Is it just me, or does AI (Artificial Intelligence) seem to be everywhere and nowhere all at the same time? On the one hand, CEOs can't stop talking about AI, and billions of dollars in AI investment are pouring into the economy, arguably, boosting it in ways that obscure fundamental weaknesses....
Coaching Advice
Captain Obvious Gets A Lesson in Empathy
Key Takeaways: Empathy — Recognizing that stating the obvious might sting, Mary models curiosity and care over critique, inviting us to see what’s really behind someone’s choice before we comment. She reminds us that pointing out what everyone “should do” can feel like a personal attack, even when...
My Wish List for Senior Executives
Key Takeaways: As a senior executive, simply telling yourself you listen isn’t enough—true leadership begins with patient listening that deeply seeks to learn and understand, not just solve. In our rush and multitasking world, the best of us fall prey to distraction—our devices seduce us into...
Dear Dana Interview Advice: Am I More Than What I Do?
Key Takeaways: “Interview advice”: before you even schedule a conversation, ask yourself whether it’s worth the time—for you and for them—because preparing for and attending an interview takes focus, time, and energy. Doing an interview you don’t intend to take can unexpectedly boost your...
Sanity Challenge: Powerful Bosses Don’t Listen
Key Takeaways: “Bosses don’t listen” isn’t just your frustration—it’s a documented pattern: the more powerful the leader, the less likely they are to heed advice, and that growing infallibility makes everyone anxious and decision‑making worse. Too much deference to a boss’s power can disguise...
Managers: Are You Ready to Hire Bots onto Your Teams?
Key Takeaways: The robots are coming Whether they’re steel, software, or smart algorithms, robots are already reshaping white‑collar roles—and middle managers must begin preparing now for a future where machines handle analysis, prediction, and many decision‑making tasks. Robots don’t eliminate...
Dear Dana Workplace Advice: Self Care for Leaders During Layoffs
Key Takeaways: Layoffs affect leaders too: While the focus is often on helping those who are laid off, team leaders also experience significant stress, including guilt and additional work. It's important to recognize that leaders need support as well. Adopt a mindset of transition: Accept that...
Dear Dana Workplace Advice: How to Run a Meeting When You’re not in Charge
Key Takeaways: How to run a meeting When you’re not in charge, structure it with two clear sections: first, tackle the business matters promptly; second, allow the more free‑wheeling “bunny trail” or ideation time, so you can gently redirect digressions back to the core issues during part one. A...
Why Your Dream Job Isn’t a Just a Dream
Key Takeaways: Your dream job isn’t just a fantasy—it’s a real and attainable goal when you take the time to define what “dreamy” means for you, right now, at this stage in your life and career. What makes a job ideal isn't just the role—it's the challenge, the people, the culture, the...
Dear Dana Workplace Advice: Dealing with the Midnight Email Queen
Key Takeaways: Workplace advice centers on setting clear boundaries around late-night emails, unpacking how these midnight messages create implicit expectations and anxiety even well outside business hours. Dana encourages teams to “detrigger yourself” early and often, letting go of anxiety so you...








