Executive Presence Feedback: What It Really Means and Why It’s Often Biased

“Executive presence” sounds like useful feedback. It rarely is. Here’s what it actually means, who it harms most, and what managers should do instead.
Lonely Teams Don’t Innovate

What does workplace loneliness have to do with psychological safety, burnout, and the bottom line? New data from Gallup and the Fearless Report paints a concerning picture — and what I’m hearing in my own practice makes it even more urgent.
Executive Functioning at Work: Understanding Activation and ADHD in the Workplace

In my last newsletter, I talked about neurodivergence in the workplace and someone asked me to explain executive functioning for the people. Dear gentle reader, I do miss regular facilitating, so class is in session. Gather ‘round to read about one of my specialties: executive functioning and ADHD at work. A Little Brain Science (in […]
Neurodivergence in the Workplace, Burnout, and Accessibility Lessons from The Pitt

Neurodivergence in the Workplace, Burnout, and Accessibility Lessons from The Pitt You may know that I’m a therapist and a coach, but did you know I’m also a screenwriter and that makes me a professional TV watcher? (Sadly, it’s unpaid … for now). I’ve been threatening this for a while, but I couldn’t hold back […]
Neurodivergence, Trauma, and Work Stress During Times of Heightened Uncertainty

How neurodivergence and trauma affect work stress during uncertain times, with guidance for trauma-informed leadership and managers.
“You can’t call it that.” Pedaling Dirty Words in 2025

When a psychological safety consultant can’t say, “psychological safety” Several months ago, I answered a call for guest speakers. As a long-tenured therapist, toxic workplace survivor, and Fearless Organization Certified Practitioner, I suggested a workshop on one of my favorite topics: psychological safety. The HR person loved the idea, so we scheduled it. Fast forward […]
Why Saying “We’re Like a Family” at Work Can Backfire

“We’re Like a Family” — What’s the Harm? A couple of weeks ago, I said something to a room full of filmmakers that I could tell broke a few brains. I told them they might want to think twice before saying, “We’re like a family here.” It’s something I say to leaders all the time, […]
A Therapist’s Insight: Employees & Manager Overwhelm

A Tough Love™️ Letter to Managers (and Their Leaders) A therapist’s note you might want to forward to your boss. Today, I’ve got another love letter for managers, but this one leans more into Tough Love™️. Maybe some of you will even pass it along to your company’s leadership, like a note from your therapist, […]