Tremendous Tracey
The Credential That Matters Most
What if the most sought-after letters after a leader's name weren't MBA or PhD, but DM — Disciple Maker? The real work of leadership isn't just raising up more leaders; it's growing functional, fellowshiping followers who never feel like an interruption. Because nobody was ever an interruption to the greatest disciple maker of all time — and the leaders who understand that are the ones who build cultures where people actually stay. A Father's Day reflection on identification, the disease of division, and the credential that outlasts every degree on the wall.
Toxic Followers: How McClellan Failed Lincoln
Alienated or Apostate? When Followership Turns to Firebombing
But before jumping to conclusions, leaders must pause and ask: Has this follower truly turned? Or have they simply lost that loving feeling? Just like in marriage counseling, where there's been alienation of affection, sometimes the real issue isn't betrayal—it's burnout, disengagement, and disappointment that can be restored.
Raising Cain or Ready, Willing, and Abel?
As a lifelong student of leadership—and, more importantly, followership—I spend my days dissecting the complex, colorful, and sometimes combustible spectrum of follower behaviors. Most followers want to contribute, learn, and grow. Some struggle with alignment but still carry good intent.
But then there's a rare and toxic breed that carries something far more dangerous: a dark spirit wrapped in a smile.
These are the maliciously compliant followers.
And you better pray you don't have one in your organization.
