HOLIDAY LEADERSHIP SERIES – Featuring Eric Jacobson

With the arrival of the holiday season, it's time for the memorable end-of-the-year advertising campaigns and familiar music to hit the airwaves; our TV's, radios, and computer/tablet/smartphone screens will be bombarded by reminders of the season. Since I've been honored to share several inspiring series on my blog over the last year including my #FallBacktoReadingSeries, #SpringLeadershipSeries, and #OlympicsLeadershipSeries, I've decided to end the year with my #HolidayLeadershipSeries.

I've asked 10 thought leaders to chime in and share some of their holiday thoughts as they pertain to leadership and marketing specifically during the holiday season. Enjoy, and happy holidays!

And now, for today's post, I'd like to introduce Eric Jacobson, based in Kansas City, Missouri. Eric has three decades of experience in successfully leading employees and teams through periods of revenue growth, new product development, and re-engineering. He is an experienced mentor and coach and holds an MBA Degree from Keller Graduate School. His passion is helping individuals to become effective leaders at work, within organizations, and wherever they are called upon to lead and inspire. Eric’s writings about leadership and management appear regularly on his blog, and he's a regular contributor to my leadership series.

QUESTION: What BRAND or PRODUCT is the most memorable during the holiday season?
ERIC JACOBSON: The Macy's Thanksgiving Parade is the most memorable brand during the holiday season, because for me, it is the event that I have watched ever since I can remember. Starting in 1924, it has been held continuously except from 1942 to 1944. And after watching it on TV nearly every year beginning in my pre-teen years, I finally attended it in person during the 1990's. The crowd, frigid cold temperatures, and sitting just feet away from the signature giant helium balloons are forever memorable. Also, I would visit Macy's famous Herald Square store (on 34th street) where the parade ends on multiple business and vacation trips to New York City.

QUESTION: What is your favorite holiday ADVERTISEMENT?
ERIC JACOBSON: All the Budweiser and Coca-Cola (especially those featuring the polar bear) TV commercials are my favorites. The Budweiser holiday ads connect with all audiences, tug at the heartstrings, and bring me smiles during the holiday season. Same for the Coca-Cola holiday-themed commercials. Both companies' holiday ads feel very nostalgic, and that evokes great holiday season memories for me.

QUESTION: What is your favorite piece of music or SONG during the holiday season?
ERIC JACOBSON: I enjoy virtually all holiday music and listen to my radio between Thanksgiving to New Year's Day every year to enjoy the radio stations that play holiday music all day long during that time period.

However, my most favorite song is "Merry Christmas Darling" by the Carpenters, featuring the gifted and impeccable voice of Karen Carpenter. The song is my favorite on their "Christmas Portrait Songbook" album, which is the first Christmas-themed record I purchased when I first started collecting vinyl.

In one of music publication Billboard's lists of all-time top holiday songs, they wrote, "Her vocal on Merry Christmas Darling as she longs for her loved one, who is away for Christmas and New Year's Day, is pure, sublime perfection. She conveys the perfect mix of yearning, sadness, and hope since she knows, even though it is unspoken, they will be joyfully reunited after the holidays. Over 50 years since its release, it is still the soundtrack for any college couples separated during the holiday break."

QUESTION: Whose PERSONAL BRAND stands out during the holidays? (Think outside the box and do not share any religious choices.)
ERIC JACOBSON: Musician, singer, and actor Burl Ives. The holidays would not be the same without hearing Ives narrate the still-popular 1964 animated television movie, "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer." Similarly, I always look forward to hearing him singing the iconic "Silver and Gold" song (featured in the movie) during the holiday season.

QUESTION: And lastly, since this is a leadership series, what is your favorite LEADERSHIP QUOTE?
ERIC JACOBSON: Here's my favorite: "Leaders are measured by the caliber of leaders they develop, not the caliber of their own leadership" by John C. Maxell. You will find this and many other valuable leadership quotes in his book entitled, "The 5 Levels of Leadership."

SHARE THIS: Leaders are measured by the caliber of leaders they develop, not the caliber of their own leadership. ~John C. Maxell via @EricJacobsonKC #HolidayLeadershipSeries #DebbieLaskeysBlog

And one of my fave quotes from Eric - from a previous appearance on my blog:

SHARE THIS: When there is blame, the leader should be in the forefront. When credit is due, the leader should be in the background. ~@EricJacobsonKC #HolidayLeadershipSeries #DebbieLaskeysBlog

My gratitude to Eric for sharing his leadership insights and for being a part of my #HolidayLeadershipSeries.


Image Credit: Wordswag.

The History of Macy's Thanksgiving Parade - Five Facts You May Not Know:
https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/macys-thanksgiving-day-parade-feat/index.html

10 Longest-Running Balloon Floats in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade:
https://collider.com/longest-running-balloon-floats-in-macys-thanksgiving-day-parade/

Details about the 2024 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade:
https://macysthanksgiving.fandom.com/wiki/The_98th_Annual_Macy%27s_Thanksgiving_Day_Parade_(2024)

Listen to Karen Carpenter sing: Merry Christmas, Darling
https://youtu.be/IOvclFSSlJk?si=f0Hr8x3rtFeqj4SR


Connect with Eric at these links:
Blog: https://ericjacobsononmanagement.blogspot.com  
Twitter/X: https://www.twitter.com/ericjacobsonkc

Check out Eric's previous appearances here on my blog:

OLYMPICS LEADERSHIP SERIES – Featuring Eric Jacobson (July 2024)
https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2024/07/olympics-leadership-series-featuring.html

FALL BACK TO READING SERIES – Featuring Eric Jacobson (September 2023)
https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2023/09/fall-back-to-reading-series-featuring.html

Let's Celebrate #NationalLeadershipDay! (February 2023)
https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2023/02/lets-celebrate-nationalleadershipday.html

How Leadership Crafts the #EmployeeExperience (May 2018)
https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2018/05/how-leadership-crafts-employeeexperience.html

Leadership Doesn't Have to Be Hard (May 2016)
http://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2016/05/leadership-doesnt-have-to-be-hard.html

The Importance of Mentorships (March 2013)
http://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2013/03/the-importance-of-mentorships.html

The Importance of Training, Customer Connections, and Leadership (March 2011)
http://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2011/03/importance-of-training-customer.html

Leadership Lessons from #PostElectionSeries Featuring Lyn Chamberlin

As I announced in my commentary about the 2024 Presidential election, during November and December, I will feature a timely #PostElectionSeries with a number of inspiring women authors, leaders, and influencers. 

Today, to kick off the series, I've invited Lyn Chamberlin to provide commentary about the election, leadership, gender bias, misinformation, and more. But first, a brief introduction.

Lyn Chamberlin's career began in journalism, where she worked as a reporter and television producer - and her series "Women in the Arts" earned an Emmy. She is an award-winning brand creator, consultant, and executive brand coach; and has built a successful career developing unique and impactful brands for individuals and organizations. As Lyn explains, "I help people and organizations tell their stories in ways that inspire and inform, driving the kind of lasting relationships that traditional approaches to marketing and branding often overlook."

QUESTION: You wrote an article entitled, "When Brand Betrays Us," and explained, "Branding is supposed to be about truth, or at least a piece of it. At its best, branding is storytelling, the kind that resonates, inspires, and speaks to who we are. But what happens when a brand warps into something sinister, built on lies, misinformation, and manipulation? What happens when a brand betrays not only our trust but our institutions?...Branding can empower, but it can also deceive. Trump's brand isn't just a lesson in how to build an indelible image. It's a cautionary tale — a reminder that without honesty and accountability, brand can become a weapon that betrays us all." Please share more.

(Read the full article here:

https://lynchamberlin.substack.com/p/when-brand-betrays-us)

LYN CHAMBERLIN: Here are highlights from the article:

Branding is supposed to be about truth, or at least a piece of it. At its best, branding is storytelling, the kind that resonates, inspires, and speaks to who we are. But what happens when a brand warps into something sinister, built on lies, misinformation, and manipulation? What happens when a brand betrays not only our trust but our institutions?

Donald Trump created a brand that made him more than a businessman or even a politician. It was a brand so powerful, so relentlessly crafted, that it enabled him to shape reality for his supporters and make bold moves that, for anyone else, would seem absurd or laughable. It became a brand that bulldozed its way into the American psyche, in part because it was built on the very foundations branding experts understand: repetition, narrative, and consistency. But unlike the brands we aim to build on values, Trump’s brand was anchored in something far more dangerous: a disregard for truth.

The gravest act of this branding betrayal was his attempt to subvert the very Constitution he swore to uphold. Trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election was more than a political move—it was a direct attack on the framework of American democracy. 

For months, Trump’s brand machine churned out claims of fraud, broadcasting messages designed to erode public trust in the election system, even though there was no evidence to support his claims. It was a manipulation of power, a way to cling to authority by undermining the truth, and it worked because his brand had trained people to accept his version of events without question.

Branding is supposed to be about helping people find their voice, discover their values, and communicate in a way that feels real and impactful. Yet, Trump’s brand hijacked the tools of our trade, twisting them into a tool of misinformation and division. It leaves us questioning: Is this the power of brand, or a reminder of how it can betray us?

This is the ethical dilemma for anyone in this field: branding can empower, but it can also deceive. Trump’s brand isn’t just a lesson in how to build an indelible image. It’s a cautionary tale—a reminder that without honesty and accountability, brand can become a weapon that betrays us all. And yes, I’m furious about it.

QUESTION: In Katie Rogers article in THE NEW YORK TIMES, she wrote, "The United States has been led by men for all of its 248 years, and that will continue for at least four more. On Wednesday, Vice President Kamala Harris became the latest woman to fail to break the gender barrier to the presidency, and the second to be defeated by Donald Trump...The United States lags behind several other nations — Britain, Germany, Israel, India, Canada, and, this year, Mexico — which have chosen women as leaders. Men do still run the world, numerically. Only about a third of the countries in the United Nations have ever had a woman head of the government. Just 13 of the body’s 193 member countries are currently led by women, according to the Pew Research Center." 

(Read the full article here:

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/06/us/politics/harris-woman-president.html)

In Dana Theus' post-election article entitled "Women, Power, and Fear," she wrote, "Three times in twelve years, an old white man, now a convicted felon, has run for the highest office in the land. When he ran against another, more qualified old white guy, he lost. Both times he ran against vibrant, more qualified women, he won. Looking at the pattern, I don't think it's defensible to blame the female candidates or their campaigns. I truly worry that the majority of our nation — women and men alike — simply do not trust women enough to give us power."

(Read the full article here:

https://inpowerwomen.substack.com/p/women-power-and-fear)

What were your thoughts about the election results?

LYN CHAMBERLIN:

Katie Rogers' article highlights a stark reminder: despite progress, the U.S. remains entrenched in a narrative where leadership is seen through a gendered lens. This isn't just about politics; it's about the stories we tell and the brand we project as a nation. True change in leadership representation starts when we challenge entrenched perceptions and craft a new narrative — one where leadership is inclusive and reflective of the society it serves. Until then, the brand of American leadership remains incomplete.

SHARE THIS: True change in leadership representation starts when we challenge entrenched perceptions and craft a new narrative — one where leadership is inclusive and reflective of the society it serves. ~@TheBrandDame #PostElectionSeries #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Regarding Dana Theus' article:

The recent election results have sparked another wave of reflection, and Dana Theus’ observations resonate deeply. Her piece, “Women, Power, and Fear,” underscores a stark and troubling pattern: when the race came down to old white men, the more qualified candidate won. But when these men were challenged by vibrant, highly capable women, the outcome shifted in a way that defies simple analysis. The implications go beyond partisan debates and into the heart of societal perceptions.

I agree with Theus’ assertion that it’s no longer defensible to place the blame solely on the female candidates or their campaign strategies. The uncomfortable truth is that we, as a collective society — women included — still struggle with trusting women to hold the highest levels of power. This isn't an indictment of individual voters but rather a sobering reflection on how ingrained biases shape our decisions, often below the level of conscious awareness.

The cycle repeats, raising the question: what will it take to break it? How do we confront the complex interplay of power, gender, and perception that continues to tip the scales? These results serve as a reminder that while progress has been made, the journey toward true equity in leadership remains an uphill battle, demanding introspection, action, and change from all of us.

SHARE THIS: How do we confront the complex interplay of power, gender, and perception that continues to tip the scales? ~@TheBrandDame #PostElectionSeries #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: Katherine Spinney wrote an article entitled, "Silence Is Not the Answer," during a national crisis, however, her words deserve attention now. She wrote, "Silence is not the answer. If fact, it is one of the most damaging plans of action you can take. Despite hopes for the contrary, silence during this time will not shield you or protect you and it will not go unnoticed. Your staff are watching, waiting, begging for you to speak up. This moment in time is going to determine not just how others view you as a leader, but how they view you as a human being. Your words and actions during this time will not just impact your legacy as a leader — they will define it...What is true for all of us is that we must speak up."

How should LEADERS address the Presidential election results?

(Read the full article here:

https://katherinespinney.com/silence-is-not-the-answer/)

LYN CHAMBERLIN: Women leaders facing the election results must heed Katherine Spinney’s powerful reminder: “Silence is not the answer.” In moments like these, silence not only erodes trust but signals complacency. Leaders need to show courage, speak up, and confront the biases that persist. Their teams, peers, and communities are watching closely, yearning for acknowledgment and guidance.

This is a defining moment. By addressing these results openly and honestly, women leaders can inspire others, foster meaningful dialogue, and champion the push for equity. The impact of their words and actions will shape how they are remembered—not just as leaders but as agents of change.

QUESTION: In Barbara McQuade's article in TIME Magazine, she wrote, "The real danger when a leader traffics in half-truths and conflicting claims is that people don’t know what to believe." Instead of looking at leaders' actions, let's swap the perspective. How can employees keep their leaders honest?

(Read the full article here:

https://time.com/7173492/second-trump-term-misinformation-essay/)

LYN CHAMBERLIN: Employees play a crucial role in keeping their leaders honest, fostering a culture of accountability and transparency. Open communication is key—speaking up when inconsistencies arise and asking direct, thoughtful questions can prompt leaders to align their actions with their words. Establishing trust requires employees to remain informed, question half-truths, and seek clarity when narratives become unclear. By encouraging dialogue and challenging conflicting claims, employees contribute to a workplace where integrity is valued and misinformation struggles to take root. In this dynamic, mutual accountability helps ensure that leadership remains credible and grounded in truth.

SHARE THIS: Establishing trust requires employees to remain informed, question half-truths, and seek clarity when narratives become unclear. ~@TheBrandDame #PostElectionSeries #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: In the years to come, what will you remember most vividly from the 2024 Presidential campaign and election?

LYN CHAMBERLIN: In years to come, what I will most vividly remember about the 2024 presidential campaign is the deep uncertainty seeded by a torrent of half-truths and conflicting narratives. As Barbara McQuade aptly put it, "The real danger when a leader traffics in half-truths and conflicting claims is that people don't know what to believe." This campaign will be remembered for its erosion of trust — how the fog of misinformation left many grappling for clarity in an environment where the line between fact and fiction was increasingly blurred. It's a reminder that when truth becomes malleable, democracy itself stands on shaky ground.

My gratitude to Lyn for sharing her thoughts about leadership and the election as part of my #PostElectionSeries. It's times like this that we can all gain strength and learn from like-minded individuals. Tune in again soon for another installment of my #PostElectionSeries.

Image Credit: Dreamstine via Wordswag.

Read my blog post about the 2024 Presidential election:

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2024/11/sharing-some-thoughts-about-2024.html

Read my post entitled, Five #PersonalBranding Lessons from Kamala Harris:

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2024/07/five-personalbranding-lessons-from.html

Connect with Lyn at these links:

Website: https://thebranddame.com/

Blog: https://lynchamberlin.substack.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynchamberlin/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_brand_dame/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_brand_dame

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebranddame/

Twitter/X: https://www.twitter.com/thebranddame

HOLIDAY LEADERSHIP SERIES – Featuring James Strock

With the arrival of the holiday season, it's time for the memorable end-of-the-year advertising campaigns and familiar music to hit the airwaves; our TV's, radios, and computer/tablet/smartphone screens will be bombarded by reminders of the season. Since I've been honored to share several inspiring series on my blog over the last year including my #FallBacktoReadingSeries, #SpringLeadershipSeries, and #OlympicsLeadershipSeries, I've decided to end the year with my #HolidayLeadershipSeries.

I've asked 10 thought leaders to chime in and share some of their holiday thoughts as they pertain to leadership and marketing specifically during the holiday season. Enjoy, and happy holidays!

First, let's recognize today's significance. It is known as Veteran's Day, Armistice Day, and Remembrance Day. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, "World War I – known at the time as "The Great War" – officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Palace of Versailles outside the town of Versailles, France. However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of "the war to end all wars." Veterans Day continues to be observed on November 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good."

And now, for today's post, I'd like to introduce James Strock. James is an independent writer, speaker, reformer and entrepreneur, based in Southern California. He's the author of several books about leadership, politics, Ronald Reagan, and Theodore Roosevelt - and I've had the honor of learning from him since we first met back in 2011.

QUESTION: What BRAND or PRODUCT is the most memorable during the holiday season?

JAMES STROCK: Eggnog is a product that many of us identify with during the holiday season. It fits with cold weather. For most, it's an indulgence that is not replicated throughout the rest of the year.

QUESTION: What is your favorite holiday ADVERTISEMENT? 

JAMES STROCK: Budweiser's Clydesdale ads and Coca Cola's sleigh ads are enduring classics, even for many of us who rarely imbibe their products.

QUESTION: What is your favorite piece of music or SONG during the holiday season? 

JAMES STROCK: "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" is a wonderful classic: energetic, happy, and natural for groups to sing together. I'm also fond of Sir Paul McCartney's "Wonderful Christmastime," an earworm par excellence.

QUESTION: Whose PERSONAL BRAND stands out during the holidays? (Think outside the box and do not share any religious choices.)

JAMES STROCK: Charles Dickens's "Christmas Carol" endures because the archetypes are evergreen, from Scrooge through the Cratchit family. These are fictional characters who come to life for most anyone. The roles attract top actors and are accessible for amateur and student productions.

QUESTION: And lastly, since this is a leadership series, what is your favorite LEADERSHIP QUOTE, and why? 

JAMES STROCK: I have many favorites, so I can answer this one differently on any given day. Today I'll go with Epictetus: "First say to yourself what you would be, and then do what you have to do."

My gratitude to Jim for sharing his leadership insights and for being a part of my #HolidayLeadershipSeries.

SHARE THIS: First say to yourself what you would be, and then do what you have to do. ~Epictetus via @jamesstrock #DebbieLaskeysBlog #HolidayLeadershipSeries

Image Credit: Debbie Laskey.

Read about the history of eggnog:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eggnog

Make your own eggnog with this recipe:

https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/a50609/classic-eggnog-recipe/

Listen to "We Wish You a Merry Christmas"

https://youtu.be/LJCfvFF8dhg?si=Oeb_0Rusfc1VCenb

Listen to Sir Paul McCartney's "Wonderful Christmastime"

https://youtu.be/-IHP9Acxa54?si=xt7aitF23Y8bP9Hp

Learn more about Epictetus:

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Epictetus-Greek-philosopher

Connect with James at these links:

Website: https://servetolead.com

Website: https://jamesstrock.substack.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/servetolead

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/jamesstrock

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesstrock

Check out James' previous appearances here on my blog:

OLYMPICS LEADERSHIP SERIES – Featuring James Strock (July 2024)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2024/07/olympics-leadership-series-featuring_0590013298.html

SPRING LEADERSHIP SERIES – Featuring James Strock (April 2024)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2024/04/spring-leadership-series-featuring_0620073012.html

FALL BACK TO READING SERIES – Featuring James Strock (October 2023)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2023/10/fall-back-to-reading-series-featuring_0711042239.html

What Happens When Leadership, Service and Encouragement Join Forces? (July 2020)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2020/07/what-happens-when-leadership-service.html

Sharing Timeless Leadership Lessons (November 2018)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2018/11/sharing-timeless-leadership-lessons.html

Leadership Is All About Serving Others (March 2014)

http://debbielaskey.blogspot.com/2014/03/leadership-is-all-about-serving-others.html

 

Serve to Lead - What a Visionary Concept (March 2011)

http://debbielaskey.blogspot.com/2011/03/serve-to-lead-what-visionary-concept.html

Sharing Some Thoughts about the 2024 Presidential Election

Alas, the 2024 Presidential Election will not go down in HERstory, but it will definitely be memorable.

I am a member of the group of "childless cat ladies" (not a bad group if VP Kamala Harris and singer-songwriter Taylor Swift are included), and have 10 inspiring t-shirts from the 2024 Presidential election. Apparently, there are lots of male voters in America who fear the intelligence of members of this group.

Sure, there will continue to be a lot of Monday morning quarterbacking following the election, possibly for years, including the fact that President Joe Biden should have followed his own promise that he was a one-term President and left the campaign earlier (maybe two years earlier) so that VP Harris could become better known as a candidate to the American electorate; or VP Harris should have chosen a different VP candidate; etc.

But, as Hillary Clinton said following her November 2016 Presidential election loss, "We still have not shattered that highest and hardest glass ceiling. But some day, someone will." 

Who knew that another educated and talented woman would run for President so soon? With VP Harris' foray into the race as the first woman of color and first woman of South Asian heritage, the election contained many firsts. Hopefully, the third time that a woman enters the Presidential race, the female candidate will be victorious.

In the meantime, let's remember what Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren said, "Remember, every step toward progress in American history came after darkness of defeat. Abolitionists, suffragettes, Dreamers, and marchers for civil rights and marriage equality all faced impossible odds, but they persisted. Now it is our turn to pull up our socks and get back in the fight."

The ACLU placed a full-page ad in The New York Times following the election. The ad said:

"Dear President-elect Trump: in case you had any doubt, We are the American Civil Liberties Union and we're not moving to Canada.

So, rest assured that when you target immigrants, dissidents, and your political opponents — we will challenge you in the courts, at state legislatures, and in the streets.

Surely, you remember the landmark lawsuits we won against you on family separation, the U.S. Census, and immigrants' rights — some of which were decided by judges you appointed.

During your last presidency, we brought 434 legal actions, including 250 lawsuits, against your administration's anti-civil liberties agenda.

We also mobilized the power of our more than 1 million card-carrying members in the streets, at airports, and in state capitals.

We've developed a comprehensive roadmap to defend our rights beginning on day one. We're not new to this.

At the ACLU, we play the long game. We've been around for 105 years and seen 19 presidents come and go.

That's why any attempt to roll back the nation's civil liberties on our watch will be hard fought and met with the full power of our resistance."

And a few words from Nichi Hoskins in the Huffington Post: "But despite the darkness, despite underwhelming voter turnout in an exhausting election cycle, I truly believe that pound for pound, body for body, the good guys do outnumber the bad guys. And if we wish to prevail in the long run, this moment must be about us. The silver lining I choose to see is that now, we have an opportunity to make our party into one that is truly for the people. The legacy runners are gone. There is no Clinton, no leftovers from Obama. The chance for a Bernie Sanders Cinderella story has long passed. The window is open. When we return, the candidates of the next primary cycle will have the best chance since 2008 to start anew, and stand for progressive change that propels our country into the future. So where do we go from here? Onward. We do not yield."

Let us not forget what VP Harris said, "While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign. The fight for freedom, for opportunity, for fairness and the dignity of all people. A fight for the ideals at the heart of our nation. The ideals that reflect America at our best. That is a fight I will never give up."

And lastly, during November and December, I will feature my timely #PostElectionSeries with a number of inspiring women authors, leaders, and influencers. Tune in on Wednesday, November 13, to kick off the series with Lyn Chamberlin as we discuss the election, leadership, gender bias, misinformation, and more.

SHARE THIS: I know we have still not shattered that highest and hardest glass ceiling, but someday, someone will. ~Hillary Clinton #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Image Credit: Amazon.

HOLIDAY LEADERSHIP SERIES – Featuring Erika Andersen

With the arrival of the holiday season, it's time for the memorable end-of-the-year advertising campaigns and familiar music to hit the airwaves; our TV's, radios, and computer/tablet/smartphone screens will be bombarded by reminders of the season. Since I've been honored to share several inspiring series on my blog over the last year including my #FallBacktoReadingSeries, #SpringLeadershipSeries, and #OlympicsLeadershipSeries, I've decided to end the year with my #HolidayLeadershipSeries.

I've asked 10 thought leaders to chime in and share some of their holiday thoughts as they pertain to leadership and marketing specifically during the holiday season. Enjoy, and happy holidays!

And now, for today's post, I'd like to introduce Erika Andersen. I've had the pleasure of knowing Erika for many years, and she first appeared in a Q&A on my blog in 2011. She is the founding partner of Proteus, where she and her colleagues support leaders at all levels to get ready and stay ready to meet the future. Erika advises senior executives and also shares her insights through her books, speaking engagements, and social media. In addition to her latest book, Change from the Inside Out, she is the author of four previous best-selling books: Be Bad First, Leading So People Will Follow, Being Strategic, and Growing Great Employees. Erika is also a popular leadership blogger at Forbes.com, and the creator and host of the Proteus Leader Show podcast.

QUESTION: What BRAND or PRODUCT is the most memorable during the holiday season?

ERIKA ANDERSEN: For me, Christmas trees have the most positive associations. My parents were not religious (my Mom, in fact, was a confirmed atheist), but they loved Christmas, and we always went all in. For us, it was a time of joy, hope, gratitude, and for the sharing of love through gifts (never lavish, always meaningful), food, and time together.

Finding, bringing home, and decorating our Christmas tree was the start of the season. When we were kids, lots of the tree decorations were homemade: strings of popcorn and cranberries; paper loops glued together into chains; clumsy, sweet ornaments we made at school.

Even now, when our end-of-year holidays are spent in Spain with a man-made (but still very realistic!) Christmas tree, I still have ornaments that were my Mom’s as a child, and these now 100-year-old delicate glass baubles are a wonderful reminder of her.

QUESTION: What is your favorite holiday ADVERTISEMENT?

ERIKA ANDERSEN: I love simple, classic holiday ads. Perhaps, my favorite Christmas ad of all time is the Hershey's Kiss "Jingle Bell" ad. It’s such a wonderful example of promoting a product in a timeless, clever, celebratory way. I understand that Hershey's has been using this ad since 1989. Hard to imagine how anyone could dislike it because it embodies joy without incorporating anything controversial or divisive. 

QUESTION: What is your favorite piece of music or SONG during the holiday season? 

ERIKA ANDERSEN: Wow, this is a hard one. I adore Christmas music – we have a rule in our house that I can't start playing Christmas music till after Thanksgiving – otherwise it’s overkill for my husband!

However, when I read this question, the first song that popped into my head was "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," the Frank Sinatra version. It always brings tears to my eyes. It really captures, for me, the hopeful, loving spirit of the season.

The Internet just informed me that it was written for Judy Garland in her 1944 movie, "Meet Me in St. Louis," and has since been recorded by at least 65 different artists.

QUESTION: Whose PERSONAL BRAND stands out during the holidays, and why? (Think outside the box and do not share any religious choices.)

ERIKA ANDERSEN: Nat King Cole. Though he was well-known for many, many non-Christmas hits ("Embraceable You" is one of my favorites), for me, the clarity and warmth of his voice are the essence of the season. In fact, my Mom always used to put him on the stereo when we were decorating the tree. His album, "The Joy of Christmas" is still one of the best-selling Christmas albums. To me, he always sounded like he was thinking about how wonderful the holiday season can be, and encouraging us to experience it with him.

QUESTION: And lastly, since this is a leadership series, what is your favorite LEADERSHIP QUOTE?

ERIKA ANDERSEN: As you know, Debbie, I have roughly a zillion favorite leadership quotes and can usually offer one that's appropriate for almost any circumstance. So, here's one that seems perfect for the holiday season from Brené Brown: "It’s not joy that makes us grateful, it's gratitude that makes us joyful."

SHARE THIS: It’s not joy that makes us grateful, it's gratitude that makes us joyful. ~Brené Brown via @ErikaAndersen #HolidayLeadershipSeries #DebbieLaskeysBlog

My gratitude to Erika for sharing her leadership insights and for being a part of my #HolidayLeadershipSeries.

Image Credit: Sean Foster via WordSwag.

Watch the Hershey's ad: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQ8NRnGDkeA

Learn about the history of the Hershey's 1989 Christmas Bells Ad:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_Bells_(advertisement)

Five Facts About the Classic Hershey Christmas Ad:

https://www.delish.com/holiday-recipes/christmas/a45224/history-hersheys-kisses-holiday-commercial/

Listen to Frank Sinatra's version of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hw4OmOhj9Ho

Learn about the history of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Have_Yourself_a_Merry_Little_Christmas

Listen to Nat King Cole's album, The Joy of Christmas: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fddl4UqCYA0

Connect with Erika at these links:

Website: https://erikaandersen.com

Website: https://www.proteus-international.com

Books: https://erikaandersen.com/books

Check out Erika's previous appearances here on my blog:

Let's Celebrate #WomensEqualityDay with Erika Andersen! (August 2024)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2024/08/lets-celebrate-womensequalityday-with.html

Inspiring Tips to Celebrate #NationalLeadershipDay! (February 2024)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2024/02/inspiring-tips-to-celebrate.html

FALL BACK TO READING SERIES – Featuring Erika Andersen (October 2023)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2023/10/fall-back-to-reading-series-featuring_01710409622.html

How Magic and Happiness Impact Leadership (April 2023)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2023/04/how-magic-and-happiness-impact.html

Tips to Become “Change-Capable (May 2022)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2022/05/tips-to-become-change-capable.html

Three Leadership Secrets: Build Consensus, Be Open to Challengers, and Delegate (May 2021)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2021/05/3-leadership-secrets-build-consensus-be.html

Review of: Leading So People Will Follow by Erika Andersen (October 2019)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2019/10/fall-back-to-reading-with-12-thought.html

Leadership + Strategy = Amazing Employee Experience (November 2018)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2018/11/leadership-strategy-amazing-employee.html

Review of: Be Bad First by Erika Andersen (October 2018)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2018/10/fall-reading-recap-leadership-branding.html

Are You the Type of Manager or Leader YOU Would Follow? (January 2014)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2014/01/are-you-type-of-manager-or-leader-you.html

Want to be Nicknamed Strategy Guru? (July 2011)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2011/07/want-to-be-nicknamed-strategy-guru.html

Let's Celebrate National Author's Day and National Young Readers Day!

Do you have a passion for reading? If so, today is a special day: it's National Author's Day, a day to celebrate your favorite authors as well as the authors whose books you've yet to read. Also, since National Young Readers Day is celebrated on the second Tuesday of November, on November 12th this year, let's celebrate both days together!

Some history about National Author's Day: In 1928, Nellie Verne Burt McPherson, an educator, an avid reader, and the president of the Illinois Women's Club, had an idea to create a day that recognized American authors. She had just read Irving Bacheller's "Eben Holden's Last Day A-Fishing" and sent a letter to the author expressing her love for the book. After receiving the letter, he responded by sending her a signed copy of one of his books. 

Overwhelmed by Bacheller's generosity, McPherson wanted to repay the gesture and concluded that a national day for authors was the answer. She presented the idea to the Generation Federation of Women's Clubs, and the club approved. In May of 1929, the club issued an endorsement to celebrate American authors on National Author's Day. The U.S. Department of Commerce acknowledged National Author's Day in 1949, and although it took 20 years, McPherson's vision finally became a reality, and the holiday has been celebrated across the country every year since.

How can you observe National Author's Day? Purchase some books by your favorite author to support them. Write reviews on Amazon and other book websites. Or use the hashtag #NationalAuthorsDay to post photos of your favorite authors and books on social media - and of course, follow your favorite authors on their social networks.

SHARE THIS: In November 1994, Amazon was founded in Jeff Bezos' garage and forever changed the way authors and consumers interact. ~@natltoday #FunFact #NationalAuthorsDay #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Now, some history about National Young Readers Day. Did you know that Young Readers Day was co-founded by Pizza Hut and the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress? While "National" is often included in the holiday's title, there is no Presidential Proclamation nor Act of Congress designating the day as such. Grade schools around the country take advantage of this day to promote the importance of reading, because reading opens the door to knowledge, information, adventure, success, and happiness.

How can you observe National Young Readers Day? Encourage a young person to pick up a new book to read today, or buy a book for a young person. Expose a young person to a new category of books, such as, geography, animals, science, fiction, etc.

Who are some of your favorite authors? Check out my blog post entitled, "Happy National Book Lovers Day" from August of 2023 (link below), where I've included a list of my favorite books and authors. And then, chime in and share your favorite authors.

SHARE THIS: You cannot open a book without learning something. ~Confucius #NationalAuthorsDay #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Image Credit: Jess-@TheIntrovertedEdition on Instagram.

Read some book-related posts on my blog:

The Best Book I Read in 2023 (February 2024)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2024/02/the-best-book-i-read-in-2023.html

Happy National Book Lovers Day! (August 2023)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2023/08/happy-national-book-lovers-day.html

And a VERY interesting article from The Guardian:

Why Authors Need to Join the PR Circus:

https://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2013/jul/30/authors-pr-circus

Introducing the #HolidayLeadershipSeries on #DebbieLaskeysBlog

With the arrival of the holiday season, it's time for the memorable end-of-the-year advertising campaigns and familiar music to hit the airwaves. Our TV's, radios, and computer/tablet/smartphone screens will be bombarded by reminders of the season. Since I've been honored to share several inspiring series on my blog over the last year including my #FallBacktoReadingSeries, #SpringLeadershipSeries, and #OlympicsLeadershipSeries, I'm going to end the year with my #HolidayLeadershipSeries.

I've asked 10 thought leaders the same five questions so that they can share their expertise as it pertains to leadership and marketing specifically during the holiday season. To begin the series and also get into the holiday spirit, my responses to the questions follow below.

However, before we begin, let's recognize the holidays that begin the traditional end-of-the-year holiday season: Halloween and Día de los Muertos.

According to History.com, "Halloween is a holiday celebrated each year on October 31. The tradition originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints. Soon, All Saints Day incorporated some of the traditions of Samhain. The evening before was known as All Hallows Eve, and later Halloween. Over time, Halloween evolved into a day of activities including trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, festive gatherings, donning costumes, and eating treats."

According to History.com, "The Day of the Dead (el Día de los Muertos) is a Mexican holiday where families welcome back the souls of their deceased relatives for a brief reunion that includes food, drink, and celebration. A blend of Mesoamerican ritual, European religion, and Spanish culture, the holiday is celebrated each year from October 31 to November 2...Though the particular customs and scale of Day of the Dead celebrations continue to evolve, the heart of the holiday has remained the same over thousands of years. It's an occasion for remembering and celebrating those who have passed on from this world, while at the same time portraying death in a more positive light, as a natural part of the human experience."

QUESTION: What BRAND or PRODUCT is the most memorable during the holiday season?

DEBBIE LASKEY: My favorite holiday brand is NORAD. Read more from its website:

"The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) is a United States and Canada bi-national organization which defends the homeland through aerospace warning, aerospace control, and maritime warning for North America. Aerospace warning includes the monitoring of man-made objects in space, and the detection, validation, and warning of attack against North America whether by aircraft, missiles, or space vehicles, through mutual support arrangements with other commands...Headquartered in Colorado, NORAD's mission has evolved over the years to meet changing threats. Through outstanding bi-national cooperation, NORAD has proven itself effective in its roles of watching, warning, and responding. The men and women of NORAD are constantly watching the skies and waterways of the United States and Canada.

The modern tradition of tracking Santa began in 1955 when a young child accidentally dialed the unlisted phone number of the CONAD Operations Center (the predecessor of NORAD) upon seeing a newspaper ad telling kids to call Santa. The Director of Operations, Colonel Harry Shoup, answered the phone and instructed his staff to check the radar for indications of Santa making his way south from the North Pole.

Thus, a tradition was born, and every year since, NORAD has reported Santa's location on December 24 to millions of children and families across the globe. Every Christmas Eve, thousands of volunteers staff telephones and computers to answer calls and emails from children around the world. Live updates are provided through the NORAD Tracks Santa Website (in seven languages), over telephone lines, and by email to keep curious children and their families informed about Santa's whereabouts and if it's time to get to bed.

Each year, the NORAD Tracks Santa Website receives nearly nine million unique visitors from more than 200 countries and territories around the world. Volunteers receive more than 12,000 emails and more than 70,000 calls to the NORAD Tracks Santa hotline from children around the world. NORAD Tracks Santa has become a magical and global phenomenon, delighting generations of families everywhere and is funded through generous contributions that cover everything from computer servers, website design, video imaging, Santa's tracking map, and telephone services."

QUESTION: What is your favorite holiday ADVERTISEMENT?

DEBBIE LASKEY: This print ad from 1993 was timeless with its "Ingle Ells, Ingle Ells. The holidays aren't the same with J&B." It reminded marketers to try different spellings of their brand names for effective and compelling storytelling. The ad was timeless because it referenced the famous holiday song JINGLE BELLS while also incorporating it into the brand's name.

QUESTION: What is your favorite PIECE OF MUSIC or SONG during the holiday season?

DEBBIE LASKEY: While melodies such as Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" and "The Christmas Song" also known as its first line "Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire" sung by Nat King Cole are timeless (and everyone can hum them), my favorite holiday song is JINGLE BELL ROCK, because it was a repackaged rock version of JINGLE BELLS.

(Listen here: https://youtu.be/7jnGgdDhjAo?si=yx7c9XYcvmHeJR3W)

QUESTION: Whose PERSONAL BRAND stands out during the holidays? (Think outside the box and no religious choices.)

DEBBIE LASKEY: My choice is Queen Elizabeth, who, during her record-breaking 70-year reign, gave an annual Christmas message to her subjects to uplift them.

According to GoldenTours.com, here are ten interesting facts about the Royal Christmas Speeches:

(1) George V delivered the first Christmas broadcast to the world in 1932.

(2) Rudyard Kipling, writer of The Jungle Book, wrote the 1932 speech.

(3) The idea for a Royal Christmas speech was first suggested by Sir John Reith, the founder of the BBC.

(4) Queen Elizabeth II made a Christmas speech every year except 1969. (That was because a special documentary film about the Royal Family had been made during the summer in connection with the Investiture of The Prince of Wales. Therefore, it was decided not to do a broadcast at Christmas, but The Queen issued a written message instead.)

(5) The most people to tune into the Christmas broadcast was 28 million in 1980.

(6) The first televised broadcast took place in 1957.

(7) The Queen's Christmas Speech was usually filmed at Buckingham Palace but occasionally took place at Windsor Castle and Sandringham House in Norfolk.

(8) The broadcast was always recorded a few days before Christmas.

(9) The Queen's Speech addressed global, national, and personal events.

(10) The Christmas message was always broadcast at 3pm on Christmas Day.

QUESTION: Since this is a leadership series, what is your favorite LEADERSHIP QUOTE?

DEBBIE LASKEY: My favorite all-time leadership quote is from author and leadership expert Mark Herbert: "Leadership doesn't require you to be the smartest person in the room. It requires you to block and tackle for others."

Mark explained in a previous post here on my blog, "The best leaders recognize the elements that need to be represented in a complete strategy and integrate them. They don't try to be the first chair to use a musical analogy, they conduct the orchestra. I have watched people step up and do amazing things when they were given permission and freedom to make mistakes without fear of failing. The other is being sure that credit and success are in abundance rather than scarcity."

I embrace this quote because it is a constant reminder that the best leaders are those who value their team members and always have their backs.

Get ready to be inspired by 10 thought leaders. Tune into #DebbieLaskeysBlog every Monday during November and December - plus Boxing Day on December 26th. I will also share a series recap on December 31st. Happy holidays!

SHARE THIS: Leadership doesn't require you to be the smartest person in the room. It requires you to block and tackle for others. ~Mark Herbert #HolidayLeadershipSeries #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Image Credit: J&B and The Royal Family.

Read more about the Royal Christmas Message:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Christmas_message

Watch the Queen's final Christmas message on December 25, 2021:

https://youtu.be/T3ACe_3eKnw?si=1ao75D8fCPynUctw

Watch the Queen's first Christmas message on December 25, 1957:

https://youtu.be/mBRP-o6Q85s?si=GoZrpMCxAF5owX81