LeaderShift

1. What is "LeaderShift: A Call for Americans to Finally Stand Up and Lead" by Orrin Woodward and Oliver DeMille about?

• Fictional Leadership Parable: The book is a business and political parable that uses a fictional narrative to explore America's decline and propose solutions rooted in leadership principles.
• Focus on National Turnaround: It centers on David Mersher, a successful CEO, who applies business turnaround strategies to address America's political and societal challenges.
• Five Laws of Decline: The story introduces and applies the "Five Laws of Decline" to diagnose and remedy the nation's problems.
• Call to Citizen Leadership: The core message is a call for regular Americans, especially business leaders, to become actively involved in governance and restore freedom through local leadership.

2. Why should I read "LeaderShift" by Orrin Woodward and Oliver DeMille?

• Unique Blend of Fiction and Strategy: The book combines an engaging story with actionable leadership and civic advice, making complex ideas accessible and memorable.
• Timely Political Relevance: It addresses current frustrations with government gridlock, declining freedoms, and the need for citizen engagement.
• Practical Solutions: Readers gain concrete frameworks (like the Five Laws of Decline and the concept of the 10 percent) that can be applied to organizations and communities.
• Inspiration for Action: The book is designed to inspire readers to move from passive concern to active leadership in their spheres of influence.

3. What are the key takeaways from "LeaderShift" by Orrin Woodward and Oliver DeMille?

• Leadership is Everyone’s Responsibility: The book argues that freedom and prosperity depend on widespread, not just elite, leadership—especially at the local level.
• Five Laws of Decline: Understanding and counteracting these laws is essential for any turnaround, whether in business or government.
• The Power of the 10 Percent: A small, committed minority (the 10 percent) can drive major societal change if they are engaged and equipped.
• Localism Over Centralization: Revitalizing local governance and citizen participation is presented as the antidote to national decline.

4. What is the "LeaderShift" concept as defined by Orrin Woodward and Oliver DeMille?

• Historical Shifts in Leadership: "LeaderShift" refers to pivotal moments in history when the dominant form of leadership changes (e.g., from warriors to landowners, professionals, managers, and now to citizen-leaders).
• Current Shift Needed: The authors argue we are on the cusp of a new LeaderShift, where leadership must move from political elites to engaged citizens, especially business and community leaders.
• Raising Leadership Standards: Each LeaderShift increases the expectations and quality of leadership required for societal success.
• Focus on Freedom and Responsibility: The new LeaderShift demands leaders who prioritize national freedom and prosperity, not just organizational or personal gain.

5. What are the "Five Laws of Decline" in "LeaderShift" and how do they apply to America?

• Sturgeon’s Law: 90% of everything (including leaders) is "crud," so only a small percentage are truly effective—organizations must identify and empower the top 10%.
• Bastiat’s Law: People will choose plunder (getting something for nothing) over productivity if the system allows it, leading to decline.
• Gresham’s Law: When bad behavior is rewarded, it drives out good behavior, eroding organizational and societal health.
• Law of Diminishing Returns: As organizations grow, increased size often leads to decreased quality and effectiveness.
• Law of Inertia: Once decline sets in, it becomes self-perpetuating and very difficult to reverse without significant intervention.

6. Who are the "10 percent" in "LeaderShift" and why are they important?

• Definition of the 10 Percent: The 10 percent are the most effective leaders in any organization or society, identified by their excellence in character, task, and relationships.
• Role in Turnaround: This group is responsible for driving positive change and overcoming the Five Laws of Decline.
• Diversity of Backgrounds: The 10 percent are not an elite class but come from all walks of life, including business, education, families, and communities.
• Self-Selection and Action: The book argues that the 10 percent must recognize themselves, step up, and lead without waiting for permission or official titles.

7. How does "LeaderShift" by Orrin Woodward and Oliver DeMille propose to fix America's problems?

• Empowering Local Leadership: The book advocates for a return to strong local governance, where citizens are actively involved in decision-making.
• Constitutional Amendments: It proposes specific changes, such as the "Nine Resolves," to decentralize power and limit government overreach.
• Engaging Business Leaders: Business and entrepreneurial leaders are called to apply their skills to public service and community leadership.
• Cultural Shift: The ultimate solution is a cultural transformation where leadership and civic responsibility are valued and practiced by many, not just a few.

8. What are the "Nine Resolves" or proposed constitutional changes in "LeaderShift"?

• Local Townships: Divide cities and areas into small townships (800–1200 voters) with monthly meetings and elected mayors.
• Weighted Voting: Board members are elected with a weighted vote system, giving extra votes for higher tax contributions (but limited to prevent domination).
• Strict Budgeting: Governments must pass balanced budgets, with immediate elections triggered by overspending or debt.
• Tax Structure: Citizens pay three separate taxes (local, state, federal) with fixed percentages and no loopholes.
• Gold and Silver Standard: Currency is backed by gold and silver to prevent inflation and government manipulation.
• War Funding: War expenses require state and local approval and reallocation of tax percentages, limiting federal overreach.
• Open Government: All meetings (except military) are open and broadcast to ensure transparency.
• Decentralized Elections: Governors and presidents are elected by local and state leaders, not direct popular vote.
• Amendment Process: Constitutional amendments require approval from Congress, states, and local governments, increasing checks and balances.

9. How does "LeaderShift" define effective leadership and what traits are emphasized?

• Three Legs of Leadership: True leaders excel in character (integrity and self-discipline), task (getting things done), and relationships (influencing and inspiring others).
• Vision and Initiative: Leaders must have a clear vision and the initiative to act on it, not just manage existing systems.
• Servant Leadership: The book emphasizes serving others, attracting and partnering with other leaders, and building communities.
• Continuous Learning: Effective leaders are deep readers, students of history, and committed to personal growth.

10. What is the role of business leaders in "LeaderShift" and why are they singled out?

• Untapped Resource: Business leaders possess skills in problem-solving, innovation, and execution that are needed in public life.
• Creators vs. Credentialists: The book distinguishes between entrepreneurial "Creators" (who innovate and serve) and "Credentialists" (who seek status and personal gain).
• Local Impact: By engaging at the local level, business leaders can drive real change and model effective citizenship.
• Bridging Sectors: Business leaders are encouraged to collaborate with educators, parents, and influencers to rebuild community and national prosperity.

11. How does "LeaderShift" address the issue of elitism and meritocracy in American society?

• Anti-Elitist Approach: The book warns against both traditional aristocracy and modern credential-based elitism, advocating for a "natural aristocracy" based on service and performance.
• Merit Redefined: True merit is defined by contribution and leadership, not by credentials, titles, or wealth.
• Inclusive Leadership: The 10 percent should be open to all backgrounds, and everyone is encouraged to develop themselves into leaders.
• Language of the Masses: Leaders must learn to communicate in ways that resonate with regular citizens, not just with elites or experts.

12. What are the best quotes from "LeaderShift" by Orrin Woodward and Oliver DeMille, and what do they mean?

• "Great men are they who see… that thoughts rule the world." —Ralph Waldo Emerson: Emphasizes the power of ideas and vision in shaping society.
• "The Five Laws cannot be negotiated with—either a business or nation kills the FLD, or the FLD will kill it." Stresses the non-negotiable nature of decline and the urgent need for leadership.
• "We don’t need to be managed; we need to realize how much power we have and just get to work—individually and in small groups." Highlights the book’s call for decentralized, grassroots action.
• "If you convince these officials but you don’t reach the people, nothing will change—not really…" Underlines the importance of citizen engagement over reliance on political elites.
• "Don’t try to be credible, or to impress, or to fit in. Forget all your coaching... Don’t play the game. Just lead." Encourages authentic, courageous leadership over conformity or seeking approval.