In this episode of Meditations on Leadership, Don reflects on The Clarity of Knowing What Matters and the often overlooked work of naming and living from our values. Citing research that suggests only 7 percent of people can name their own values, Don explores why clarity is so rare and why alignment, once found, can actually make leadership decisions harder rather than easier.

Don is joined by Rick Bresnahan, a longtime community builder and philanthropist whose life’s work across Midcoast Maine reflects a deep commitment to hope, partnership, and service. Together, they explore where values come from, how they guide what we choose to build, and why being clear about what matters does not always lead to agreement, but does lead to integrity.

This episode is a thoughtful and grounded conversation about leadership beyond titles, the cost of alignment, and the courage required to live what we say we value.

To learn more about Don's work, upcoming offerings, and leadership resources, visit carpentercompanyconsulting.com

If something in today’s episode spoke to you, I hope you’ll subscribe and continue the journey with me — because leadership begins within.