If you have ever wondered why some conversations at work flow effortlessly while others feel like pulling teeth, you are not alone. Even the most talented teams get stuck when people misread intentions, talk past one another, or default to unproductive conflict.

We’ve all seen it before: the brilliant manager who knows the numbers inside and out but loses their cool the second a deadline is missed. Or the team member who quietly delivers quality work but struggles to influence or collaborate because no one quite trusts them.

I’ve worked with a coach for most of my career, starting before I was even a manager. And I can tell you this: it completely changed the trajectory of where I ended up.

You’ve been confused on the next promotion, the next big project, the next credential. But, when you’re at (or near) the top, what’s it all for? Is this ladder even leaning against the right wall? Have your priorities shifted without you noticing?

California’s minimum wage will increase from $16.50 to $16.90 per hour effective January 1, 2026, as announced by the California Department of Finance.

There’s a space between personal growth and professional productivity - and that’s where I live.

After years of creating, leading, and growing People Operations inside a highly technical professional services firm, I started to realize that the way I did HR was… different.

I’ve lost count of how many conversations, panels, workshops, and leadership events I’ve attended in the last year where the topic was AI.

Every one of them promises a fresh take, a bold insight or “an enriching discussion about the future of work.” But they all start to sound the same.

Let’s get this out of the way: Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) have a terrible reputation.

They’re the HR equivalent of “We need to talk.” Everyone tenses up. Anxiety skyrockets. People start dusting off their resumes and replying to those LinkedIn recruiters. 

And honestly? I get it.

“What do you do?” asks the man in the hot tub. 

I wanted to scream. 

What an annoying question. Of all the things you could ask me, this is the one you go with? Please get out and leave me to soak in peace. I’m bored, you’re boring, and you’re ruining my relaxation time.

.. is what I said in my head. 

What’s happening in Los Angeles right now is extraordinary.

The recent ICE raids across the city—targeting worksites and neighborhoods—have left communities reeling. And while these actions are being challenged at the state and federal level, the reality is that many businesses and employees are feeling scared, confused, and unsure of what to do next.