One word that I heard repeatedly from the 50+ higher ed leaders I interviewed last summer[*] was “impossible.” According to these interviewees, leadership jobs today are impossible, working with faculty who oppose them no matter what they say or do can feel impossible, and imagining succession plans for their roles seems impossible (assuming they even have time to think about it).
Ted Lasso’s Playbook for Academic Leadership: Rethinking Performance Reviews
The Emmy-winning Apple TV+ series Ted Lasso (2020–) has captured hearts with its charm, but it also offered a masterclass in leadership. Ted’s approach—rooted in humility, emotional intelligence, and belief
Deborah Erickson and Katie Fischer
August 4, 2025
