust. She explains that lust, in this context, refers to an intense and often uncontrollable desire that drives leaders to pursue specific goals with fervor. Unlike the common negative connotations associated with lust, the authors argue that these desires can lead to both positive and negative outcomes, depending on how they are channeled. The book identifies six types of lust that drive leaders: power, money, sex, success, legitimacy, and legacy.

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The Six Types of Leadership Lust

1. Lust for Power: This is the ceaseless craving to control and influence others. Leaders driven by a lust for power often seek positions of authority and are motivated by the ability to shape decisions and outcomes. Examples include political figures and corporate executives who wield significant influence.

2. Lust for Money: This desire is characterized by the relentless pursuit of wealth. Leaders with a lust for money are often driven by financial success and the accumulation of resources. This type of lust can lead to both entrepreneurial innovation and unethical behavior.

3. Lust for Sex: This form of lust involves the constant hunt for sexual gratification. While it can lead to personal scandals, it also highlights the human aspect of leaders and their vulnerabilities. The authors discuss how this desire can impact a leader’s reputation and effectiveness.

4. Lust for Success: This is the unstoppable need to achieve and be recognized for accomplishments. Leaders driven by a lust for success are often highly ambitious and goal-oriented. They strive for excellence and are motivated by the desire to leave a mark on their field

5. Lust for Legitimacy: This desire involves the tireless claim to identity and equity. Leaders with a lust for legitimacy seek to establish their authority and credibility. They are often driven by the need to be seen as rightful and deserving of their position

6. Lust for Legacy: This is the endless quest to leave a permanent imprint. Leaders driven by a lust for legacy are motivated by the desire to be remembered and to have a lasting impact on their organization or society. They often focus on long-term goals and visionary projects.

The Impact of Leadership Lust

Barbara asserts that while these desires can lead to significant achievements, they can also result in ethical lapses and negative consequences if not appropriately managed. The key is for leaders to be aware of their motivations and to channel their desires in ways that align with ethical standards and organizational goals.

Case Studies and Real-World Examples

Barbara provides several case studies and real-world examples of leaders who exemplify each type of lust. These stories illustrate how these powerful desires can drive leaders to achieve remarkable success and lead to downfall if not kept in check. By examining these examples, listeners can better understand the complex interplay between leadership motivations and outcomes.

Conclusion

Barbara Kellerman provides valuable insights into the six types of leadership lust and their impact on organizations and society. This episode helps leaders and aspiring leaders who want to understand their motivations and learn how to channel their desires in ways that lead to positive outcomes. Leaders can succeed by recognizing and managing their lusts while maintaining ethical integrity and contributing to the greater good.