Leading with an iron fist, relying solely on power and authority, is an outdated and ineffective approach to leadership. While it may yield short-term results, this style of management is not sustainable in the long run. Today’s workforce, especially younger generations, respond better to leaders who lead with empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to support their growth and development.
Kerry Stevenson is a renowned leadership expert and former college football coach. His ability to connect with young people, listen to their needs, and empower them to reach their full potential has inspired many to be the best they can be and grow into effective leaders themselves. Today, Coach Kerry continues to motivate others and cultivate a culture of belonging, growth, and success through his speaking, coaching, and published works.
In this episode, Daniel and Coach Kerry cover what it means and what it takes to lead with L.O.V.E.. Listen in as they emphasize the value of understanding one’s identity particularly during transitional phases in life, having a supportive village in childhood, prioritizing love and empathy in leadership, building strong relationships, and fostering a growth mindset in overcoming challenges and achieving success, plus much more.
“Lead with LOVE. You have to LISTEN; love with your ears. And while you listen, OBSERVE them. What they don't tell you, they'll show you. Put a VALUE on it in your heart, and then you EXPRESS it in words and deeds.” —Coach Kerry Stevenson
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Born on October 29, 1967, to Theresa Stevenson, Coach Kerry Stevenson is the second of three boys, hailing from the vibrant city of Birmingham, AL. His educational journey began within the Birmingham Public School System, where his academic prowess flourished. After graduating from Huffman High School, Coach Kerry earned the prestigious Presidential Scholarship, beginning his journey to Alabama A&M University.
At Alabama A&M, Coach Kerry pursued his passion for Mathematics. Despite witnessing the tragic murder of his first cousin and best friend, he required this death to have a greater meaning. This resilience became a cornerstone of his career and life philosophy. His life’s work has been dedicated to students’ learning and mentoring. Graduating Magna Cum Laude, Coach Kerry persevered, earning a master’s degree in Math Education. These experiences contributed to the development of his foundational work which has impacted the lives of hundreds of students and athletes alike.
04:42 “Lead with LOVE. You have to LISTEN; love with your ears. And while you listen, OBSERVE them. What they don’t tell you, they’ll show you. Put a VALUE on it in your heart, and then you EXPRESS it in words and deeds.” —Coach Kerry Stevenson
06:28 “The iron fist doesn’t work anymore in life and in business. You can definitely get a couple of wins here and there, but it’s not sustainable.” —Daniel Gomez
11:09 “As parents, we screwed them up. We protected them from everything, gave them everything they need. They don’t understand that process so they go screw it up. When they screw it up, forgive and forget it. Don’t keep throwing it up in their face because when you do that, they’re going to shut down and you’re gonna have to start the process all over again.” —Coach Kerry Stevenson
16:28 “It is not a punishment, it’s preparation.” —Coach Kerry Stevenson
18:58 “The first thing to start leading with love, you have to understand who you are.” —Coach Kerry Stevenson
19:57 “You have to embrace the new identity for the new season.” —Daniel Gomez
26:55 “You can be the best player but you got to be playing your best.” —Coach Kerry Stevenson
29:20 “Learn how to be patient while you are encouraging others; they’re not going to see the picture that you see.” —Coach Kerry Stevenson
29:39 “If you have not forgiven, you’re not going to love the way you need to love.” —Daniel Gomez
34:30 “That gives the child more validation than any new iPhone, any new toy, or video game—the fact that you show up and just support them.” —Daniel Gomez
38:11 “Whatever has been done, and we can undo it overnight. So what you have to do is allow yourself to first forgive yourself, but we got to build this thing over respect. You got to have respect for yourself, for your peers, and for the process.” —Coach Kerry Stevenson
38:34 “Have just a little patience. If you don’t have this special quality, then you still have room left to grow.” —Coach Kerry Stevenson
39:31 “Let patience become your best friend. Expectations won’t be such a headache. Ambition won’t get in the way. Disappointments won’t occur quite as often.” —Coach Kerry Stevenson