November brings many reminders to pause, reflect, and give thanks. As we prepare for Thanksgiving, it’s natural to think about gratitude for our families, friends, and the things that make our lives meaningful. But this month also provides a perfect opportunity to reflect on an often-overlooked group we should be thankful for every day: our employees. All too often, organizations unintentionally treat employee engagement, recognition, and support as if it were a last-minute afterthought—like...

Imagination, Courage, and Risk: The Heartbeat of Every Small Business I recently visited Keepers of Balance   in Charlotte — a brand-new escape-room concept that immediately grabbed my attention. The owners brought in a Disney imagineer to craft immersive scenery, and the experience blends both mental puzzles and physical challenges. Working through the rooms, navigating hidden compartments, using ancient relics to open new experiences, and crawling through tunnels, I found myself leaning...

The VASA, Stockholm, Sweden I love learning about history and culture when I travel. Recently I had the opportunity to visit the Vasa Museum in Stockholm, Sweden. In 1628, the Swedish warship Vasa  set sail on its maiden voyage—only to capsize and sink less than an hour later. It was one of the most advanced ships of its time, beautifully adorned and heavily armed. But beneath the gold trim and towering masts lay a fatal flaw: the ship was top-heavy and dangerously unstable. The tragedy...