Lance Armstrong: Leadership and Branding? Lance Armstrong stepped down from the Livestrong Foundation and was dropped by Nike because of covering up his doping. Yet, he has raised millions of dollars for cancer and inspired countless athletes. Similarly, the humanitarian Greg Mortenson fabricated sections of his memoir and abused nonprofit donations, yet he provided thousands of poor children with an education and inspired Americans to be more charitable. Should we be more lenient when it comes to leaders who are flawed individuals? If so - when do a leader's personal demons taint a brand's message, or stop helping the greater good?