Step inside the Oval Office with the newest instructor in our White House series, President George W. Bush. With insight from former First Lady Laura Bush, the former commander in chief opens up about the tough calls and life lessons that shaped his career. Develop and own a leadership style that’s true to you and learn to lead by connecting personally with everyone in the room.

Syllabus

Meet Your Instructor

President George W. Bush opens up about his leadership philosophy and introduces his class. Meet Mrs. Laura Bush and visit their family home in Maine to get a feel for life after the presidency.

The Art of Personal Diplomacy

Listening to and learning about people takes effort, but empathy is essential to becoming a leader people want to follow. Learn how President Bush develops and maintains relationships by encouraging others to open up.

Look Over the Horizon

President Bush defines what a leader’s job is—and what it is not. In this lesson, he outlines his view that a leader sets the vision and leaves implementation to trusted team members.

Building a Strong Team

Building a productive team that encourages disparate viewpoints is essential to successful leadership. That requires knowing your own weaknesses and strengths, listening to those around you, and recognizing when it’s time to make a change.

Making Tough Decisions

Tough decisions are inevitable, but that doesn’t mean you can’t prepare for them. President Bush outlines the values and principles he uses to make decisions—large or small.

Accountability Leads to Results

When developing a plan, leaders need to create outcomes that are measurable, and the right people need accountability. Learn how President Bush develops clear goals and achieves results.

Crisis Management

President Bush faced the unimaginable during his time in office. Learn how he dealt with crises that defined his presidency.

Own Your Communication Style

President Bush covers the importance of communication. He addresses his “Bushisms,” discusses the power of a heartfelt message, and shares how he structures speeches.

A Pathway to Politics

Gain a big-picture view of President Bush’s career. Discover the lessons he learned on his journey to becoming commander in chief.

Entering Public Service

Learn what it takes to become an elected official, from fundraising and campaigning to working at the White House. Explore the extreme highs and lows of working in public office.

Prioritize What's Important

Driving home his philosophy, President Bush shares how having a key set of values can help you set clear expectations and stay balanced.

"Happy are the Painters"

Join President Bush in his personal art studio in Maine. The former president concludes his class by sharing why he decided to start painting and how he views learning as a lifelong pursuit