Superbosses
We often celebrate leaders for their personal vision, their strategic genius, or their ability to drive impressive results. We assume their greatness is measured by the empires they build or the profits they generate. But what if the most impactful leaders aren't just building organizations, but are actually building other leaders? Sydney Finkelstein's research uncovers a distinct breed of 'superbosses' who defy conventional wisdom by prioritizing the growth and eventual independence of their proteges. They don't hoard talent; they actively seek it out, challenge it, and then, crucially, release it to flourish elsewhere. This isn't about delegation; it's about intentionally creating crucibles of growth, pushing people into high-stakes situations, and then connecting them to vast networks, even if it means they'll eventually leave. The result is a ripple effect of excellence, where one superboss creates a lineage of others, leaving the world richer with talent than they found it.