Wow, John. You have inspired me to read both books.

To address your question: Have you ever been challenged to courageous followership?

I have good and bad news about this one. I can think of 2 separate significant occasions immediately, from my corporate career. Once was with the CEO, and the other with the VP of our division. The scenarios were the same. They were both talking about how great things were going in the business. It got to where I was getting sick to my stomach because I knew people were losing their jobs due to downsizing at this same time.

I wasn't the only one who knew. Everyone knew. I told each leader that it was encouraging to hear how well we were doing. I then asked how we should reconcile knowing that colleagues would be losing their jobs at this same time. Both of them did exactly the same thing. Neither one answered my question. They both gave an answer, but I don't know what question they were answering. I was disappointed in them, and the persons who prepped them.

I say "good news and bad news" because I didn't feel like I experienced any negative repercussions from asking those questions (good news). That's the bad news too though, which applies to many of my experiences with speaking up.

When I spoke the truth, no one in a "leadership" role had the nerve to do anything about it. Not that I wanted to be disciplined or dressed down, but they only showed weakness and cowardice to me in their "non-responses" - not leadership.

That's why I talk my clients through courageous followership. Let's look at the reality of the situation. You can look yourself in the eye by speaking up and the repercussions may not be what you expect.

Really thought-provoking post, John, and great tie-in to current pop culture.