Latest Articles 🎖️

I write about the decisive leadership required to tackle our most complex societal challenges, from the homelessness crisis to emergency management. We'll also delve into the critical decision-making frameworks and innovative strategies that forge impactful and lasting solutions.

Honor and Accountability: On Drifting, Correction, and the Power of the Code

Written on 05 January 2026. Posted in Personal and Organizational Leadership.

I've learned that leadership is an inside-out job, and the foundation of my leadership is honor and accountability. I was inspired by Colonel Lee Ellis's experience as a POW and the power of the Code of Conduct. I believe everyone needs an honor code to guide them every day.

Beyond Right and Wrong: How I Built an Integrated Life of Integrity

Written on 17 December 2025. Posted in Personal and Organizational Leadership.

In my view, integrity is far more than just being truthful; it’s about wholeness. The word integrity comes from integer—a whole number. To live a life of true integrity, I realized I had to be whole. I strive to be fully integrated across four critical domains.

Our Service Doesn't Stop

Written on 12 November 2025. Posted in Personal and Organizational Leadership.

Thank You for Your Service — But Listen Closer

November 11. Eleven Eleven. For those of us reflecting today, it’s a special date — and maybe not what you think. 11 November is also National Heavy Metal Day, the day we celebrate the famous line from the 1984 movie Spinal Tap, when guitarist Nigel Tufnel proudly declares, “This one goes to 11”? How about World Origami Day, since 11/11 symbolizes the four equal sides of a square which is a fundamental shape in origami? I like that one. Or maybe my personal favorite, National Sundae Day. I can definitely get behind this one.

Anger or Disappointment: Which is Worse?

Written on 09 October 2025. Posted in Personal and Organizational Leadership.

Flames and Coals: Leadership Lessons in Anger vs. Disappointment

The other day, I found myself in conflict with a company I’ve done business with for decades. Our dispute wasn’t monumental, but the company’s response was inflexible, bureaucratic, and dismissive of our long-standing relationship. When the conversation ended, I was angry and frustrated that years of loyalty seemed irrelevant to them.

Keep Calm, Grab Your Skis, and Solve the Problem

Written on 01 September 2025. Posted in Personal and Organizational Leadership.

From Crisis to Day-to-Day: Turning Emergencies into Manageable Problems

“Madam Chancellor, we have a crisis!”

Those words immediately trigger adrenaline, urgency, and sometimes panic. But here’s the truth: nobody actually solves a crisis. What we solve are problems.