Today I’m grateful for a refreshing conversation with a business owner I first met while on vacation this summer.
He runs an engagement firm in the D.C. area, and our dialogue reminded me of the power of connecting with new people outside of our usual circles.
As we spoke about the challenges businesses face in penetrating markets, I was reminded of an article I once wrote on those who have been historically marginalized but now find themselves in leadership. It can be tempting to simply accept the status quo in those rooms—especially when our leadership can feel fragile. But true leadership means occupying your space fully, leaving your unique fingerprint, and opening doors for those who are not typically at the table. Too often, legacy relationships dominate contracts, leaving others shut out. This conversation sparked me to refine my thinking and recommit to making space for those voices.