This past week felt off. It was a fairly typical week, full of the usual lists of work and life commitments. But something felt different, and what should have been small pebbles weighed on me like heavy rocks. I felt
Honesty Helps Us Find the Right Fit
I recently interviewed for a contract role. Early in the conversation, the board asked whether anything in their list of needs raised concerns for me. I took the opportunity to share something important: while I had most of what they
Things aren’t always as they seem
I recently came across my grandmother’s birth certificate and discovered that her actual birthday was months away from the day we celebrated every year—a day on which I still think about her. I was stunned. Why would she choose a
Staying Grounded at the Table
Picture the scene: you’re halfway through Thanksgiving dinner. The cranberry sauce is delicious, the conversation is flowing, and the toasts are heartfelt. Then Uncle John says something that hits a nerve. You notice that familiar pit in your stomach, and
Trust Can Start with a Spotted Dog
Sometimes meaningful leadership lessons don’t come from a workshop or a book; they come from a Facebook message—and a picture of a dog. A few weeks ago, I came across a painting of a spotted dog on Facebook Marketplace. It
Notice and Honor the Shift
You know that split second when you realize you’re about to react the same way you always do—and then you choose differently? Yesterday, a coaching client described this very experience. He had faced a familiar situation: a tense exchange with
Sometimes a haircut is just a haircut
My dad recently cut off his ponytail, and I found out about it on Facebook. Let me back up. My dad was a military man and looked the part (clean-cut, precise, put together) for most of my life. Then, during
The Power of Presence
I’ll never forget that summer afternoon. My mom and I were at her 30th high school reunion when we suddenly heard a commotion near the pool. A man had collapsed. Within seconds, a crowd formed. A physician rushed in to
Bracing for the Worst
Authenticity—Online and Off
Last week, a training participant asked a question that stuck with me: “How can I apply this material in a way that feels authentic to me?” In addition to answering her question, we talked about how powerful it would be
Lessons from 30 Years Together
Last week, my spouse and I celebrated our 30th anniversary with a trip to Calgary and Banff National Park. We marveled at the beautiful scenery, enjoyed some amazing hikes, and appreciated the break from work and other responsibilities. And we
Creating Space for Every Voice
“I don’t share my own perspective. I’ve learned that it’s best to keep a low profile.” I’ve heard that sentiment countless times from team members who have faced negative consequences simply for voicing thoughts that didn’t align with their leaders’
“Start a Conversation. Be the Difference”
I talk a lot about the importance of both honest conversations and empathic listening in building a positive work culture. In honor of Suicide Prevention Month, I want to highlight that those same practices matter just as much when checking
The Beauty of Imperfection
Sometimes the simplest objects can hold the biggest lessons. I often use a purple stone as a talking piece in my work. At first glance, it’s beautiful; the marbled pattern is intriguing, and its heart shape reminds us of the
Say What Needs to be Said
“After our argument, we lost touch. I never thought I wouldn’t have the chance to fix things between us.” I’ve recently heard a number of similar stories from colleagues, clients, and friends. People who were once central to their lives
Celebrate Every Day
The Rewards of the Climb
I looked at the trail ahead and saw the next hurdle—a tall stretch of enormous rocks without clear footholds. And they were wet, which increased the chance of slipping. I paused. Could I ascend the rocks? Would it be safe?
The Value in the Journey
Last week, I spent several days hiking in New Hampshire and Maine. One day in Acadia, we chose a fairly steep climb, ending at a mountaintop with a 360-degree panorama. We were carefully scaling a particularly challenging group of boulders,
Alignment doesn’t happen by accident
“We’ve been business partners for over 20 years, but I had no idea he felt that way.” That’s what one of two co-owners said after a recent session I facilitated. They had built a successful venture side-by-side. One of them
Shift Your Perception
A colleague recently asked me how I avoid working with people I don’t like. He shared that he chooses clients carefully so he can steer clear of anyone who is “difficult.” It was a genuine (if jarring!) question. I paused.

