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Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be
"Today's leaders have a responsibility to inspire the leaders of tomorrow." Lieutenant Colonel Oakland McCulloch has lived his life by this motto. Throughout his decorated 23-year career in the United States Army and various civilian jobs that followed, McCulloch has lived a life of servant leadership. In his new book, "Your Leadership Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be", McCulloch shares common sense principles that every current and aspiring leader can use. Experiences from his childhood and adult careers frame the leadership legacy he has personally passed down to countless others. As Oak likes to say, "Great leadership handed down from generation to generation is what develops great nations." LTC McCulloch lives with his wife in Daytona Beach, FL.
- GenresLeadership
185 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 16, 2021
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13 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
November 5, 2021
This slim volume took me a bit of time to get through. This was unfortunately due to professional commitments getting in the way. Nevertheless, it was an easily digestible set of lessons relating to leadership.
Oak, as he like to be called, has distilled some very important and at times, unique insights, and approaches to the thorny topic of leadership. There do not appear to be two authors who agree on the same definition of this utmost important subject. This being said there are certain concurrent themes that run throughout, and Lt. Colonel McCulloch has successfully grasped and presented these points in turn.
Chapter 8 presents a refreshing no holds barred-no punches pulled, hard-hitting approach to struggle and competition in the real world. Oak does not attempt to appease the fragile sensibilities of the woke brigade, rather presents reality as it is.
Chapter 9, which focuses on the aspects of learning and reading, particularly resonated with me being a prolific and avid reader myself.
There are a few points where my vision differs slightly, but this too is part of the human experiences and does not detract at all from the insights being provided. The example of the food bank employee motivations in Chapter 7, was something I would have attempted to tackle at the outset of adopting the leadership position, as he alludes to earlier and not once faced with a looming event.
One of the important points raised, and one I often reiterate when instructing leaders, myself is the after-action -report (AAR) or post-event evaluation. I always emphasize that a good leader must examine three things: What went right? What went wrong? What could have gone better? Oak clearly enunciated these principles albeit in different words.
Summary: A stars and bars recommendation. This is a gem of a guide to leadership and I highly recommend it to anyone, in a position of leadership, or not. The carefully selected quotations on leadership sprinkled throughout the text support the text and contribute to deeper cognitive reflection.
Some of the core lessons in this volume refere to:
Communication
Responsibility versus authority
Developing a unique leadership style
Sound Problem-solving and Decision-making
Dynamic Vision, foresight and action plans
Setting and being the example
The importance of effective listening
And finally, leadership as a manifestation of character and who you are, not only what you do.
Oak, as he like to be called, has distilled some very important and at times, unique insights, and approaches to the thorny topic of leadership. There do not appear to be two authors who agree on the same definition of this utmost important subject. This being said there are certain concurrent themes that run throughout, and Lt. Colonel McCulloch has successfully grasped and presented these points in turn.
Chapter 8 presents a refreshing no holds barred-no punches pulled, hard-hitting approach to struggle and competition in the real world. Oak does not attempt to appease the fragile sensibilities of the woke brigade, rather presents reality as it is.
Chapter 9, which focuses on the aspects of learning and reading, particularly resonated with me being a prolific and avid reader myself.
There are a few points where my vision differs slightly, but this too is part of the human experiences and does not detract at all from the insights being provided. The example of the food bank employee motivations in Chapter 7, was something I would have attempted to tackle at the outset of adopting the leadership position, as he alludes to earlier and not once faced with a looming event.
One of the important points raised, and one I often reiterate when instructing leaders, myself is the after-action -report (AAR) or post-event evaluation. I always emphasize that a good leader must examine three things: What went right? What went wrong? What could have gone better? Oak clearly enunciated these principles albeit in different words.
Summary: A stars and bars recommendation. This is a gem of a guide to leadership and I highly recommend it to anyone, in a position of leadership, or not. The carefully selected quotations on leadership sprinkled throughout the text support the text and contribute to deeper cognitive reflection.
Some of the core lessons in this volume refere to:
Communication
Responsibility versus authority
Developing a unique leadership style
Sound Problem-solving and Decision-making
Dynamic Vision, foresight and action plans
Setting and being the example
The importance of effective listening
And finally, leadership as a manifestation of character and who you are, not only what you do.
March 25, 2025
A Timeless Guide to Leadership Excellence
Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be" by Oakland McCulloch is a profoundly impactful book that offers a comprehensive guide to leadership, drawing from the author's rich experience in both military and civilian roles. LTC(R) McCulloch's approach to servant leadership is not only inspiring but also practical, providing readers with actionable strategies to foster trust, integrity, and excellence within their teams.
What sets this book apart is its ability to balance big-picture principles with detailed, relatable examples. McCulloch's stories, drawn from his 23-year military career and subsequent civilian leadership positions, make the lessons stick. His emphasis on vision, execution, and the importance of empowering team members is invaluable for both seasoned leaders and those just starting their leadership journey.
The book's structure is well-organized, making it easy to read and digest, whether you prefer a few minutes a day or devouring it in one sitting. McCulloch's writing style is universal, making his leadership principles applicable across industries.
I highly recommend "Your Leadership Legacy" to anyone seeking to enhance their leadership skills or simply understand the essence of effective leadership. It's a must-read for leaders in any capacity, offering insights that are both timeless and timely.
Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be" by Oakland McCulloch is a profoundly impactful book that offers a comprehensive guide to leadership, drawing from the author's rich experience in both military and civilian roles. LTC(R) McCulloch's approach to servant leadership is not only inspiring but also practical, providing readers with actionable strategies to foster trust, integrity, and excellence within their teams.
What sets this book apart is its ability to balance big-picture principles with detailed, relatable examples. McCulloch's stories, drawn from his 23-year military career and subsequent civilian leadership positions, make the lessons stick. His emphasis on vision, execution, and the importance of empowering team members is invaluable for both seasoned leaders and those just starting their leadership journey.
The book's structure is well-organized, making it easy to read and digest, whether you prefer a few minutes a day or devouring it in one sitting. McCulloch's writing style is universal, making his leadership principles applicable across industries.
I highly recommend "Your Leadership Legacy" to anyone seeking to enhance their leadership skills or simply understand the essence of effective leadership. It's a must-read for leaders in any capacity, offering insights that are both timeless and timely.
February 7, 2023
Fantastic, straight common sense in my opinion. I found myself agreeing with many of the points presented. Found the quotes to be not only significant but seemingly uncalculated. If there is one thing I came away with there is no way Oakland McCulloch is uncalculated. Much like my father, everything for a reason, write the problem down, figure it out, who gets things done ?-" that's who I want to deal with". My goodness it was as if I was reading my Father's diary.
Honored to have been invited to read this book and see the value in sharing it's message and leadership style. I liken it to the Rooftop podcast and Scott Mann, author. Every student should take the time to read this book, every leader in all avenues of business I'm sure can get something from this book or at least find yourself agreeing or shaking your head as well as I did.
Honored to have been invited to read this book and see the value in sharing it's message and leadership style. I liken it to the Rooftop podcast and Scott Mann, author. Every student should take the time to read this book, every leader in all avenues of business I'm sure can get something from this book or at least find yourself agreeing or shaking your head as well as I did.
December 8, 2021
This book provides you with a dive into leadership with a guided tour of the author's leadership. He provides a well-detailed account of the major concepts and factors that contribute to great leadership.
The outline of chapters provides you with the ability to flip to a chapter if you want to go back to refreshen your thoughts on (Communications, Problem Solving, Building Effective teams) and more.
I recommend the book to provide leaders with a good resource as they begin leadership. I suggested to the author to work on attaching a strategic action planning guide for each chapter to help leaders go to the next level.
The outline of chapters provides you with the ability to flip to a chapter if you want to go back to refreshen your thoughts on (Communications, Problem Solving, Building Effective teams) and more.
I recommend the book to provide leaders with a good resource as they begin leadership. I suggested to the author to work on attaching a strategic action planning guide for each chapter to help leaders go to the next level.
March 31, 2023
BZ Oak on a great leadership book.
Having recently transferred from full-time military service myself, I found Oak’s hard-won truths on leadership essentials really struck a chord with me. Through providing a rich opportunity for reflection on my own leadership style and philosophy throughout the book, I am encouraged to keep pursuing great things as a leader in the civilian world with passion and enthusiasm. As we say in the Navy, Maintain the Rage, Fight and Win!
Having recently transferred from full-time military service myself, I found Oak’s hard-won truths on leadership essentials really struck a chord with me. Through providing a rich opportunity for reflection on my own leadership style and philosophy throughout the book, I am encouraged to keep pursuing great things as a leader in the civilian world with passion and enthusiasm. As we say in the Navy, Maintain the Rage, Fight and Win!
June 9, 2023
Solid book with proven foundational advice. Great first principles, illustrated with entertaining and informative stories from two decades of military experience. I look forward to having Oakland on the Zoe Routh Leadership Podcast to explore some of the ideas and stories further.
Recommended for good, wholesome, solid leadership principles.
Recommended for good, wholesome, solid leadership principles.
January 26, 2022
This is a real view of the necessities for having any type of role in leadership. It describes so many characteristics and aspects of the skills needed to lead others in any regard. I highly recommend this for a guide and informative read!
September 23, 2022
Excellent read!
This book is a must read for new leaders! It breaks down very important leadership traits and evolution steps in such a simplistic and easy to understand format. I'm buying a physical copy of this book to my work leadership Library for my team to read as well.
This book is a must read for new leaders! It breaks down very important leadership traits and evolution steps in such a simplistic and easy to understand format. I'm buying a physical copy of this book to my work leadership Library for my team to read as well.
October 10, 2021
easy to follow, understand, and take notes
December 1, 2021
A concise, simple, and powerful treatise on leadership.
If you desire to grow in your ability to lead, this is a must read book.
If you desire to grow in your ability to lead, this is a must read book.
August 20, 2022
Great book that can be used in your daily life. Lt. Colonel McCulloch speaks from the heart. A great read. One that is highly recommended.
September 23, 2021
Navigation Necessity for Leasers
Whether you aspire to be a leader or you already are a leader LTC McCulloch’s book an indispensable tool for helping you navigate the terrain during your journey.
Whether you aspire to be a leader or you already are a leader LTC McCulloch’s book an indispensable tool for helping you navigate the terrain during your journey.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews