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.

Building Bonds of Trust Through Clarity, Empathy, and Dissent

Written on 08 December 2025. Posted in Personal and Organizational Leadership.

The core of every successful unit I've led, from a large wing in combat to a homeless shelter to higher education organizations, is trust. This trust isn't built on flawless execution; it's forged through the crucibles of clarity, empathy, and dissent.

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.

80%, Midnight, Wouldn't it Be Funny If ...

Written on 07 August 2025. Posted in Personal and Organizational Leadership.

A Fighter Pilot’s Guide to Staying Out of Trouble

I’m a fighter pilot. I don’t fly anymore, but once you’ve been a pilot, you never stop thinking like one. I used to launch 80,000 pounds of jet into the air in less than 6,000 feet of runway. With the afterburners lit, the ground shook, your ears hurt, and the jet guzzled fuel like there was no tomorrow.