We’re all writing the future of work—whether we mean to or not. Let’s write one where people belong. Let’s write one where joy is not an accident but a strategy. Let’s deliver happiness—not just as a brand promise, but as a collective practice. Continue reading Why Authenticity Matters in the Age of AI
For the first time, I stood beside people from all walks of life—different races, incomes, hometowns—and we were equals. We had one mission. One code. One team. The Navy didn’t erase our differences, but it unified us in something larger than ourselves. Continue reading The Healing Power of Military Community
We had trained endlessly for this moment. Drills were routine. We practiced the maneuvers, the transitions, the coordination of a full strike group moving in rhythm. But this was the only time during my service that I would experience it for real — hip-mounted gas mask on, eyes forward, adrenaline surging. Continue reading “Proceed at Best Speed”: A Sailor’s Memory of the Strait of Hormuz
I’ve tried hard not to mention active political figures on this blog. I do that intentionally—not because I don’t have opinions, but because I don’t want to lose readers to the haze of partisan vitriol. Political passion, as we see it now, is often short-sighted and misdirected. It burns hot, fizzles fast, and rarely invites the kind of careful thought that builds understanding or trust.
But this week, I’m making an exception. Continue reading Taming the Jackal: Why Language Matters More Than Ever
“We are still shocked by what has happened, but we will never give up our values. Our response is more democracy, more openness, and more humanity… We will answer hatred with love.” Continue reading The Path Forward: Lessons in Leadership from Two Tragedies
Despite having some of the highest taxes in the world, Denmark consistently tops the World Happiness Report. Danes pay up to half of their income in taxes, then face a 25% value-added tax on most goods, and up to a 150% tax on new cars. Yet somehow, they—and their Nordic neighbors—consistently rank among the happiest populations on Earth.
So what gives? What do they know that we don’t? Continue reading What Denmark Can Teach Us About Happiness, Humility, and a Better America
But I believe in a different way forward—one rooted in what’s universally true about being human. That we all have needs. That we all want to be seen. That empathy isn’t weakness—it’s a survival skill. Continue reading Reintroduction to Better Places
The world needs authentic vulnerability and leaders who build kinder (gezellig) places. Continue reading Ted Lasso, Take Us To Better Places
A leadership lesson on supporting marginalized folks in this scary moment Continue reading Creating Safe Spaces
Cynicism about people and their ability to be good stewards of their freedoms often underpin the anti-WFH arguments. Continue reading How the work-from-home debate can take us to better places
Better Places 