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
Why Retreats Matter
Earlier this week, I facilitated an all-day retreat, and once again, I’m reminded of the power of stepping away from the day-to-day to connect and reflect together. When we carve out intentional, structured time, we create space for four critical
Replace confrontation with partnership
Last week, I was scheduled on a flight into Newark, NJ. Yes, the airport with several communication outages and a recent FAA walkout. A week prior to my travel, I received a text from the airline warning that my flight
The Power of a Real Apology
A few weeks ago, someone in my mutual learning group asked for my professional opinion about the curriculum. I felt pressured to respond, and I shared my raw thoughts—directly and without considering first how they might land. As soon as
Taking time to learn, reflect, and connect
Most of my work involves teaching and facilitating. This week, I took time to learn, reflect, and connect at the Durham Business Evolution Summit + Expo. And I came away feeling inspired and energized. Here are a few moments that
Having a tough conversation? Name the elephants.
Having a tough conversation? Don’t forget to name the elephants in the room. Yesterday I facilitated one of my favorite workshops: Navigating Tough Conversations. As part of the learning, we explored how to notice and name the elephants. What is

