The Character Crisis in American Leadership with Frank Atkinson

What does it take to lead with integrity when compromise seems inevitable? In this episode of Going Big!, Kevin Gentry sits down with attorney, historian, and author Frank Atkinson to explore one of the most important questions facing leaders today: Can you remain true to your principles while navigating politics, public service, and positions of influence? Drawing from his newly released novel, The Lion's Den: Renewing Our Democracy by Renewing Ourselves, Frank shares how the biblical story of Daniel, the leadership of George Washington and James Madison, and decades of firsthand experience in government shaped his understanding of courage, character, and servant leadership. Together, Kevin and Frank discuss why compromise is sometimes necessary—but why conviction must never be abandoned. They examine the role of virtue in public life, the importance of preparing for difficult moral decisions before they arrive, and why renewing our institutions begins with renewing ourselves. Whether you serve in government, business, the nonprofit sector, or your local community, this conversation offers timeless lessons on leadership, perseverance, and the responsibility each of us has to strengthen the future through our own choices. You can get your copy of Frank's new novel, The Lion's Den: Renewing Our Democracy by Renewing Ourselves, on his website: https://www.frankatkinson.com/