
My First Unleash America exceeded expectations (and not just for the cool photo)!
It's no secret that Vegas is not my natural habitat. I tend to prefer quiet and outdoor spaces, but I am finding that in person experiences connecting with friends and colleagues brings me real joy. The human connection, the learning and the hugs! Thanks to Marc Coleman Kate Graham and the entire team for including me.
Of course being on a panel with Elaine Orler Mike Ettling and Steven Jiang, sharing insights and reflections on how organizations can not only survive but thrive in the face of an uncertain business landscape was an opportunity not to miss.

A few takeaways :
Steven - Memories are powerful: in uncertain times they can be the foundation for wise decision-making. Despite his parents not going to school, they taught him that tough times “separate the chickens from the eagles,” today is our time to fly. Leaning on technology to adapt and grow is something that comes naturally thanks to Steven's engineering roots.
Mike - Mind Your Business: In today's economic climate EBITDA matters. If growth chasing is the only gear you can shift into, then you might be in for a bumpy ride over the next months and years. A culture of resiliency exemplified by the recent SpaceX rocket explosion – the contrast between the video of a rocket exploding and the audio of cheering from mission control shows us what a growth mindset looks like - forging a path from failure to eventual success.
Meg - The Power of Unlearning: It might sound counterintuitive, but it is important to UNLEARN old habits and outdated knowledge to make way for new skills and perspectives. By embracing this mindset, employees and organizations can better adapt to the changing landscape and unlock their potential -- critical in times of disruption and change.
There are so many moments to celebrate from Unleash, but as I said, for me it is about the in person connections and the catching up - my personal higlights include.
Drive by hugs with Josh Bersin and Jason Averbook -
Watching Madeline Laurano, Sarah White Andrew Flowers JESS VON BANK dropping wisdom like it was free.
Crashing a party from Gerry Crispin and then not even getting to say hello because he was held captive against a wall of people wanting to talk to him.
Catching up with Lisa Arroyo Seiden (Cervenka) and being reminded what it means to be someone who lifts everyone around you up.
Having a podcast equipment fail and spending time catching up on families and life with William Tincup
Sneaking up on Robin Schooling -- twice.
Nerding out with Kyle Lagunas at dinner and talking my way onto his podcast.
Learning tips for live vlogging from the ever generous Jason Seiden (hint: it's all about practice)
Eating way too much sushi with Michael Fitzsimmons and friends

Meeting people I should already know thanks to Erin Spencer
Having a moment to reminisce with Lexy Martin
A drive by goodbye from Pete A. Tiliakos as he jetted off to yet another commitment.
Serendipitous connecting with Bonnie Duncan Tinder while organizing my notes
Strategizing with the generous and kind Trish McFarlane Steed and re-meeting her amazing sister
Notable misses [for me]: Stacey Harris, Steve Goldberg Kathi Enderes - I love you all and know you also had plenty of great moments without me.
My heart is full and my body is tired. Everything a conference should be. Thank you UNLEASH for the event and Cathy Macdonald Nina Greenblatt Samantha Rudolph Bo Bartley Blair Gove for all the help and support!
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