Film Review: Leadership Lessons from Netflix’s Live to Lead
Dr Elizabeth King
Helping leaders, teams and organizations perform in uncertainty.
Leadership takes many forms, and ‘Live to Lead,’ a compelling documentary series available on Netflix, exemplifies this through conversations with influential leaders who have left lasting marks in various fields. Executive produced by Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, the series includes conversations with notable figures such as Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Greta Thunberg, Bryan Stevenson, Jacinda Ardern, Siya Kolisi, Gloria Steinem, and Albie Sachs. Each episode provides profound insights into leadership, resilience, and the pursuit of justice.
The Series and Its Purpose
The series was created in collaboration with the Nelson Mandela Foundation, inspired by Mandela’s legacy of effective leadership and social justice. The Foundation’s Chief Executive, Sello Hatang, stated that the series aims “to inspire a new generation of leaders – leaders that earn respect and trust through the practice of their principles and their commitment to creating power for people, not themselves.”
Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Case Study in Leadership
In the inaugural episode, the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg reflects on her relentless pursuit of equality and her groundbreaking work in advancing women’s rights. Ginsburg’s narrative is not just a recounting of her legal battles but a testament to her unwavering commitment to justice and her strategic approach to enacting societal change.
Mindful Leadership in Action
This episode resonates deeply with the principles of mindful leadership, a concept I have long advocated for. Mindful leadership involves leading with warmth, wisdom, and mindfulness, embodying the concept of Metta – friendliness. Ginsburg’s journey exemplifies this through her deliberate and thoughtful approach to leadership. Her ability to remain focused, her deep awareness of societal issues, and her acceptance of the challenges she faced are all hallmarks of a mindful leader—demonstrated, for example, in her strategic handling of landmark gender equality cases.
The Power of Strategic Adaptability
Ginsburg’s strategic litigation approach reflects a deep understanding of impermanence and the need for adaptability—core tenets of mindful leadership. She recognized that societal change is a gradual process and approached each case with patience and strategic foresight, embodying the mindful capability of acceptance.
Lessons for All Leaders
Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that mindful, deliberate leadership can have on society. As leaders, we can draw inspiration from Ginsburg’s example to lead with empathy, strategic vision, and an unwavering commitment to justice. By embracing the principles of mindful leadership, we can navigate the complexities of our roles with greater clarity and effectiveness, fostering positive change within our organisations and beyond.
Qualities of an Effective Board Chair
These qualities are particularly pertinent for those serving as chairs of boards, where strategic leadership and emotional intelligence are essential to guide teams through complex challenges. An effective board chair must possess strong strategic thinking skills, analysing complex situations, identifying potential risks and opportunities, and guiding the board toward long-term goals. This involves working closely with the CEO and other board members to develop and review strategic plans, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission and vision. The chair should be a person of integrity, with a strong sense of ethics and a commitment to the organization’s mission and values. Adaptability is crucial; the chair should be able to adjust to changing circumstances and be open to new ideas and approaches.
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The Role of the Chair: Insights from AICD
The Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) emphasises that the chair serves as a vital link between the board and the organization’s management, particularly through effective collaboration with the CEO. Breaking down silos and fostering clear communication are central to this role. While the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) does not explicitly define the chair’s role, many of its functions are established through customary practices. The chair is responsible for leading board meetings, setting agendas, and ensuring effective communication among board members. They also play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of trust and collaboration within the board, guiding the organization toward its strategic objectives.
Applying Ginsburg’s Leadership Lessons to the Boardroom
Ginsburg’s leadership exemplified these traits. Her strategic foresight, ethical grounding, and adaptability offer valuable lessons for board chairs aiming to lead with effectiveness and integrity. By emulating these qualities, board chairs can guide their organisations toward success while upholding the principles of justice and equality. It is my belief that by striving to develop the mental strength and adaptability required of a board chair, we can make leadership challenges more manageable and rewarding.
Reflection for All Leaders
“Live to Lead” offers valuable lessons for leaders at all levels. The series provides an opportunity to reflect on the mental qualities essential for effective leadership, such as resilience, empathy, and ethical commitment.
Reflection Questions: Useful Reflection if you feel compelled to investigate:
The series acts as a mirror, reflecting the qualities of effective leadership and encouraging viewers to embody these traits in their own journeys.