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7 Questions on Leadership with Ronald A. Wilson

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Name: Ronald A. Wilson


Title: Senior Fellow


Organisation: Center for American Ideas and Culture


Judge Ronald A. Wilson is a distinguished Magistrate, Judge, Hearing Officer, Ombudsman, Special Master, and Mediator. He brings extensive expertise in restorative justice and alternative dispute resolution to his roles. He has also held pivotal positions as Vice President of Equity and inclusion, Chief Diversity Officer, Executive Director, and Crime Prevention Specialist. Judge Wilson has garnered numerous accolades and honors throughout his career. He is a graduate of the FBI’s Citizen Academy and a recipient of the Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major Award, the Rosa Parks Living History Makers Award, and the Asa Phillip Randolph Social Justice Award, among others.


He is a former National Chair of the American Bar Association Judicial Division Mental Health Court Committee, Faculty for the Arizona Supreme Court Judicial College, Editor of the Judges Journal, Co-founder of the National Justice Foundation, President of the Southern Arizona Mentoring Coalition, and member of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives.


Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!


I hope Ronald's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!


Cheers,

Jonno White



1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?


Stress management has been the most challenging aspect of my leadership journey. In the early years of my career, I often overlooked the importance of balancing the demands of leadership with my own well-being. I felt an overwhelming responsibility to meet organizational goals, support my team, give back to the community, and prove my capabilities, often at the expense of my health. I pushed through long hours, made myself constantly available, ate poorly, and rarely slept. The pressure to excel was relentless, and I believed that being a good leader meant being all things to everyone without taking the time to care for myself.


As a result, I developed chronic stress-related health issues that forced me to confront the toll that stress was taking on my physical and mental well-being. This experience was a turning point, teaching me that effective leadership is not sustainable without self-care. I learned that managing stress is not a sign of weakness but a critical skill that enables leaders to show up fully for their teams and organizations.


This realization reshaped my perspective, and I now prioritize strategies like setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, and delegating effectively. While stress remains an inherent part of leadership, I’ve come to understand that stress management is essential for personal health and long-term success as an effective leader. Judge Wilson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Syracuse University and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from Northeastern University School of Law.


2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?


My introduction to leadership occurred at a young age, shaped by the unique dynamics of growing up in a foster home. Raised alongside 20 other children, all of whom were wards of the state due to abuse, neglect, sexual assault, and abandonment. I witnessed the profound impact of trauma and resilience. Many of my foster siblings grappled with complex challenges, including PTSD, depression, ADHD, and other mental health conditions that required therapeutic interventions.


Over the course of 16 years, our home welcomed over 400 foster children, creating an environment in which I developed leadership skills such as adaptability to change, conflict resolution, inclusive leadership, empathy, resilience, and accountability.


As a stable presence in a constantly evolving household, I naturally assumed the role of leader among my siblings. It was my responsibility to facilitate the integration of new children into the home by orienting them to the household rules, introducing them to the broader community, and providing support during their transition. Over time, my role expanded to include mediating disputes, offering guidance, and providing emotional support. When our adoptive or foster parents weren’t available, I managed household operations, delegated tasks, and organized activities.


These formative experiences not only instilled a deep sense of empathy and responsibility but also laid the foundation for my approach to leadership. My childhood provided me with a practical understanding of how to lead with integrity and honor in dynamic and challenging environments. Growing up in this environment introduced me to the role of a servant leader at a very early age.


3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?


I work full-time in a remote capacity while residing alone in an apartment complex in the southwestern United States. My life recently underwent a significant shift when I was diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma (stage 2 kidney cancer), leading to a partial nephrectomy of my left kidney in the summer of 2023. Additionally, I manage several chronic health conditions, including high cholesterol, hypertension, acid reflux, aortic GERD, sleep apnea, and kidney disease.


Beyond physical health, I also navigate the challenges of depression, survivor's syndrome, anxiety, and PTSD—mental health struggles I have faced my entire life. For years, I struggled with the stigma surrounding mental illness and never sought the help I needed. My denial or belief that “I was ok” led to self-medicating behaviors, self-harm, fighting, and several unhealthy short-term relationships.


Today, I take a deliberate and holistic approach to my health and well-being. I have built a support network of professionals who guide and support my journey. My daily routine is structured to address both my physical and mental health needs. Alongside common professional routines, I dedicate daily time to continuing education, practicing yoga or tai chi, engaging in mindfulness exercises, brisk walking, meditation, and power naps. I must listen to my body, and a healthy work-life balance is important.


I also have tentative OCD so of course, I incorporate cleaning and purging (decluttering) into my schedule. I try to adhere to a Mediterranean diet, and I consume only water, herbal tea, or black coffee as recommended. In the evenings, I wind down with activities that promote relaxation and reflection, including reading, writing, and enjoying humor on social media. This structured and integrated approach has been essential in helping me prioritize my health while maintaining a balanced work-life dynamic.


4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?


One key insight was the realization that meritocracy is largely a myth in organizations or nations that endorse colonialism or imperialism. The perpetuation of barriers such as oppression, marginalization, disenfranchisement, and discrimination obstructs the possibility of creating a fair and just society, workplace, or community where meritocracy could genuinely thrive. In environments that truly value meritocracy, there is an emphasis on facts, evidence, and data. Yet, even the wisest among us can be blinded by bias, ignorance, privilege, fear, or deeply ingrained cultural norms.


Secondly, I was reminded that the evidence of systemic racism, bias, and prejudice in America is undeniable to those who understand science, mathematics, statistics, philosophy, morality, law, and public policy. However, at the same time, the realities of religion, politics, and culture often complicate matters. These nuances demand deeper investigation, inquiry, and open discussion to discern and dismantle the systems that prevent meritocracy. Despite the challenges data may create and the complications of accountability, facts matter.


5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so

far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?


The Bible has profoundly influenced my journey as a leader. As a Roman Catholic raised in a religious family, the Bible has always been a cornerstone of my life. My education in parochial schools ensured that biblical teachings and stories were integral to our daily lessons and activities. One story that has particularly shaped my leadership style is that of Moses. Like Moses, I am adopted, and his journey resonates deeply with me. Chosen to lead the Israelites out of slavery, Moses initially doubted his abilities but eventually embraced his role with courage, faith, and perseverance.


His story has taught me invaluable lessons about humility, determination, and the importance of trusting in my own abilities. The teachings and principles of the Bible have influenced my leadership in numerous ways. It has guided me in making ethical decisions, resolving conflicts, and inspiring and motivating those around me. The values of compassion, forgiveness, and service emphasized in the Bible have helped me lead with empathy and integrity.


During challenging times in my leadership journey, the Bible has been a source of comfort and strength. Stories of perseverance, resilience, and hope have inspired and encouraged me in moments of doubt and uncertainty. Overall, the Bible has been a guiding light, providing wisdom, guidance, and inspiration. Its timeless teachings and powerful stories have shaped my values, beliefs, and approach to leadership, and I am profoundly grateful for its impact on my life.


6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?


Leadership is a quality many aspire to possess. The ability to rally a group towards a common goal, inspire and motivate others, and make tough decisions in uncertain times are key aspects of effective leadership. However, being a good leader is not solely about one's ability to lead; it also hinges on one's character and integrity. My advice to a young person about leadership is simple: not all good people are good leaders, and not all good leaders are good people. It is more important to be a good person first.


Ethical behavior and integrity are essential attributes of a successful leader. In today's society, we often see individuals who possess traits of a good leader, such as charisma and intelligence, yet lack the moral compass and ethical foundation needed to guide others in the right direction. These individuals are part of the problem, not part of the solution. Seek to be part of the solution. I believe that being ethical should be the foundation upon which effective leadership is built.


Conversely, there are individuals who may not have traditional leadership characteristics, such as charisma or confidence, yet excel as leaders due to their strong moral compass and unwavering integrity. These individuals may not be the most flashy or charismatic, but their commitment to doing what is right and their ability to lead by example are what I consider priceless. In conclusion, my advice to a young person about leadership is to focus on being a good person first and foremost.


Develop a strong moral compass, uphold principles of integrity, and lead by example in all aspects of your life. True leadership is not about being the most charismatic or confident person in the room, but about being the person with the strongest sense of ethics and the highest level of integrity. By embodying these qualities, you will not only be a successful leader but also a good person.


7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far? Seeking guidance from those who have achieved success and are respected in their fields is crucial for personal growth. One of the most meaningful experiences in my leadership journey was spending time with United States Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer. I remember the day I found out that Justice Breyer would be giving a lecture at the local law school. I immediately contacted the Dean, whom I knew through professional circles, and requested an invitation to attend.


The Dean was happy to oblige, and I was thrilled at the chance to meet and learn from such a respected jurist. During the lecture, I was captivated by Justice Breyer's intellect and thoughtfulness. Afterward, I introduced myself and, as a young judge eager to learn, asked for his advice on navigating the complexities of the legal profession and being an ethical jurist. To my surprise, Justice Breyer was not only willing to share his wisdom but also took a genuine interest in me and my aspirations.


We spoke for several minutes, during which he emphasized the importance of integrity, promoting justice, and staying true to ethical principles. His insights were invaluable and left a lasting impact on me. In fact, it inspired me to write my first book, In Search of Honor. I felt inspired and motivated after our conversation. Justice Breyer's kindness and willingness to engage with a young judge like myself underscored the importance of seeking guidance from those who have walked the path before me.


I often refer back to his book, Active Liberty, and the lessons I learned from him continue to shape my approach to the law and the judicial system. Meeting Justice Breyer was a defining moment in my career. His advice and guidance have helped me navigate challenging situations, uphold ethical standards, and stay true to my values. I am grateful for the opportunity to have learned from such a respected figure and will always cherish the memory of our encounter.

 
 
 

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