Leadership & Valor: A Conversation with Vice Admiral James Crawford - THE ED MYLETT SHOW Recap

Podcast: THE ED MYLETT SHOW

Published: 2026-02-24

Duration: 1 hr 3 min

Summary

In this episode, Ed Mylett explores the essence of true leadership with Vice Admiral James Crawford, emphasizing servant leadership and dedication to a mission greater than oneself. The conversation highlights the values that guide effective leadership, particularly in challenging times.

What Happened

Ed Mylett introduces the episode by announcing enhancements to the show, including new hosts and content. He emphasizes that today's discussion will focus on 'servant leadership' rather than the flashy portrayals of leadership often seen on social media. Michael Savage, a long-time collaborator with Tony Robbins, joins Ed and introduces Vice Admiral James Crawford, the current president of Texas Southern University. Michael shares his admiration for Crawford's embodiment of true leadership through his dedicated service and values.

During the conversation, Crawford reflects on his upbringing and the foundational values instilled in him by his family: faith, family, and service. He emphasizes the importance of making a positive impact on others and leaving a place better than one found it. Ed and Michael steer the discussion toward pivotal moments in Crawford's career, including his experiences during the 9/11 attacks while working at the Pentagon. Crawford recalls the urgency and seriousness of that day and how it tested his leadership abilities as he navigated a crisis in a high-stakes environment.

Key Insights

Key Questions Answered

What defines servant leadership according to Vice Admiral Crawford?

Vice Admiral Crawford defines servant leadership as prioritizing the well-being of others and making a positive impact on those around you. He believes that true leadership is not about personal accolades or material success, but rather about serving a mission greater than oneself. This perspective aligns with the values he learned from his family, emphasizing the importance of faith, family, and service in guiding his decisions.

How did Vice Admiral Crawford's upbringing influence his leadership style?

Crawford credits his upbringing in a family of believers for instilling in him the core values that drive his leadership style. He articulates that the three pillars guiding his life are faith, family, and service. These foundational beliefs have shaped his approach to leadership, as he aims to carry himself in a manner that positively influences others and leaves a lasting impact.

What was Vice Admiral Crawford's experience during the 9/11 attacks?

Crawford recounts his harrowing experience at the Pentagon during the 9/11 attacks, where he had only been in his position for three weeks. He vividly describes the moment the planes struck and the immediate urgency that followed. As alarms sounded and chaos ensued, he was tasked with augmenting the National Military Command Center, highlighting the critical role he played in navigating the legal complexities of the crisis.

What lessons about leadership can be learned from crisis situations?

From Crawford's perspective, crisis situations are revealing moments that test a leader's character and decision-making abilities. He emphasizes that how a leader responds in such scenarios is indicative of their true leadership qualities. The ability to remain calm, think critically, and prioritize the needs of others can define a leader's legacy and effectiveness.

What impact does Vice Admiral Crawford hope to leave in his current role at Texas Southern University?

In his role as president of Texas Southern University, Crawford aims to embody the values of servant leadership by fostering an environment that prioritizes student success and community engagement. He hopes to leverage his experiences and leadership principles to enhance the university's mission and improve the lives of those it serves, ultimately leaving the institution better than he found it.