What does it mean to be a flourishing leader—someone whose character inspires flourishing in others?

In this episode, Dr. Scott Parsons sits down with Professor Michael Lamb, F. M. Kirby Foundation Chair of Leadership and Character and Senior Executive Director of the Program for Leadership and Character at Wake Forest University. A Rhodes Scholar, political philosopher, and global thought leader on character education, Michael’s work bridges ancient wisdom and modern leadership practice.

Together, Scott and Michael explore:

• What flourishing leadership means in an age of polarization
• How the humanities and liberal arts help reimagine leadership education
• Iris Murdoch’s concept of art as “unselfing” and its power to expand our moral vision
• Augustine’s timeless wisdom on hope—as a virtue between despair and presumption
• The Seven Strategies for Cultivating Virtue that guide character education worldwide
• The incredible growth and impact of the Educating Character Initiative, now connecting 1,600+ individuals and 500+ institutions

This inspiring conversation reminds us that character shapes culture, and that hope—practiced daily—can renew both leadership and society.

You can learn more about Michael’s work and the Educating Character Initiative at leadershipandcharacter.wfu.edu.

🎧 Listen now and rediscover what it means to lead with purpose, virtue, and hope.

Thank you for listening to the Flourishing Leaders Podcast!
Hosted by Dr. Scott Parsons, this podcast explores how character, virtue, wisdom, and purpose can shape a more flourishing life and leadership journey.

Learn more at: Flourishing Leaders Academy
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Flourish with us—because leadership rooted in character changes everything.