In this Buzzword Breakdown episode, Kristen and Mike tackle one of the most talked-about—and misunderstood—concepts in modern leadership: servant leadership. But here's the twist: Mike admits he actually hates the term. What follows is a candid conversation about why this popular leadership philosophy makes us uncomfortable, why the language we use around leadership matters more than we think, and how some leaders use this term to avoid accountability. The discussion explores the problematic history behind the word "servant," unpacks what it actually means to put your team first without losing yourself in the process, and addresses common myths like confusing servant leadership with being passive. Kristen breaks down the original concept and shares practical ways to practice this approach without the cringe factor, so listeners can learn how to lead with humility and support their teams without becoming a doormat—or worse, a leader who talks the talk but doesn't walk the walk.

Highlights:

• Why Mike finds the term "servant leadership" uncomfortable and how it's misappropriated by leaders who avoid true coaching and accountability
• The problematic etymology of "servant" and its roots in slavery—why leadership language matters
• Robert Greenleaf's 1970 concept: the best leaders measure success by the growth and wellbeing they inspire in others, not by power
• Common myths about servant leadership, including confusing it with being passive or overly self-sacrificing
• Larry Spears' ten characteristics: listening, empathy, healing, awareness, persuasion, conceptualization, foresight, stewardship, commitment to growth, and building community
• How servant leadership differs from transformational leadership (inspiring change) and transactional leadership (exchanges and rewards)
• Key criticisms: risk of burnout, boundary issues, challenges in crisis situations, and performative use without follow-through
• Practical integration: shift from "I fix things" to "I create conditions for others to thrive" and lead with curiosity, not correction
• Mike recommends Colonel David Hackworth's "About Face" as an example of putting your team first under extreme circumstances
• Simple action step: ask your team "What's one thing I can do to make your job easier this week?" and follow through

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Larry C. Spears: “The 10 Characteristics of Servant Leaders”
• About Face by Colonel David Hackworth

Podcast Website: www.loveandleadershippod.com
Instagram: @loveleaderpod

Follow us on LinkedIn!
Kristen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenbsharkey/
Mike: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-s-364970111/

Learn more about Kristen's leadership coaching and facilitation services: http://www.emboldify.com