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Why the U.S. Calls Its Leader President
When the founding fathers of the United States were writing the Constitution in the 1780s, they were deadlocked about what to call the leader of the executive branch. At the time, “president” was used in other contexts. University heads were called presidents and heads of colonies sometimes used that title as well. But until President George Washington, this word had never been used to describe a leader of a country. Listen to hear how the decision was finally reached.
Read MoreLeadership Advice from a Military General
A former U.S. military commander likens the coronavirus pandemic to a war and believes that strong leadership is needed to win it. In this interview, General Stanley McChrystal outlines the leadership qualities he considers essential for instilling confidence in people during a time of crisis and fortifying them for the long battle against COVID-19. Listen to hear a 4-star general explain why fighting the virus reminds him of the war against al-Qaeda, and why he thinks leaders should share information honestly and openly, even when it may be frightening.
Read MoreWorld Leadership During the Pandemic
Leaders throughout the world are working to control the spread of COVID-19 in their nations. Some have managed to keep their country’s illness rates very low or to quickly limit outbreaks. This story examines the qualities and strategies of these successful leaders and the commonalities in their responses to the pandemic that have so effectively addressed the health crisis. Listen to learn what the New Zealand prime minister said to calm her nation, how leaders of several Asian countries mobilized their governments, and what the German Chancellor did for the first time ever to rally her citizens to work together to reduce the threat of the virus.
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NFL coaching has become more diverse in recent years, but most top positions continue to be held by white men. Only five of the league’s 32 head coaches are minorities. While more people of color and women have become qualified for leadership positions, they are not being hired for the top jobs. Listen to a sports writer describe the problem of discrimination within the NFL, and learn whom he blames for the league’s failure to diversify its leadership.
Read MoreCURRENT EVENT | March 18, 2022
Before the recent Russian attack, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky was unpopular. With a background in acting and little political experience, he did not inspire confidence among many citizens. Zelensky’s leadership since the attack, however, has drawn admiration from many, at home and internationally. He has demonstrated courage, empathy, and patriotism, inspiring his own people to fight and winning support from countries throughout the world. Were Zelensky’s leadership skills already present, or did his circumstances shape him into an effective leader? Listen to hear an expert analyze Zelensky’s leadership style and then debate: Are leaders born or made?
Story Length: 6:32
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03/03/2022
https://app.listenwise.com/students/events/2216-debate-are-leaders-born-or-made
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