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
Leading Without a Cape
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
Avoiding Tough Conversations
That work conversation you’re avoiding? It’s not helping.
Yes, but…
Ever notice how quickly the phrase, “Yes, but…” can shut down a conversation? You say, “I think that…” or “I’d like us to…” Without a pause, the other person interjects, “Yes, but…,” followed by why your solution won’t work or
Tough Conversations
Last weekend, I went for a walk with a new friend. I thought we’d chat about light subjects: kids, jobs, or perhaps social events. Instead, within the first few minutes, he shared his feelings about a specific political issue. And
How are you, really?
About two years into the pandemic, I attended a meeting with senior leaders in a health care organization to launch a peer support program. We discussed the daily experience of team members who pass colleagues in the hall; everyone generally
Compassion in Healthcare
What a great conversation about compassion in healthcare! Thanks to the Healthcare Reinvention Collaborative and especially Dawn Ellison and Denise Wiseman for being partners in this space. Watch the full panel discussion here (I start at around 18:45).
Navigating During Uncertainty
Exactly five years ago, in March 2020, my team and I left our offices without knowing when we would return. We had no idea how this possible pandemic would progress, when we would be together again, and how we would
What does it mean to feel valued at work?
Our team members often share that they don’t feel valued. Our leaders often explain, “I value my people, and I tell them that regularly.” What is the disconnect? Telling people that they are valued is not the same as valuing

