Who did you recognize with a HIGH FIVE today?

High Fives are seen regularly in both professional and amateur sports, but do you share them in the workplace? Since today is National High Five Day, celebrated annually on the third Thursday in April, it's appropriate to ask, "Who did you recognize with a High Five today?

According to Punchbowl, "While the first National High Five Day can be traced back to a group of University of Virginia students in 2002, no one knows who invented the High Five itself."

According to Maki Performance Training, "The High Five is a key part of North American sports culture and beyond. The High Five is often seen and used as a gesture of greeting, elation, celebration, or congratulation in our society. However, once you look at it more closely, the High Five has a deeper meaning and a wider effect.

Have you ever noticed what happens in a basketball game after a player makes a free throw? Regardless of whether they make the shot or miss it, the players around the teammate who's made the shot, give him/her a fist bump or High Five. Why is that?

A study was conducted on professional basketball players (NBA) which recorded the number of times they touched one another in a game (fist bump, high five, or a pat on the backside). In 50 minutes of play, they saw a total of a minute-and-a-half of touches made between teammates. Now, given the fact that each touch was maybe a hundredth of a second, you can see that this adds up to a lot of touches overall. What researchers found was astonishing. They looked at the teams with the largest number of touches and saw that these teams actually placed higher overall in the standings. Not only that, but teams with the largest number of touches also had better stats on passing. In other words, their team-interaction had improved their performance."

So, for those of us outside of the professional basketball arena, why should we give each other High Fives? Here are five important reasons why:

(1) It's a great way to communicate and display positive feedback.

(2) Similar to a handshake, the action of slapping your hand on someone else's signifies a physical connection.

(3) Athletes who High Five others are known to perform better.

(4) A High Five is an instantaneous way of telling a person that they are important.

(5) As illustrated by the NBA study, tactile communication increases cooperation.

SHARE THIS: You have to create a culture where everybody has an opportunity to be recognized. ~John Mackey #NationalHighFiveDay #LeadershipTip #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Image Credit: Maki Performance Training.

If you didn't give someone a High Five today, send one with an e-greeting. Here's the link:

https://www.punchbowl.com/ecards/d/national-high-five-day/design/front

Five Business Lessons from the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics

While the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics and my #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 are now history, there are many take-away business lessons from this exciting international event. I'd like to share five.

SHARE THIS: The Olympic Games have the power to unite us because we can all find something we can relate to in each athlete’s story, whether it’s a story of success or of disappointment. –Tatjana Schoenmaker #WinterOlympicGames #DebbieLaskeysBlog

PLANNING

According to Wikipedia, "The 2026 Winter Olympics, officially the XXV Winter Olympic Games and commonly known as Milano Cortina 2026, were an international multi-sport event that took place from 6 to 22 February 2026 at multiple sites across Lombardy and Northeast Italy, with competition in selected events beginning 4 February 2026. The 2026 Games featured the debut of ski mountaineering as a Winter Olympic event, and they were the first Olympic Games under the International Olympic Committee (IOC) presidency of Kirsty Coventry.

A joint bid by Milano and Cortina d'Ampezzo was awarded the 2026 Winter Olympics at the 134th IOC Session on 24 June 2019 (and planning began soon after). Milano Cortina 2026 was the first Olympic Games to be officially co-hosted by two cities. Milan primarily hosted the ice events, while the remaining events were hosted in clusters around Cortina, Livigno, and Fiemme. These marked the third Winter Olympics, and the fourth Olympics overall, hosted by Italy; Cortina d'Ampezzo previously hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics.

Norway finished at the top of the medal table for the fourth successive Winter Olympics with 18 gold and 41 medals overall, setting a new record for the largest number of gold and total medals won at a single Winter Olympics. The United States finished second with 12 gold and 33 medals overall. The Netherlands finished third with 10 gold and 20 medals overall, making this its most successful Winter Olympics in terms of gold medals. Host nation Italy finished fourth with 10 gold and 30 medals overall, setting a new record for number of medals won. Brazil won the first medal and first gold medal in their Winter Olympics history."

The Games had the highest percentage of women's participation in Winter Olympics history, although the Nordic combined event remained as the only Winter Olympic sport in which only men compete. There were 92 nations participating; 116 events in 8 sports; and 2,871 total athletes broken down into 1,533 men and 1,338 women.

A take-away for businesses is, when tasked with a large project, spend the time to learn all the facts, assemble a talented and enthusiastic team with many areas of expertise, and above all, don't be afraid to think outside the box to create an incredible result.

COURTESY

Athletes demonstrated courtesy toward one another. And IOC President Kirsty Coventry demonstrated courtesy when in discussion with Ukrainian skeleton pilot Vladyslav Heraskevych, who wished to wear a customized helmet during competition that commemorated fellow Ukrainian athletes who had lost their lives since the Russian invasion first began - despite the fact that a mutually-agreeable ending could not be reached and Heraskevych was eventually disqualified from competing.

A take-away for businesses is to always demonstrate courtesy toward employees and customers and to also acknowledge errors in judgment when they occur.

TEAMWORK

While athletes competed in both individual and team competitions, they all represented their countries, for example, TEAM USA represented the United States.

A take-away for businesses is to explain the importance of teamwork in onboarding activities, on-going training, and the creation and maintenance of a positive corporate culture.

And to quote American Olympian Chloé Dygert, an American professional racing cyclist who has won seven gold medals at the UCI Track Cycling World Championships and three medals (one silver and two bronze) at the Olympic Games, "The team BEHIND the team is everybody."

COMMUNICATION

Since 92 countries were represented, how did athletes and fans communicate? There are two official languages for all IOC proceedings, however, the host language, in this case, Italian, was used for local operations, signage, and announcements. Also, some sports have universally-understood words or phrases.

A take-away for businesses is to avoid industry lingo when possible. It's important to present information in as clear a manner as possible to employees, customers, and fans.

RECOGNITION

Exceptional athletes received medals (gold, silver, and bronze), and during the medal ceremonies, the three top winners stood on podiums and listened to the national Anthem of the gold medalist. While some athletes who were favored to win gold medals didn't win (although, what's wrong with winning silver or bronze medals at the Olympics?), no one will soon forget American (and fellow Californian) figure skater Alysa Liu's amazing Olympic gold medal performance!

A take-away for businesses is to recognize the quality work product of employees on a regular basis and also create unique ways to showcase special employees and/or their successes.

What other business lessons did you learn from the Olympics? Chime in and share.

Image Credits: International Olympic Committee (IOC).

A Recap of the Inspiring #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 on #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Each day during the recent 2026 Winter Olympics, officially the XXV Winter Olympic Games, and commonly referred to as Milano Cortina 2026, 14 thought leaders in leadership, marketing, and technology shared insights as to how leadership and personal branding aligned with the Olympics, the competitions, and the overall Olympic spirit. A common theme throughout was an appreciation for the bobsleigh, curling, figure skating, and hockey. Since the event is now history, it’s time for a recap of my #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026.

SHARE THIS: The Olympic Games have the power to unite us because we can all find something we can relate to in each athlete’s story, whether it’s a story of success or of disappointment. –Tatjana Schoenmaker #DebbieLaskeysBlog #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026

GIOVANNI CECCHINI (ARGENTINA/ITALY)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: Alpine skiing,

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: Bobsleigh.

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN EXAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: One Winter Olympics moment that stands out for me is the remarkable success of Alberto Tomba, Italy’s legendary alpine skier and one of the most charismatic and successful athletes in Winter Olympic history. Tomba won multiple gold medals across the late 1980s and early 1990s, notably taking gold in the giant slalom and slalom events at the 1988 Calgary Olympics and again at the 1992 Albertville Games. His achievements went far beyond the medals — Tomba redefined what it meant to be a champion, combining raw talent with an infectious passion and showmanship that captured the imagination of fans worldwide. Tomba’s Olympic legacy is more than a sports story: it’s a powerful emblem of running your own race, embracing your unique strengths, and relentlessly striving for excellence — principles that continue to inspire me both personally and professionally.

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: I would invite a mix of popular digital content creators and social media influencers, especially those passionate about outdoor adventure, sustainability, and lifestyle, alongside prominent figures from the gaming and technology sectors, such as e-sports champions and VR innovators. These influencers bring authentic storytelling and vast global followings on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, which would help connect the excitement and values of the Winter Olympics with younger audiences who might not traditionally follow winter sports. By combining the engaging power of influencers with cutting-edge technology and gaming culture, the Olympics could offer fresh, immersive experiences that resonate with tech-savvy viewers. This approach would not only expand the Games’ reach but also inspire a new generation to appreciate winter sports through innovative digital engagement and interactive content.

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: This milestone not only breaks a long-standing glass ceiling but also signals a meaningful move toward greater inclusivity and representation within the Olympic movement. It reflects the evolving spirit of the Games — uniting people worldwide while embracing diversity in leadership. Looking ahead, I am optimistic that under Coventry’s leadership, the IOC will continue to promote equality, innovation, and sustainability within sports. Her story will inspire countless young athletes and leaders, especially from underrepresented regions, demonstrating that leadership knows no boundaries. This fresh perspective positions the Olympics to evolve in ways that are more global, inclusive, and forward-thinking than ever before.

IAN GOLDING (UNITED KINGDOM)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: Bobsleigh and skeleton.

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: Pairs figure skating,

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN EXAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: As a Brit, I am always reminded of the determination shown by Eddie ‘the eagle’ Edwards who competed in ski jumping at the 1988 Winter Olympics. The first person to ever do so from Great Britain – with no support and no funding, whilst he came last (by some way), the courage and determination he showed to achieve his dream is the perfect demonstration to me of what victory is all about.

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: I am tempted to say Olaf – the snowman from the Movie "Frozen" – to attract a new audience. I think it is important to inspire potential athletes as early as possible, and I think Olaf would be the perfect character to do so with children all around the world.

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: To me, leadership has nothing to do with gender or race. Leadership is demonstrated through the ability of a person to inspire others to follow. At its core, leadership is the ability to inspire, influence, and guide others toward a shared vision, goal, or purpose. It isn’t just about authority or position - it’s about creating conditions where people can succeed and feel motivated to contribute their best.

ELIA GUARDIOLA (SPAIN)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: Figure skating.

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: Curling.

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN EXAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: I remember the victory of the French ice dance pair Gabriella Papadakis and Guillaume Cizeron. They didn’t just win medals; they achieved something bigger: the respect of the audience and the feeling of transcendence. Their story is proof that true success isn’t only on the podium — it’s in coherence with yourself, in the ability to turn effort into legacy.

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: I’d invite someone unexpected: an educational content creator who can translate what’s happening in each discipline into simple, emotional language. Today we don’t just need celebrities creating spectacle; we need storytellers creating meaning. Someone like Neil deGrasse Tyson, who turns science into poetry, could bring the Games closer to people who have never watched a skeleton or biathlon event.

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: It’s about time. And I don’t say this only from a gender perspective, but because sports need voices that truly represent diversity. Coventry is a woman, an African, and an Olympic athlete. Her arrival at the IOC breaks inertia and opens the door to a more plural future. The real challenge will be ensuring that this diversity doesn’t remain symbolic, but translates into decisions that make the Games more inclusive, accessible, and human.

DAN GINGISS (USA)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: Downhill skiing.

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: Synchronized skating.

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN EXAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: The one that sticks with me is the U.S. men’s curling team winning gold in 2018. Nobody expected them to win — they weren’t the favorites, they just kept showing up, learning from every mistake, and staying focused on their own race. That perfectly reflects Suzanne’s point: you define your own version of victory For them, victory wasn’t about beating Canada or Sweden — it was about constant progress and trust in their process. That mindset is gold for business leaders too.

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: Ryan Reynolds.

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: I think it’s wonderful — and a long-overdue change in perspective. Kirsty Coventry brings lived experience from regions and communities that haven’t always had a voice on the global sports stage. That’s going to reshape the Olympic experience itself — how athletes are supported, how fans are engaged, and how the Games evolve for future generations. Just like in business, when leaders understand that every customer base is diverse in almost any way you can define diversity, then companies develop better products and marketing. Not everyone uses the same products, or even the same product the same way (I often think about how every single Apple iPhone home screen is unique). Smart companies realize this and adapt to expand their audience; I'm sure Kirsty will do the same for the Olympics.

SUSAN FRIESEN (CANADA)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: Figure skating - especially ice dancing.

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: Bobsleigh.

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN XAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: The 2010 “Golden Goal” still stands out for me. I remember sitting glued to the TV as overtime played out in Vancouver. Suddenly, Sidney Crosby buried it, winning the coveted gold. The team was able to do this because they stayed patient and played their game, knowing the win was well within their grasp. That one shot may have looked like magic, but it’s the product of thousands of hours of refining their craft using a shared collective standard. In business, that’s the win you earn by staying with your plan, even when the pressure is high.

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: Ryan Reynolds.

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: Representation at the top changes what gets measured. With former athlete Kirsty Coventry now leading the IOC, decisions can tilt more toward athlete safety, clean sport, and wider access. Pair that with real transparency and trust in the Olympic brand will rise, because trust follows governance, not slogans. I’d love to see her better measure athlete welfare, publish the budgets, and report openly. That’s how you protect the brand and grow it. The Winter Games remind me why great brands win: masterfully combining precision, courage, and teamwork, all performed under pressure. Build the foundation, trust your roles, and stay with your line. That’s how you earn your own "golden goal."

ERIC JACOBSON (USA)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: Alpine (downhill) skiing and the luge.

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: Ice hockey.

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN EXAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: The most memorable is the U.S. ice hockey team’s earning the men’s gold medal when they competed against the Soviet Union team during the Lake Placid 1980 Olympics. Even though the Soviets were the overwhelming favorites to win, the U.S. team comprised almost entirely of collegiate players, won the game 4 to 3. This dramatic upset and “Miracle on Ice,” as it became known, transcended into legend, and in 2000, the Associated Press named the win as "the top sports moment of the 20th century."

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: I believe that even though the Winter Olympics reach a diverse audience, a significant portion of viewers are older adults and those from higher income and educated backgrounds. Therefore, to attract a new audience, finding a person admired, inspired, and followed by younger individuals – early in their education journey and careers – could be a good strategy. Possibly Drew Barymoe, Jennifer Hudson, Ed Sheeran, Ariana Grande, or Bruno Mars. 

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: Like my support for when more women enter top leadership positions at companies around the globe, it’s encouraging to see Kristy Coventry break through the glass ceiling as she assumes her new role with the Olympic Games. As with any new leader, my hope is she will bring fresh perspectives and strong leadership skills, and that she will advocate for inclusiveness and unity within the Olympics.

JOSEPH LALONDE (USA)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: Snowboarding.

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: Ice hockey.

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN EXAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: Clara Hughes' achievements in the Summer and Winter Olympics come to mind. She's a Canadian Olympian who has achieved something truly remarkable. She is the only Canadian Olympian to win medals at the Summer and Winter Olympic Games. She's a cyclist and speed skater. She's run her own race by standing out in a small crowd of extraordinary athletes.

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: One of the biggest cultural phenomena is the emergence and embrace of K-pop (Korean pop music). It's not only lit up the charts in Korea but it's bridging cultural gaps and gaining traction in other countries. I'd look at bringing in the band BTS. It holds cultural relevance, could bring in new audiences, and creates a memorable experience.

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: This is a special moment in Olympic history. Seeing Coventry rise to the rank of President of the IOC is spectacular. Her qualifications are stellar. She's implementing important changes. And she's a great example to millions of young girls and women around the world.

KARIN NORGAARD (DENMARK)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: Ski jumping.

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: Curling.

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN EXAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: It has to be Steven Bradbury’s gold in Salt Lake City 2002. He was nowhere near the favorite in short track speed skating, but then, in a twist worthy of Netflix, every other skater in the final crashed. Bradbury just glided through the chaos to Olympic gold. It’s the ultimate reminder that sometimes victory is about persistence and being ready when opportunity knocks (or when everyone else falls over). And if I bring it closer to home: Denmark isn’t exactly known for dominating the Winter Games, but when our women’s curling team took silver in 1998, it felt like a fairy tale. Proof that even underdogs with brooms can sweep their way into history!

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: I’d call in the cast of "Succession" to do live commentary on ice hockey. And for ice dancing? Meryl Streep in full "Devil Wears Prada" mode; pursing her lips, raising an eyebrow, and delivering icy one-liners after every routine. The judges’ scores would suddenly feel like high fashion verdicts. Instant viral Olympics.

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: Her presidency is a milestone. First woman, first African, first Zimbabwean — that’s not just history, that’s momentum. The Olympics thrive on stories of barriers broken, and Coventry embodies that spirit off the field. My hope is that she uses her athlete’s mindset to make the IOC braver, faster, and more open to change.

REBECCA HEROLD (USA)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: My favorite sports usually change with each Olympics.

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: Hockey.

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN EXAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: Victory means different things based upon the context of each situation. A competitive event in the short track speed skating competition that I happened to see is actually what made me a devoted fan of that sport in the 2002 Olympics. The gold medalist, Steven Bradbury from Australia won by taking a calculated risk regarding what his competitors would do. Reportedly (at the time), he had studied his competitors closely. He knew that several of them had faster times than his fastest time to that date in history. Bradbury purposefully stayed at the back of the pack for most of the race. In the final lap of the final race, the four leading skaters all crashed into each other, and Bradbury zoomed by the resulting pile-up and crossed the finish line first and won a gold medal! 

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: Taylor Swift.

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: I think it is great to see a former athlete, world record holder, and demonstrably successful leader in multiple facets of her life, to have been elected as IOC President. Her election win demonstrates substantial international support for her leadership capabilities.

MICHELLE REDFERN (AUSTRALIA)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: Luge and freestyle snowboarding.

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: No matter whether it's an individual sport or a team sport. There's always a team in the playing arena and outside of it. So I think any Olympic sport, whether it's winter or summer, demonstrates that there's always a team that makes things happen.

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN EXAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: Well, I'm Australian, so you know the dude who won the gold medal in the speed skating because everyone else fell over? Steven Bradbury is his name. That is part of our history and our folklore - so much so that Australians say, "If you hang in there long enough, you'll do a Bradbury." He ran his own race and kept running it even when everyone else fell over - then he won the gold medal. That's got to be a lesson in sticking to the plan, perseverance, and not getting distracted. 

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: Whoever I chose, I'd make sure that they were representative of and inclusive of all humans. 

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: Thoughts are: "It's about time" and "Why has it taken this long?" My advice to Kirsty Coventry is: "What is she doing as the first to make sure that she's not the last?" 

MELANIE BELL (USA)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: Ice hockey.

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: Hockey and pairs figure skating.

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN EXAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: I remember watching Surya Bonaly compete in figure skating in the 90's. She was such a powerful skater, and I think the judges penalized her for her strength. Not that I’m a figure skating expert. I remember watching her last performance and wanting to cry right along with her. And let’s not forget everyone’s favorite Jamaican bobsled team from the 1988 Olympic Games in Calgary!

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: I’m very excited that Stanley Tucci will be involved this time around. Other interesting personalities that could be fun - someone who’s popular with kids to get the next generation interested in the events and sports that comprise the Olympics. I also think the Kelce brothers are having a moment, and with their sense of humor and banter, they’d make a great addition as well, at least for the US audience. 

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: We should celebrate any time someone with that kind of credible background and who is from a historically underrepresented group achieves a new position. I’m a believer that diversity makes organizations stronger and perform better, and data backs that up. Kirsty sounds like she’ll bring a lot to the table, and with the past controversies and rumors surrounding the corruption of international sporting events, I hope that this marks a new chapter for the IOC.

IAN BUCKINGHAM (UNITED KINGDOM)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: Downhill snowboard racing.

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: Hockey or the bobsleigh.

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN EXAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: I love that quote ("In business as in life, you’ve got to run your own race.") so much as it applies to business and aiming to lead a balanced life. There are so many examples of Olympians who match this quote from Great Britain's Eddie the Eagle through to the Jamaican bobsleigh team. But the first that came to mind was Steven Bradbury - the Australian athlete who won the 1,000m speed skating event at the 2002 Winter Olympics against all odds.

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: Perhaps, the Obamas for the adults - encouraging a very different demographic. Or Taylor Swift and her fiancee Travis Kelce who seem, between them, to have bolstered interest in NFL exponentially, gaining legions of female and teenage fans. It would be a massive win/win - they could even collaborate to write the soundtrack.

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: Let's hope that she brings the wisdom, insights, emotional intelligence, resilience, objectivity, and tenacity to put a really positive stamp on the premium Winter sports tournament during her tenure and that she has the support of a great team to back her up. I'm excited to see what she will add to the Olympic legacy, cultivating the values we all should hold dear at such a complex and trying time for the global community.

ERIC STONE (USA)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: Freestyle skiing.

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: Hockey.

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN EXAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: The 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team stands out in my memory more than any other Winter Olympic moment. This was a team of amateurs and college players who, on paper, had no business beating the powerhouse Soviet Union. Yet they defied the odds, won one of the most famous upsets in sports history, and eventually captured the gold medal. What made it so powerful wasn’t just the win, it was the context. The Cold War was at its peak, tensions were high, and this victory became a symbol of hope and resilience. I can still hear sports broadcaster Al Michaels’ call: “Do you believe in miracles? Yes!” That moment wasn’t only about hockey, it was about what happens when you define victory on your own terms, keep believing in your vision, and celebrate the progress you’ve made.

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: MrBeast and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: Kirsty Coventry’s versatility and remarkable journey from Olympian to politician to global sports leader make her someone everyone should be inspired by. This appointment shows that the IOC is committed to living its values rather than just listing them. In doing so, it proves that the organization promotes what it truly permits. The committee clearly isn’t afraid to break barriers to bring in the best leader for the future of the Games.

AILEEN DAY (AUSTRALIA)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: Bobsleigh.

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: Curling.

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN EXAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: In the sport ski mountaineering, there is no prize for doing it one way or another. It is left to the participant to set their course, taking obstacles into account, and defining solutions on the run. Every participant’s path is slightly different. No two athletes will have the same experience the whole way through, and with that, it is imperative to celebrate the successes of your own challenges and work as strategically as possible to finish your own race, with integrity and humility.

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: Labubu dolls.

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: Glass ceilings are meant to be shattered, and yet we still see it occur so infrequently. However, her appointment in this case was won on her extensive experience in sports and sports leadership, not just the administration or business acumens of many of the other candidates. I think it is important to have a leader who has come from the trenches and can empathise and listen to all manner of stakeholders, including and most importantly, the athletes - for without them, we would have no Olympics. 

DEBBIE LASKEY (USA)

FAVORITE WINTER OLYMPICS SPORT: A tie between curling and moguls.

OLYMPIC SPORT THAT VISUALLY DEMONSTRATES TEAMWORK: Bobsledding.

OLYMPIC EVENT THAT STANDS OUT AS AN EXAMPLE OF RUNNING YOUR OWN RACE/DEFINE WHAT VICTORY MEANS TO YOU: In 1980, when American figure skating pair Tai and Randy had to pull out of the competition at the last minute due to an injury - they were still heroes.

INVITED PERSON/PERSONS TO ATTRACT A NEW AUDIENCE: Taylor Swift.

IMPACT OF NEW IOC PRESIDENT KIRSTY COVENTRY: I hope she works to eliminate gender discrimination and gender bias on the international sports stage as well as addresses financial compensation for athletes (Hong Kong rewards gold medalists up to $768,000), equal athlete participation (for the first time in the history of the Olympics, an equal number of men and women athletes competed at the 2024 Paris Olympics), and continued sustainability efforts.

During this series, I hope you gained new ways to think about leadership, personal branding, and the Olympics. Much applause for the series participants! And now, get ready...the official countdown begins for the 2028 Summer Olympic Games in my hometown, Los Angeles!

Image Credits: Olympics and Adobe.

WINTER OLYMPICS LEADERSHIP SERIES 2026 - Featuring Aileen Day

With the eyes of the world on Italy for the 25th edition of the Winter Olympics, which events are you looking forward to? In the spirit of previous leadership series here on my blog, I've asked a dozen leadership and marketing experts to respond to five questions with the hope that both the questions and answers lead you to think about leadership, personal branding, and the Olympics in new and interesting ways.

For today's post, I'd like to introduce Aileen Day, Australia’s premier customer, employee, and human experience thought leader, advisor, and author. She is a sought-after speaker, consultant, mentor, and also, clinical therapist. She works with medium to large enterprises who are scaling or transitioning the way they operate to ensure their customer, employee, and human experiences (CEHX) are foundationally and sustainably strong. Aileen is one of Australia’s few, formally qualified and globally recognised certified CX Professionals (CCXP) through the international CX governing body, CXPA. 

SHARE THIS: The Olympic Games have the power to unite us because we can all find something inspirational or something we can relate to in each athlete’s story, whether it’s a story of success or of disappointment. –Tatjana Schoenmaker (South Africa’s most decorated Olympian) #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: What is your favorite WINTER Olympics sport, and why?

AILEEN DAY: My favourite Winter Olympics sport is the bobsleigh as it reminds me of one of my all-time favourite childhood movies, "Cool Runnings." It was also one of the first movies I saw that I recall taking a life lesson away from in that resilience, purpose, and synchronicity can really get you to places you only dreamed of.

SHARE THIS: Resilience, purpose, and synchronicity can really get you to places you only dreamed of. ~Aileen Day #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: What WINTER Olympics sport most “visually” demonstrates teamwork, and why?

AILEEN DAY: I think visually you can’t go past curling as a sport that details the power of teamwork. Every brush stroke decides the direction and not one player can outperform the other without everyone losing.

QUESTION: According to Suzanne Robb, COO of Alloy, “Define what victory means to you, and keep that vision in mind. You’re the one who gets to determine when you’re making progress, what success means, and what your focus should be. When you get a win, take time to celebrate. In business as if life, you’ve got to run your own race.” With this quote in mind, which Winter Olympics event or result stands out in your memory, and why?

AILEEN DAY: This quote reminds me of the sport, Ski mountaineering. There is no prize for doing it one way or another. It is left to the participant to set their course, taking obstacles into account, and defining solutions on the run. Every participant’s path is slightly different. No two athletes will have the same experience the whole way through, and with that, it is imperative to celebrate the successes of your own challenges and work as strategically as possible to finish your own race, with integrity and humility.

QUESTION: During the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, entertainer and businessman Snoop Dogg used the hashtag #FollowTheDogg and shared his Olympic experiences on social media. My favorite story and related photos were when he and friend Martha Stewart dressed in equestrian clothing and attended the dressage competition. According to reports, Snoop’s involvement was intended to attract a new audience to the Olympics. If you were in charge of the Winter Olympics, who would you invite to attract a new audience, and why?

AILEEN DAY: I would invite the Labubu dolls, they are known worldwide and are a favourite amongst tweens thanks to famous K-pop star, Lisa from Blackpink. They are not only in a longstanding trend but they have become collectibles (think an updated version of Beanie Babies). I would have them collab with athletes and encourage a new and younger generation to become educated and enthralled by the heights of which competitive sport can take them.

QUESTION: The 2026 Winter Olympics will be the first Olympic Games under the leadership of International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry. She is a former Zimbabwean politician, sports administrator, and former Olympic swimmer and world record holder. She is also the first woman, first Zimbabwean, and the first African to serve as IOC President. According to Reuters, “Kirsty Coventry smashed through the IOC’s glass ceiling in March 2025 to become the organization’s first female President in its 130-year history.” What are your thoughts about this development for the world’s biggest multi-sport organization – and its future?

AILEEN DAY: I would say that glass ceilings are meant to be shattered, and yet we still see it occur so infrequently. However, her appointment in this case was won on her extensive experience in sports and sports leadership, not just the administration or business acumens of many of the other candidates. I think it is important to have a leader who has come from the trenches and can empathise and listen to all manner of stakeholders, including and most importantly, the athletes - for without them, we would have no Olympics. 

A final reminder, a series recap will be featured tomorrow, on February 22nd. Until then, the countdown begins until this Winter Olympics' Closing Ceremony.

Image Credit: Olympics.

Meet Aileen at this link:

https://aileenday.com.au/#aboutus

WINTER OLYMPICS LEADERSHIP SERIES 2026 - Featuring Eric Stone

With the eyes of the world on Italy for the 25th edition of the Winter Olympics, which events are you looking forward to? In the spirit of previous leadership series here on my blog, I've asked a dozen leadership and marketing experts to respond to five questions with the hope that both the questions and answers lead you to think about leadership, personal branding, and the Olympics in new and interesting ways.

For today's post, I'd like to introduce Eric Stone, based in New York. Eric is a dynamic leader whose passion for business fueled a remarkable 26-year career at Enterprise Holdings, where he rose to become one of the most celebrated Regional Vice Presidents in the company's history. Leveraging his expertise in cultivating high-performance cultures, Eric authored the award-winning book Jumpstart Your Workplace Culture, which has inspired leaders around the world. As an international speaker, Eric captivates audiences with practical strategies and real-world insights, empowering organizations to drive engagement and achieve exceptional results. Through his company, Clear Path Ventures, he provides hands-on consulting to help leaders and teams develop tailored engagement strategies that foster transformation and measurable growth.

SHARE THIS: The Olympic Games have the power to unite us because we can all find something inspirational or something we can relate to in each athlete’s story, whether it’s a story of success or of disappointment. –Tatjana Schoenmaker (South Africa’s most decorated Olympian) #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: What is your favorite WINTER Olympics sport, and why?

ERIC STONE: The truth is, my favorite part of the Olympics is hearing the stories about the athletes’ journeys and backgrounds. But if I had to pick an event, it would be freestyle skiing. Watching skiers navigate moguls the size of a VW Beetle, all while racing down a steep slope and launching themselves off two strategically placed jumps, is a perfect mix of skill, precision, and pure adrenaline.

QUESTION: What WINTER Olympics sport most “visually” demonstrates teamwork, and why?

ERIC STONE: Hockey is the Winter Olympic sport that most visually demonstrates teamwork. It removes the spotlight from the individual and shines it on the team. With a roster of up to 25 players, success isn’t just about raw talent: it’s about chemistry, strategy, and leadership that comes from coaches, players, and even the support staff. What makes Olympic hockey especially powerful is that these athletes come from different professional teams and must quickly set aside rivalries to represent something bigger than themselves. As Herb Brooks famously said, “The name on the front of the jersey is more important than the name on the back.” You can literally see teamwork on the ice in every shift, every line change, and every goal.

SHARE THIS: The name on the front of the jersey is more important than the name on the back. ~Herb Brooks via Eric Stone #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: According to Suzanne Robb, COO of Alloy, “Define what victory means to you, and keep that vision in mind. You’re the one who gets to determine when you’re making progress, what success means, and what your focus should be. When you get a win, take time to celebrate. In business as if life, you’ve got to run your own race.” With this quote in mind, which Winter Olympics event or result stands out in your memory, and why?

ERIC STONE: The 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team stands out in my memory more than any other Winter Olympic moment. This was a team of amateurs and college players who, on paper, had no business beating the powerhouse Soviet Union. Yet they defied the odds, won one of the most famous upsets in sports history, and eventually captured the gold medal.

What made it so powerful wasn’t just the win, it was the context. The Cold War was at its peak, tensions were high, and this victory became a symbol of hope and resilience. I can still hear sports broadcaster Al Michaels’ call: “Do you believe in miracles? Yes!” That moment wasn’t only about hockey, it was about what happens when you define victory on your own terms, keep believing in your vision, and celebrate the progress you’ve made.

QUESTION: During the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, entertainer and businessman Snoop Dogg used the hashtag #FollowTheDogg and shared his Olympic experiences on social media. My favorite story and related photos were when he and friend Martha Stewart dressed in equestrian clothing and attended the dressage competition. According to reports, Snoop’s involvement was intended to attract a new audience to the Olympics. If you were in charge of the Winter Olympics, who would you invite to attract a new audience, and why?

ERIC STONE: If I were in charge of the Winter Olympics, I’d invite MrBeast and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Both have massive global influence but connect with audiences in very different ways. MrBeast could bring younger viewers into the Olympic story through creative digital challenges and philanthropy-driven content, while The Rock embodies resilience, inspiration, and unity; the core of the Olympic ethos. Together, they could bridge generations, cultures, and platforms. Not to mention, I’m sure they’d come up with a few hilarious skits of their own along the way.

QUESTION: The 2026 Winter Olympics will be the first Olympic Games under the leadership of International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry. She is a former Zimbabwean politician, sports administrator, and former Olympic swimmer and world record holder. She is also the first woman, first Zimbabwean, and the first African to serve as IOC President. According to Reuters, “Kirsty Coventry smashed through the IOC’s glass ceiling in March 2025 to become the organization’s first female President in its 130-year history.” What are your thoughts about this development for the world’s biggest multi-sport organization – and its future?

ERIC STONE: I’m excited about this decision. Kirsty Coventry’s versatility and remarkable journey from Olympian to politician to global sports leader make her someone everyone should be inspired by. This appointment shows that the IOC is committed to living its values rather than just listing them. In doing so, it proves that the organization promotes what it truly permits. The committee clearly isn’t afraid to break barriers to bring in the best leader for the future of the Games.

Please note, a small interruption to the series will take place tomorrow, on February 20th to celebrate "National Leadership Day," and then the Olympics series returns on February 21st. A series recap will be featured on February 22nd. Enjoy the Olympics!

Image Credit: Olympics.

Read Eric's previous appearance here on my blog:

SPRING LEADERSHIP SERIES 2025 – Featuring Eric Stone (April 14, 2025)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2025/04/spring-leadership-series-2025-featuring_01306532703.html

Meet Eric at this link:

https://www.ericdstone.com/

WINTER OLYMPICS LEADERSHIP SERIES 2026 - Featuring Ian Buckingham

With the eyes of the world on Italy for the 25th edition of the Winter Olympics, which events are you looking forward to? In the spirit of previous leadership series here on my blog, I've asked a dozen leadership and marketing experts to respond to five questions with the hope that both the questions and answers lead you to think about leadership, personal branding, and the Olympics in new and interesting ways.

For today's post, I'd like to introduce Ian Buckingham. Ian is the author of what has become known as the brand trilogy: Brand Engagement, Brand Champions, and now Sustainable Brand Leadership, three books that explore the influence that employees have on the brands they represent, at the interface of marketing, communication, and human resources. The last in the series was published in December 2025 and was co-authored with Kate Hargreaves, his partner and co-owner of Mosaic Partners, a multiple award-winning leadership development and change agency based in the North of England.

SHARE THIS: The Olympic Games have the power to unite us because we can all find something inspirational or something we can relate to in each athlete’s story, whether it’s a story of success or of disappointment. –Tatjana Schoenmaker (South Africa’s most decorated Olympian) #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: What is your favorite WINTER Olympics sport, and why?

IAN BUCKINGHAM: I enjoy watching most sports and have a particular respect and awe for Winter Olympic sports as I grew up in Africa where the conditions hardly favour those disciplines, and the UK, where I was born and have lived most of my life, doesn't have quite the climate or infrastructure to encourage many Winter Olympics Champions. I would love to have played ice hockey, as a former rugby player, and greatly admire the downhill skiers and Nordic and Biathlon Olympians. But on balance, my favourite is a relatively recent addition, downhill snowboard racing, which combines speed, strength, agility, acrobatics, and luck, and is seldom determined until the final line is crossed. I don't snowboard, I ski, but I do look forward to watching the snowboarding.

QUESTION: What WINTER Olympics sport most “visually” demonstrates teamwork, and why?

IAN BUCKINGHAM: It has to be either hockey or the Bobsleigh, where there are clearly differentiated roles, yet each member of the team is needed, and all have to act with one mind, competing largely against their own PB (personal best) first, in perfect synchronisation in pursuit of a joint vision with a large dose of jeopardy introduced for good measure.

SHARE THIS: In hockey (like in business), there are clearly differentiated roles, yet each member of the team is needed, and all have to act in pursuit of a joint vision. ~Ian Buckingham #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: According to Suzanne Robb, COO of Alloy, “Define what victory means to you, and keep that vision in mind. You’re the one who gets to determine when you’re making progress, what success means, and what your focus should be. When you get a win, take time to celebrate. In business as if life, you’ve got to run your own race.” With this quote in mind, which Winter Olympics event or result stands out in your memory, and why?

IAN BUCKINGHAM: I love that quote ("In business as in life, you’ve got to run your own race.") so much as it applies to business and aiming to lead a balanced life. There are so many examples of Olympians who match this quote from GB's Eddie the Eagle through to the Jamaican bobsleigh team.

But the first that came to mind was Steven Bradbury - the Australian athlete who won the 1,000m speed skating event at the 2002 Winter Olympics against all odds. Despite being behind his competitors in the quarter-finals, he strategically chose to sit back and wait for others to make mistakes under pressure, which they did, allowing him to advance to the end. Bradbury's victory was marked by another dramatic pile-up in the race, where he was the only one left standing at the finish line, earning him the nickname "the accidental hero." This remarkable achievement not only secured Australia its first Winter Olympic gold medal but also became a symbol of perseverance and determination in sports.

QUESTION: During the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, entertainer and businessman Snoop Dogg used the hashtag #FollowTheDogg and shared his Olympic experiences on social media. My favorite story and related photos were when he and friend Martha Stewart dressed in equestrian clothing and attended the dressage competition. According to reports, Snoop’s involvement was intended to attract a new audience to the Olympics. If you were in charge of the Winter Olympics, who would you invite to attract a new audience, and why?

IAN BUCKINGHAM: This is a tough question, as the obvious answer would be a so-called Gen Z "influencer," like one of the Pauls who have used their online presence to attract millions of young people to boxing. But to my mind, it has ruined the ethos of the sporting context and has rendered it a pantomime like the WWF, where outcomes are choreographed for buzz. I would prefer someone with true authenticity, someone who backs up the words and has genuine respect for their craft. Perhaps, the Obamas for the adults - encouraging a very different demographic. Or Taylor Swift and her fiancee Travis Kelce who seem, between them, to have bolstered interest in NFL exponentially, gaining legions of female and teenage fans. It would be a massive win/win - they could even collaborate to write the soundtrack.

QUESTION: The 2026 Winter Olympics will be the first Olympic Games under the leadership of International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry. She is a former Zimbabwean politician, sports administrator, and former Olympic swimmer and world record holder. She is also the first woman, first Zimbabwean, and the first African to serve as IOC President. According to Reuters, “Kirsty Coventry smashed through the IOC’s glass ceiling in March 2025 to become the organization’s first female President in its 130-year history.” What are your thoughts about this development for the world’s biggest multi-sport organization – and its future?

IAN BUCKINGHAM: It's fair to say that the leadership of the governing bodies of many of the world's richest sports have suffered in recent decades, including the Olympic movement. This leadership malaise isn't confined to sport, it's blighting politics the world over as well, but for some reason, sport has suffered more than its share of corrupt and unsavoury scandals. With this in mind, radical change will be something many of the viewing and paying public will favour, provided, of course, Kirsty is up to the job. She certainly hails from a country that has had more than its fair share of difficulty in this regard. Let's hope that she brings the wisdom, insights, emotional intelligence, resilience, objectivity, and tenacity to put a really positive stamp on the premium Winter sports tournament during her tenure and that she has the support of a great team to back her up. I'm excited to see what she will add to the Olympic legacy, cultivating the values we all should hold dear at such a complex and trying time for the global community.

A final reminder, as you watch the competitions, make a note on your calendar to swing by #DebbieLaskeysBlog each day through February 22nd for leadership and marketing inspiration. A small interruption to the series will take place on February 20th to celebrate "National Leadership Day," then  the Olympics series returns on February 21st. A series recap will be featured on February 22nd. Enjoy the Olympics!

Image Credit: Olympics.

Meet Ian at this link:

http://www.mosaicpartners.co.uk

WINTER OLYMPICS LEADERSHIP SERIES 2026 - Featuring Melanie Bell

With the eyes of the world on Italy for the 25th edition of the Winter Olympics, which events are you looking forward to? In the spirit of previous leadership series here on my blog, I've asked a dozen leadership and marketing experts to respond to five questions with the hope that both the questions and answers lead you to think about leadership, personal branding, and the Olympics in new and interesting ways.

For today's post, I'd like to introduce Melanie Bell, based in Northern California. Melanie is the Co-Founder of Strategic Piece, a company that helps B2B businesses generate outstanding revenue growth by bringing together their marketing, sales, and service teams around an information-driven customer experience. However, Melanie is not only about marketing. She founded Leaders Who Fiction, a virtual monthly book club (where we met in November 2023), while running Strategic Piece. Through Leaders Who Fiction, Melanie helps people develop leadership skills by reading fiction and participating in intellectual, business-oriented conversations centered around a selected novel. Prior to Strategic Piece, Melanie was President of Marketing Interface, which she founded in 2014, after serving as Director of Marketing at SURGE Accelerator/SURGE Ventures. Melanie earned a BA in International Development from McGill University in Montreal and an MBA from Rice University in Houston.

SHARE THIS: The Olympic Games have the power to unite us because we can all find something inspirational or something we can relate to in each athlete’s story, whether it’s a story of success or of disappointment. –Tatjana Schoenmaker (South Africa’s most decorated Olympian) #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: What is your favorite WINTER Olympics sport, and why?

MELANIE BELL: I want to start by saying that I’m unbelievably excited it’s time for another Olympics. And there are so many fun winter sports to watch – from the glamorous figure skating and grace of skiing to the terror of things like the skeleton. We’re undoubtedly in for a treat. 

I’m most excited to watch ice hockey this year. I follow the NHL closely because hockey is such a fun sport that requires high levels of athleticism. What can I say? Seven years of living in Canada converted me into a mega-fan! It’ll be fun to watch players represent their country and play on different teams than we see during regular hockey season.

QUESTION: What WINTER Olympics sport most “visually” demonstrates teamwork, and why?

MELANIE BELL: Well, hockey does require large teams, so that’s an obvious one. The other sport that comes to mind is pairs figure skating. Let me just say, if I was ever going to let a guy pick me up and spin me around on ice like that, it would absolutely (a) scare the pants off me and (b) require insane amounts of trust and teamwork in the partnership.

QUESTION: According to Suzanne Robb, COO of Alloy, “Define what victory means to you, and keep that vision in mind. You’re the one who gets to determine when you’re making progress, what success means, and what your focus should be. When you get a win, take time to celebrate. In business as if life, you’ve got to run your own race.” With this quote in mind, which Winter Olympics event or result stands out in your memory, and why?

MELANIE BELL: I remember watching Surya Bonaly compete in figure skating in the 90's. She was such a powerful skater, and I think the judges penalized her for her strength. Not that I’m a figure skating expert. I remember watching her last performance and wanting to cry right along with her. And let’s not forget everyone’s favorite Jamaican bobsled team from the 1988 Olympic Games in Calgary!

QUESTION: During the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, entertainer and businessman Snoop Dogg used the hashtag #FollowTheDogg and shared his Olympic experiences on social media. My favorite story and related photos were when he and friend Martha Stewart dressed in equestrian clothing and attended the dressage competition. According to reports, Snoop’s involvement was intended to attract a new audience to the Olympics. If you were in charge of the Winter Olympics, who would you invite to attract a new audience, and why?

MELANIE BELL: I also loved when Snoop and Martha did that, and I’m very excited that Stanley Tucci will be involved this time around. Other interesting personalities that could be fun — someone who’s popular with kids to get the next generation interested in the events and sports that comprise the Olympics. I also think the Kelce brothers are having a moment, and with their sense of humor and banter, they’d make a great addition as well, at least for the US audience. 

QUESTION: The 2026 Winter Olympics will be the first Olympic Games under the leadership of International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry. She is a former Zimbabwean politician, sports administrator, and former Olympic swimmer and world record holder. She is also the first woman, first Zimbabwean, and the first African to serve as IOC President. According to Reuters, “Kirsty Coventry smashed through the IOC’s glass ceiling in March 2025 to become the organization’s first female President in its 130-year history.” What are your thoughts about this development for the world’s biggest multi-sport organization – and its future?

MELANIE BELL: We should celebrate any time someone with that kind of credible background and who is from a historically underrepresented group achieves a new position. I’m a believer that diversity makes organizations stronger and perform better, and data backs that up. Kirsty sounds like she’ll bring a lot to the table, and with the past controversies and rumors surrounding the corruption of international sporting events, I hope that this marks a new chapter for the IOC.

SHARE THIS: Diversity makes organizations stronger and perform better. ~Melanie Bell #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

A final reminder, as you watch the competitions, make a note on your calendar to swing by #DebbieLaskeysBlog each day through February 22nd for leadership and marketing inspiration. A small interruption to the series will take place on February 20th to celebrate "National Leadership Day," then  the Olympics series returns on February 21st. A series recap will be featured on February 22nd. Enjoy the Olympics!

Image Credit: Olympics.

During the Winter Olympics, actor Stanley Tucci will report on the food, culture, and lifestyle of Northern Italy for NBC and Peacock:

https://www.today.com/food/stanley-tucci-nbcuniversal-milan-winter-olympics-2026-rcna231303

Read Melanie's previous appearance here on my blog:

FALL BACK TO READING SERIES 2025 – Featuring Melanie Bell (October 27, 2025)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2025/10/fall-back-to-reading-series-2025_01483223008.html

Meet Melanie at these links:

https://www.strategicpiece.com/

Leaders Who Fiction: 

https://www.leaderswhofiction.com/upcoming-books

WINTER OLYMPICS LEADERSHIP SERIES 2026 - Featuring Michelle Redfern

With the eyes of the world on Italy for the 25th edition of the Winter Olympics, which events are you looking forward to? In the spirit of previous leadership series here on my blog, I've asked a dozen leadership and marketing experts to respond to five questions with the hope that both the questions and answers lead you to think about leadership, personal branding, and the Olympics in new and interesting ways.

For today's post, I'd like to introduce Michelle Redfern, a globally-recognized gender equality, diversity, and inclusion strategist based in Australia. She advises organizations in the business and sporting sectors on DEI strategy development and implementation and works directly with women leaders to advance their careers. She has been recognized as one of Australia's Top 100 Women of Influence and has won awards for her contributions to women's advancement. She is passionate about what sets her soul on fire, closing the global leadership gender gap, and enabling women to have a career that soars!

SHARE THIS: The Olympic Games have the power to unite us because we can all find something inspirational or something we can relate to in each athlete’s story, whether it’s a story of success or of disappointment. –Tatjana Schoenmaker (South Africa’s most decorated Olympian) #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: What is your favorite WINTER Olympics sport, and why?

MICHELLE REDFERN: I love the Luge (because I watched and love the movie "Cool Runnings") and the freestyle snowboarding because its a close relative of surfing. I grew up in mid-west regional Western Australia and never even saw snow until my mid-30's!

QUESTION: What WINTER Olympics sport most “visually” demonstrates teamwork, and why?

MICHELLE REDFERN: No matter whether it's an individual sport or a team sport. There's always a team in the playing arena and outside of it. So I think any Olympic sport, whether it's winter or summer, demonstrates that there's always a team that makes things happen.

SHARE THIS: There's always a team that makes things happen. ~Michelle Redfern #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: According to Suzanne Robb, COO of Alloy, “Define what victory means to you, and keep that vision in mind. You’re the one who gets to determine when you’re making progress, what success means, and what your focus should be. When you get a win, take time to celebrate. In business as if life, you’ve got to run your own race.” With this quote in mind, which Winter Olympics event or result stands out in your memory, and why?

MICHELLE REDFERN: Well, I'm Australian, so you know the dude who won the gold medal in the speed skating because everyone else fell over? Steven Bradbury is his name. That is part of our history and our folklore - so much so that Australians say, "If you hang in there long enough, you'll do a Bradbury." (Talk about the power of personal branding!) He ran his own race and kept running it even when everyone else fell over - then he won the gold medal. That's got to be a lesson in sticking to the plan, perseverance, and not getting distracted. 

QUESTION: During the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, entertainer and businessman Snoop Dogg used the hashtag #FollowTheDogg and shared his Olympic experiences on social media. My favorite story and related photos were when he and friend Martha Stewart dressed in equestrian clothing and attended the dressage competition. According to reports, Snoop’s involvement was intended to attract a new audience to the Olympics. If you were in charge of the Winter Olympics, who would you invite to attract a new audience, and why?

MICHELLE REDFERN: I can certainly say I would never invite Snoop Dogg. His past views around women were very misogynistic, and his current views around transgender people and the LGBTI community in general are problematic. So whoever I chose, I'd make sure that they were representative of and inclusive of all humans. 

QUESTION: The 2026 Winter Olympics will be the first Olympic Games under the leadership of International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry. She is a former Zimbabwean politician, sports administrator, and former Olympic swimmer and world record holder. She is also the first woman, first Zimbabwean, and the first African to serve as IOC President. According to Reuters, “Kirsty Coventry smashed through the IOC’s glass ceiling in March 2025 to become the organization’s first female President in its 130-year history.” What are your thoughts about this development for the world’s biggest multi-sport organization – and its future?

MICHELLE REDFERN: Thoughts are: "It's about time" and "Why has it taken this long?" My advice to Kirsty Coventry not that she'll listen is: "What is she doing as the first to make sure that she's not the last?" 

A final reminder, as you watch the competitions, make a note on your calendar to swing by #DebbieLaskeysBlog each day through February 22nd for leadership and marketing inspiration. A small interruption to the series will take place on February 20th to celebrate "National Leadership Day," then  the Olympics series returns on February 21st. A series recap will be featured on February 22nd. Enjoy the Olympics!

Image Credit: Olympics.

Read Michelle's previous appearance here on my blog:

SPRING LEADERSHIP SERIES 2025 – Featuring Michelle Redfern (June 6, 2025)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2025/06/spring-leadership-series-2025-featuring_01162482550.html

Meet Michelle at this link:

https://www.michelleredfern.com/

WINTER OLYMPICS LEADERSHIP SERIES 2026 - Featuring Rebecca Herold

With the eyes of the world on Italy for the 25th edition of the Winter Olympics, which events are you looking forward to? In the spirit of previous leadership series here on my blog, I've asked a dozen leadership and marketing experts to respond to five questions with the hope that both the questions and answers lead you to think about leadership, personal branding, and the Olympics in new and interesting ways.

For today's post, I'd like to introduce Rebecca Herold. Based in Des Moines, Iowa, and with over 30 years of IT, security, and privacy experience, Rebecca is the founder of The Privacy Professor Consultancy (2004) and of Privacy & Security Brainiacs SaaS services (2021). She has authored 22 published books so far, and co-authored NIST catalogs NISTIR 7628, NISTIR 8259, SP 800-213, NISTIR 8425 and TN 2066. She has served as an expert witness for cases covering HIPAA, criminals using IoT devices, social engineering, stolen personal data of retirement housing residents, and tracking app users with Meta Pixels. Rebecca hosts Data Security & Privacy with the Privacy Professor, and since early 2018, she has hosted the Voice America podcast/radio show, Data Security & Privacy with the Privacy Professor.

SHARE THIS: The Olympic Games have the power to unite us because we can all find something inspirational or something we can relate to in each athlete’s story, whether it’s a story of success or of disappointment. –Tatjana Schoenmaker (South Africa’s most decorated Olympian) #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: What is your favorite WINTER Olympics sport, and why?

REBECCA HEROLD: My favorite sports usually change with each Olympics. I tend to follow individual athletes and their personal stories and struggles, and their dedication to their sport, their goals, and overcoming personal challenges, and then tune-in to watch them. Then secondarily, there are sports I like that I also like to generally watch without knowing about any of the athletes involved. I enjoy watching the men’s and women’s hockey teams play. And I also enjoy watching ski jumping, thanks in large part to seeing the “thrill of victory” intro on ABC’s "Wide World of Sports" from the time I was a young girl. I also love speed skating (reasons coming up in my response to a different question). Each of these sports have such razor-thin margins for errors. The athletes must be completely focused, and have practiced thousands of times to reach their goals. Otherwise, disaster, and possibly career-ending injuries will occur. But just one unknown or unexpected variable introduced during the Olympic competitions can destroy their longtime practicing and dash their Olympic dreams.

[Note: link to ABC's "Wide World of Sports" intro is shared at the end.]

QUESTION: What WINTER Olympics sport most “visually” demonstrates teamwork, and why?

REBECCA HEROLD: Hockey plays and tactics visually demonstrate the need for teams to have practiced over and over again, to have each team member know their role for each play, and to carry through. If one team member fails to perform their actions as practiced, it is seen in real-time by viewers around the world.

QUESTION: According to Suzanne Robb, COO of Alloy, “Define what victory means to you, and keep that vision in mind. You’re the one who gets to determine when you’re making progress, what success means, and what your focus should be. When you get a win, take time to celebrate. In business as if life, you’ve got to run your own race.” With this quote in mind, which Winter Olympics event or result stands out in your memory, and why?

REBECCA HEROLD: Victory means different things based upon the context of each situation. I’ve been super competitive in sports and games all my life. Victory in a basketball, backgammon, running, Monopoly, or any other competition ultimately means, on a game-by-game situation, winning. But business is not a point-in-time competition. It is an ongoing process, filled with responsibilities to many different stakeholders; employees, Board of Directors, customers, patients, and often the general public. The person at the helm of business must be aware of the industry, and of the competition and what they are doing. Also, while one person is at the helm, all who support that leader’s goals and visions must be aligned with doing work that supports success.

With this in mind, here’s my answer. A competitive event in the short track speed skating competition that I happened to see is actually what made me a devoted fan of that sport in the 2002 Olympics. The gold medalist, Steven Bradbury from Australia (also the Olympics host location that year) won by taking a calculated risk regarding what his competitors would do. Reportedly (at the time), he had studied his competitors closely. He knew that several of them had faster times than his fastest time to that date in history. Bradbury purposefully stayed at the back of the pack for most of the race. In the final lap of the final race, the four leading skaters all crashed into each other, and Bradbury zoomed by the resulting pile-up and crossed the finish line first and won a gold medal!  You see, he also reportedly knew that his speedier competitors were aggressive competitors, and very physical. So he took a risk, expecting a slow-down at the end, based on the history of those speedier than him, and that risk paid off, based on knowing his competitors’ strengths and weaknesses during competitions. And he surely did celebrate at the end of the race!

SHARE THIS: While one person is at the helm, all who support that leader’s goals and visions must be aligned with doing work that supports success. ~Rebecca Herold #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: During the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, entertainer and businessman Snoop Dogg used the hashtag #FollowTheDogg and shared his Olympic experiences on social media. My favorite story and related photos were when he and friend Martha Stewart dressed in equestrian clothing and attended the dressage competition. According to reports, Snoop’s involvement was intended to attract a new audience to the Olympics. If you were in charge of the Winter Olympics, who would you invite to attract a new audience, and why?

REBECCA HEROLD: I’m a huge, life-long Kansas City Chiefs fan. And while I could sit here and try to think of someone else, the first person who popped into my mind was Taylor Swift. The impact she has had on NFL viewership, and increasing the fanbase of the Chiefs and for football in general, goes far beyond the central Midwest, and has been tracked and reported on often. After her fiance, Travis Kelce, (in my opinion one of the very best tight ends in the history of the sport) retires, and she is no longer fitting in attending Chiefs’ games with her concert tour appearances...maybe in the next year or two?...I think she would still be the perfect celebrity and role model to attract a wide range of new audiences to the Olympics. She is a great role model and also demonstrably cares about her fans.

QUESTION: The 2026 Winter Olympics will be the first Olympic Games under the leadership of International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry. She is a former Zimbabwean politician, sports administrator, and former Olympic swimmer and world record holder. She is also the first woman, first Zimbabwean, and the first African to serve as IOC President. According to Reuters, “Kirsty Coventry smashed through the IOC’s glass ceiling in March 2025 to become the organization’s first female President in its 130-year history.” What are your thoughts about this development for the world’s biggest multi-sport organization – and its future?

REBECCA HEROLD: I think it is great to see a former athlete, world record holder, and demonstrably successful leader in multiple facets of her life, to have been elected as IOC President. Her election win demonstrates substantial international support for her leadership capabilities. As with all elections, there will always be others who question her performance and ties to the Zimbabwean government. However, given, from my amateur sports-viewing perspective, and knowing nothing meaningful about most of the government politics in other parts of the world beyond the U.S., this seems to show that those electing her did so based on her history as an athlete, an Olympic champion, and likely her other demonstrated leadership skills throughout her life. 

I find her election to be a refreshing outcome in a world that disappointingly and sadly seems to be going backward in progress for inclusion for consideration of women and other historically marginalized communities in such roles. Hopefully the Olympics leadership can continue making decisions to provide a type of role model to other governments and businesses throughout the world. Of course, such recognition requires an appetite for such changes, so in the short-term, the countries that most need to recognize such enlightened moves will be the ones who will more than likely denigrate and nitpick Coventry’s work, no matter how successful she is in this role.

A final reminder, as you watch the competitions, make a note on your calendar to swing by #DebbieLaskeysBlog each day through February 22nd for leadership and marketing inspiration. A small interruption to the series will take place on February 20th to celebrate "National Leadership Day," then  the Olympics series returns on February 21st. A series recap will be featured on February 22nd. Enjoy the Olympics!

Image Credit: Olympics.

Read Rebecca's previous appearance here on my blog:

SPRING LEADERSHIP SERIES 2025 – Featuring Rebecca Herold (June 2, 2025)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2025/06/spring-leadership-series-2025-featuring.html

Meet Rebecca at this link:

https://www.privacyguidance.com/

Watch the 1976 opening to ABC's "Wide World of Sports" that Rebecca referenced in her first response:

https://youtu.be/SnakqX0pTUk?si=7ikfjfJH_AinYLAh

WINTER OLYMPICS LEADERSHIP SERIES 2026 - Featuring Karin Norgaard

With the eyes of the world on Italy for the 25th edition of the Winter Olympics, which events are you looking forward to? In the spirit of previous leadership series here on my blog, I've asked a dozen leadership and marketing experts to respond to five questions with the hope that both the questions and answers lead you to think about leadership, personal branding, and the Olympics in new and interesting ways.

For today's post, I'd like to introduce Karin Norgaard, based in Denmark. With a background in law and more than 25 years of experience in public relations and communications, Karin is currently the founder and CEO of Think PR, a Copenhagen-based communications agency specializing in strategic PR, positioning, and storytelling across the Nordics. She works with both B2B and B2C brands, translating complex topics like tech, sustainability, and life science into narratives that drive media coverage and stakeholder engagement. 

SHARE THIS: The Olympic Games have the power to unite us because we can all find something inspirational or something we can relate to in each athlete’s story, whether it’s a story of success or of disappointment. –Tatjana Schoenmaker (South Africa’s most decorated Olympian) #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: What is your favorite WINTER Olympics sport, and why?

KARIN NORGAARD: Definitely ski jumping. There’s something breathtaking about watching athletes literally launch themselves into the air, trusting physics and courage to carry them. It’s equal parts madness and magic - which, in my experience, is not far from leadership.

QUESTION: What WINTER Olympics sport most “visually” demonstrates teamwork, and why?

KARIN NORGAARD: Curling. Where else do you see athletes feverishly sweeping ice with brooms, in total synchronization, while shouting like their lives depend on it? It’s strategy, trust, and micro-communication at Olympic level, and it looks fantastic on camera.

QUESTION: According to Suzanne Robb, COO of Alloy, “Define what victory means to you, and keep that vision in mind. You’re the one who gets to determine when you’re making progress, what success means, and what your focus should be. When you get a win, take time to celebrate. In business as if life, you’ve got to run your own race.” With this quote in mind, which Winter Olympics event or result stands out in your memory, and why?

KARIN NORGAARD: For me, it has to be Steven Bradbury’s gold in Salt Lake City 2002. He was nowhere near the favorite in short track speed skating, but then, in a twist worthy of Netflix, every other skater in the final crashed. Bradbury just glided through the chaos to Olympic gold. It’s the ultimate reminder that sometimes victory is about persistence and being ready when opportunity knocks (or when everyone else falls over).

And if I bring it closer to home: Denmark isn’t exactly known for dominating the Winter Games, but when our women’s curling team took silver in 1998, it felt like a fairy tale. Proof that even underdogs with brooms can sweep their way into history!

QUESTION: During the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, entertainer and businessman Snoop Dogg used the hashtag #FollowTheDogg and shared his Olympic experiences on social media. My favorite story and related photos were when he and friend Martha Stewart dressed in equestrian clothing and attended the dressage competition. According to reports, Snoop’s involvement was intended to attract a new audience to the Olympics. If you were in charge of the Winter Olympics, who would you invite to attract a new audience, and why?

KARIN NORGAARD: I’d call in the cast of "Succession" to do live commentary on ice hockey. Picture Roman snarking about penalties, Shiv breaking down power plays like corporate mergers, and Logan Roy booming “You can’t win without a killer instinct!” from the commentator’s box.

And for ice dancing? Meryl Streep in full "Devil Wears Prada" mode; pursing her lips, raising an eyebrow, and delivering icy one-liners after every routine. The judges’ scores would suddenly feel like high fashion verdicts. Instant viral Olympics.

QUESTION: The 2026 Winter Olympics will be the first Olympic Games under the leadership of International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry. She is a former Zimbabwean politician, sports administrator, and former Olympic swimmer and world record holder. She is also the first woman, first Zimbabwean, and the first African to serve as IOC President. According to Reuters, “Kirsty Coventry smashed through the IOC’s glass ceiling in March 2025 to become the organization’s first female President in its 130-year history.” What are your thoughts about this development for the world’s biggest multi-sport organization – and its future?

KARIN NORGAARD: Her presidency is a milestone. First woman, first African, first Zimbabwean — that’s not just history, that’s momentum. The Olympics thrive on stories of barriers broken, and Coventry embodies that spirit off the field. My hope is that she uses her athlete’s mindset to make the IOC braver, faster, and more open to change.

SHARE THIS: The Olympics thrive on stories of barriers broken, and Kirsty Coventry's appointment as President of the IOC embodies that spirit off the field. ~Karin Norgaard #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

A final reminder, as you watch the competitions, make a note on your calendar to swing by #DebbieLaskeysBlog each day through February 22nd for leadership and marketing inspiration. A small interruption to the series will take place on February 20th to celebrate "National Leadership Day," then  the Olympics series returns on February 21st. A series recap will be featured on February 22nd. Enjoy the Olympics!

Image Credit: Olympics.

Meet Karin at this link:

http://www.thinkpr.dk

WINTER OLYMPICS LEADERSHIP SERIES 2026 - Featuring Joseph Lalonde

With the eyes of the world on Italy for the 25th edition of the Winter Olympics, which events are you looking forward to? In the spirit of previous leadership series here on my blog, I've asked a dozen leadership and marketing experts to respond to five questions with the hope that both the questions and answers lead you to think about leadership, personal branding, and the Olympics in new and interesting ways.

For today's post, I'd like to introduce Joseph Lalonde, based in Michigan. Joe is experienced in all aspects of IT, leadership, project/sales, and design with a history of working with small businesses and individuals. He is also an award-winning leadership blogger ranked in the top 40 leadership blogs in the world, and his book REEL LEADERSHIP showcases the intersection of leadership and entertainment. As Joe says, "I love great stories and feel we all have a great story to tell."

SHARE THIS: The Olympic Games have the power to unite us because we can all find something inspirational or something we can relate to in each athlete’s story, whether it’s a story of success or of disappointment. –Tatjana Schoenmaker (South Africa’s most decorated Olympian) #OlympicsLeadershipSeries2026 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: What is your favorite WINTER Olympics sport, and why?

JOSEPH LALONDE: I'd have to say my favorite Winter Olympics sport is snowboarding. There's something unique, powerful, and creative with the tricks they do and the speed with which they have to react. It shows us that speed and quick thinking can go together.

QUESTION: What WINTER Olympics sport most “visually” demonstrates teamwork, and why?

JOSEPH LALONDE: I believe ice hockey to be the Winter Olympics sport that most visually demonstrates teamwork. Why? You have a team of athletes facing off against another great group. Your team has to know how to communicate with one another. More importantly, you have to be able to anticipate what your teammate will do and follow their lead. Everything about ice hockey is teamwork. 

QUESTION: According to Suzanne Robb, COO of Alloy, “Define what victory means to you, and keep that vision in mind. You’re the one who gets to determine when you’re making progress, what success means, and what your focus should be. When you get a win, take time to celebrate. In business as if life, you’ve got to run your own race.” With this quote in mind, which Winter Olympics event or result stands out in your memory, and why?

JOSEPH LALONDE: Clara Hughes' achievements in the Summer and Winter Olympics come to mind. She's a Canadian Olympian who has achieved something truly remarkable. She is the only Canadian Olympian to win medals at the Summer and Winter Olympic Games. She's a cyclist and speed skater. She's run her own race by standing out in a small crowd of extraordinary athletes.

QUESTION: During the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, entertainer and businessman Snoop Dogg used the hashtag #FollowTheDogg and shared his Olympic experiences on social media. My favorite story and related photos were when he and friend Martha Stewart dressed in equestrian clothing and attended the dressage competition. According to reports, Snoop’s involvement was intended to attract a new audience to the Olympics. If you were in charge of the Winter Olympics, who would you invite to attract a new audience, and why?

JOSEPH LALONDE: Such an interesting question, especially given who they have previously used. Snoop Dogg was a great choice that stirred up a lot of interest. I'd go in the same direction they did and bring in someone others wouldn't think of or relate to the Winter Olympics. Right now, I believe, one of the biggest cultural phenomena is the emergence and embrace of K-pop (Korean pop music). It's not only lit up the charts in Korea but it's bridging cultural gaps and gaining traction in other countries. I'd look at bringing in the band BTS. It holds cultural relevance, could bring in new audiences, and creates a memorable experience.

QUESTION: The 2026 Winter Olympics will be the first Olympic Games under the leadership of International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry. She is a former Zimbabwean politician, sports administrator, and former Olympic swimmer and world record holder. She is also the first woman, first Zimbabwean, and the first African to serve as IOC President. According to Reuters, “Kirsty Coventry smashed through the IOC’s glass ceiling in March 2025 to become the organization’s first female President in its 130-year history.” What are your thoughts about this development for the world’s biggest multi-sport organization – and its future?

JOSEPH LALONDE: This is a special moment in Olympic history. Seeing Coventry rise to the rank of President of the IOC is spectacular. Her qualifications are stellar. She's implementing important changes. And she's a great example to millions of young girls and women around the world.

A final reminder, as you watch the competitions, make a note on your calendar to swing by #DebbieLaskeysBlog each day through February 22nd for leadership and marketing inspiration. A small interruption to the series will take place on February 20th to celebrate "National Leadership Day," then  the Olympics series returns on February 21st. A series recap will be featured on February 22nd. Enjoy the Olympics!

Image Credit: Olympics.

Read Joe's previous appearance here on my blog:

FALL BACK TO READING SERIES 2025 – Featuring Joseph Lalonde (September 29, 2025)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2025/09/fall-back-to-reading-series-2025.html

Meet Joe at this link:

https://www.jmlalonde.com