Rediscovering the Algorithms of Cultivating Courage (Book section review)

A book review of Cultivating Courage - Innovative Strategies for Developing a Critical Equity Leadership Identity by Dr. Lanise S. Block and Dr. Naomi R. Taylor.

APA Citation: Block, L.S. & Taylor, N.R. (2025). Cultivating courage - Innovative strategies for developing a critical equity leadership identity. MindStir Media. www.mindstirmedia.com. ISBN-13: 978-1-963844-56-6.

By Don Allen, Ed. S., M. A. Ed., MAT - Doctoral Candidate (Ed.D.) Hamline University (2025), Superintendent Licensure (2024); Principal Licensure (3/2025)

     In Cultivating Courage-Innovative Strategies for Developing a Critical Equity Leadership Identity (2025), Dr. Lanise S. Block and Dr. Naomi R. Taylor bring the needed framework of equity-focused leadership; Gervase R. Bushe brings a very fine thread of connection between themes through Clear Leadership (2010); and Michael Fullan and Joanne Quinn connect with this thought even further in The Drivers: Transforming Learning for Students, Schools, and Systems (2024). These three books speak about leading, focused with deliberateness and reflection on how transformative changes occur within organizations. Block and Taylor provide the centered work of the "Five Dispositions of an Equity-Focused Change Agent: courage, humility, empathy, critical consciousness, and strategic advocacy" (p. 18). These dispositions resonate with Bushe's emphasis on self-awareness and relational clarity in the light of Clear Leadership. Bushe has mentioned how "...clear communication and emotional intelligence are ways to develop trust and tackle systemic inequity (Bushe, 2010), which Block and Taylor point out.

     Similarly, Fullan and Quinn's The Drivers complements Cultivating Courage in focusing on system-wide transformation through coherence-making and capacity-building. Both texts illustrate the role of strategic advocacy and collaboration in aligning organizational goals with equity-focused practices. Fullan and Quinn's actionable framework for transforming learning systems parallels Block and Taylor's strategies for fostering equitable change in educational leadership.

     Ultimately, all three books converge on a call for a leader who inspires, navigates complexities, and emplaces systemic change. Together, they provide comprehensive knowledge on how self-awareness, relational competencies, and strategic thinking form the basis of a leadership devoted to equity, transparency, and transforming sustainable changes. The Theory of Corners (Allen, 2025) is instrumental in advancing Cultivating Courage’s organizational communication and health. Establishing a clear definition of equity serves as a vital framework for enhancing systems within learning organizations and uplifting their leadership. Embracing this approach can lead to more inclusive and effective environments, ultimately driving meaningful progress.

     Cultivating Courage, written by Dr. Lanise S. Block and Dr. Naomi R. Taylor, is an essential read for any leader in an organization who desires to provide an equitable and inclusive space to all. At its core, the book provides steps to build what the authors describe as a "critical equity leadership identity." Among its strengths, the text defines Five Dispositions of an Equity-Focused Change Agent (p. 18) as a framework/charge for leaders seeking systems change.

Here are my key takeaways from Five Dispositions of an Equity-Focused Change Agent (p. 18):

Courage - The authors underline that courage is foundational to equity leadership: one must confront uncomfortable truths, challenge systemic inequities, and hold difficult conversations. Block and Taylor provide real examples of how courageous leadership can dismantle long-standing barriers, illustrating that courage is not about the absence of fear but the determination to act despite it.

Humility - Humility, as explained in the book, is a recognition of one's limitations and not being closed to learning. Dr. Block and Dr. Taylor state that leaders for equity are dedicated to seeking feedback, listening to diverse perspectives, and being open to being wrong. A disposition of such a character would mean leadership stays collaborative-inclusive rather than hierarchical or prescriptive.

Empathy - Empathy helps equity-focused leaders deeply understand the experiences and feelings of those affected by inequities. The authors say that empathy is the bridge between awareness and action. They use storytelling and case studies to show how empathetic leadership builds trust and connection, which are important in creating an inclusive environment.

Critical Consciousness means becoming critically conscious of the systems of oppression underlying inequity. The book guides leaders on how to unpack their biases, understand power structures, and gain that learned lens by which to see inequity. Such a disposition ensures that leaders practice the identification of causes and do not simply treat symptoms.

Strategic Advocacy - The book also wraps up with the most critical one: strategic advocacy, exercising one's influence and resources toward the creation of systemic change. Dr. Block and Dr. Taylor walk readers through how to implement organizational practices to match equity goals, focusing on the dual needs of vision and tactical execution.

The Five Dispositions of an Equity-Focused Change Agent are at once inspiring and practical, laying out a crystal clear roadmap for leaders committed to fostering equity. Told through relatable anecdotes, actionable strategies, and a sense of urgency, Cultivating Courage pushes readers to embody these dispositions in daily work. Drawing from real experiences, Dr. Lanise S. Block and Dr. Naomi R. Taylor have made a pivotal resource for anyone committed to becoming a catalyst in transformative, equity-driven change. This is a book that all leaders in education, business, and beyond must read, provided they are ready to do the hard but necessary work of equity leadership.

References

Allen, D. (2025). The theory of corners. Journal of A Black Teacher. Blogger. https://journalofablackteacher.blogspot.com/2025/01/the-theory-of-corners.html

Block, L.S. & Taylor, N.R. (2025). Cultivating courage - Innovative strategies for developing a critical equity leadership identity. MindStir Media. www.mindstirmedia.com. ISBN-13: 978-1-963844-56-6.

Bushe, G. R. (2010). Clear leadership: Sustaining real collaboration and partnership at work (Revised ed.). Davies-Black.

Fullan, M., & Quinn, J. (2024). The drivers: Transforming learning for students, schools, and systems. Publisher.