A Controversial and Political Legacy
Dr. Bob Leonard has been a loud voice for poor people, unions, disenfranchised peoples, and left leaning politics. A long-time radio host and writer for large newspapers, Dr. Bob (a name he acquired as a middle ground between people wanting to be respectful and his aversion to the “poshness” of Dr. Leonard) has left a legacy, one larger than most that I have had the privilege to interview.
What is interesting is his legacy leaves mixed emotions with the public. After publishing my interview with him, I had a washing of very positive and very negative reviews. He (and myself) were called all sorts of names from people who had previously praised both our works. He definitely shared some views that I did not agree with in our interview, but I was still surprised how ready people were ready to tune out my following interviews based on me being in the same room with Dr. Bob. It’s not a good look for them. But I suppose they think the same of me.
It brings an interesting thought to legacy. I focus most of my interviews on people in the second half (or even last quarter) of their life, so legacy is constantly on the forefront of my mind in these conversations. Here is what I’ve noticed.
People who make a big, public difference usually rub about half the population the wrong way.
People who make a big difference but privately tend to have less ill will garnered towards themselves.
People who believe that legacy is attached to public opinion often leave much less of a lasting legacy.
People who can truly get passed the “public opinion monster” (or as I like to call “fear of man”) tend to be happier.
People who care too much about the public’s thoughts, struggle to prioritize the thoughts of those that they love most.
I was impressed with Dr. Bob. Not with all of his ideas, but with his humility. He was kind and a great listener. He wanted his legacy to be the betterment of the lives of others, not his own popularity or gain. It is refreshing to see and very challenging for me.
I have a lot of growing to do.
