Blog
“Clarity of purpose and speaking up about what will make the difference in our communities and businesses is critical. Uncommon Candor inspires us to keep giving the gift of straight talk – for ourselves and others.”—MARIO MORINO, author of Leap of Reason and founder, Venture Philanthropy Partners
Profiles in Candor: President George H.W. Bush
On November 30, President George H.W. Bush died and our nation is grieving the loss of “America’s last great soldier-statesman, a 20th century founding father.” Those are the words of Jon Meacham, presidential historian, Bush biographer, and one…
Profiles in Candor: Stan Lee
Stan Lee passed away this month, and the world has lost not only a great artist, but also an important voice for equality and tolerance. Lee, known primarily for his creation and co-creation of Spider-Man and other superheroes,…
T.H.I.N.K.
In my book, Uncommon Candor: A Leader’s Guide to Straight Talk (ForbesBooks), I make a strong case for candor that is direct and truthful, but also respectful. Conversations that are “brutally honest” don’t fall into the category of…
Gazelles ScaleUp Summit – The Highlight Reel
Having just returned from the Gazelles ScaleUp Summit in Denver, I am reinvigorated by the exchange of experience and intelligence on leadership. There were strong themes bolstering the importance of focus and building relationships that resonated deeply with…
Profiles in Candor – Harriet Tubman
Harriet Tubman was an abolitionist and humanitarian most well-known for her role as a conductor in the Underground Railroad. She was also a women’s suffragist, civil rights activist, nurse, spy and soldier. To this day, Tubman is one…
Profiles in Candor: Sergio Marchionne
When Sergio Marchionne passed away in July 2018, he left a legacy of leadership including guiding the turn-around of Fiat Group to become one of the fastest growing companies in the auto industry, helping Chrysler rebound following bankruptcy,…
The Light of Truth
I spent time exploring the National Museum of African American History and Culture earlier this month and was struck by the brilliance of candor in history and about history that continues to have profound impact and relevance to…
Profiles In Candor: Senator John McCain
With the passing of Sen. John McCain, our nation is mourning the loss of a war hero and patriot who served in public office for more than three decades. Reports are filled with stories of his heroism and…
Maternal Mortality in the First World
The United States is the only industrialized country where the rate of maternal deaths has increased, not decreased, and we are ranked 46th in the world for maternal mortality, falling behind countries like Saudi Arabia and Kazakhstan. (CBS…