Notes From the Window Seat

January gives us a natural pause — a chance to reflect, realign, and reset how we work together. But a culture reset doesn’t mean scrapping everything and starting over. It means getting intentional about what matters most and how it shows up every day.

In this episode, we talk about how leaders can use the new year to reset culture with clarity, consistency, and purpose — without burning out their teams or chasing shiny new initiatives.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Reflection Question: If someone observed your workplace for a week, what would they say your values actually are — based on behavior, not words?

If you’ve ever wondered why your values sound great but don’t always show up in behavior — this episode is for you.

Learn more about the window seat here: TRAVEL | Visual Escape

Follow us on Instagram @windowseat2a

When you hear “leadership training,” you might think it’s only for owners, executives, or managers. But the truth is — leadership skills matter at every level of a business.

In this episode, we explore why leadership training isn’t just for the C Suite — it’s a gift you can give yourself. From receptionists and project managers to solopreneurs wearing every hat, leadership training helps people communicate better, respond instead of reacting, and build stronger relationships with customers and coworkers alike.

You’ll learn:

If you’ve ever thought, “Leadership training isn’t for me,” this episode may change your mind.

Holiday Reflection: As you head into the holidays, consider giving yourself the gift of growth — leadership skills that support your confidence, clarity, and calm going into the new year.

Next Steps: Learn more about The Mindful Leader — an 8-week leadership experience designed to help you lead with intention, connection, and confidence.

https://www.lftconsult.com/themindfulleader

Learn more about the window seat here: TRAVEL | Visual Escape

Follow us on Instagram @windowseat2a

As we move into the final two weeks before Christmas, the busy season can easily overshadow the quiet moments that give this time of year its meaning. In today’s episode, we’re slowing things down and exploring the heart of the holiday season—gratitude.

We’ll talk about:

This is a gentle reminder that people want to know they matter—and sometimes, a sincere “thank you” is the most powerful gift of all.

Reflection Question: Who is one person you can thank today—someone who may not realize the difference they make?

If you want to kick off 2026 with clarity and confidence, check out my Mindful Leader Experience. Use this link to learn more and book your spot.   https://www.lftconsult.com/themindfulleader

Learn more about the window seat here: TRAVEL | Visual Escape

Follow us on Instagram @windowseat2a

As leaders, we love a good goal-setting session — but how often do those big plans actually make it off the page?

In this episode, I break down how to create a plan that actually works — one that connects your goals, capacity, and accountability so progress doesn’t stall by February.

You’ll learn how to:

✅ Align goals with your real capacity (people, time, and budget)

✅ Define the “why” behind each goal — and why that matters

✅ Filter goals through the SMART method — with a practical twist

✅ Tell the difference between a goal and a project

✅ Build accountability without micromanaging

✅ Use 90-day sprints and quarterly reviews to stay on track

If you want your 2026 plan to actually happen, use last week episode and this episode as your starting points.

If you want to kick off 2026 with clarity and confidence, check out my Mindful Leader Program. Use this link to learn more and book your spot.   https://www.lftconsult.com/themindfulleader

If you are looking for the perfect book for 2026 - I am excited to announce my latest book is now available: What Training My Dog Taught Me About Leadership. Learn more and get your copy here: https://www.lftconsult.com/leadership-book

Learn more about the window seat here: TRAVEL | Visual Escape

Follow us on Instagram @windowseat2a

Year-End Reflections: What Worked, What Didn’t, and What to Do Differently.

Before you rush into goal setting for next year, hit pause.

This episode walks you through a simple, practical reflection process to help you identify what truly worked this year — and what didn’t — so you can build smarter, more sustainable plans for 2026.

We’ll talk about:

✅ How to celebrate wins without glossing over lessons

✅ Why understanding why something worked is key to strategy

✅ How to review setbacks without guilt or blame

✅ Simple reflection questions to bring to your team

✅ How reflection sets the stage for meaningful goals Because better planning starts with better reflection.

Listen now and learn how to close this year with clarity — and open the next with intention.

Check out my latest book: What Training My Dog Taught Me about Leadership.

Get Your Copy Here: https://www.lftconsult.com/leadership-book

Learn more about the window seat here: TRAVEL | Visual Escape

Follow us on Instagram @windowseat2a

Balance, kindness, and creativity during what can be a chaotic time of year.

The holidays can bring out the best — and sometimes the most stressful — moments at work. One person loves the decorations, another can’t stand the noise. Some look forward to the party, while others quietly wish it didn’t exist.

In this episode of the podcast, I share how leaders can approach the season with thoughtfulness, balance, and heart. You’ll learn how to create holiday celebrations everyone can enjoy — without losing sight of safety, respect, or sanity.

Whether you lead a small business or a large team, this episode will help you keep the season merry, meaningful, and manageable.

What You’ll Learn

🎄 Why thoughtful celebrations build trust and belonging

🥂 How to handle parties, alcohol, and gift exchanges with clarity and care

📦 Out-of-the-box perks that small businesses can afford — from shipping perks to volunteer time

🧠 How to recognize and support employees struggling with holiday stress

💬 The power of gratitude and early communication during busy seasons

🕯️ Holiday safety reminders that protect both people and culture

Key Takeaways

Favorite Quote from the Episode “The holidays at work aren’t about decorations or cookies — they’re about connection. When people feel respected, appreciated, and safe, that’s where the real magic happens.”

Find one way to make the holidays less stressful for your team this year — whether it’s giving a few hours off, sending a thank-you note, or leading with compassion.

I'd love to hear how you’re making the holiday season meaningful at work.

The holidays are full of giving — but don’t forget yourself. Join the next Mindful Leader group cohort starting January 14, 2026, and make 2026 the year you lead with confidence, clarity, and calm.

🎁 A gift that pays dividends all year long. 

https://www.lftconsult.com/the-mindful-leader-group-cohort

Learn more about the window seat here: TRAVEL | Visual Escape

Follow us on Instagram @windowseat2a

January is one of the highest turnover months of the year — not because people want new jobs, but because leaders miss the warning signs in December. In this episode we break down how to recognize burnout, re-engage your team, and plan for staffing success in the new year.

Whether you lead a small team or a growing company, this episode gives you the tools and mindset to prevent burnout, boost retention, and build stronger connections heading into 2026.

✅ The top reasons employees quit in January — and how to prevent it
✅ Simple ways to recognize and re-engage your team before the holidays
✅ How to hold effective “stay conversations” that strengthen loyalty
✅ Why clarity and recognition are your best retention tools
✅ How to plan staffing and training for Q1 growth
✅ The R.A.P. framework — Recognize, Ask, Plan — for keeping people engaged year-round

Before the year ends, schedule one 15-minute “stay conversation” with each of your top performers. Don’t script it — just listen. Ask what’s working, what’s not, and what they’d love to see next year. Then, act on what you hear. That small step could make the biggest difference in January.

The Mindful Leader Course Group Cohort— starts January 14th!   https://www.lftconsult.com/the-mindful-leader-group-cohort

Executive & Leadership Coaching - https://www.lftconsult.com/coaching

Subscribe to the Build a Better Business Podcast for more leadership tools and strategies

Learn more about the window seat here: TRAVEL | Visual Escape

Follow us on Instagram @windowseat2a

What’s it like to be on the other side of you?

In this episode, we dive into one of the most underrated leadership skills — self-awareness. Learn how to recognize blind spots, align your intent with your impact, and create a culture where trust and communication thrive.

You’ll hear how internal and external self-awareness shape the way your team experiences you, how to catch subtle cues when your message isn’t landing, and practical ways to build consistency, empathy, and confidence as a leader.

Because leadership isn’t just what you say — it’s how people feel after you’ve said it.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

✅ Why self-awareness is the foundation of effective leadership

✅ The difference between internal and external self-awareness (and why both matter)

✅ Common signs of blind spots — and how to identify them early

✅ Simple, actionable steps to improve self-awareness

✅ How reflection and feedback turn awareness into action

✅ How to reframe communication missteps and rebuild trust

Takeaway Challenge:

This week, ask yourself: “What’s it like to be on the other side of me?” Then reflect, identify, reframe, and reset — one conversation at a time.

Explore my signature 8-week leadership course — The Mindful Leader — designed to help business owners and leaders improve communication, connection, and culture through practical, mindful leadership.

👉 Learn more about The Mindful Leader Course - https://www.lftconsult.com/themindfulleader

👉 Don't miss an episode - Subscribe to the Build a Better Business Podcast

Learn more about the window seat here: TRAVEL | Visual Escape

Follow us on Instagram @windowseat2a

In this episode of The Build a Better Business Podcast, we explore the science and strategy behind bringing pets — and even pet imagery — into the workplace. From real dogs under desks to dog wall art on the walls, research shows that our furry friends can reduce stress, strengthen connection, and improve overall well-being.

Discover the proven benefits of pets at work, the challenges leaders should consider, and how to bring “dog energy” into your culture — even if your office can’t host actual pets.

You’ll also learn about the creative idea of building an Employee Pet-Photo-Wall — a meaningful perk that connects teams, celebrates employees’ lives outside work, and reinforces belonging.

What You’ll Learn:

🐶 The proven benefits of pet-friendly workplaces (lower stress, higher morale, and stronger engagement)

🧠 How simply looking at dog photos can trigger oxytocin, reduce cortisol, and lower blood pressure.

🖼️ How dog wall art can transform workplace culture

📸 Why creating a personalized Employee Pet-Photo-Wall can deepen connection and pride

💡 Practical considerations for pet policies and leadership takeaways on connection and well-being.

Key Quote: “Whether it’s a real dog under a desk or a framed photo on the wall, dogs remind us to slow down, smile, and connect. They help us create workplaces that feel more human — and that’s where real performance begins.”

Live in Florida and want to learn more about Dog Wall Art visit: www.critterpics.net

If you’re ready to lead with less stress and more confidence, check out my 8-week intensive The Mindful Leader. You’ll learn how to build the habits, systems, and culture that helps your business thrive — even when you’re away.  ➡️ https://www.lftconsult.com/themindfulleader

Learn more about the window seat here: TRAVEL | Visual Escape

Follow us on Instagram @windowseat2a

We’ve all heard the saying, “When the cat’s away, the mice will play.”

But what happens when you — the business owner or leader — are the cat?

If your team struggles the moment, you step away, that’s not just a people issue — it’s a leadership and systems issue.

In this episode, we’ll talk about how to build a business that runs smoothly even when you’re not around.

You’ll learn how to:

Because true leadership isn’t proven by what happens when you’re there — it’s proven by what happens when you’re not.

🎧 Listen in for real-world examples, practical takeaways, and a weekly challenge to help you build a stronger, more independent team.

Listener Challenge:

This week, step back for one afternoon and observe what happens. Where do things stall? Where are people waiting for you? Those are your opportunities to strengthen your systems and clarify expectations.

If you’re ready to lead with less stress and more confidence, check out my 8-week intensive The Mindful Leader. You’ll learn how to build the habits, systems, and culture that helps your business thrive — even when you’re away.  ➡️ https://www.lftconsult.com/themindfulleader

Learn more about the window seat here: TRAVEL | Visual Escape

Follow us on Instagram @windowseat2a