The phrase "personal stake" means that someone has a special interest or involvement in a particular matter because it directly affects them or has the potential to impact their well-being, reputation, or goals. Full definition
When educational improvement becomes a broader discussion of excellence, cost - effectiveness, transparency, and more, everyone has a more personal stake in it. (educationnext.org)
In general, those who have the strongest personal stake in and the most immediate connection to the school are the ones who should tackle the issues. (ascd.org)
Each of the characters have a background and personal stake in the story. (aintitcool.com)