Recap of My #SpringLeadershipSeries2025 on #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Following in the footsteps of my #FallBacktoReadingSeries (2023), my #SpringLeadershipSeries (2024), my #OlympicsLeadershipSeries (2024), my #HolidayLeadershipSeries (2024), and my #PostElectionSeries (2024), this year's #SpringLeadershipSeries2025 was the sixth leadership and marketing series to appear on my blog. Without a doubt, the responses from the 24 thought leaders who participated provided incredible inspiration!

Before we begin the series recap, I'd like to applaud two special individuals for providing the inspiration for this series. First, big applause goes to Erika Andersen, a leadership expert and author who I've had the pleasure of knowing for nearly 15 years, and she's appeared on my blog 13 times since 2011. She wrote an article for Forbes entitled, "How Springtime Can Make Us Better Leaders," and that article serves as the core of the series as its first question. Second, I also applaud Joseph Lalonde, a leadership expert and author of a book called REEL LEADERSHIP, for planting the seeds for last year's Spring Leadership Series on my blog. After I read Joe's book, I started looking at movies as well as works of fiction, TV shows, and TV characters with "leadership-tinted glasses."

Before we begin the series recap, I'd like to share five of my favorite leadership quotes that can be enjoyed any season of the year:

"Great leaders don't do it alone...they get help." ~Erika Andersen (series participant)

"Leadership doesn't require you to be the smartest person in the room. It requires you to block and tackle for others." ~Mark Herbert (author with several appearances on my blog)

"As a leader, speak last to ensure everyone's voice is heard." ~Hortense Le Gentil (series participant)

"When there is blame, the leader should be in the forefront. When credit is due, the leader should be in the background." ~Eric Jacobson (series participant)

"If you're offered a seat on a rocket ship, don't ask what seat." ~Sheryl Sandberg (former chief operating officer of Meta Platforms, formerly known as Facebook)

SHARE THIS: Great leaders don't do it alone...they get help. ~@ErikaAndersen #SpringLeadershipSeries2025 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

And now, I invite you to pull up a comfortable chair and join me for an inspiring recap of my #SpringLeadershipSeries2025.

ERIKA ANDERSEN:

BACKGROUND AND METAPHOR FOR SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE:  I started using gardening as a metaphor for people management many years ago – primarily for the reason I cite in the article, which is that just as gardeners can't "make plants grow," managers can't "make their people grow." In management, as in gardening, all you can do is choose a plant/person that's a good fit for your garden/team/organization, and provide the circumstances that are most likely to support their growth...After not having re-read this article for a number of years, I wouldn't really change anything! I still find that we humans tend to get new energy and want to start new efforts and enterprises in the springtime – and I still think that gardening provides great metaphors for people management.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: Angus King, the independent senator from Maine, gave a speech in the US Senate chambers, pushing back against the unconstitutional actions of the current president and his unelected followers. I found it valiant, true and inspiring. Here's the final paragraph: "At a prior time of crisis, Abraham Lincoln defined the stakes for each of us, 'Fellow-citizens, we cannot escape history. We, of this Congress, and this administration, will be remembered in spite of ourselves. No personal significance, or insignificance, can spare one or another of us. The fiery trial through which we pass, will light us down, in honor or dishonor, to the latest generation. Now is the time to establish a redline — the Constitution itself.'"

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: Schedule a dinner together, and very specifically to have dinner in a place that was quiet enough to converse, and at a table big enough for everyone to sit together. When the team was all together, I'd start by saying some version of "The purpose of this meal is to have great food and get to know each other outside of work. So, I'd encourage you to strike up a conversation with at least one teammate that you don't know well." Then, partway through the meal (usually either between the appetizers and the main course, or after the main course), I'd have everyone get up and move to a new seat – and ask them to, if they could, sit next to someone new to them.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: My next book is "Nosotros, Los Rivero" by a woman named Dolores Medio, an unknown writer at the time who rocketed into literary renown in 1952 when this book won the Premio Nadal, the preeminent Spanish literary prize. It's primarily autobiographical, based on her life growing up in Oviedo (the city where I now live in Spain) in the 1920's.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: My choice is the Apple+ TV show called "Silo." The main character, a woman named Juliette Nichols, is a wonderfully complex character who is shoved (by circumstances way beyond her control) into various positions of leadership. Her most abiding characteristic is that she is unable to turn away from difficult challenges that she is capable of addressing – and where she may be the only person who has that capability. That kind of moral courage is in short supply and is a key component, in my mind, of good leadership. 

ERIC JACOBSON:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: I liked how Erika compared gardening to management and leadership. Of the five analogies she makes, my favorite is the one about preparing the soil and listening. During my career, too often managers and leaders did not listen or did not listen often enough to both employees and customers. So many missed opportunities. 

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: David Grossman of The Grossman Group inspires me every day with his teachings and expert advice on internal change management, strategy activation, leadership development, and organizational culture change via posts on social media, his company's blog, and through his podcasts. 

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: In the wallet team-building activity, you inevitably learn something new about your colleagues. Gather your team in a room, preferably at a round or u-shaped table so everyone can see each other. Then, going one-by-one, ask each team member to remove three items from their wallet/purse and have them tell the group about each of those three things and why each is important.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: For pleasure, I will read, "The Boys of Riverside: A Deaf Football Team and a Quest for Glory," by Thomas Fuller. And for my leadership blog, I will read "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance," by Zach Mercurio

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: The movie "The Holdovers" was a 2023 American Christmas comedy drama that told the story of a strict classics teacher at a New England boarding school who was forced to chaperone a handful of students with nowhere to go during the school's Christmas break. There were multiple leadership lessons throughout the film and then particularly at the end.

BARBARA MCQUADE:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: Patience. You have to wait for plants to grow and employees to thrive. You can't expect everyone to perform on your (the leader's) schedule or even the same schedule. It is important to meet each person where they are and give them the resources they each need to thrive. 

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: In January, cartoonist Ann Telnaes quit her job at the Washington Post when an editor refused to print a cartoon in which she depicted the Post's owner laying bags of money at the feet of Donald Trump. One may agree or disagree with the viewpoint she was expressing, but she later wrote that she found the editor's refusal to publish the cartoon to amount to censorship.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: Ropes courses. People must work together or fail. Positive energy works, negative energy does not. 

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: "Says Who" by Anne Curzan.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: In "WICKED THE MOVIE," Elphaba resists the temptation of power to stand up for animals who are being abused by the wizard, even though it means she will be labeled as a villain.

JOSEPH LALONDE:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: Pruning is always strange. You have to find the right way to do it, in the right time, and with the right people. If you don't, you can wind up damaging the person or organization. Done right, you can make them thrive. 

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: The story of Mimi Bloo. She's a young artist who took a big chance. And an experienced artist took an even bigger chance in introducing her to her audience. Mira (Mimi's real name) and her mother went to Graveside Variety. There, Mira's mother approached Amanda Palmer. She told Amanda that her fourteen-year-old daughter was in the crowd but too nervous to ask to sing. Amanda told her mother to go get the girl and that of course it would be okay to sing Into The Unknown from Frozen. 

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: Ice climbing (outside of the office in the great outdoors). I didn't know the guys before but they've become like a band of brothers. Why? Because ice climbing required me to trust them, help them, and motivate them to continue to climb when they thought they couldn't do it anymore.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: "Origins of a D-List Supervillain" by George Takei from Star Trek.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: "A Complete Unknown," the story of Bob Dylan's rise to fame. It's a great cautionary tale of what success can do to you. 

HORTENSE LE GENTIL:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: Today, leadership is no longer tied to seasons. It must be spring every day! A leader's role is to cultivate and nurture continuously.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: I was deeply inspired by The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker. Her work is a powerful reminder of why and how we come together: in leadership, in business, and in life. 

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: Sharing personal stories. When people open up and share their experiences, values, and perspectives, it fosters deep connection and trust. It allows teams to see one another as whole people, not just colleagues filling roles.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: "The Big Life" by Ann Shoket.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: The documentary "Very Ralph"(2019), which explores the life and leadership of Ralph Lauren.

ERIC STONE:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: What stood out most to me was the idea that leaders and managers, like gardeners, can't force growth but can create the conditions where people thrive. Just as some plants thrive in different conditions, whether indoors, outdoors, or in specific seasons, they must balance trust, accountability, and clear communication to cultivate a high-performing culture. It's a refreshing reminder that leadership and management aren't about control; they're about nurturing potential and adapting to what each season brings.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: In a world where so many feel the need to be the loudest person in the room or race to keep up with the "Joneses," Warren Buffet has stayed remarkably grounded. His simple lifestyle, despite his monumental achievements, showcases his commitment to character over materialism. Beyond his business acumen, Warren's dedication to giving back is unparalleled. He's pledged to donate the majority of his fortune, and through his Giving Pledge, he's inspired countless others to rethink their role in making the world a better place. Warren Buffett's leadership is a powerful reminder that success isn't measured by wealth, but by the integrity with which you lead, the lives you touch, and the legacy you leave behind.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: One of my favorite team-building activities is a company-wide scavenger hunt that mixes management and department heads into random teams.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: "Never Stop" by Dan Hurley and Ian O'Connor. Hurley's ability to build a championship culture in the midst of constant change is something every leader can learn from.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: "Ted Lasso" really stands out for me with his leadership style.

MELANIE BELL:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: Two things jumped out to me. The first was, "The most problematic situation though, is the employee who is almost OK," since this is something with which I've struggled. Oh, how tempting it is to will someone out of mediocrity, to see their potential and let that outshine their actual performance. The second was "maybe the job changes so much that they can no longer succeed." As a consultant, I've experienced great long-term working relationships with clients where I eventually realize that the skillset they need from me has changed dramatically since the start of the engagement. It requires a hard conversation to tell a client that it's time to move on because they need someone who can provide what I can't for this new job they need doing. 

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: I'm feeling particularly inspired by all the work being done to fight book bans.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: The best team-building activity I've participated in was a white-water boating adventure...I'm a big believer in fun activities rather than things like trust falls or more serious endeavors. Humor breaks down barriers.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: Always books for (the virtual book club I lead) Leaders Who Fiction. Outside of the Leaders Who Fiction choices, I just picked up two books from my local public library (big shout-out to librarians who make the world a better place!): "Confessions" by Catherine Airey and "The Wildes: A Novel in Five Acts" by Louis Bayard. I love stories about family.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: I just finished a book called "Becoming Madam Secretary" by Stephanie Dray about the first female member of a presidential cabinet. Frances Perkins was FDR's Secretary of Labor and largely responsible for things like ending child labor in the US and instituting Social Security. The book showcased her ability to compromise, to relentlessly pursue initiatives that were important to her and others, and to take big action with high stakes.

REBECCA RUCKER:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: Two of her points stood out to me. The first point, "You can't make plants grow," reminds me that, as a coach, you bring your best self, your toolkit, and your thought partnership to your client. Most clients welcome those opportunities to engage and grow from the exchange of skills, experience, and thought collaboration. However, there are those clients who won't. As someone who wants her clients to be successful, I have often learned that when I'm working harder than my client, I am working too hard. It is up to the client to choose whether to grow or not - no amount of the best offerings will change the outcome if the client chooses not to thrive. (The same is true for an employee in an organizational work environment.) Erika's point, "You can't make plants grow" also goes along with the second point that struck me, "All gardeners have plants that won't thrive." I have often watched a few clients in disbelief that, no matter how great their environment, how well their skills and experience fit the job, or how skillfully their managers and co-workers support them, do not thrive. When I observed what was keeping the client from success, I found the client was his own worst enemy. 

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: Recently, Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren spoke on the Senate floor in a testimony about the invaluable contribution of the Federal Consumer Protection Bureau. Citing the amount of unregulated fees made by banks, lenders, and debt collectors prior to the establishment of the bureau, she advocated for the retention of the bureau and its work...Her speech was concise and passionate. She ended it by saying that she would not accept surrendering such an agency to discontinuation, but rather she would fight, fight, fight to represent the American people and their rights for financial protection. When I think about inspiring leadership, I think of leaders who, through their strength of character, firm values and beliefs, and clear focus of direction, can stand up during times of impossible odds to continue to fight for what they believe is in the best public interest.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: My favorite team-building activity is the Ropes course. This course uses ropes, poles, safety harnesses, and challenging tasks to encourage people to go beyond their own self-imposed limitations. It requires teams of people to move beyond thought into action problem-solving to get through the challenge. The High Ropes course focuses on trust between participants, risk-taking, and acceptance of shared decisions to move the team through hurdles.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: The book on the top of my to-be-read pile is "James" by Percival Everett. As someone who strives to see the world from another person's point of view in my professional and personal life, this book encourages the reader to look at the story of Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of Huck's friend, the slave, Jim. 

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: Kathy Bates at 76 years of age has returned to star in a television series on CBS called "Matlock." Known for her [extensive] movie career, it was hard to imagine how a television series would appeal to her. However, she shines brightly as an older attorney who goes to work at a law firm that represented the pharmaceutical company that produced the drug from which her daughter died in an overdose. Kathy Bates demonstrates her leadership by taking a humble posture in the firm. 

HEATHER HACKETT: 

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: Erika's reference to planting the right seeds for your soil resonated with me the most. My first hiring experiences with a rapidly expanding chain of local coffee shops often came with informal instructions to take what I could get because we needed to quickly build entire teams to launch a new location. While this got the doors open on schedule, it typically resulted in chaos within the first few weeks and months of operations, as folks who weren't the right fit either quit or proved unreliable to the point of termination becoming necessary. This repeated cycle bred frustration and demoralization, and I was fortunate to have more say and more options with hiring in subsequent jobs where I used the lessons learned in many ways.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: After receiving a late diagnosis of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) near the age of 40, one of the most valuable resources in learning how to work with my brain was ADDitude. This digital and print publication invests heavily in vetting and fact-checking all of its content, including reviews by a reputable Medical Advisory Panel, so I trust the reliability and accuracy of information and guidance shared. In recent months, as the Trump administration rolled out its Make America Healthy Again initiatives, several attacks have been made on the neurodivergent community and clinicians, including claims of over-diagnosis and over-prescribing. Throughout this tumultuousness, I have been impressed with and appreciative of ADDitude General Manager Anni Layne Rogers' (formerly of Rolling Stone, Fast Company, and Inc.) efforts to thoughtfully support and advocate on behalf of the community.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: I'm a fan of activities that relate directly to an organization's work but fall outside the realm of employees' day-to-day tasks. These forms of team-building help connect employees more passionately to the mission, remind them of their "why," and reinforce that the wonderful outcomes sought are only possible by working together. When I worked at East End Food Co-op, we had a national produce expert present an hour-long interactive talk on the history of kale. You wouldn't expect there to be so much to say about a single plant, but it was fascinating from start to finish and included tactile experiences like touching and smelling different varieties. Afterward, we worked together to make a salad and learned to "massage" kale with salt and oil to bring out its fullest flavor. It was by far the best team luncheon I've ever had, and over a decade later, I still remember many fun facts about kale.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: The next book in my queue is "The Boxcar Librarian" by Brianna Labuskes. Set during the Great Depression, it features a mystery involving the Missoula Boxcar Library. I'm excited to see the prominence of a woman protagonist in rugged terrain, the wilds of Montana. 

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: The film "Conclave" most readily comes to mind, given that the entire plot focuses on the death of a pope and the resulting selection process for his successor. Being unfamiliar with the papal conclave, I found the process fascinating, and the plot's twists and turns illuminated many leadership-related topics. Here were four take-away questions:

(1) What motivates someone to become a leader? 

(2) When we select our organization's next leader, how might we discern who best suits the role? 

(3) Should we trust those who aspire for high offices and are readily poised to take on positions of power? Or is there merit in championing reluctant emerging leaders with strong potential, even when they may not believe in themselves? 

(4) What trade-offs might there be between selecting leaders with charisma and popularity versus those with talent and skill and those with the strongest principles and values?

JOSEPH MICHELLI:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: For me, the most resonant insights from her article were the importance of leadership listening, optimism, and nurturance. The philosopher, Paul Tillich, essentially said the "first duty of love is to listen." I am convinced listening is also the first duty of leadership. The second leadership duty is to "listen more." As for optimism, Erika makes a powerful point regarding the need to believe in human potential and lean into the idea that everyone can and must grow to survive and thrive. Finally, we all need pruning. We need others to help us bend, contort, and evolve in ways that make us more valuable to one another. We also must be willing to offer honest feedback for that growth to happen. In the words of Brené’ Brown, we must be courageous and clear with our feedback because "clear is kind."

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: Laney Crowell of TIME Magazine wrote a short piece about Hali Borenstein the CEO of fashion brand Reformation. I know little about beauty brands, but Laney suggests that Hali has "broken the barriers of price point, mission focus, and desirability in a way no one else has." She goes on to highlight Hali's commitment to ensure Reformation is climate positive this year and suggests that there isn't "any other CEO out there as cool and down to earth as" Hali.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: I like having groups compete in tower building. Instructions vary, but usually, the activity involves using materials like 30 pieces of uncooked spaghetti, a yard of tape, a yard of string, and a marshmallow to construct the tallest tower that will hold the weight of the marshmallow at the top. Usually, there is a time limit, and groups compete with one another. The activity has many variations like no talking during construction. It works best when groups can see other groups building their towers. The debrief for this activity provides a wonderful opportunity to discuss group dynamics in situations where resources are limited, there is time-based pressure, and competition is observable.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: I've just finished writing a book ("All Business Is Personal") about leaders at One Medical, a healthcare/tech startup purchased by Amazon for 4 billion dollars in 2022, and I am working on a new book about the Managing Partner of Edward Jones, Penny Pennington – which will be released in 2026. Those are my excuses for having so many books on my "to be read" list. Next up is the 2024 Financial Times Business Book of the Year Award winning, "Supremacy: AI, ChatGPT and race that will change the world" by Parmy Olson.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: In the TV show, "Ted Lasso," the main character Ted Lasso captures much of what Erika Andersen wrote about in the Forbes article in the first question. Ted was a resoundingly optimistic, ethical leader, who cared about developing the people around him. He overcame a lack of experience coaching soccer through folksy wisdom, a clear vision for the future, genuine compassion, and kindness. I believe we need more examples of leaders like Ted Lasso – those that are authentically caring, unpretentious, and "other focused." 

ELIA GUARDIOLA:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: Erika's article draws a compelling parallel between gardening and leadership, emphasizing the importance of renewal and growth. As leaders, embracing the concept of starting fresh, much like in spring, allows us to invigorate our teams and encourage development. This analogy underscores the need for nurturing environments where individuals can thrive, reflecting the cyclical nature of growth both in gardens and organizations.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: The story of Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, continues to be an inspiring leadership reference for me. His ability to transform the culture of such a massive company by focusing on empathy, inclusion, and innovation is truly impressive. Recently, I read an interview where he talked about the importance of curiosity and a growth mindset in leaders. It made me reflect on how, in our daily lives, we must remain open to learning and evolving, not just as professionals but as human beings.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: I love any activity that involves storytelling. One of my favorites is when each team member shares a personal story related to a core value of the company or team. Not only does it strengthen the connection between people, but it also fosters empathy and mutual understanding. In the end, leadership and teamwork are not just about productivity — they are about emotions, relationships, and shared purpose.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: I'm really looking forward to reading "The Persuaders" by Anand Giridharadas because I'm fascinated by everything related to communication, storytelling, and persuasion in leadership. This book explores how ideas can influence and transform societies. I believe it's an essential read for those of us working in storytelling and strategic communication.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: Without a doubt, "The Bear" has had a huge impact on me. Although it's set in the world of gastronomy, it brilliantly portrays leadership in its most human form — chaotic, emotional, and full of learning experiences. The protagonist, Carmy, is a leader in the making, with all his strengths and flaws. I find it a powerful representation of how leadership is not just about giving orders but about inspiring, adapting, learning from mistakes, and, above all, connecting with the team through vulnerability.

DEBBIE SZUMYLO:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: There is a quote from Alexander Den Heijer, "When a flower doesn't bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower." This quote gets to the heart of what leaders should focus on: creating the right environment for their team members to thrive. And Erika Andersen's article really resonated with that idea. The comparison between gardening and leadership is a powerful one. If a flower isn't blooming, you don't try to fix the flower itself - you adjust the conditions around it. That's basically what leaders should be doing. They should be creating an environment that's conducive to growth, collaboration, and success. What I loved about Andersen's article was how she emphasized the importance of understanding each team member's unique needs. Just as a gardener needs to know which plants require sunlight and water, leaders need to know how to tailor their approach to each team member. That way, you're not just trying to force change, but actually creating an environment where people can flourish. It's a really beautiful way to think about leadership, and it's definitely something I'll be keeping in mind as I go forward.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: No longer leading her country, but I immediately think of Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand. Ardern's leadership beautifully illustrates how empathy and decisiveness can create real change. As Prime Minister of New Zealand, she responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by swiftly implementing lockdowns and providing honest communication, making people feel valued and supported. After the Christchurch Mosque shootings, her compassionate response fostered unity, condemning violence, and supporting the Muslim community with swift action. Her approach is like good gardening: she prepares the soil through open communication, champions inclusivity, and isn't afraid to make tough decisions when needed. Ardern reminds me that true leadership nurtures communities, showing that empathy and decisive action can help everyone flourish together.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: I love the "Yes, And" exercise for several compelling reasons. It embodies creativity, positivity, and collaboration while encouraging a growth mindset. By building upon each other's ideas without judgment, we foster an environment where innovation thrives. This exercise sharpens our listening skills, develops our ability to think on our feet, and enhances our problem-solving capabilities. As we work together, we gain valuable insights into each other's perspectives, establishing a deeper understanding and respect for one another. The lasting impact of "Yes, And" is profound. It cultivates a culture of openness, encourages diverse perspectives, and inspires a supportive environment where feedback is welcomed. This exercise not only enhances our immediate interactions but also lays the groundwork for long-term success and resilience as a team.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: Reading is an escape for me. While I do read business books, much of my reading is fiction. However, on my TBR list for 2025, I am looking forward to digging into "Chief Joy Officer: How Great Leaders Elevate Human Energy and Eliminate Fear" by Richard Sheridan. I'm craving outlets where I can find joy and happiness these days, and this book seems to hit the mark.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: The Hulu series "The Bear" offers an interesting exploration of leadership through the story of Carmen "Carmy" Berzatto, a young chef running his family's sandwich shop...Through his journey, Carmy illustrates that effective leadership, much like cultivating a diverse garden, involves continuous learning, adaptation, and the ability to inspire growth while positively impacting those around him.

ANTHONY GAENZLE:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: There were some excellent points in this article. One that stood out to me is the power of listening. And not just basic listening. Listen to understand, listen to build trust, listen to empower your team to feel open and free to come up with and present their ideas freely. This builds the right "soil" in which your people and your company can grow and thrive. 

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: As an Eagles fan, I've been really impressed by the leadership exhibited by the team's two biggest stars, Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley. They both put team and winning ahead of their own personal goals. They sacrificed long hours, gave up the opportunity to set personal records, and made sure to give credit to the rest of the team at every turn. These two set a very positive example for future leaders.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: When I attended the Clemson Leadership Summit a few years back, I really appreciated a team-building activity we did that involved working as a team to create a robotic hand. The hand was designed to help people in other countries who'd lost limbs due to the violence they faced. We not only learned excellent team-building skills in the process, but we were able to work toward a common goal that hopefully helped a lot of people. 

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: I am currently re-reading "Good to Great" by James C. Collins. It's such a valuable text, and I haven't read it in a few years, so I wanted to jump back in and revisit some of the concepts. It's a must-read for any business professional. 

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: One of my favorite TV shows is "The Office." While Michael Scott is largely the example of how NOT to be a leader, there is one thing that stands out about him. Despite all of his flaws, he truly, genuinely cares about his team. It's so important to have your team's back and reassure them that you are there for them. Let them know that the leadership team supports and appreciates them, and assure them that they are not alone. This gives your team a feeling of security, and it creates an environment where they are comfortable and feel like they can grow.

AMANDA HAHN-PETERS:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: I love how the article compared gardening to creating an environment for employees to thrive! And I don't think we can emphasize listening and fostering two-way communication enough. Employees want to know that their ideas are heard and taken into account by leadership, and when given room for feedback, they feel understood. This creates an environment where employees feel comfortable, collaboration is encouraged, and leaders and their employees most likely look forward to coming to work and thriving.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: I'm a big fan of companies who lead by meeting their customers where they are and stepping up to meet their needs. As a resident of Los Angeles, the devastating fires of January 2025 are still fresh in my mind as my city begins to recover from this disaster and makes plans to rebuild. For weeks, when so many were forced to evacuate their homes, businesses (both small and large) stepped up to care for their community. Although many businesses made notable contributions, one that stood out to me was Planet Fitness. The gym chain opened its doors to residents, first responders, and others impacted by the fires and offered them basic necessities like showers, locker rooms, Wi-Fi, charging stations, and other resources. I admire that they temporarily changed their policy and opened their doors to non-members to care for those who needed it most. 

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: As a freelance copywriter who works mainly with creative brands and service-based business owners, it's been a while since I've participated in team-building activities. However, as an agency copywriter, I appreciated team-building activities because they helped break the ice between new co-workers I didn't know very well. I also enjoyed getting to know people outside of work processes. My favorite team-building activities are escape room-like games or any type of situation where team members rely on each others' unique strengths to figure out a puzzle or solve a riddle. It's fun to see how everyone uses different problem-solving techniques to reach a solution, and team-building activities are a great way to encourage team collaboration.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: I'm currently in a season where I'm drawn to mostly fiction books. While there are some great memoirs and business books on my TBR, I love how fiction (specifically historical fiction novels) usually include story arcs where characters overcome obstacles to grow, evolve, and remind us that transformation is possible. That being said, the book at the tippy top of my list is Kristin Hannah's "The Women." One of Hannah's other books, "The Nightingale," is one of my all-time favorites. From reading a plot summary of "The Women," I can tell that, similar to The Nightingale, Kristin Hannah's The Women highlights the power of female friendships and the strength of women in general. 

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: It's been out for more than a year and I'm just late to the party, but I recently binge-watched and loved the TV show "Ted Lasso" on Apple TV+. There's something so refreshing about Ted Lasso's leadership style — he's humble, vulnerable, self-aware, and, above all, joyful. 

JAMES STROCK:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: Erika Anderson's piece touches enduring truths. Leadership is grounded in relationships. Relationships are living things, existing in evolving ecosystems. Being mindful of the constant change, of seasonality, of the back and forth of negotiating unexpected circumstances, these are all analogous to gardening.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: J.K. Rowling (author of the Harry Potter series) has exhibited inspiring leadership, assuming a public role in a contentious debate concerning transexuals in traditionally biologically female spaces, including sports teams. This is a highly contentious, evolving issue at the intersection of science, culture, and politics. Rowling well recognized that her wading into this would inevitably put her business and perhaps her personal safety at risk. She persevered and her example has emboldened others. She has modelled effective, determined, relentless civility. Whether one agrees with her views or not, one must admire her courage.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: Almost any group activity can be a team-building activity. I like outdoor activities involving physical activity in verdant surroundings, outside of customary settings and disconnected from phone, email, etc. For distributed teams, simply meeting in-person, including highly directed business meetings as well as social time, can be of great value.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: I am looking forward to reading "On Grand Strategy" by John Lewis Gaddis. Though focused on historical examples, with an emphasis on statecraft and warfare, it's widely respected for having lessons for work and life generally.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: The film, "A Complete Unknown," isn't explicitly about leadership. It's about the evolution of Bob Dylan, amid the artistic, cultural, and political changes of the 1960's. Dylan makes decisive personal and professional decisions that alter his career trajectory, and ultimately, become foundational to a career of notable significance. Through his art, Dylan crafts a leadership role that continues to develop decades later and will likely remain as a living legacy.

MICHAEL KERR:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: I love the take in this article and completely agree with the analogy. I have used a similar analogy when it comes to creativity in the workplace, comparing it to a romantic date. You can't force romance to happen, but you can set the stage and create an environment that is more conducive to romance. And I wholeheartedly agree with getting the right plants – as I write about in my book, "Hire, Inspire, and Fuel Their Fire," hiring the right employees who are a fit for your culture, and not just a fit – employees who will help you grow your culture – is 90 percent of the work when it comes to creating a truly inspiring workplace. I would take the pruning analogy one step further and suggest that unfortunately, for the sake of the well-being of a company and the culture, one of the difficult tasks of any great leader is knowing when to transplant a plant that just isn't a good fit for the workplace environment. It doesn't necessarily mean they're a bad employee (or plant), it just means that they weren't a right fit for your environment - and the kindest thing you can do for both them and your team is to help them find an environment where they can flourish.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: It was not so much an example of leadership in action, but an inspiring example that reflected leadership excellence. While recently delivering a workshop on workplace culture, an employee stood up and shared a story about how their CEO (who was standing 20 feet away from her) had come to her and another employee with an "epically bad, stupid idea." She elaborated on just how bad and stupid she thought the idea was (the CEO then chimed in and agreed) and how she handled the situation. The fact that she felt comfortable sharing that publicly, and that no one in the room of 100 employees laughed nervously or seemed surprised by her comments and willingness to speak out, spoke volumes about the culture in that company and the CEO's leadership style where it comes to creating a psychologically safe work environment.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: It’s a silly one but it always gets people laughing: A theatre improv exercise called the "energy ball" where people form a circle in groups of 5-to-10 and clap out an imaginary energy ball to one another. Everyone always laughs (because it's so ridiculously silly) so it's a great energizer and stress buster. I use it to talk about communication skills, the power of laughter, and as a physical reminder that they hopefully will remember for a long time: that in every single interaction with another human being, they have the chance to pass along some positive energy, or do something that inadvertently sucks a bit of their soul out of them.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: My next book on the pile is "You're Not Listening: What You're Missing and Why It Matters" by Kate Murphy. I am always interested in improving my own communication skills and looking for fresh insights on any aspect of communication I can pass along to my audiences and readers, and the importance of listening is always top of mind for me.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: I just finished the third season of "The Bear," a brilliant show about a Chicago restaurant. I was struck by many leadership lessons in this season. Often they were lessons related to what NOT to do as a leader - such as yelling at employees or not involving them properly in key workplace decisions. There's a pivotal theme around a list of non-negotiables the head chef writes down. He stresses that these are not "goals" but rather lines-in-the-sand, non-negotiables that everyone must commit to. He is, of course, speaking about values, and while his commitment to excellence and treating them as non-negotiables is laudable, he clearly would have had better success if he had co-created the values with his team rather than forcing the values upon his employees!

NATHALIE GREGG:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: Several points stood out to me. Elite leadership isn't managed — it's cultivated. Growth isn't forced — it's engineered. The best leaders don't push; they create conditions where excellence is inevitable. Listening is power. True influence comes from hearing what others miss. The most elite leaders listen relentlessly. Pruning fuels performance. Growth demands tough decisions — cut what no longer serves the mission, or be buried by it.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: One recent example of inspiring leadership that made an impact was Beyoncé's strategic move with her country album announcement at the Super Bowl. It wasn't just about the music — it was a masterclass in personal branding, reinvention, and owning your narrative. Beyoncé didn't ask for permission to enter a new space; she walked in and made it hers. She positioned herself as the one percent — an artist and entrepreneur who doesn't just follow trends but sets them. This mirrors exactly what I teach with Lead Loudly: own your voice, position your value, and amplify your visibility. Beyoncé showed us that the most powerful leaders don't wait to be invited to the table — they build the damn table themselves. That's the energy. That's the movement. That's what it means to Lead Loudly.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: THE CULTURE CODE CHALLENGE: Culture isn't what you say — it's what you build. And a fierce community? That takes vision, boldness, and trust. In this high-impact simulation, your team will: (1) Define the three values that drive unstoppable success; (2) Craft a manifesto so bold that it commands loyalty; and (3) Test your culture under pressure, because real leadership isn't theory, it's execution. This isn't just a team-building exercise. It's a masterclass in culture, creativity, and commanding influence!

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: Since audacity (willing to take risks) is the new currency of influence, Mark Schaefer's "Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World" is on the top of my pile. It isn't just a book, it's a wake-up call for every leader, entrepreneur, and brand that's still clinging to outdated playbooks.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: The Netflix series "The Diplomat" is a global masterclass in power, influence, and leadership under pressure. Keri Russell's portrayl of Kate Wyler doesn't just navigate crises — she commands them with strategy, presence, and fearless execution. Real leadership isn't about volume — it's about vision, agility, and making bold moves that shift the world.

ALLAN PRATT:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: If you have the right employees (aka, gardening tools), then you can garden all year-round. I strongly believe that for leadership to be effective, it must be consistent. Therefore, while an interesting article, I think leaders must be consistent with their leadership style, their project deadlines and requirements for their employees, their communication styles with their employees, and the manner in which they provide (and frequency of) feedback.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: I've been inspired by the respectful transition from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to Mark Carney - as opposed to the current leadership implosion in Washington, D.C.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: I always like to look at both sides of an issue. Call me a devil's advocate, but if you need a team-building activity, it's probably too late. The culture should have been addressed a long time ago, and the leadership team should have been re-trained on its people and management skills awhile ago too.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: I enjoy comedy, so I'm looking forward to reading "Danny Kaye, King of Jesters" by David Koenig.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: The TV show "9-1-1" features an incredibly competent lead female character, Patrol Sergeant Athena Grant-Nash performed by Academy Award Nominee Angela Bassett. Even though Bassett has starred in and produced the show since 2018, in every episode, her portrayl of Sergeant Grant demonstrates inspiring leadership and support for the Los Angeles community that she serves. I appreciate TV shows and films that showcase strong and capable female protagonists because, unfortunately, there are too few - and they are necessary to inspire the next generation of women leaders in all fields, especially mine, technology and cybersecurity.

ANNETTE FRANZ:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: I loved the article and the analogy. Her five points were spot on. The one that especially resonated with me, given the release of my new book on "Employee Understanding," was her point about "preparing the soil." Listen to employees. Listen, ask, hear. So important. And then create an environment that allows your people to thrive and grow.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: I have been a long-time follower and fan of Bob Chapman, CEO of Barry-Wehmiller. In a recent article, he talked about a quote from Simon Sinek ("When we help ourselves, we find moments of happiness. When we help others, we find lasting fulfillment.") and the mindset shift from "me" to "we." This reminded me of another great leader that I admire, someone I interviewed many years ago, Peter Aceto, CEO of Tangerine Bank. We talked about his book, "Weology," which has a slightly different spin on the concept but with equally great outcomes: Take care of your people, and the business thrives.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: There are a lot of great team-building activities, but I'll name one that I enjoy because it's so basic, simple, and common sense: Human Bingo. Bingo card squares are filled with random facts (that aren't easily knowable or discoverable without more in-depth conversations) about everyone on the team. Players walk around and talk to colleagues to find someone who fits each description. The person who fits a description signs or writes their name in the corresponding box. This activity boosts communication and listening skills. It fosters connection and engagement. It forces employees to talk to their colleagues and get to know them on a deeper, more personal level. This latter point, getting to know people beyond their professional roles and skills, is critical to building a strong team.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: My next read is "Rays of Truth." The book is a collection of 26 short essays that emerged after the authors' own journeys into personal reflection. Since I am always looking for new ways to think about leadership, growth, life, and our collective journeys, I look forward to being inspired by these 26 leaders and their words of wisdom.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: This is a timely question, though my answer may not be the first show that comes to mind when thinking about leadership. I recently watched an episode of "S.W.A.T." that featured an officer navigating the challenges of leading the S.W.A.T. Academy. In particular, he struggled with adversity and pushback from one of the trainees. The episode highlighted key leadership lessons: both what not to do and the importance of listening, learning, and admitting when you're wrong. His initial reaction and response, even after being called out, demonstrated the pitfalls of poor leadership. However, the underlying message was clear: great leaders acknowledge mistakes, embrace constructive criticism, and use those lessons to grow.

REBECCA HEROLD:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: I spent my childhood in a very rural area of north-central Missouri, where my father was the Superintendent of Schools for the small town and farming community a couple of miles from interstate I-35. The weather there was very tumultuous (as it still is), especially during each spring. When I was a student there one year, the first week in April, I had a birthday party with everyone outside, in beautiful weather, wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts. One week later the "Great Blizzard" hit, and over 60 inches of snow and high winds shut down the always busy I-35 interstate. Supposedly one of the largest blizzards in US history. People were literally stranded in their cars on the interstate, some completely covered, in subzero temperatures, in what seemed to most of them to be in the middle of nowhere. At a time before there were cellphones. Instead of staying in our warm home, my father heard on his CB radio (that he always had on and listened to, especially for the State Patrol and Sheriff's communications) about all the vehicles snow covered and immobile on the interstate. He wasted no time, and started making calls to the many farmers (which included all the school board members), and many others who were in the school district. He coordinated over two dozen area residents with snowmobiles, and farmers with over a dozen field tractors with horse and livestock trailers, to go onto the interstate and bring all the stranded tourists to the school auditorium. After three nights, all the travelers' vehicles were dug out of the snow and back to their travels. Dad was there the entire time, making sure the travelers had what they needed, that everyone was staying safe, and that the volunteers were recognized and appreciated. Dad was born a leader. He never sat back and waited for others to fix a problem. Instead, he was the first to recognize where there were going to be problems if he did not take action. That spring may have made Dad a better leader, but from what I witnessed, it revealed the great leader he already was. He also provided a model of great leadership to all the volunteers and to all the travelers who benefitted from his quick actions, all of which exemplified a great leader.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: In today's world, there are very few examples of inspiring leadership. In fact, it seems like we're going through an era of lost leadership. I was heartened to see, though. what appears on the surface to be an unlikely collaboration between two very different people to make an impact in actually inspiring and meaningfully teaching the general public about science facts and the need for a healthy, natural environment in their project to improve by reversing some of the devastation of the environment. A climate and engineering expert recently teamed up with a graphic novelist artist to create a graphic novel that became the single bestselling book in France in 2022. And as a result, it is now inspiring positive changes for mitigating the destructive harms resulting from climate change in that country. The book is entitled, "Le Monde sans Fin," translated to English, "World Without End," by Jean-Marc Jancovici and Christophe Blain, published in October 2021. It gave me some hope that, if we have enough such initiatives throughout the world, not only for the environment but also for privacy rights, cybersecurity protections, societal improvements, and so many other necessary improvement areas, that perhaps, there can be positive changes in the years to come.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: From the beginning of starting my own business in 2004, I've worked primarily alone; doing all the work for my business projects and deliverables myself. However, when my son Noah joined my business in 2021, I realized the great benefits and improved outcomes from having Noah take on responsibilities for contributing work for parts of the projects, while I did other parts. By bringing in his fresh views and perspectives, the project outcomes improved. Especially for the courses we create together for our Privacy & Security Brainiacs business. Typically I create the scripts and provide the audio, and Noah takes care of the technology requirements, along with doing the art and creating the videos. Working together to create one final product has turned out to be my favorite team-building activity!

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: I'm one of those folks who buy books and have book lists with the sincere intent to actually read them. But then, life and work activities always interfere to take precedence. So I haven't actually read a book just for fun or relaxation in a very long time. Typically, I read books I'm using for my work, or I'm reading my own books I've written or am in the process of writing. One book I've had on my list for several months, though, is "Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection" by Charles Duhigg. I think it will help me to improve not only the courses I create, but also my keynotes and other talks I give.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: I rarely watch TV shows or movies; typically only for 30-60 minutes at night to wind down. And then, it is usually something completely different from my work. I also try to watch the evening and local news. One recurring segment within a TV show that I really liked was this episode of Steve Hartman's Kindness 101 about the CLEO Club. The high school students demonstrated some great inherent leadership instincts and actions, that included empathy and patience...characteristics that are missing from too many of our current corporate and government leaders!

MICHELLE REDFERN:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: I appreciate the approach Erika has taken in her article. I'd add one more step in the spirit of Spring and Spring Cleaning: one's own leadership. Stop. Breathe. Reflect. What plants (skills and attributes) are still thriving and serving me well? What plants have previously served me well, but no longer serve the garden and need to be removed? What plants do I need to plant now to serve the vision for the future garden? The most successful leaders schedule time for reflective practice. They know that people who regularly make time to stop, breathe, and think are 23 percent more likely to be high-performing leaders.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: I follow a woman on SubStack called Dina Honour. Dina has taken a leadership role in publishing the stories of women throughout history during Women's History (HERstory!) month because historians have so often erased women and their accomplishments. 

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: Anything to do with the Clifton Strengths, and preferably with my friend and colleague Charlotte Blair facilitating. Charlotte is one of the world's leading Strengths Experts and has helped me to create diverse teams who deeply understand each other's strengths, which is one of the recipes for a high-performing team and organisation.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: I am currently reading "Rage Becomes Her" by Soraya Chemaly about women's anger. My vocation as a gender equity and DEI advisor and lifelong feminist means I have a LOT of rage at the injustice women face. So this book is deepening my understanding of my own rage. After all, self-awareness is the first pillar of high EQ leaders.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: I thoroughly enjoyed "The Diplomat" seasons 1 and 2 about a reluctant leader. Keri Russell's character is appointed as the US Ambassador to the UK, and her depiction of leadership, which surpasses the typical bombastic, charismatic, and over-confident men we see in these positions, is wonderful. As is her approach to the many tricky situations she finds herself in and how she uses her skills in diplomacy, her most excellent knowledge of current affairs and world-shaping events to diffuse potentially explosive situations.

LAUREL AYNNE COOK:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: I can relate with and greatly appreciate, the seasonal metaphor used in this article, however, as a consumer behavior researcher, I would like to see more academic references (i.e., perhaps from the leadership or organizational behavior literature) as evidence to support the arguments that were made (e.g., clarity/growth/warmth/optimism leadership attributes). Also, the article could have delved deeper into how leaders strategically cultivate perceptions of clarity, growth, warmth, and optimism to influence stakeholders from a personal branding standpoint. There are some fun (and well disseminated) brand personality traits that could also be tied to marketing literature on human-brand analogies. The article also does a great job at targeting business leadership, in general, but there are wide variances in levels (e.g., new, executive) and industries (e.g., creative vs. analytical). 

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: Two examples of leader exemplars motivate and inspire me. I follow Leah Thomas (@GreenGirlLeah on Instagram) who is an "eco-communicator" leader in the areas of sustainability and digital activism. She blends cause-related marketing with strong personal leadership, which is perfect for someone like me who studies values-based branding. I also really enjoy Satya Nadella (Microsoft CEO) on X (@satyanadella) because (A) we have a shared passion for tech, especially being used for GOOD, and (B) he embodies empathetic leadership. His communication is warm, and he has a very strong personal brand.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: I think a personal "brand board" (i.e., collage) activity would be a lot of fun. 

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: I've been rereading the "Red Rising" series by Pierce Brown. I love to read, and while I'm required to read a lot of non-fiction for my job, my preference during my free time is to read fiction series - the longer the series, the better. 

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: I've got to respond with a bit of sci-fi: "Star Trek: The Next Generation" is, interestingly, often studied in MBA and leadership programs because of the emphasis on leadership by specific characters. 

JULIA CARCAMO:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: I, too, am a gardener but never saw the analogy. I have one particular flower bed that nothing seems to thrive in except perhaps weeds, but just today I noticed how colorful those weeds were and how the bees were enjoying them. Now looking back, I realize how often we try to force someone into a role that they are not well-suited for, but when we let them show us where they fit, it suddenly seems to make sense.

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: I work in the casino industry, and leadership is still predominantly male. There are a handful of female general managers, but there is one in particular, who always amazes me. She runs a very profitable operation, but more importantly, she is more concerned with her employees and helping them, as she would call it, thrive. It's not simply about success for her. She feels passionately that everyone under her work roof should be able to thrive in whatever they want to do both professionally and personally She never hesitates to publicly share the remarkable bond with her team. She knows that if her team is thriving, they will create great guest experiences, which will in turn create revenue.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: I cannot stand anything that's labeled "team-building." I do understand the importance of it, but I feel teams are built when connections are made - not when they struggle together to build a bridge out of match sticks. I accompanied a client to play bingo one night. None of us knew what we were doing, but we had THE best time. Two years later, we're still telling stories about that night. That's what I call team-building.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: I'm actually excited to re-read "Pillars of the Earth" (by Ken Follett). I read it 30 years ago and remember how moved I was. The other day, I had the urge to read it again.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: I have been watching "The Diplomat" and love the juxtaposition of leaders who don't act like it and the behind-the-scenes characters that move like leaders. Also, I noticed that when the sad news about Gene Hackman broke, one of the clips I kept seeing was from the movie "Hoosiers." That was a movie I used (years ago) to talk to my team about teamwork. He was an outsider that had to coalesce a winning team.

SCOTT BOWLING:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: For a garden to develop and thrive, it requires the research, thought, care, and ongoing attention, in every season, to achieve the bountiful desired outcomes. The same principles applied achieve the best outcomes and culture of any successful business. Our employees and managers need to be cared for in every season, and placed in the best roles and environments that bring out their optimal potential, contributing to the whole. 

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: If one is alert, our world offers a myriad of examples where great leadership inspires the best of us to step forward. There is an absence of that leadership in American politics right now, but inspiring leadership can be seen everywhere: in sports, in business, in communities. Leaders don't need a particular title, and they don't need an audience. Each one of us, every day, has countless moments to lead, by showing kindness, by picking up a small piece of litter on the street, by making good decisions that inspire someone watching, or that benefits another person or marginalized communities. Try it...it ripples through communities fast.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: Anything that requires a group of people (particularly otherwise mismatched people) to communicate with each other and work together to create something together. Those activities not only encourage and promote oneness, but the challenges bring out individual qualities that may have been previously hidden or unknown.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: I read articles by journals, writers, and reporters I respect (even if I don't always agree). While all of us enjoy reading material that supports our existing framework, position, or paradigm, I also enjoy and learn from being offered alternative perspectives, as it is those moments when I grow.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: The movie "The Apprentice" shows us how one's background and mentors can shape how someone of privilege and influence sees the world and himself in that world. The movie and the portrayal of Donald Trump by the brilliant actor Sebastian Stan illuminated for objective audience members the forces that helped shape our country's 47th President's view of himself and the world.  

And my two cents...DEBBIE LASKEY:

TAKE-AWAY FROM ERIKA ANDERSEN'S SPRINGTIME LEADERSHIP ARTICLE: Erika wrote, "After a few seasons, I finally figured out that you can't actually make a plant grow. I could only establish a good environment, get the right "plant" for the workplace and the job, and create the optimum conditions for him or her to thrive." As a supervisor, I have always provided the training, resources, feedback, and open-door policy for my team members, however, to my dismay, those elements are not always welcomed. 

RECENT LEADERSHIP INSPIRATION: Former President Jimmy Carter's post-presidency legacy and the election of Claudia Sheinbaum as Mexico's first female president and first Jewish president.

FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY: Volunteering as a group (or team) for a nonprofit.

BOOK ON TOP OF TO-BE-READ PILE: "Blacktop Wasteland" by S.A. Cosby.

TV SHOW/FILM/FICTION THAT STOOD OUT DUE TO ITS EMPHASIS ON LEADERSHIP: Film choice was "WICKED," and TV show was "The Diplomat." Leadership lessons from "Wicked" were beware of titles and be different; and leadership lessons from "The Diplomat" were learn from your team and build consensus.

As you may have noticed, it turns out that many of this series participants enjoyed watching the TV shows "The Bear," "Ted Lasso," and "The Diplomat" and their leadership themes - so check them out if you're not already a fan.

Did this series persuade you to think about leadership in nontraditional ways? Were you introduced to new leadership and marketing experts? Did you find inspiration from the responses?  These were my hopes. 

What's next on #DebbieLaskeysBlog? Coming in September, my #FallBacktoReadingSeries2025 will feature a dozen thought leaders as we discuss reading and marketing! Stay tuned!

Image Credit: Adobe.

Read the article that served as inspiration for this series by Erika Andersen: 

"How Springtime Can Make Us Better Leaders"

https://www.forbes.com/sites/erikaandersen/2015/05/14/how-springtime-can-make-us-better-leaders/