The Power Broker #3: David Sims

Work Ethic

Robert Moses's relentless work ethic is both awe-inspiring and terrifying, as his temper and demands create a high-pressure environment for those around him. Elliott Kalan describes how Moses's temper could flare up, causing fear among his subordinates, who were always on call and ready to drop everything at a moment's notice 1. This intense atmosphere led to significant strain on his team, with some members experiencing nervous breakdowns or turning to alcohol to cope 2. Despite the challenges, the drive to achieve something meaningful kept many motivated, as Kalan notes, "There's an excitement to doing that, especially when you have the energy to do it" 3.

   

Team Dynamics

The dynamics within Moses's team reveal a complex web of loyalty, sacrifice, and personal struggle. Elliott Kalan highlights the loyalty Moses commanded, particularly from Al Smith, who valued Moses's hard work and dedication despite his controversial methods 4. However, the pressure to meet Moses's ambitious goals often led to personal sacrifices, such as borrowing money from family to keep projects afloat 5. The challenges Moses faced, including legal battles and public opposition, only fueled his determination, as David Sims humorously remarks, "Because you counted him out, fools. You thought he was dead" 6.