Collaborative Sage

Serving in the Peace Corps is a gift I continue to learn from. While going through the most uncomfortable imposter syndrome, true vulnerability, and health challenges, we learned that life is doable when connection is present and, to achieve that connection and almost everything else of value, leading from the heart is the way.

The best leaders aren’t always the most gregarious and, in fact, valuing extroverted vocalism above well-articulated proposals may be to the detriment of the voice of a better idea.

Leadership looks like many different things, and it’s worth it to mull over the idea that magnetism may look more like trust-building through listening, sharing authentically without performing, and making space for others’ innovative voices, too.

If it feels like leadership advice always keeps you from feeling powerful, or undermines your true strength, I’d love to see you at next week’s Quietly Powerful workshop. Let’s come to terms with the fact that we already come well-equipped to lead, no matter our delivery.

Thanks to Ellevate Pacific Northwest Community for partnering and proving the platform for this great discussion.

🗓 Jan 20, 2026
⏰ 12–1 PM PST | Virtual 🔗 Link here to register: https://lnkd.in/gbSAqswB

If you don’t have power, do you have a leg to stand on?

Or, can you influence your way to success without it?

The Seattle chapter of Culture First’s workshop, “Influence Starts with Trust,” facilitated by Christine Wickland reinforced the idea that Power may incite compliance, but Influence builds trust and willing enrollment into your vision. As if I needed any convincing...

How do you invest in long-term commitment and willing enrollment into your ideas as a leader?

Are you people-first, inviting them to join you, or are you commanding their participation?

How well does either work in the long-run for you?

Shout out to Christiane Bayor for organizing such an enlightening event, and to Christine for her incredibly connective and engaging facilitation style! I look forward to seeing and participating in more with Culture First.