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Hey Friend,

Why are educators, nurses, and others in helping professions among the most burned out?

You would think obvious daily purpose would protect them. The research says the opposite.

You might know Tom Rath's work even if the name does not ring a bell. He is the researcher behind StrengthsFinder 2.0, How Full Is Your Bucket?, and Eat Move Sleep. His new book, What's the Point? Turning Purpose Into Your Daily Superpower, is not out yet, so this is an early look.

Tom's point is that even strong purpose can get buried under admin and the daily grind. The difference we make has to be seen and named, both for ourselves and for the people we lead.

A few key ideas:

• Purpose alone is not enough. Impact has to be seen and named.

• The most valuable thing a leader or mentor can do is spot what someone does that matters, and call it out clearly.

• When people connect their work to real human benefit, they have more energy to keep going.

Scroll down to read the full article and listen to our conversation. ⬇

Let’s keep noticing, evolving, and thriving by helping people see the difference they make.

Jim Collins is coming to the pod!

This week, I had the honor of sitting down with Jim Collins over Zoom. Yes, THE Jim Collins. Good to Great, Built to Last, and his latest, What to Make of a Life.

I requested 45 minutes for the interview. He gave us 75, so his wisdom is headed your way as a 2-part episode in May/June.

This one is personal for me. When I moved from the classroom into district leadership, Good to Great was the book our team read together, and it changed how I lead. More on that soon.

One thing I keep thinking about is not just what Jim said. It’s how he showed up: kind, curious, genuinely engaged. It was a good reminder that how we treat people leaves a lasting impact.

If you’re bringing people together…

My keynotes and professional learning experiences help communities clarify priorities and reconnect with what matters most.

Sessions for easing friction, improving relationships, and strengthening performance:

• Bold Gratitude: Optimize happiness, relationships, and performance

• UnBusiest: Time, attention, and energy for what matters

• Evolving with Inquiry: Cultivating learner agency for academic thriving

• Be a Thermostat, Not a Thermometer: Mastering the art of positive influence in learning communities

• Evolving Learner: Cultivating a coaching mindset for continuous improvement

You can reach out to me directly via this email or fill out this form!