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Welcome to the blog—where outdoor lessons meet real-world leadership. From quick hits to deeper dives, each post bridges the trail and the office to spark growth, insight, and purpose. Whether you're navigating peaks or projects, this space is for those moving their journey forward—one step, one story at a time.
Adapt, Ascend, Lead: Sensemaking in Uncertain Terrain
What can a snowy ridgeline teach you about leadership? This post explores how outdoor challenges shape transferable skills like decision-making, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. Learn how to apply the sensemaking model in your professional life—plus, explore the included infographic: Sensemaking to Summit.
Snowstorms, Strategy & Sensemaking: Leadership Lessons from the Mountains
We set out to climb Longs Peak—but what unfolded instead was a crash course in adaptive leadership and Karl Weick’s sensemaking theory. From avalanche risk to gear failures, here’s how a snowstorm reshaped how I think about decision-making in the mountains and beyond.
Why I Choose a Steady Job Over #Vanlife: Embracing Adventure Without Sacrificing Stability
Discover the balance between adventure and stability in this read as I , Dr. Swanson, explore this question of leaving professional living for the road as a #vanlifer. Explore with me the challenges and rewards of pursuing financial security while embracing adventure, and learn from my own experiences how to align lifestyle choices with personal values for a fulfilling journey without sacrificing stability.
Mentorship: Lessons from the Mountains
Conrad Anker, Jimmy Chin, and Malik Martin provided valuable ideas and lessons about being a mentor in the outdoor sphere during a panel at the inaugural Outside Festival and reminded this author about how formative the mentorship of others plays a role in shaping a place in the outdoors for others.
Are We a Family At Work or Not?
Treating your organization like a family can foster a close-knit and supportive work environment, but it may also lead to employee burnout. This approach blurs professional boundaries, increasing expectations and emotional investment, which can ultimately exhaust employees. However, is the sentiment behind this practice inherently negative? In this article, we explore both the benefits and potential drawbacks of familial workplace dynamics, questioning whether the familial model is sustainable or beneficial in the long run.
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