The Weston Network

I’ve been reflecting on the many times in my life where confrontation has either broken relationships or strengthened them. We often think of confrontation as a negative, something to avoid at all costs. But in my experience, confrontation is a gateway—an opportunity to deepen trust, create clarity, and build more authentic connections. That’s why I’m so passionate about the Respectful Confrontation® methodology and the transformative power it has. It’s not about aggression or retreating into silence. It’s about learning how to stand your ground with heart, speak your truth with compassion, and create an environment where everyone feels heard, respected, and empowered. In our upcoming Weekend Workshop on November 2-3, I’ll be guiding you through the tools and practices that I’ve seen transform countless lives. With the help of 5 other certified trainers, we’ll dive deep into strategies that will help you get your needs met, set boundaries, and stay present—whether you’re in a difficult conversation at work, at home, or even within yourself. This is a hands-on, in-person experience, and I can’t tell you how powerful it is to connect with people face-to-face again. There’s an energy and a synergy that happens in these workshops that’s hard to explain—it’s something you have to experience for yourself. If you’ve been struggling with communication, relationships, or feeling stuck in conflict, this workshop could be the turning point. Join us, and let’s explore how confrontation can lead to transformation. 📅 When: November 2-3, 2024 ⏰ Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 📍 Where: The State Room - Northampton, MA (Driving distance from major cities like Boston, NYC, and Providence, or by train for a fun weekend getaway - details provi) 💲 Early Bird: $395 (Until 9/20) 💲 Standard: $425 Spots are already filling up, so don’t wait too long to grab yours! SAVE YOUR SPOT TODAY!: https://lnkd.in/ekmGEGrv

In this clip from a past Global Heart Gathering, I reflect on the power of leading with the heart. 🌍❤️ When we walk through the streets of a city on a route in the shape of a heart, it may seem like a march, but it was never about being anti-anything—it was always for peace. What I found remarkable was the way people on the sidelines would shift from being ready to takes sides and fight to simply melting into smiles. By walking with the heart in focus, we disarmed the fight response and created a space of peace and connection. The act of showing up with connection and open-heartedness has the power to break down internal polarizations, even in the most tense environments. This leads to solutions we can't even imagine. How do YOU safely lead with your heart in moments of conflict or tension? I’d love to hear your experiences.

On this 9/11, I find myself reflecting on a powerful lesson from that day, one I wrote about in my book Fierce Civility: Transforming Our Global Culture From Polarization to Lasting Peace —how, in times of crisis, the boundaries that divide us can melt away. On September 11, 2001, New Yorkers—residents and visitors alike—came together in an extraordinary way. In the face of tragedy, the lines separating “us” and “them” disappeared. Strangers hugged in the streets, offered food and shelter, and supported one another without hesitation. For a brief time, New York became a neighborhood of millions, united by a shared sense of humanity and loss. This profound connection wasn’t limited to New York. Around the world, people stood in solidarity, recognizing our shared grief and vulnerability. I was in the Netherlands at the time, and even there, far from Ground Zero, I saw people in shock, reaching out to check on loved ones, moved by the collective pain. The unity we experienced in those days was a reminder of our inherent interconnectedness—the power of the human heart to reach beyond borders, beliefs, and backgrounds to offer compassion and support. Yet, as time has passed, we’ve retreated back into old patterns of separation and division. That powerful sense of unity has faded, and polarization has deepened. But I believe there is a way forward—a way to reawaken that collective spirit of solidarity and compassion, not just in times of crisis, but in our everyday lives. It begins with breaking the false “us vs. them” narrative and finding new alliances in surprising places. It begins with opening our hearts, even to those we might label as “other.” On this day of remembrance, let’s honor the lives lost by choosing to lead with our hearts, to find common ground in our shared humanity, and to move forward with a spirit of fierce compassion, resilience, and connection. Let’s un-divide the world, together.

When was the last time you faced a difficult conversation and walked away feeling truly empowered? For many of us, confrontation brings a sense of dread—it’s something we avoid or push through with tension. But what if I told you there’s another way? A way to confront challenges, communicate your truth, and set boundaries that create deeper connections rather than conflict? That’s the essence of Respectful Confrontation. This November, I’m hosting a Respectful Confrontation Weekend Workshop—an immersive, in-person experience designed to help you develop skills for tackling those tough conversations, getting your needs met, and staying grounded in both loving and challenging situations. You'll learn to build trust, deep relationships, and step into your own authentic power. One of the most exciting things about this workshop is that I’ll be joined by five other certified trainers from my team, bringing a dynamic and rich experience to the group. Together, we’ll explore how to confront adversity with heart and resilience, tapping into the 4 Pillars of Resilient Power. These are tools that will serve you in every area of your life—whether at home, at work, or in the world. If you’re ready to stop avoiding confrontation and start using it as a tool for empowerment, I invite you to join us in November. Spots are already filling up, and I’d love to see you there. Respectful Confrontation Weekend Workshop 📅 When: November 2-3, 2024 ⏰ Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 📍 Where: In-Person (Central location, driving distance from NYC, Boston, and Providence) 💲 Early Bird: $395 USD (Until 9/20) 💲 Standard: $425 USD Together, let’s unlock the power of confrontation, grounded in respect and resilience. Can't wait! https://lnkd.in/ekmGEGrv

With only two more Global Heart Gatherings before the election, I believe these sessions will be crucial for grounding ourselves in the midst of the stress and conflict that comes with this heightened time. The tension and division we’re feeling across the world is real, and it’s impacting us on a deep level. But, when we gather with open hearts and a shared intention, we’re not just supporting one another; we’re actively helping to un-divide the world. The Global Heart Gatherings are a reminder that in the face of stress, conflict, and uncertainty, unity is a choice we can make together. It’s a space where we can center ourselves, reflect on what we truly want for our communities, and move forward with grace and resilience. This space is about creating a world where connection and compassion guide our actions. Let’s use these next gatherings to ground ourselves, reconnect with our shared values, and remind ourselves that we have the power to build a better world. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or just in need of a moment of connection, I invite you to join us. Together, we’ll find strength in our collective compassion and create ripples of positive change. September's Global Heart Gathering: 📅 When: Tomorrow ⏰ Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM EST 📍 Where: Zoom (No registration needed. Get the link here - https://lnkd.in/edzjvHt5 Let’s show up for ourselves, for each other, and for a world that needs more open-hearted connection.

The phrase "Let’s un-divide the world, together" has been resonating deeply with me lately. This is, of course, the core motivation of our non-profit, the Fierce Civility Project. It’s a vision that keeps showing up in my work, my interactions, and even my personal reflections. In a world that feels more divided than ever, this idea has become a guiding light for me—a reminder of the power we have when we choose to connect with open hearts rather than retreat into our fears or judgments. As we move closer to the upcoming election in the US, the air is thick with tension. You can feel it everywhere—on the news, in our communities, and even in our personal conversations. Many of us feel the weight of this moment, the heightened stress, and the sense of conflict, as if everything is being pulled to opposite sides. But here’s the thing: We have the power to change that narrative. We can choose connection over division. We can choose heart over fear. This is why I’m inviting you to join me for our next Global Heart Gathering. These sessions give us the space to ground ourselves, to come together in unity, and to remember that at the core, we are all seeking the same things: peace, understanding, and a better world for ourselves and others. We have two more gatherings before the election on November 5th, and I believe these next ones can provide a moment of stillness and connection as we navigate through some of these stressful times. These gatherings are more than just meetings; they are a space to reconnect with the values that unite us, rather than the forces that divide us. Join me for the next Global Heart Gathering: 📅 When: Tuesday, Sept 10th ⏰ Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM EST 📍 Where: Zoom - Get the link here: https://lnkd.in/edzjvHt5 Let’s come together and choose connection, choose heart, and choose to un-divide the world. 🌎

What if you could break the cycle of burnout for good? Many of us are trapped in a relentless cycle of stress that seems impossible to escape—which could lead straight to burnout. We try to manage it with quick fixes, but the relief is often temporary, and the stress returns with even greater intensity. In my upcoming Stress Reduction Workshop, we’ll explore powerful techniques that address the root causes of stress, helping you break this cycle and achieve lasting change. If you’re tired of feeling like stress is controlling your life, this workshop is designed for you. Together, we’ll work on strategies that bring long-term relief and help you regain control over your well-being. 👇👇👇 When: Saturday, September 14th from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm EST Where: Held via Zoom (link provided upon registration) What You’ll Learn: In this 2.5-hour virtual workshop, we’ll go beyond the basics to uncover deep, transformative practices that build resilience, enhance mental clarity, and restore emotional balance. These methods, rooted in neuroscience and mind-body practices, were originally developed to support NASA employees during the COVID pandemic. They’re designed to help you tackle stress at its core, leading to improved decision-making, better communication, and sustained well-being. Elements of the Workshop Include: ⋗ In-depth instruction on stress reduction techniques ⋗ Practical exercises tailored to your needs ⋗ Time to develop a personalized self-care plan that supports lasting change Are you ready to break free from the stress cycle and reclaim your peace of mind? SIGN UP HERE: https://lnkd.in/eYC2Ca7u

Could you be contributing to your own stress without realizing it? In times of conflict, it’s natural to look outward for the source of stress. But what if we took a moment to reflect on how our own beliefs, actions or attitudes might be contributing to the problem? Recognizing and softening our own rigidity can open up new possibilities for connection and reduce the stress we experience. Have you ever reflected on how your own beliefs and actions might be contributing to your stress? How might this awareness help you reduce it? #selfawareness #leadership #leadershipskills #personaldevelopment #stress #conflict

Did you notice "Joy" as the central theme in the Democratic campaign? I’d like to preface by saying—my intention here is not to advocate for one political party over another. In all my workshops and gatherings, I always begin by saying, “All of you are welcome," no matter your beliefs, as long as you engage with respect and curiosity. That said, I’m genuinely excited about what’s unfolding in American politics right now, where “joy” has taken center stage in a campaign message. This resonates deeply with me because, for years, I’ve been talking about the transformative power of the heart. And one of those qualities is joy—not just as a pleasant feeling, but as a profound force that can change lives and communities. Joy is what fuels resilience, compassion, and fierce civility. Joy is what gives us the strength to persevere, even when the road ahead seems uncertain. When I heard the term “joyful warriors” being used, I couldn’t help but feel aligned with this message. How could it not, when the themes of all my work are Respectful Confrontation and Fierce Civility?! It’s a reminder that leading with empowered, courageous joy is not just a possibility but a necessity in these times. So, I ask you—how are you incorporating joy into your life, especially in the face of adversity? How does joy shape the way you interact with the world around you? #unity #leadership #leaders #society #societalchange #empowerment #heartcentered #joy #politicalcampaigns #elections2024

Your body is speaking—are you listening? Stress doesn’t just occupy your mind; it shows up physically too. Tight shoulders, tension headaches, a racing heart—these are signals that your body is holding onto stress. But how often do we pause to truly listen to these cues? Understanding these physical signals is the first step toward managing stress in a more meaningful way. When stress accumulates, it doesn’t just stay in your head; it affects your entire body. Over time, these physical symptoms can lead to chronic health issues, affecting everything from your energy levels to your immune system. In the upcoming Stress Reduction Workshop on Saturday, September 14th from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm, I’ll guide you through techniques to identify these early warning signs and introduce you to four powerful tools to reduce stress before it impacts your well-being. In this 2.5-hour virtual session, based on neuroscience and mind-body practices, you’ll learn how to increase physical vitality, emotional stability, mental clarity, and spiritual grounding. These strategies, developed for NASA to help employees manage stress during the COVID pandemic, will empower you to take control of your stress and protect your health. The workshop also includes personalized instruction, practical exercises, and time to craft a self-care plan that’s tailored to you. Where: Zoom link will be provided upon registration. Are you ready to take control of your stress and safeguard your health? SAVE YOUR SPOT HERE: https://lnkd.in/eYC2Ca7u What physical signs of stress do you notice in your body? How do you usually respond to them? #stressmanagement #selfdevelopment #leadershipdevelopment #selfimprovement #leadershipskills #corporatelife