Reflecting on Leadership and the Boston Tragedy

Mile 23

I have researched, written, and taught about crisis leadership for the past five years. It has always been interesting and at times truly exciting. I have gained great respect for responders through my work on the ground during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and in the aftermath of super storm … [Read more...]

Leadership and Sandy: The Uncertain Future

Evacuation sign

Until last week, most people would give me a quizzical look when I mentioned that I was completing a Master's degree in leadership in the context of meta-systems challenges.  I'd further explain that the meta-system challenges I focus on include the effects of climate change and global … [Read more...]

A Jolt…and a Volt

Chevy Volt instrument panel

I had the pleasure of attending the PopTech 2012 conference in Camden, ME a few days back. The focus was resilience. Two standout presentations were those by neuroscientist David DeSteno on the science of compassion and journalist Amanda Ripley on the future of education in the U.S. A duo of … [Read more...]

Green Restaurant Initiative Gathers Steam

Peppers

In fall 2011 I launched an initiative to "green" the restaurants of my neighborhood, Washington Square, Brookline, Massachusetts. The area is home to the Boston area's first GRA Certified Green Restaurant, The Fireplace, as well as nearly 20 other dining options from an ice cream shop to fine … [Read more...]

Leadership and Human Capacity

Paine's Creek Sept 6

I am spending an interesting and provocative week in a seminar led by Margaret (Meg) Wheatley. She is the author of Leadership and the New Science, a book that I refer to again and again in my own work. It looks at what our increasing understanding of the natural world through complexity theory, … [Read more...]