This 2019 NRMERA conference proceeding shares the results of a blockwise regression study focused on the degree to which the Motivating Language Antecedents [Behavioral Integrity and Source Credibility Dimensions -- Competence, Goodwill, and Trustworthiness] predict superintendent's Motivating Language use based upon the preceptions of their principals through the lens of Motivating Language Theory as the foundation for superintendent talk. Significant results from this study indicate that principals prioritize superintent goodwill as a necessary primary precursor over competence and prioritize the dimensions of source credibility before behavioral integrity thus supporting a redefinition of superintendent credibility from the current research field. [Paper presented at the Northern Rocky Mountain Educational Research Association Annual Conference (2019).]