What Real Leadership Actually Costs, According to a Four-Star General Spider Marks

Over the course of two episodes of the Step Wise Podcast, I had the opportunity to dive into the elements that have shaped the leadership style of a man with over 42 years of experience in both military and corporate settings. James A. Marks, AKA “Spider”, former Commanding General of the US Army Intelligence Center, member of the Military Intelligence Hall of Fame, Founder of The Marks Collaborative, and so much more. I am thrilled to have had this fascinating two-part conversation with him.

Leadership Shaped by the Military

In speaking with Spider, the militaristic elements of his leadership style are hard to miss, and it’s no wonder, considering that his father and grandfather both come from military backgrounds. Spider even describes the military as a “family business” for him. No fluff. Straight to the point. And results-based rather than feeling-based. This leadership style may seem cold. But when implemented by the right person, it’s hard to say it doesn’t work. It sets clear and concise boundaries that protect not only the leader but also the people they lead. It says, “I don’t care who you are and where you come from. As long as you do the work well, I’ve got your back.” His extensive experience and proven track record as a leader and mentor speak for themselves.

Learning to Lead with Vulnerability

When asked if there were any elements of leadership that he wished he had learned earlier, Spider remarked that he wished he had understood the power of vulnerability sooner. In many ways, traditional values dictate that leaders be infallible. That they have all the answers. They know what to do and say at all times. But, a person can only be as infallible as their human nature allows. If a leader could do it all, they wouldn’t have a team to lead. Vulnerability is key to building trust. It says, “I, as the leader, may not have the answer, but I trust my team enough to say we can figure it out together confidently.”

Spider’s understanding of vulnerability and its strengths was shaped by his mentors in the military. He explained that, while the word “vulnerability” wasn’t necessarily part of their vocabulary, they showed their vulnerability every day. Spider says that his mentors “demanded participation,” meaning that it was not only encouraged but expected that he offer his input and that he call out the blind spots others might have. 

Finding a New Purpose

Working for the military was not only a job for Spider. He had a purpose. After returning from combat, however, Spider found himself at what he described as “cross currents” with some of the military’s senior leadership. While he loved every second of his time serving, Spider knew that after 30 years, it was time to make a change. It was time to find a new purpose. 

He found that purpose in leadership. Helping others find their own path. While creative isn’t a word that Spider would use to describe himself, he found his calling in fostering his creativity. Saying, “My job is to find what’s creative and help it blossom.”

The Job of a Leader

Yes, the job of a leader is to push. Push for funding. Push for innovation. Push for results. But as Spider discovered in his years as a leader, it’s so much more than that. Leaders inspire their team. They make the hard decisions and hold themselves accountable when they make a misstep. Leaders find the commonality when others are at odds and create a clear path to get everyone to the same destination. 

You can watch both of these interviews below, or subscribe to Step Wise wherever you listen to podcasts to listen to this episode and to stay in the loop when more inspiring stories drop.