American Author Jeff Porter talks about his book It’s 2 AM at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue at the 2023 New England Association of School Superintendents’ Annual Conference in Newport, Rhode Island.
American presidency & ORGANIZATIONAL leadership
Lessons from Presidential Leadership
It’s 2 AM at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue (Amazon, 2022)
It’s 2 AM at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is a series of actual leadership challenges faced by American presidents. When wrestling with life’s most vexing problems, it is human nature to lie awake in the middle of the night contemplating ways to bring resolution to those issues. The cases illustrated in this book and their accompanying reflective activities involving the decisions made by the nation’s chief executives are not intended to provide answers for those who seek them, but rather a reminder that leaders at all levels are faced with intensive decision-making with common patterns and themes. Continuous reflective practice using actual case examples can help build strong skills to meet the challenges of leadership. This book blends historical cases faced by various US presidents with general applicability that can serve as a guide to anyone who wishes to study leadership and its lasting impact on people and their organizations.
The author reads from his book at a leadership event
Exploring Organizational Leadership through the American Presidency
★★★★★
Presidents who made a difference
Harry S Truman
President Truman faced some of the most complex issues of any American president. His no-nonsense approach to the presidency shaped it for the modern era. One of the most controversial of these decisions was his termination of popular Gen. Douglas MacArthur.
★★★★★
Firing a Popular General / Comeback Kid
Franklin D. Roosevelt
FDR served during two of the nation’s greatest crises-the Great Depression and World War II- with incredible finesse, skill, and popularity. His unprecedented four elections to the nation’s highest office demonstrated his command of the levers of presidential power and accountability.
★★★★★
Firm Hold on the Electorate / Nothing to Fear
Chester A. Arthur
In the wake of his predecessor’s assassination, Chester A. Arthur had a choice to make: continue as one of the most corrupt politicians of his day, or rise to the occasion. He chose to rise. President Arthur surprised everyone when he chose integrity and honor over his past, leading the nation toward comprehensive civil service reform.
★★★★★
In Reverence for the Office
Abraham Lincoln
No other American president is revered as much as Lincoln, and for good reason. His compassionate, yet firm, leadership during the Civil War has gone down in history as the model of statesmanship and leadership. He had the fortitude to move seamlessly in and out of intricate activity, from boldly signing the Emancipation Proclamation to comforting wounded and dying soldiers.
★★★★★
Compassion for the Broken /Act of Justice
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Author’s Notebook
What inspired you to write?
My inspiration to write comes from a deep love for American history, storytelling and the desire to connect with readers. I often draw from personal experiences, observations of the world, and the rich tapestry of human behavior to create compelling narratives that resonate with audiences.
How do you develop your characters?
Character development is a crucial part of my writing process. I spend time crafting detailed backstories, motivations, and personalities for each character, ensuring they feel real and relatable. This helps me create dynamic interactions and growth throughout the story.
What genres do you write in?
I primarily write in the genres of fiction and non-fiction, exploring themes of history and personal growth. My works often blend elements of literary fiction with engaging storytelling, allowing readers to immerse themselves in diverse narratives that provoke thought and emotion.
How can readers connect with you?
Readers can connect with me through my website and Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-j-porter-a64402125/
What is your writing process like?
My writing process involves a mix of planning and spontaneity. I usually start with an outline to structure my ideas, but I allow room for creativity to flow as I write. This balance helps me stay focused while also exploring new directions in my storytelling.
Do you attend literary events?
I have been invited to present to audiences at multiple leadership events since publishing my book It’s 2 AM at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
