by Laurie | Jul 10, 2025 | Creativity, Humanities, Strategic planning, Taking action
A few weeks ago, the American Musicological Society invited me to lead a workshop for Musicology PhD students interested in careers beyond the academy. In light of the dire budget cuts to higher education research and unprecedented attacks on science and academic...
by Laurie | Jun 26, 2025 | Capacity-building, Creativity, Leadership, Meetings, Strategic planning
I have the great fortune to divide my time between two wonderful cities: Madison, Wisconsin and Berlin, Germany. While the trips back and forth require planning and effort, the benefits always outweigh the short-term logistical stress. By shifting my location, I gain...
by Laurie | Jun 12, 2025 | Capacity-building, Leadership, Strategic planning, Taking action
In my last newsletter, I discussed the need for leaders to get comfortable building while flying. The most effective and sustainable organizations are those that manage to work on both process and mission at the same time. “Easier said than done,” you’re probably...
by Laurie | May 28, 2025 | Capacity-building, Leadership, Strategic planning, Taking action
When I work with clients on strategic planning or launching new initiatives, I’ve noticed a common tension between two types of thinkers: There are the process-oriented folks, who want to create the optimal system before doing anything else. They often fear taking...
by Laurie | Apr 2, 2025 | Meetings, Strategic planning, Taking action
Has this happened to you? You’re meeting with a group of smart and motivated people, brimming with ideas about how to develop or improve a policy, program, or organization. There’s a sense of shared purpose, the discussion has a gratifying flow, and the atmosphere is...
by Laurie | Mar 12, 2025 | Strategic planning
I’m working with a community nonprofit board, and they’re navigating major transitions. COVID transformed the landscape, they’ve moved to a new building, and several people in leadership positions are approaching retirement. I’ve been steering the board’s work...
