The West Wing: Timeless Leadership Lessons
This year marks 25 years since the premiere of The West Wing, my all-time favorite show. After recently reading What’s Next by Melissa Fitzgerald and Mary McCormack, I found myself rewatching the show with fresh eyes. It’s hard to believe that more than two decades have passed, and yet, the themes, dynamics, and leadership lessons feel just as relevant today—perhaps even more so in our fast-paced, high-stakes world.
What makes The West Wing truly stand out is the way it showcases complex decision-making, the diverse leadership styles of its core characters, and how a team of high-achieving, Type-A personalities collaborate under intense pressure. The stakes are always high—decisions often impact millions of people—but the strength of the show lies in how it reveals the human side of leadership and governance.
Two elements particularly resonate with me as an executive coach:
Candor and open communication: The show's central characters don’t shy away from difficult conversations. They address issues head-on, with directness and honesty, which strengthens their working relationships and enables them to make better decisions.
Humor as a bonding tool: Amid the chaos of running the country, there’s always humor to break the tension. The characters joke and laugh, creating a bond that holds them together in the most stressful moments. It’s a reminder that humor, even in high-pressure environments, fosters trust and cohesion.
Each key character of the show demonstrates a unique leadership style. Which style do you relate to the most?
1. President Josiah Bartlet: The Visionary Leader
President Bartlet leads with intellect, passion, and a moral compass that guides him through the most difficult decisions. He’s the classic visionary leader, focused on the big picture and driven by a desire to create a better world. However, his high standards and idealism sometimes put him at odds with political pragmatism. Bartlet’s leadership shows us the importance of balancing vision with reality, and his ability to rally his team behind a shared purpose is a testament to the power of inspiration in leadership.
2. Leo McGarry: The Steady Hand
As Chief of Staff, Leo is the rock of the administration. His leadership style is one of quiet strength and unshakable loyalty. He keeps the team grounded and focused, ensuring that the president’s vision translates into actionable strategy. Leo is a master of crisis management, and his ability to remain calm under pressure is something every leader should aspire to. He exemplifies the importance of steady, thoughtful leadership in moments of chaos.
3. C.J. Cregg: The Empathetic Communicator
C.J. Cregg, the White House Press Secretary, is a leader who understands the power of communication. Her leadership style combines empathy, transparency, and a deep understanding of the media’s role in shaping public perception. C.J. knows how to navigate the complexities of public relations while remaining authentic and true to her values. She demonstrates that great leaders don’t just speak—they listen, adapt, and respond with empathy.
4. Josh Lyman: The Ambitious Strategist
Josh, the Deputy Chief of Staff, is a force of energy and ambition. His leadership style is bold, relentless, and, at times, brash. Josh thrives in the world of political strategy and negotiation, constantly looking for ways to push the agenda forward. While his drive can sometimes lead to overconfidence, Josh’s ability to take risks and make quick decisions is a reminder that leadership often requires boldness and the courage to act in the face of uncertainty.
5. Toby Ziegler: The Principle-Driven Idealist
As the White House Communications Director, Toby is the moral conscience of the team. His leadership is deeply rooted in principles and an unwavering commitment to doing what’s right, even when it’s politically difficult. Toby’s idealism can sometimes make him seem rigid, but it’s his dedication to integrity that makes him a powerful leader. He shows us that true leadership requires the courage to stand by your values, even when it’s unpopular.
6. Sam Seaborn: The Inspirational Leader
Sam Seaborn, the Deputy Communications Director, brings a combination of idealism and charisma to his role. His leadership style is rooted in optimism and a belief in the power of words to inspire change. Sam often represents the idealistic side of the administration, pushing for policies and speeches that reflect the administration's highest moral aspirations. His ability to craft language that moves people reminds us of the importance of vision and clarity in leadership.
7. First Lady Abbey Bartlet: The Unseen Anchor
Abbey Bartlet plays a crucial behind-the-scenes role in President Bartlet's leadership. As both his partner and a brilliant physician, she provides personal and professional counsel that stabilizes him in times of crisis. While she may not always be in the spotlight, her influence is profound. Abbey’s leadership style demonstrates the power of behind-the-scenes support, showing that those who provide quiet strength
and insight are just as essential as the public-facing leaders.
8. Charlie Young: The Relentless Learner
Charlie, President Bartlet’s personal aide, exemplifies a leadership style built on humility, hard work, and adaptability. Starting out as a young staffer, Charlie quickly learns to navigate the intricacies of the West Wing and grows into a trusted confidant of the president. His willingness to learn, his loyalty, and his resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges make him an example of how quiet persistence can lead to powerful influence.
9. Donna Moss: The Adaptive Problem Solver
Though initially Josh’s assistant, Donna evolves into a critical problem solver and a leader in her own right. Her leadership style is rooted in adaptability and emotional intelligence. Donna has a keen ability to anticipate needs, navigate complex situations, and connect with people on a human level. Her journey on the show highlights the importance of growth, adaptability, and seizing opportunities to step up when needed.
Even 25 years later, The West Wing offers timeless leadership lessons that are as relevant in the boardroom as they are in the Oval Office. The show reminds us that:
Leaders come in all forms: Whether you’re the visionary, the strategist, or the steady hand, your leadership style is valid and essential to a team’s success.
Communication is key: Direct, open communication fosters trust and helps teams navigate complexity.
Humor matters: In high-pressure environments, humor can be a powerful tool to bond teams and diffuse tension.
Behind-the-scenes support is critical: Leaders may stand in the spotlight, but those providing counsel and support offstage often have an immeasurable impact on their success.
As I rewatch the show, I’m inspired once again. I’m reminded that leadership is about more than just power and control—it’s about values, connection, and the resilience to push forward in the face of challenges.
What TVs shows inspire you the most? I would love to hear about what unique ways you get inspired.
