I recently contributed to a conversation on LinkedIn about common mistakes in public speaking and I felt compelled to make the point that when we are speaking – to audiences of any size – connection is crucial. As I typed, I realized how strongly I felt the following to be true, and how often it is overlooked in favor of clickbait soundbites and the dominant narrative around data. Here’s what I said, and keep reading for some insights into how [...]
We’re in control after all! We have long been told that the majority of actions, decisions and behaviors are driven by our unconscious mind – the ‘hidden’ part of us where our attitudes, beliefs and biases reside. A new book has turned this concept on its head – literally turning Freud’s iceberg upside-down to illustrate that the majority of our existence is conscious – and we have access and control. Doing otherwise is an abdication of responsibility says Professor Ben [...]
“In the past jobs were about muscles, now they’re about brains, but in the future they’ll be about the heart.” Dame Minouche Shafik, President of Columbia University This quote reflects a profound transition underway in our relationship with work. In previous eras, labor was largely driven by physical human effort and endurance. Then, the knowledge economy ushered focus towards intellectual capacity over manual skills. However, research shows that emotional intelligence (EQ) will soon eclipse both physicality and intellect as the [...]
As a self-confessed Marvel geek, I love seeing the transformation of ‘ordinary Joe/Jo’ into superhero and I believe that while we can’t all scale buildings and win intergalactic battles, we do all have a unique leadership superpower – some capacity, skill or quality that sets us apart and elevates organizational performance. However, unlocking our true heroic potential requires looking inward first and a great place to start is by analyzing our impact patterns. […]
“Disagreement means richness of point of view, a wealth of ideas. So we want to keep that. But we want to prepare people to listen to different points of view.” – Francesca Cornelli, Dean of the Northwestern University – Kellogg School of Management This quote encapsulates the opportunity more empathic and inclusive leadership presents for organizational success. But what does it mean to truly listen across differences in background and experience? And why does it matter? […]
Do your employees feel genuinely valued and seen for their contributions? If not, their performance and morale may falter no matter their natural drive. I wrote recently about reigniting a dimmed spark with insights for leaders on how to increase motivation and I want to go deeper on one important facet of motivation that is within the capability and control of every leader and manager: Recognition. […]
Black History Month celebrates the rich cultural heritage, triumphs and adversities that are an indelible part of our country's history. Another indelible part of our history, present and future, is marginalization. I am moved to explore it this month as part of my Black History Month reflection. I recently saw the film Origin, based on the book Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson about how America, today and throughout its history, has been shaped by a hidden [...]
Emotional intelligence has long been touted as vital for leadership success. But research now shows emotional agility – how gracefully you navigate internal shifts – is equally crucial. Leaders who can flow between feelings not only perform better themselves but are able to lead high performing teams and model desirable behaviors. […]
Update (May 2026): Why This Conversation Matters Even More Now Since this article was first published, new research from Gallup reinforces what many leaders are already feeling—engagement isn’t just challenged, it’s declining. According to Gallup’s latest findings, global employee engagement has declined for the second consecutive year, with only about 20% of employees engaged worldwide. In the U.S., engagement remains at just 31%, down from a peak of 36% in 2020. That represents millions fewer employees bringing energy, focus, and [...]
As both a change management consultant and optimistic visionary, I see 2024 as ripe with potential for organizations to evolve and grow. But positive change doesn’t happen passively. Leaders must consciously cultivate conditions that allow innovation to thrive even amidst uncertainty. […]
