Well, you know, we went to IKEA because we thought it was time for a serious dining room table and we were slightly different taste. I mean, Steve is more into country. It it frightens me, but at the same time, I have compassion. We've been together about three years. I met Steve and my sister's wedding. I was really impressed with how just well designed the IKEA furniture was. He's really into craftsmanship. Jimmy'z chairs are really sturdy. This table concluded a leaf. A leaf means staying together, commitment. We've got another leaf waiting when we really start getting along.
Earlier this year, I had the incredible privilege of being invited back to Necker Island, an experience that filled my heart with hope and gratitude.
What truly stood out was the genuine presence and engagement of everyone there. Each person didn’t just talk the talk but walked it with unwavering passion, actively pursuing their missions while deeply valuing others' endeavors. It was an opportunity to witness impactful global work and the often-unseen efforts addressing universal issues.
We all shared a belief in the power of local actions to spark global change, emphasising that each of us has the potential to make a difference by using our voices and networks to drive businesses toward greater social responsibility and collaboration for outcomes beyond ourselves. These values are so deeply rooted in who I am that being surrounded by so many like-minded people felt like a breath of fresh air.
A highlight of the trip was being asked to lead our group in a performance and presentation on "Looking Up and Taking Action." I gave the group a choice: we could create something new together or use one of my existing songs that represent our cause. We chose to sing the bridge of my song "CAN YOU HEAR ME," with everyone joining in a powerful choral arrangement, echoing the powerful lyrics: "I HAVE A VOICE AND IT'S RISING; I'M GOING TO CHANGE THE HORIZON." Hearing our voices unite in this way filled me with immense pride and joy. A moment I will treasure forever.
Adding an extra special touch to this unforgettable experience was the kind endorsement of my voice by Richard Branson. When he jokingly asked for my autograph, I playfully declined, saying I couldn’t just give my autograph to anyone! We shared a good laugh and an enriching conversation about arts and advocacy, which made the moment even more memorable.
Sometimes, stepping away from familiar surroundings is necessary to find a community that truly shares your values and supports your goals, just as you do theirs. It’s a powerful reminder never to give up on finding the right human connections.
#genuineimpact#humanconnection#music#arts#neckerisland#sharedvalues#thegoodwarrior
In case you missed it, both parts of our latest "Sister Cities" episode are now available to stream on the USA Today YouTube channel!
Dive into the fascinating relationship between Beijing and New York City and discover how these sister cities are shaping the future together.
#SisterCities#USAToday#Beijing#NYC
Head of Channel Operations - The Adaptavist Group, Managing Director of Adaptavist Canada Ltd, Member of the Board of Governors at The Corporation of Massey Hall and Roy Thomson Hall, Member of the Board of Ascent Soccer
An honour to share ideas with the Mayor of the City of Toronto, Olivia Chow,
as our team at The Adaptavist Group continue to bridge the arts and technology through our community efforts. Such an inspiring leader! Thank you Kelly Langgard and the amazing team at The Toronto Arts Foundation for the invitation - some great conversations with the team on how we can expand and evolve our partnership! Sable Rae Empey, Omar Hopkinson and I had a fantastic time.
Embodied Transformation is an introduction to the intentional practices we can be in to expand our capacity for presence, connection, collaboration, and joy through inevitable change and transition.
Join us on the mat this fall in Hyde Park, New York or Barcelona, Spain.
https://buff.ly/4dOcRiq
As we embrace the vibrant hues of Holi, the festival teaches us invaluable lessons in leadership and personal and professional development. This festival, celebrated across diverse cultures, symbolizes the victory of good over evil, the importance of love and forgiveness, and the joy of spring's arrival. It encourages us to break down barriers, fostering inclusivity and unity, much like a leader who builds strong, cohesive teams.
In the realm of personal development, Holi inspires us to let go of past grievances, akin to the practice of burning Holika. It's a reminder that forgiveness and moving forward are essential for growth. Professionally, this translates into resolving conflicts and nurturing positive workplace relationships, essential for teamwork and collaboration.
The playful exchange of colors represents diversity and the acceptance of different perspectives, crucial for innovation and creativity in any field. It teaches us to appreciate and leverage diverse skill sets and viewpoints, driving collective success.
Moreover, Holi's communal celebrations highlight the significance of building strong connections, underscoring the importance of networking and community in achieving personal and professional goals.
As we celebrate Holi, let's imbibe these lessons into our leadership style and personal development journey, striving for inclusivity, forgiveness, diversity, and strong community bonds. Here's to a colorful and successful year ahead, filled with the spirit of Holi!
By chance, Olivier from Zocalo was in London at the same time I was and suggested we see the David Hockney exhibit at the National Portrait Gallery. While I've had a vague interest in Hockney's work, was completely taken off guard by his mastery of color, form and material. Grateful Olivier thought of this destination.
A few thoughts came to mind:
-- Pre or post art wandering, museums cafés are excellent places to discuss business. The setting is conducive to deeper thought and reflection, and so better, quieter conversations.
-- Peril comes to all cities who do not invest and support culture. Economic engines are located where magnificent architecture, museums, operas, symphonies, libraries are found. Pure market trade or a singular focus on sports lend themselves to a superficial and transactional ethos (a football match has more to do with social identity than life-changing outcomes). Rarely do you find big ideas in these environments.
Not discounting the value of football, nor dismissing street art and poetry slams, nor fashion and pop-ups, nor the utility of startups and the other elements of civic life.
Just saying big cultural institutions are often overlooked for their public service, economic backbone and--critically undervalued--as places to ponder or spark meaningful discussions.
I'm currently reading this book which talks about organizational success greatly relying on people and one point to take away is people are the biggest resource in an organization. Once you have the right people issues to do with motivation and discipline are longer a problem. The right people contribute rightly to the company.
At Kahua, we wholeheartedly agree with Jim Collins in Good to Great: "Great vision without great people is irrelevant." We believe that it's the passion, talent and dedication of our team that truly brings our core values to life. Our success is driven by our incredible team that goes above and beyond every day to turn ideas into opportunities.
🌟 Join us in Atlanta for the 2024 Convention, where we're not just attending – we're taking over the city! 🏙️ Embrace the spirit of collaboration as we assemble massive teams, fueled by the belief that we are products of our environment.
🚀 This convention isn't just an event; it's a movement. Let's harness the power of unity to create waves of positive change throughout the nation and Industry. Together, we'll redefine the landscape and leave an indelible mark on the city's future.
🌐 Are you ready to be a driving force in shaping your surroundings? Atlanta awaits your influence! Connect with like-minded individuals, ignite creativity, and amplify your impact.
📅 Save the date, amplify your influence, and become a part of the narrative. Will you be at the forefront of this transformative experience?
#AtlantaTakeover#CollaborationRevolution#TransformativeConvention#JoinTheMovement#ShapeYourEnvironment
🎉 Secure your spot now – because together, we're not just attending the convention; we're crafting a legacy. See you in Atlanta! 🌆✨
Alright, let’s get real for a second. By now, you’ve seen some of my initial “travel with me” adventures in NYC. Maybe you’ve caught some FOMO. Maybe you’ve thought, “That sounds fun, but...” Well, consider this your sign to stop scrolling and start saying YES.
Here’s the deal: I’m about to kick off my Charlotte experience—deep dives into life and business, breakthroughs, amazing food, and some of the best the city has to offer. And I’ve got even more trips lined up:
- NYC this fall (you know, when the air is crisp and Broadway is exploding with new shows)
- Dallas for the Red River Shootout (Oct 12, y’all know what’s up)
- Cleveland for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (channel your inner rock god/goddess)
- Las Vegas to see THE EAGLES at The Sphere (I mean, come on, it’s The Sphere!)
- And let’s not forget Miami, Chicago, Seattle, Atlanta… adventure awaits.
This isn’t just sightseeing. We’re talking life-changing work—clarity on your next big move, breakthroughs that actually stick, and strategy sessions that’ll make your career and life hum.
So what are you waiting for? Drop the word “adventure” in the comments or DM me if you’re ready to make big things happen while eating world-class pizza, hitting up Broadway, or rocking out in Cleveland.
Because the only thing standing between you and your next big leap is YOU.
Let’s do this.
#TravelWithMe#NYCInTheFall#RedRiverShootout#BroadwayBound#BreakthroughMoments#JohnAlanTurner
🌟 Embracing Solidarity & Service 🌟
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in our own pursuits. But let's pause for a moment to reflect on the timeless wisdom of St. Oscar Romero, a champion of solidarity and service to others.
St. Romero once said, "Aspire not to have more, but to be more." These words resonate deeply, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from enriching the lives of others. In our professional journeys, let's prioritize empathy, compassion, and a commitment to uplifting those around us.
Solidarity isn't just a word; it's a way of life. It's about standing shoulder to shoulder with our colleagues, clients, and communities, especially in times of need. Whether it's lending a helping hand, offering support, or simply listening with an open heart, every act of solidarity makes a difference.
Service is the ultimate expression of love and humanity. St. Romero's words, "We cannot do everything, and there is a sense of liberation in realizing that. This enables us to do something, and to do it very well," remind us that even small actions can have a profound impact. Let's strive to be catalysts for positive change, making our workplaces and communities more inclusive, equitable, and compassionate.
In the spirit of St. Romero, let's recommit ourselves to the values of solidarity and service. Together, we can create a brighter, more empathetic world for all. #Solidarity#Service#Inspiration#StRomeroQuotes 🌍💫 #elsalvador
Chief Creative Officer, Freelance Writer/Creative Director, Podcast Host, and Influencer-Marketing Insider
3moAdvertising shapes culture. Here’s to putting some of that power to good use throughout the years.