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.
Pause to Connect
Leading Without a Cape
I’ve always believed in the human-ness of people—in the power of showing up as we are and using our everyday talents to lead and support each other. So maybe it’s no surprise that I’m not a huge superhero fan. But
The Power of Specific Gratitude
This past weekend, I was doing some filing (a task long-overdue that only happens when the pile overflows). As I sorted through papers, I came across a handful of thank-you notes from past clients and colleagues. Each one stopped me
Time to Reboot
“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes… including you.” – Anne Lamott While we know that rest is important, we often hesitate to take a break from work. We may worry about missing something
Let’s Walk the Walk
Last week, I facilitated a workshop for emerging leaders. A key theme we explored was the role of leaders in being models. While “being a model” sounds simple, it’s not always easy. It means recognizing that everything we say and
Listening Without Giving Advice
Last week, a colleague started recounting a story about a challenging work situation. As he described the circumstances, the issue seemed so familiar to me. My mind swirled with possible causes, and I quickly formulated potential solutions. When I realized
Speak for Yourself
In a recent Tough Conversations workshop, a participant asked, “Is it ok to speak on behalf of others if they aren’t comfortable addressing an issue directly?” At the time, I suggested that they might consider their ultimate goal, their role

