Next Generation Leadership

In the United States, a presidential inauguration marks the beginning of a new administration. Regardless of political affiliation, this change of power is a reminder of the cycles of leadership transition that we also encounter within our workplaces. These transitions can bring with them a mix of uncertainty, hope, and a need for adaptability.

My mentor Barb walked to work, community and social events. When in need of wheels, she rode her bicycle or asked friends for a ride. She chose not to buy a car because she believed every car not on the road helped the planet. On her backpack was a sticker that read, “Live simply that others may simply live.”

"The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.."

As we step into 2025, we want to take a moment to reflect on the relationships that have shaped our journey. To our clients—trusted partners, inspiring leaders, and champions of growth—thank you for allowing us to be part of your story. Your dedication to building inclusive, thriving workplaces fuels everything we do.

Next week is a big week, a week that is finally ending a long, drawn out, and painful political circus that will determine the next President of the United States. As my Daddy would say, “If I were willing to bet a nickel…” next week is just another chapter in this messy book. Not the end. We are likely moving from one chapter to the next, to what will surely be a bit (or more) of an emotionally...

Much of the work managers and leaders do involves shifting focus from what we don't want, to envisioning the outcomes we do want. A useful way to think about this is transforming vicious cycles into virtuous ones.

Last night I watched Life is Beautiful, a movie about a Jewish Italian family who became victims of the Holocaust. I have no idea how I missed this back in 1997–it’s breathtaking and, of course, heartbreaking. A film is one thing, but it’s so tough when the whole world feels heartbreaking. It can become overwhelming. Overwhelming is exactly the problem. The idea of doing anything is overpowered...

Imagine walking into a room where everyone’s voice matters, where each person’s background is valued, and where diversity is not just a buzzword but a true, lived experience. Now, think further — what if YOU were the leader who created that room, that inclusive environment—one where inclusion isn’t a box to be checked but the very fabric of the workplace culture? As leaders, the journey toward...

I love spending time at client sites. I can tell so much by the feel of a place. Organizations are like people; there’s so much more than meets the eye. The real testament of an organization’s health lies in its culture—the way people are together—how they treat each other, how they feel when they are together, to what extent do they have and cherish group identity.

As a management and leadership coach for 30 years, I have talked with a LOT of people about workplace dynamics. Regardless of where the conversation begins–employee engagement, morale, feedback, communication–it always ends up with one of three themes: