Forward Thinking
Welcome to Forward Thinking, where we explore the ideas, insights, and strategies shaping the future of leadership, organizational change, and culture. This is where we share what we’re learning in the field—what’s working, what’s shifting, and what leaders need to be paying attention to. Grounded in practice and informed by research, our posts are designed to help you think more critically, act more intentionally, and lead more effectively in times of change.
What Is Consulting, Really?
Ever wondered what a consultant actually does? We're pulling back the curtain to explain why organizations hire us. From strategic planning and leadership development to neutral facilitation and building capacity, discover how consulting helps solve problems and drive meaningful progress.
Group vs. Team Coaching - Two Powerful Paths to Progress
Coaching comes in many forms, and two powerful options for collective growth are group coaching and team coaching. While both leverage shared experience, their focus differs significantly: individual development versus enhancing collective performance. This post clarifies the distinctions and explains which might be right for you or your organization.
Managing Up Is a Bridge Worth Building
“Managing up” gets a bad rap—but it’s a critical leadership skill. This post explores how to clarify, translate, and challenge upward with intention, so you can lead across and up the org chart with confidence (not flattery).
The Power of the Peer: Why Group Coaching Amplifies Transformation
What makes group coaching so powerful? It's more than just a gathering—it's a dynamic, peer-driven space for growth. This post explores how learning through others' stories, sharing your own, and showing up in community can accelerate transformation in ways solo work can’t.
Escaping the Tactical Trap: Getting Out of the Weeds and Back into Leadership
Being busy doesn’t always mean you’re leading. In this blog, we explore the tactical trap—how high-achieving leaders get stuck in execution, why it feels satisfying, and how to shift back into intentional, strategic leadership. Includes five steps to get out of the weeds and lead with clarity.
Plan Now for a Successful Summer Retreat
Thinking about a summer retreat for your team? Don’t wait until vacation season to start planning! From setting a clear purpose to nailing logistics, we’re sharing expert insights on designing a retreat that’s actually impactful—not just another meeting in a different location. Read our latest blog to learn how to make your retreat a success.
Reflections from NASPA
Conferences like NASPA are full - of ideas, conversations, and the occasional long coffee line. This year, our CEO and Founder presented four sessions on leading change with intention, from coaching-driven team development to bringing strategic plans to life. Conference highlights also happened in the hallways, in quick check-ins, and in hearing how our work continues to shape teams. Read more about our key NASPA takeaways.
Why Retreats?
📣 “Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.” — Henry Ford
One of our favorite ways to engage with clients is by facilitating team retreats. We've worked with teams of all shapes and sizes across various industries, and we've identified key best practices that highlight the value and purpose of these retreats.
In the post-COVID era, setting aside dedicated time to come together in person cannot be overstated. Retreats provide a unique opportunity to build relationships, reflect on the past, and set future goals. With many teams now hybrid or fully remote, these in-person interactions reignite the sense of community and belonging that drives success. Even when in-person retreats aren't feasible, thoughtfully planned virtual retreats can still offer tremendous benefits.
A successful retreat balances professional goals with personal interactions, fostering deeper relationships and renewed purpose. Whether in-person or virtual, retreats help teams step away from their usual environment, sparking creativity and new perspectives.