Terrence E. Deal is clinical professor at the Rossier School of Education, University of Southern California, and consultant to business, health care, military, educational, and religious organizations worldwide. He is author or coauthor of numerous book, including the best-selling Leading with Soul and The Leadership Paradox.

Kent D. Peterson is professor in the Department of Educational Administration at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and founding director of the Vanderbilt Principals' Institute. He is author or coauthor of many books including The Leadership Paradox.