Let’s talk about the power of curiosity—and how it creates connection.
Pope Leo XIV, the first American Pope, speaks five languages fluently.
That’s right—five.
Meanwhile, some days I struggle with just English. (Kidding… mostly.)
But jokes aside, there’s a leadership lesson here.
Yes, language is a practical tool. With English and Spanish, Pope Leo can speak to the masses. With Italian, he connects deeply with the Vatican.
But beyond utility? It signals something far more powerful: curiosity and care.
This hit home for me while living in Brazil and throughout my world travels. Even saying just one phrase in someone’s native language, like “thank you,” can light them up.
Brazilians & Filipinos lose their mind! 🙂
Why? Because it shows effort. It shows you’re curious. It shows you care.
It reminds me of a classic Zig Ziglar quote:
“People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
That’s what curiosity does—it creates influence.
So here’s today’s challenge:
Take the trip.
Get uncomfortable.
Learn “thank you” in five new languages.
Use it. Often.
Do that, and like Pope Leo, you won’t just connect. You’ll lead.
