A journey to the edge of war and peace

We recently learned about an article and story directly from Ukraine. We knew immediately that we must share it with you. 

The article is by a daughter. The story comes from her mother. 

Mariana Budjeryn a senior research associate at Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center, Project on Managing the Atom, and the author of “Inheriting the Bomb: The Collapse of the USSR and the Nuclear Disarmament of Ukraine.”

At the end of 2022 Mariana traveled to Ukraine to visit her mother and friends. Her article details her travel from the U.S. to her mother's kitchen via plane, car, and by foot. 

What caught our attention was the stark contrast Mariana describes between life in Lviv where residents are living relatively "normal" lives while in other parts of the country men are fighting for their lives. 

As Mariana puts it; 

"They promise not to let us down?! They, who are knee-deep in trench mud, a Russian bullet, mine, grenade, missile away from death, promise not to let us, who are sipping flat whites and getting shot by cameras, down?! How is this logical construction even possible, I wonder?"

We highly recommend you read Mariana's article, Bri. 

It provides a human insight and perspective into this war that no tv report or newspaper article can. 

And then there's boxer shorts....

At the beginning of the war Mariana's 76 year old mother was looking for a way to help. 

She started sewing underwear for soldiers at the front. It's what she could do, and her work has been received with such gratitude as we can see in the image above. 

Such an important reminder that when something feels insurmountable, doing just one small thing can make a big difference. 

Her mothers sewing can be seen as support for her country's soldiers and as resistance to the war. 

Mariana write; 
 

"....the whole Ukrainian society, its every member, regardless of age, region, and wealth, has been affected by the war and is engaged in the resistance of some kind, whether that will make the return of these soldiers home different. Whether the people who make varenyky by the hundreds, donate for long johns and generators, open doors to refugees, repair damaged electricity lines, or just work to keep the Ukrainian economy and culture alive despite missile strikes and power outages, and those mud- and blood-covered soldiers at Bakhmut, Soledar, and Kreminna, are connected by invisible bonds of solidarity and common purpose, the bonds that will persist long after the war is over."

CLICK HERE to read Mariana's full article.

About Inkstick

Mariana's article is published on Inkstick Media, a website with reporting, commentary, stories, and a podcast focused on foreign policy. As they put it, Inkstick "breaks down the news you want and need to know without droning on. When it matters, it also dives deeper to show you the people behind the policy and the stories they have to tell." Check them out!

What a mentor is, and is not.

(This article was originally published in 2015). 

I lost two people who were very, very important to me last fall. They had both been my mentors.

The first was my mom who has been my personal mentor throughout my life. She guided me from birth and sacrificed enormously on my behalf.

There is absolutely no doubt I would have never accomplished the things I have done without her wise counsel and assistance.

The second was a senior officer who took me “under his wing” when I was a young cadet at West Point.

Don was a professional mentor I could always turn to for guidance and counsel specifically about my military career. He also provided critical advice and analysis for many of the national security issues that I became involved in while working in the Pentagon, National Security Council Staff in the White House, and other efforts that I have been involved in since retiring from the military.

I always knew that he was only a phone call away despite the fact that we were not frequently assigned to the same location and might not see each other for several years.

I could always call him day-or-night to seek his advice and assistance.

But what exactly is “mentoring” and why is it important?

Mentoring has been described as a dynamic relationship in which a more experienced person (the mentor) acts as a guide, role model, teacher, and sponsor of a less experienced person (the mentee). It is based on several distinct elements including:

• Reciprocity, collegiality, authenticity, and mutuality.

• Intentional role modeling

• A “safe harbor” for self-exploration (disclosure)

• Transformation particularly of the mentee’s professional identity

• A connection that endures

CLICK HERE to read the full article!

In it Jeff share....

• What makes a mentor effective

• The transition from mentee to mentor

• Creating a mentoring culture

Leadership lessons from the war in Ukraine

You may already know that our main focus at Diamond6 is to "learn from the past, to prepare for the future".

We do need to get one thing straight. 

The past is 150 years ago when we talk about the Battle of Gettysburg and the leadership of President Lincoln during one of the greatest transitions in American history.

It is 80 years ago when Pearl Harbor was attacked, leading to our formal entry into World War 2.

And, it is 50 years ago when the Watergate scandal led to President Nixon's resignation.

Leaders must also learn from a more recent past. 

Almost 12 months ago, on February 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine. This move was a major escalation in a war that has been ongoing since 2014.

Nearly one year after this brazen move by Russian president Vladimir Putin, over 9,000 Ukrainian civilians have been killed, to include 500 children.

The world has also gotten a front row seat to the slow and steady crumbling of the Russian leader whose "iron fist" is experiencing a fight he did not expect, from Ukraine, the world, and increasingly, his own citizens.

Jeff is now offering the seminar, Leadership Lessons from the War in Ukraine to our clients. 

This can be a single presentation done in-person or virtually. It can also be part of a larger workshop. 

In this presentation Jeff uses current events in the war in Ukraine, stories from history, and thought-provoking questions to highlight and explain irrefutable leadership lessons that are critical for corporate, education, and nonprofit leaders to understand.  

Participants will learn key tenets of effective strategic leadership and where leaders often fail in implementing strategy. Plus, he identifies ways to create organizational cohesion and how to stay focused on what is most important, despite distractions.

Jeff also ties in his background in crisis leadership and the media to give participants a 360 degree view of the war, it's current impact, and future implications. 

This presentation was created due to demand. Clients in education, agriculture, and in business have been asking Jeff his thoughts and insights on this very topic. 

Understanding this recent past can help leaders at all levels prepare for the future. 

Interested? Feel free to send us an email to info@diamondsixleadership.comand we can send you more information.

[VIDEO] What happens after the super bowl?

We're less than two weeks away from the 2023 Super Bowl signaling the end of the football season. 

Here in Central Pennsylvania Eagles fans are thrilled to watch their team face off against the Kansas City Chiefs on February 12th. 

Of course we won't pass up this opportunity to marry football and leadership, once again. 

Three years ago we shared a post and VIDEO about leadership vs. management using Coach Garrett, former coach of the Dallas Cowboys, as a mini case study. 

While a seemingly simple concept, the difference between leadership and management often causes even the most senior person to stumble.

The consequences of not understanding and acting upon this difference can be costly - for leaders and organizations. 

In the NFL the consequence for your organization not being successful means losing your job as a coach. 

At the core of these difficult decisions often lies this important difference of leadership vs. management. 

As one coach put it, management is about dealing with data, like the things you can measure: how fast a football player can run, if he’s a lineman how much you can lift, how high you can leap if you’re a wide receiver.

Leadership is about heartbeat. How does a coach get his player inspired to play for the name on the front of the jersey rather than the name on the back. 

Want to see Jeff's video where he goes into greater detail about leadership vs management? CLICK HERE for the full article and the video. 

At Diamond6 we are incredibly impressed by the leadership displayed by Coach McDermott, both teams and organization, the medical professionals, and everyone involved in getting Damar Hamlin the help and support needed. May we continue to see such great examples of leadership and be inspired to lead with the same grace, integrity, and empathy.

The crisis plan that saved Damar Hamlin's life

On Monday, January 2nd, Buffalo Bill safety Damar Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. It was a tense and unnerving scene for both teams, fans, and viewers as medical professionals worked for nearly 10 minutes to stabilize Hamlin.

It was an organizational crisis that played out, in real time, on national television.

A crisis that required leaders to act quickly, smartly, and respectfully for this truly was a life or death situation.

Since this tragic event only 2 days into 2023, Hamlin has been released from the hospital and is in ongoing recovery. His coach Sean McDermott has been commended for his excellent leadership and decision-making in the immediate moments and days after the event.

McDermott and many others within the Bills organization stepped fully stepped into their leadership on that day. Their actions reminded us of our 3-step crisis leadership plan we have shared here on our blog, and in countless workshops.

Seeing this plan play out, in a real time, real life case study is an excellent way for other leaders to learn and see great leadership “in action.”

Here are a few of the crisis leadership highlights we found most compelling and inspiring on January 2nd, and since.

Step 1: Before the crisis - inoculate your organization

Build trust: A leader must demonstrate their commitment to ethics and organizational values in order to build trust with those they lead. Coach McDermott took over the Bills in 2017 and quickly brought the team back from a low point. During this this time he built deep trust and understanding with his players. When McDermott decided to end the game he had the full support of his team because they have come to trust him and his decisions.

How are you building trust with your team or organization?

Have a crisis action plan AND test it: The NFL has an emergency action plan and protocol of reviewing this plan which many fans may not even know about. This plan is enacted if a player undergoes severe trauma and is reviewed by the NFL and the NFL Players Association. Each team is required to practice their plan, they must identify a nearby level one trauma center, and discuss their plan 1-hour prior to kickoff. It is without a doubt that this plan AND the regimented testing, practicing, and reviewing of this plan is what saved Hamlin’s life. We hope that high schools and colleges consider implementing a very similar protocol for their sports teams, if they have not already.

Do you have a crisis action plan? Maybe you need more than one depending on your organization? Most importantly, are you testing and practicing it?

Step 2: During the Crisis - those nearest must act

Manage fears and emotions: We need more leaders with keen self-awareness and empathy. Coach McDermott and the Bills players all demonstrated incredible poise and respect during the critical 9 minutes that their friend and fellow player was being cared for by medics. Yes, emotions were visible AND very appropriate for the event that was unfolding before them. During press conferences following that day McDermott and quarterback Josh Allen shared their honest feelings and concerns for Hamlin while also remaining optimistic and hopeful. A leader with little self-awareness or empathy may ramble on about their fears for Hamlin’s future in football, the impact him missing may have on the team, and so forth. The Bills team has struck a perfect balance of honesty, empathy, and publicly airing their fears.

How might you best manage your fears and emotions during a crisis in your organization? Do you feel equipped to lead during such a stressful event?

Lead AND be seen leading: In a press conference Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow shared that he felt it important to let the Bills know how his team felt about Hamlin’s on-field emergency. He and the other Bengals captains took it upon themselves to meet with the Bills’ captains to discuss the situation. In the press conference he said, “nobody wanted to continue to play the game.” This act showed tremendous support for the Bills. Furthermore, Burrow and the other captains demonstrated true leadership, organizational values, and deep humanity to their team and the opposing team. Surely some trust-building happened in those moments!

How can you lead AND be seen leading in everyday moments in your team or organization?

Step 3: After the Crisis - learn and set a new course

Be aware of team’s psychological health: After all crisis leaders are responsible for ensuring their own and their team’s mental health. Providing the appropriate resources or tools to support recovery ensures that the individual and team as a whole can recover from the crisis as best they can. For McDermott, the Bills, and the entire NFL this may mean continually assessing players health. Or, involving them in any changes or adaptations that should be made to ensure that the best medical help and attention is available should they become injured. Ensuring physical and psychological safety is the leaders responsibility and critical for everyone to perform at their best.

Do you or your organizations have access to the appropriate resources needed after a crisis event? How can you create these resources or set up the connections so you have them should such an event occur?

Identify lessons learned: Smart organizations use all crisis as an opportunity to learn how they can do better in the future. And once identified, they must incorporate them into the organization effectively. It is now up to the NFL to carefully examine the events on January 2nd. While everything appeared that all protocols were followed closely and everything went as well as it could there are probably some improvements that could be made. Are there other medications or equipment that should be readily available? Do they need more (or less) medics on site? Should the ambulance park closer? These questions are simply examples. Point being, even the most “perfect protocol” should be carefully scrutinized after an event.

Does your organization have an “after action review” protocol? Do you use it? Why or why not?

At Diamond6 we are incredibly impressed by the leadership displayed by Coach McDermott, both teams and organization, the medical professionals, and everyone involved in getting Damar Hamlin the help and support needed. May we continue to see such great examples of leadership and be inspired to lead with the same grace, integrity, and empathy.

81 years later...what we can learn from Pearl Harbor

On December 7th 1941, the Attack on Pearl Harbor was a turning point in the history of our nation and the world.

The war that followed lasted nearly four years, and the entire nation mobilized to meet this challenge.

But ultimately it was leadership at all levels, exhibited initially on this Sunday morning in Hawaii that allowed America to be successful.

Today, is the 81st Anniversary of the attack.

Here at Diamond6 we frequently use this event as a historical case study for workshops. Sometimes in a classroom, sometimes aboard a ship, and if we're lucky, even in Hawaii.

To commemorate this important day we want to take you back in time to a blog post we wrote for the 75th anniversary, in 2016. 

Just goes to show, leadership lessons from history are enduring!

As we reflect on the courage and sacrifice of the brave servicemen on that day, what can we discern about the actions of their leaders?

And what can we learn about leadership in a complex, rapidly evolving, high-pressure environment like the one we are living and working in today?
 

While there are innumerable leadership lessons that can be drawn from this event we have three examples.

They are as follows: 

• Leaders must act in a crisis and feel empowered to act.

• Leaders must challenge assumptions particularly during changing times.

• Leaders must promote organizational resilience.

CLICK HERE to read the full blog post, including brief stories about each of these examples that further illustrate their importance. 

This meeting changes everything for Diamond6, every time.

In two weeks our team will be having one of the most important meetings of the year. 

And, we've been having this exact meeting every year since the beginning of our company. 

We call it our end-of-year debrief. (Yes, we use some pretty snazzy names around here 😂)

It is our opportunity to review the past year and all areas of the business. 

We review our finances. 

We look at our marketing and communications. 

We talk about the workshops and events we've run.

We discuss what worked and what didn't. 

We decide what to keep the same, what to change, and how we can do better next year. 

We give each person (including our interns!) the opportunity to share their perspective and give constructive feedback. 

We eat, we laugh, we agree on a lot, and we may even disagree on a few things. 
 

Hands down, THIS meeting makes our team stronger, and Diamond6 better for our clients!

This is how we do it:

1. EVERYONE IS RESPONSIBLE: Each person on our team is responsible for bringing their "bucket of stuff" to the meeting. This means, each of us writes a list of our areas of responsibility, the current status of those areas, AND any changes, if any, they think need to be made. We create a master document where each person adds their "bucket." This way everyone can see what what is planning on being discussed. This might help remind someone else of a task or item to bring for discussion. Or, start to spark some new ideas to suggest at the meeting. We're a small business, there are no secrets!
   

2. EVERYONE SHARES: We take turns giving each person an opportunity to share and discus their list and recommendations. Our most senior staff goes last. Why? Because most often our team members will cover 90% of the areas we want to discuss anyway AND (newsflash!), they are often more informed than an owner or executive. It keeps us focused on each persons area of responsibility rather than jumping around from topic to topic.
   

3. EVERYONE IS RESPECTFUL: This should go without saying....this is a respectful meeting. Sure, there may be disagreements or different perspectives on HOW to solve a particular issue or challenge. But, at the end of the day we focus on what is most important - what is best for our clients and the business. This helps us focus on problem-solving and coming up with creative solutions.
   

4. EVERYONE GETS TO WORK: During our meeting we use our master list to take notes, capture decisions we've made, changes to implement, and so on. After the meeting this document is cleaned up and then each person has their "to-do list" for their particular area of responsibility. This helps hold each of us accountable - to the list and each other. Plus, it ensures we follow through on continuously making Diamond6 the best business it can be for you, our clients!

As you can see, our end-of-year debrief is a very collaborative meeting. It is only with everyone's inputs, talents, and creativity that we can do what we do.

This is what makes us a small, but VERY mighty team.

And, it is the best way to get a pulse on all areas of the business, celebrate the past year, and feel motivated for the next year.

Do you have an end-of-year debrief at your organization? Why or why not? What is it like and do you find it helpful?

Putin aggression against Ukraine

It is critical for leaders to stay informed about current events. Even, when it feels like what is happening halfway around the globe has no impact on us.

Because, what is happening thousands of miles away DOES and WILL have an effect on us.

And, we can always learn from other leaders - good and bad.

Jeff was recently interviewed by the Strategic Studies Institute regarding Vladimir Putin choosing a path of escalation in his unnecessary war of aggression agains the Ukraine.

The interview is based on an article Jeff wrote in the US Army War College Quarterly publication, Parameters. We've included links to both the article and podcast below.

It is imperative Western policymakers know the consequences and how he might escalate further.

In this podcast Jeff examines recent events on the battlefield; the implications of the announced annexation of territory, mobilization of forces, and threats to employ “all means” to defend Russian territory.

Jeff also discusses the domestic ramifications and Russian thinking on “hybrid warfare” and the possible weaponization of food and energy as Putin determines future escalatory steps.

SSI's goal with this podcast is to assist American and European leaders in determining policies to deal with the ongoing crisis at this moment and prepare for an uncertain future.

We believe that our Diamond6 leadership circle can also greatly benefit from what Jeff shares in this interview.

Even the most seasoned leaders need reminders now and again

Even the most seasoned leaders need reminders now and again.

It's important to take a minute every now and then, look closely at how we're doing, and notice where we may need to make some improvements.

One leadership mistake we see leaders making again and again, no matter how experienced they may be, is confusing leadership and management.

I'm sure you KNOW they're different and even HOW they differ.

The challenge lies when we move into greater levels of responsibility and we have to transition out of managing and into leading.

The transition from managing to leading can be incredibly difficult.

And, if not done with clear intention can stop a good leader to becoming a great one.

For those who have been in a clear leadership role for a while, it can be difficult to not veer to far off into management-land every now and again.

Leadership and management are critical to the success of your organization when each is given the opportunity to fully focus on their area of expertise.

Peter Drucker reminds us in this succinct quote: "Management is doing things right, leadership is doing the right things."

Check out our article, "It's Time to Stop Confusing Leadership and Management" to read how to spot the difference.

And then I challenge you to do a little "leadership vs management self check."

Cool pics from Diamond6!

We're still here!

Things have been hectic here at Diamond6 so the newsletter has gotten a bit of a break. 

In past years we would be coming upon our slow season here. 

Not so much now!

The D6 train is still chugging along right through the fall here. 

A few sneak peek pics to share what we've been up to.

And, if you have some pics to share with us from an event you attended this past year, please share it with us on our Facebook page!

CLICK HERE to find us on Facebook, like us (if you don't already!), and share your favorite workshop photo with us. We would love to see them!

Our office manager and event coordinator, Holly Tiley takes such good care of us AND our clients. We'd be lost without her!

Now, people can find our building a little better because she surprised Jeff with a shiny new sign for our building. Our old one was looking a little shabby. Thank you Holly for always taking care of even the smallest details to keep us running smoothly!

Diamond6 received a warm welcome from the Inn at Herr Ridge for our end of day dinner and discussion with the American Farm Bureau. We frequently use this historical restaurant in Gettysburg for our clients which was a major stop on the underground railroad and the first confederate hospital during the Battle of Gettysburg.

We received this wonderful email from a participant who joined us for a Gettysburg Leadership Workshop a few weeks ago. Always gratifying to hear how leaders are "learning from the past to prepare for the future."

"This was the best leadership training I have EVER received. It made me think about myself as a leader and the specific skills I need to work on, like being a better decision maker and always thinking with an innovative mind. I have started reading your book and really enjoy it!" - Megan Richner

You can join Jeff on Thursday for this memorable event!

Do you recognize the soldier in the center of these photos?

It's Jeff, leading his battalion as they arrived home after completing their mission in Desert Shield/Desert Storm.

It was a seminal moment for Jeff, his fellow soldiers, and their families. 

This week Jeff will experience a full circle moment. 

He will be at The Mall in Washington, DC for the groundbreaking ceremony of the new National Desert Storm and Desert Shield War Memorial.

Jeff, and hundreds of his fellow Desert Storm veterans. It will be an incredibly moving event honoring all those involved in the shortest war in American history. 

The length of this war does not, and should never, minimize its importance. 

If nothing else, the swift timeline highlights the critical factors that led to the this effort’s success. 

In the weeks leading up to the dedication Jeff has been working hard to ensure the event gets plenty of coverage and attention. 

Roughly 600,000 American troops were deployed in support both Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, nearly 400 died.

These men and women all deserve to remembered and honored. 

The expected completion date of the memorial is 2024.

The groundbreaking will be streamed LIVE on Thursday, July 14th, starting at 8:45 am ET. 

If you can, we hope you will join!

Desert Storm offers lessons we should continue to learn from.

It was a time when the nation came together to support the military and their families. The "yellow ribbons" of support were everywhere.

Furthermore, it ended America’s estrangement from its military that had occurred during Vietnam. The military became one of the most respected institutions in the nation, almost overnight.

While American unity was at a high point, the world also came together in a common cause. The UN Security Council supported this effort, as did the Russians.

A coalition of 34 nations pushed an aggressor out of a country that it had invaded without any true justification. (Does this sound familiar?)

Additionally, the looming threat of Chemical and Biological warfare tends to get brushed aside when talking of Desert Shield/Storm.

This important history is also reflected in our current events.

Earlier this week President Biden left for Saudi Arabia in an attempt to improve US-Saudi relations. Desert Shield was launched to protect the Saudi monarchy in many ways from being overturned and the country occupied. It is interesting that the Kuwaiti government has donated a significant amount of money for the monument and will have a delegation present to include Ambassador Al Sabah.

While America closed a chapter on the past with a victory in 1991, we must continue to do what is right, today, and into the future.

The party's over.

We hope you had a wonderful and relaxing 4th of July weekend!

And now the party's over.

The grills have cooled down.

The fireworks shows have gone up in smoke.

The hot dogs, baked beans, chips, and watermelon have been eaten.

Now is a good time to reflect on this summer holiday that made us the country we are today....and hope to be in the future.

All organizations have a culture that defines them and they follow a mission and vision. And, the United States is no different.

Celebrating the 4th of July is part of our organizational culture.

It is an opportunity to reflect on our countries mission and vision.

The preamble of the Declaration of Independence states;

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of happiness.

Separating from England, "the mother country," threatened American's sense of security, economic stability, and identity. Asserting our independence and securing it for posterity was the mission.

Are we living up to this mission?

Just like any organization, it is important to consider a vision for the future as well.

The founders refined our vision in the preamble of the United States Constitution. It states,

We the people of the United States, to form a more perfect Union....

Visions are aspirational, and young America was full of aspiration!

Our founders believed that growth and change was necessary.

Striving to know better, do better, and be better is part of who we are as Americans.

Are we living up to this vision?

In his 2018 book, The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels, Jon Meacham writes,

To know what has come before is to be armed against despair. If the men and women of the past, with all their flaws and limitations and ambitions and appetites, could press on through ignorance and superstition, racism and sexism, selfishness and greed, to create a freer, stronger nation, then perhaps we, too, can right wrongs and take another step toward that most enchanting and elusive destinations: a more perfect Union.

On this week after our 4th of July holiday, where we celebrated our independence, our mission of equality, and vision to embrace change for the better, let's reflect if we are living up to what our founding fathers set before us - as individuals and a nation.

Our Summer Reading List

Summer is finally upon us. 

Schools are out, vacations are starting. 

It's time to read a few books!

We asked a few of our faculty members to provide us with book recommendations to create a short summer reading list. 

As you may expect, these are not your typical beach reads! 

Leadership, business, personal development, and history are always trending on Diamond6 bookshelves. 

Do you have a book you would recommend to us?

Comment below and let us know what it is AND why you recommend it. 

Maybe we'll do a Diamond6 readers’ list next!

First Friends; The Powerful, Unsung, and Unelected People Who Shaped Our Presidents by Gary Ginsberg
We often talk about leading the boss and that everybody needs somebody. That is also true with Presidents and Ginsberg’s analysis is compelling as he tells the stories of these “friends” who were influential advisors to American presidents at critical moments in their lives and our history.

The Great American Sports Page: A Century of Classic Columns from Ring Lardner to Sally Jenkins by Charles P. Pierce
Not only are sports columnists terrific writers, they tell compelling and interesting stories of sports heroes from all walks of life with passion and humor. This groundbreaking anthology spans nearly a century of sports writing featuring well known and lesser known athletes. Easy to read and the perfect travel companion, this book This is my summer read and have also placed it in my travel bag so I can read a couple of these on a flight.

Flying Blind by Peter Robison
This book is much more than just the 737 Max. Leadership requires task skills, behavioral skills, and future skills. By focusing on just task skills, copying Jack Welch, and not understanding the implications of doing so, Harry Stonecypher and lesser lights destroyed the safety culture of Boeing. Note the destructive power of arrogance.

The Edge: How 10 CEOs Learned to Lead – and the Lessons for us All by Michael Useem
Mike Useem, a management professor at the Wharton School, says a leader’s job in a radically changing world, is “standing on a cliff edge, getting a grip on unfamiliar landscapes, and acquiring the skills for leading the enterprise into new territory.” Useem interviews and draws lessons from ten leading CEOs who have faced and met critical challenges.

Twilight of the Gods by Ian Toll
The final volume of Toll’s Pacific War trilogy. Toll’s telling of the events of 1944-45 comes up to the high standard of his first two books in the series. No one else offers as complete a treatment of the war. No one else assesses the leadership challenges and social upheaval on all sides nearly as well. This lengthy book and series are worth the time it takes to read them.

Talking to Strangers by Malcolm Gladwell
When not intentional, human beings begin with what they know. They may follow a process which does not fit the circumstances. Only when it is too late do they consider context. This book implores us to start with context. Examples like the case of Sandra Bland are powerful illustrations of how specialization creates conflict which can lead to tragedy.

From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life by Arthur C. Brooks.
Arthur C. Brooks tackles the challenge all of us will face sooner or later; that of moving from the ambitious striving for success at work that often characterizes the first half of life, to truly flourishing in the second half of life. This book is not about changing your diet and exercising more; rather, it digs deep into crafting a fresh mindset about work and life, and the importance of building connections and finding meaning as we age.

The Color of Lightning by Paulette Jiles
Historically based on Britt Johnson’s life, this short novel is set in the rugged days post-Civil War Texas and the Indian Territory. Johnson, a Black rancher, undertakes rescuing his kidnaped wife and children and the wife of his neighbor from their Kiowa-Comanche captors. Jiles rises above modern stereotypes of the period to describe conditions and courage that make the reader wiser about the times and its people.

The Lightmakers Manifesto: How to Work for Change Without Losing Your Joy by Karen Walrond
In The Lightmaker's Manifesto, Walrond helps us name the skills, values, and actions that bring us joy; identify the causes that spark our empathy and concern; and then put it all together to change the world. Creative and practical exercises, including journaling, daily intention-setting, and mindful self-compassion, are complemented by lively conversations with activists and thought leaders such as Valarie Kaur, Brené Brown, Tarana Burke, and Zuri Adele.

Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don't Know by Adam Grant
Intelligence is usually seen as the ability to think and learn, but in a rapidly changing world, there's another set of cognitive skills that might matter more: the ability to rethink and unlearn. With bold ideas and rigorous evidence, Grant investigates how we can embrace the joy of being wrong, bring nuance to charged conversations, and build schools, workplaces, and communities of lifelong learners.

JEFF SET A WORLD RECORD!

Ok, let's be more specific.

He set a personal Diamond6 world record in number of workshops taught in a certain period of time.

But still, we're impressed!

Here's a quick summary between April 4 and June 18th. (Just 2 1/2 months!)

States visited: 8

Number of workshops taught (in person and online): 12

Number of participants: 210

Miles traveled: 27,100!

Can he break this record with all the workshops planned this fall? We'll see!

WE have a voice, it's time to use it.

The U.S. just experienced the deadliest weekend for mass shootings this year. 

There have been 245 mass shootings in the U.S. so far this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive. 

Parents in Uvalde, TX have begun to bury their children and teachers after a gunman murdered them in their classroom. 

The community of Buffalo has laid their friends and family to rest after a racially motivated shooting at their local grocery store. 

Why are we just now talking about this in the D6 newsletter?

Because this is when we become complacent.

This is when we forget, and move on. 

When we accept this as our reality.

We cannot move on. We cannot forget. We cannot accept this as our reality. 

We are seeing the deadly results of a complete breakdown in leadership when it comes to common sense gun laws in America. 

Our elected leaders are choosing money and power over the lives of their constituents, and our children. 

We applaud Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr for his comments after the Uvalde shooting during a press conference. If you haven't watched it we encourage you to do so. 

Other basketball coaches have followed suit. San Antonio Spurs coach Greg Popovich and former Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski have publicly called on politicians to address our gun violence crisis immediately. 

They and many other public figures are using their platforms to speak truth to power. We are grateful to these leaders for speaking out and demanding change. 

As leaders in our families, schools, and communities we have a voice too, and it is our responsibility to use that voice.

But speaking out is not enough. We have to DO something if want change to happen. 

We have been looking for an organization to support in this important work. 

We found Moms Demand Action. 

Moms Demand Action is a national, grassroots movements of Americans ("mothers and others" as they like to say), fighting for public safety measures that can protect people from gun violence.

They pass stronger gun laws and work to close the loopholes that jeopardize the safety of our families. They also work within communities and with business leaders to encourage a culture of responsible gun ownership.

Action is the antidote to grief, despair, and feelings of hopelessness.

If you are experiencing any of these feelings and are called to action we encourage you to take a look at Moms Demand Action.

Their work is giving us hope.

Below are three starting points that we found helpful in learning about Moms Demand Action, their philosophy, their work, and how we can support them.

How you can take action:

• Listen to this powerful interview with Shannon Watts, Moms Demand Action founder on the We Can Do Hard Things podcast (listen via Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts).
  

• Find a virtual or in-person information meeting and events to learn more about how you can get involved with Moms Demand Action.
  

• Donate to help their goals of pressuring lawmakers to improve gun laws, raise awareness about gun violence, and educate the public about responsible gun ownership.

Edmund Burke said it best...

The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.

Maybe it's time for "Moms" to take this one....

DID YOU KNOW?
A few facts on gun violence in America

That firearms are the leading cause of death among children and teens in United States.

We live in a country where gun homicide rate is 26x higher than that of other high income countries.

Our federal, state, and local governments are spending a combined average of $34.8 million each day to deal with the aftermath of gun violence across the country. The total annual bill for taxpayers, survivors, families, employers, and communities is $280 billion. This is money that could be invested in public services to improve quality of life for all Americans.

Over one million ads on Armslist (the Craigslist of guns) do not require a background check for someone to purchase a gun. This has resulted in guns ending up in the hands of convicted felons, domestic abusers, gang members, and gun traffickers.

(Information from Everytown for Gun Safety, parent organization of Moms Demand Action)

This is the most important thing we can talk about right now.

Seems our little reminder about Lily landed for a few folks!

We're so grateful for your support and willingness to continue to share Lily's story with the hope of finding her a kidney donor. 

And, there is still work to be done.

You asked us a really important question and we got you an answer!

You asked us for Lily’s blood type. As you can imagine this is one of the FIRST ways to know if you, or someone you know, could be a match for Lily.

Lily's blood type is O+. 

None of her family members are a good match and it could take years for Lily to find a match via a transplant list. Lily is undergoing daily dialysis treatments so she doesn't have that kind of time left. 

Are you an O+ blood type?

If you're interested in seeing if you could be a match and learning about the process please email Donna Tissot, Lily’s advocate, and she will assist you. Her email address is: donnat628@gmail.com

An inquiry does not mean you have committed to anything. Donna can simply give you information and answer your questions. 

You can read more about Lily and her story HERE. 

NOT A MATCH? YOU CAN STILL HELP! 
There are two ways... 

1. Share Lily’s story.

When you share a message you never know how far and wide your reach may be. Thank you for taking a minute to forwarding this to your network. 

2. Learn about kidney donation. 
Most often, just KNOWING something can help someone. Taking a few minutes to learn about kidney donation means we can simply be more aware and have informed conversations with others on this important topic. Who knows! It could help us inform or encourage someone else to become a donor. 

In 2016, Dylan Matthews donated his kidney to a complete stranger. He documents how and why in his incredible story, How to Save a Stranger's Life. 

Listen to the podcast HERE. 
Read the article HERE.  
Watch the video HERE. 

Thank you for taking a moment to read this and for potentially saving Lily's life. 

#TeamLily

-Jeff & The Diamond6 Team

We haven't seen Jeff in weeks. Here's why...

It's true, we haven't seen Jeff in weeks!

He left the rest of us here in the office while heading to Hawaii nearly two weeks ago to run a leadership workshop with students from Penn State University.

Then, earlier this week he traded in his Hawaiian shirt for a coat and fancy hat to join his classmates at his 50th college reunion from West Point. 

We're not at all bitter about it. Really, we're not ;)

He will surely regale us with many stories of his travel adventures when he returns to the office. We can't wait to hear them!

Storytelling is such a powerful and engaging teaching tool. Stories help connect us to each other, to events, and to lessons. 

That is why we use storytelling in all our leadership workshops. 

One of the consequences and most important lessons from the Attack on Pearl Harbor, is that it germinated a unity amongst the American people; that great team called the nation. 

Talk about a great story!

In this McCausland Monday video and blog post Jeff shares the background of an important monument at Pearl Harbor and the most important lesson we can learn from this historic event. 

CLICK HERE for the video and blog post. 

Help us help Lily

We have a special request for you.

As you may have heard us mention before, our friend and colleague, Lily Din Woo, needs our help. 

Lily found out that she had Stage 4 Chronic Kidney Disease in early 2018 and was placed on the transplant list at Weill Cornell Medical Center in September of 2018. In the summer of 2020, she became extremely ill, spending 5 months in the hospital. Her situation has gotten progressively worse and now has End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). She is undergoing daily dialysis for 10 hours each night. She desperately needs our help. 

The wait for a deceased donor in New York is 7-10 years. Chances for survival is greatly increased if she gets a living donor.

Doctors have advised Lily to actively seek a living kidney donor as soon as possible.

Feel free to share this email with your friends, colleagues, and larger network. Together we may be able to find the donor Lily is so desperately searching for. 

You can also share this information on your social networks. The goal is to spread Lily's story far and wide. 

==============================================

Here's how you can help Lily:

If you are interested in learning more about the kidney donation process or in becoming a potential donor for Lily, please register at: https://cornell.donorscreen.org

Please indicate "donor for Lily Woo" on the registration form. This does not commit you to anything. 

If you have any questions please email Donna Tissot, Lily’s advocate, and she will assist you. Her email address is: donnat628@gmail.com

==============================================

More about Lily

If you have heard Lily speak at one of our workshops you know that she is an incredible person, educator, leader, and friend. We are so grateful to her for sharing her time and wisdom with all of you! Her stories and experiences have provided invaluable insights to us all.

Lily has served her community as a school principal for 25 years and has received many awards in her life for her service: most notable were the NYC and NYS Distinguished Educator Awards in 2002; recognition by the 2004 World Olympics Committee as an “Everyday Hero” and had the honor of running part of the New York City leg of the Summer World Olympics Torch Relay that year; and Manhattan Media’s 2010 “Principal of the Year” Blackboard Award. At her retirement celebration in 2014, she received proclamations from the City Council and the NYS Senate for her long-standing service as principal in her school and community, and most recently in 2016, received recognition as one of City University of New York’s Outstanding Asian American Alumni.

As a hobby, Lily is a drum corps enthusiast. From the time when she was seven, she was a part of a community drum corps in Chinatown. During the late 1970’s, she was a part of the Bills Boys Drum and Bugle Corps horn line and later joined the New York Skyliners to become one of the few females in their horn line. She also marched as part of Sky’s Championship Honor Guard for several years in the 1990’s and served as assistant drum major for the competing corps from 2005-07. She was given the honor as a lifetime member of the New York Skyliners field corps in 2015. Today, she is still a member of the Skyliners Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps and still plays whenever she is well enough and able to.

Create a team like a meerkat mob - trust, resilience, buy-in

"Team trouble" is definitely a reality right now.

What do we mean?

As you continue to adjust to new guidelines, requests, and expectations from organizations AND employees you might be feeling a little added tension.

Some companies want folks back in the office but employees want to stay home.

Stakeholders want to get back to business but organizations aren't able to move as quickly.

Many are feeling hesitant, fearful, or just plain overwhelmed by it all.

This is when we need to build trust, create resilience, and get buy-in.

Without these three ingredients our teams and organizations will continue to flounder.

We have compiled three blog posts that address these important tools. Plus, strategies you can implement right away.

Just a few little tweaks and your team can get back to business like a mob of meerkats!

Build Trust, Create Resilience, Get Buy-In

How to Build Trust and Achieve Goals: Jeff covers five strategies in very simple terms. Plus, you can watch the McCausland Monday video where he goes into greater detail!

Two Steps to Creating a Resilient Business: Jeff describes his experience keeping Diamond6 alive during Covid, and why Yogi Berra was right....as always!

How to Achieve Buy-In? Become a Great Communicator: Quickly read through six tips that you can immediately incorporate to get to that next level of communication success and earn the essential “buy-in” of your peers.

Three ingredients for the innovation we need NOW

This month marked a strange and somber anniversary. Two years of the Covid-19 pandemic, now heading into year three. 

It seems we can be cautiously optimistic, as far as the pandemic is concerned.

Unfortunately, the world is still experiencing so much tragedy as we watch the citizens of Ukraine fight for their lives and their country. 

Covid, Ukraine, and countless other challenges all have secondary effects and impacts that we will experience for years to come. 

The pandemic brought on "the great resignation" while the war in the Ukraine is bringing us face to face with our dependence on foreign oil and energy sources. 

It can all feel very doom and gloom. 

And, while we feel the fear, we also must remember to never waste a perfectly good crisis. 

I believe we are in a unique position to make radical, innovative, and necessary changes in our businesses, for the climate, our broken systems, our communities, and families. 

I was reflecting back on where I was and what I was doing shortly before the pandemic spread to the U.S. in March, 2020.

I was hanging out with turtles on a trip with my son Phil in the Galapagos! I am so grateful I was able to do that trip before the world shut down.

That trip inspired me to take a fresh look at adaptation, innovation, and leadership. I definitely wouldn't have expected us to all dig deep into our adaptive abilities just a few weeks later when we all started meeting over Zoom!

Now it is time for us to take truly innovate and work on greater change.

On that note, I thought now would be a good time to revisit the article I wrote two years ago.

CLICK HERE to go straight to that blog post.

I'm curious to hear from you! What innovation do you want to see for long term impact?

Comment your thoughts below.