Why Leaders Can Learn More from Losses: Lessons from the Yankees’ World Series Defeat

In the world of sports and business alike, losing can sting. As fans, it’s tough to see our favorite team, like the New York Yankees, miss the mark on a coveted goal. But as leaders, setbacks like these remind us that failure is often the starting point for growth. The Yankees may have lost to the Dodgers in this year’s World Series (my family is crushed!), but they’ll walk away with more than just bruised egos—they’ll take valuable lessons that will shape them into an even stronger team.

1. Embracing Loss as a Catalyst for Growth
No leader enjoys defeat, but each loss presents an opportunity to reassess, recalibrate, and refocus. Losing out on the World Series might lead the Yankees to question tactics, team dynamics, or training methods. In leadership, the same process applies. Losing pushes us to re-evaluate our strategies, ask hard questions, and make adjustments that we may not have considered when things were going smoothly.

2. Building Resilience Through Adversity
For the Yankees, resilience will be about rebounding from this loss and maintaining their drive for the next season (27 Titles should tell you they know how to rebound). Leaders, too, face setbacks that test their grit. The ability to get back up, maintain optimism, and inspire a team through challenging times is what sets great leaders apart. Leaders who can shoulder loss with a commitment to improvement cultivate resilience that inspires confidence and strength in those they lead.

3. Understanding That Success Is a Journey, Not a Destination
The Yankees’ journey to the World Series wasn’t defined by a single game, or single player, but by a season of persistence, skill, and teamwork. Leadership works similarly. We’re all working toward long-term goals that involve constant growth and iteration. Losing might mean we didn’t reach the end goal this time, but it’s one step on the path to something bigger.

4. Learning to Celebrate Effort and Process, Not Just Outcomes
A win may bring euphoria, but a loss reminds us to appreciate the work behind the results. In leadership, celebrating the effort and perseverance can strengthen a team’s sense of purpose. Leaders who focus on process over outcomes create a culture that values learning and improvement, which is invaluable when aiming for big, long-term achievements.

Losing can be a painful reality, but it’s also an invitation for leaders to grow, improve, and inspire others. As the Yankees regroup, leaders across every field can take a page from their playbook. Losses, whether on the diamond or in the boardroom, don’t define us—they refine us. And with each setback, we become stronger, more resilient, and better prepared for the next challenge.

The Hidden Leadership Lessons in Everyday Life: How Ordinary Activities Shape Extraordinary Leaders

Leadership isn’t just learned in the boardroom or through reading textbooks. The truth is that some of the most powerful lessons come from the everyday activities we love—whether it’s playing a sport (I was average at best), traveling to new destinations (feel free to read my NY blog!), or even immersing ourselves in a favorite hobby (I’m coming for you pickleball). At Southeast Ohio Leadership Retreats (SOLR), we believe leadership is a lifelong practice, honed through the small, seemingly unrelated moments of life.

Leadership development can happen through sports, travel, and other everyday hobbies—SOLR helps attendees uncover and sharpen these hidden leadership instincts through practical, real-world experiences.

1. Sports: Building Resilience and Teamwork

Playing sports isn’t just about competition—it’s a masterclass in leadership. With age, I’ve gained a better appreciation for how sports teach us to lead and support others, navigate setbacks, and stay focused on the goal, whether on a soccer pitch, basketball court, or baseball diamond.

In team sports, the success of the whole depends on how well individuals work together. Leading a team to victory requires communication, trust, and a shared strategy—key leadership traits that translate directly into the workplace. But it’s not just about winning; it’s about resilience. Every great athlete (or average-at-best ones like I was) knows failure is part of the game, and the ability to bounce back from a loss is just as important as celebrating a win.

At SOLR, we bring these lessons into our leadership retreats, creating team-based activities that challenge participants to collaborate, think strategically, and motivate others—just like they would on the field. We want our clients (leaders) to leave with a deeper understanding of how cultivating trust and resilience can drive organizational success.

2. Travel: Embracing Uncertainty and Cultivating Flexibility

Travel offers some of the greatest hidden lessons in leadership. When you step into unfamiliar territory, you’re faced with the unknown—you have to navigate unexpected challenges, deal with cultural differences, and often make decisions on the fly (see my Lessons From The Bronx blog). These experiences help develop traits essential for effective leadership in today’s fast-changing world, such as adaptability, patience, and an open mindset.

Imagine navigating a foreign city without speaking the language – the need to quickly assess surroundings, figure out solutions, and rely on problem-solving skills. Such a task is akin to managing a project in an ever-evolving business environment - a leader leading his/her team through uncertainty and change.

At SOLR, we design immersive experiences that push participants to embrace uncertainty, just like when they travel. Through exercises that take them out of their comfort zone, leaders learn how to adapt, stay calm under pressure, and lead with confidence, even when the path ahead isn’t clear.

3. Hobbies: Strengthening Focus and Creativity

While hobbies might seem like a break from leadership, they’re often where some of the most valuable skills are developed. Whether it’s woodworking, gardening, or painting, hobbies foster creativity, focus, and a sense of accomplishment. These activities allow you to practice patience, set and achieve goals, and approach problems from new angles—core traits of innovative leadership.

A painter does not rush through a masterpiece—they meticulously plan, experiment, and adjust. This level of thoughtfulness can be directly applied to leadership. Leaders, like artists, need to experiment with ideas, refine strategies, and adjust their approach to find the best solution.

At SOLR, we encourage leaders to draw from their hobbies to develop leadership skills they may not have realized they were practicing. We integrate creative workshops where leaders learn to approach challenges with a fresh, innovative mindset—just like they might when painting a canvas.

Leadership Lessons are Everywhere

At Southeast Ohio Leadership Retreats (SOLR), we believe leadership development doesn’t only happen during formal training sessions. The hidden lessons from our everyday experiences—sports, travel, hobbies—can be just as powerful. We guide leaders to reflect on these moments, uncover the skills they’ve developed, and apply them in a professional context.

Our retreats are designed to help leaders tap into these everyday leadership instincts through hands-on, real-world experiences. We challenge participants to step outside their comfort zones, collaborate with others, and think creatively, all while gaining a deeper understanding of how everyday activities have shaped their leadership style.

Join Us at SOLR and Discover the Leader Within

Great leaders aren’t just born in the workplace—they’re built through life. At SOLR, we help attendees uncover the leadership lessons hidden in the everyday, empowering them to return to their organizations with newfound insights and skills. If you’re ready to transform your approach to leadership, join us at Southeast Ohio Leadership Retreats.

Let’s turn the lessons from your everyday life into extraordinary leadership growth.

Corn Mazes and Leadership Puzzles: Navigating Complexity With Confidence

A few weekends ago, my wife and I took our kids to a local corn maze (there are plenty to choose from in these parts). What started as a fun fall outing quickly turned into a surprisingly insightful lesson on leadership. As we worked our way through twisty paths, dead ends, and unexpected turns, I couldn’t help but see the parallels between the corn maze and the challenges leaders face every day. At Southeast Ohio Leadership Retreats (SOLR), we often compare leadership to solving complex puzzles, and this maze was the perfect metaphor.

The Complexity of Leadership

Just like a corn maze, leadership is full of unexpected twists and turns. You enter with what you believe is a clear vision—get from point A to point B—but the path is rarely as straightforward as it seems. There are challenges, hiccups, and hurdles. The key, both in the maze and in leadership, is not to give up but to navigate with confidence and a clear strategy.

So, when my family and I entered the maze, it didn’t take long for us to realize we didn’t have all the answers. Our first few routes led to nothing but dead ends. But instead of getting frustrated (totally frustrated, that is), we laughed (kind of), retraced our steps (or so we thought), and tried again (and again!). Leadership is much the same. Leaders frequently make decisions that don’t pan out as expected, but instead of viewing these as object failures, successful leaders view them as opportunities to learn, adapt, and grow.

At SOLR, we guide leaders through these types of challenges, helping them understand that complexity is part of the process. It’s not about avoiding obstacles—it’s about developing the patience and problem-solving skills to get through them (in this regard, my kiddos are leadership works-in-progress!).

Strategy and Problem-Solving

In a corn maze, you can’t rely on luck alone to find your way. The same goes for leadership. Strategy is essential. Before entering the maze, we looked for subtle clues—checking for landmarks or patterns that might help us later. Similarly, successful leaders take time to assess their environment, gather information, and make relatively informed decisions before moving forward.

In leadership, this might mean analyzing market trends, assessing team strengths, or identifying key challenges before implementing a new strategy. Without a plan, leaders can get lost in the maze of complexity. At SOLR, we emphasize the importance of strategic thinking. Our retreats provide leaders with the tools to approach challenges thoughtfully, using data and insights to guide their decisions.

Naturally, even the best strategies don’t always work perfectly. There were moments in the maze when we thought we had it all figured out, only to run into another dead end. This is where problem-solving comes in. Great leaders know when to pivot, re-evaluate, and try something new. Leadership is dynamic and fluid, and those who can think on their feet are the ones who thrive in the face of complexity.

Patience and Perseverance

Navigating a corn maze takes patience—just like leadership. Leadership requires a willingness to take one’s time, make mistakes, and, yet, stay the course. There were moments in the maze when the kids got rather impatient, eager to find the exit. But as we talked through it, I reminded them the journey itself was part of the fun. In leadership, it’s easy to get caught up in the desire for quick results, but often, the most meaningful progress comes from staying patient and persistent.

Leadership is rarely a straight line. There will be times when you feel like you’re going in circles, but perseverance is key. At SOLR, we encourage leaders to embrace the journey—understanding each twist and turn brings new opportunities for growth and learning.

Navigating Your Own Leadership Maze

Believe it or not, our family eventually made it out of that corn maze. And while we failed to set a speed record for navigating our way through the maze, there was a sense of accomplishment—not because we found the exit, but because we figured it out together. In life (personally and/or professionally) you are rarely navigating the maze alone. Whether it’s your team, your mentors, or the community you’ve built, having the right support makes all the difference.

At Southeast Ohio Leadership Retreats (SOLR), we understand the complexity of leadership, and we would like to help you navigate it. Much like that corn maze, leadership is full of challenges, but with the right mindset, strategy, and patience, you can find your way through. SOLR offers the chance to step back from the day-to-day grind and gain the tools and confidence to tackle leadership mazes with clarity and composure.

So, as you face your own leadership maze, remember: Don’t be afraid of dead ends, stay flexible in your approach, and above all, enjoy the journey. There’s always a way forward—you simply have to have the willingness to go find it.

Subway Storytime…Leadership Lessons From The Bronx

This past weekend, my wife and I, along with our four kids took on the ultimate challenge—getting the whole family (Midwest out-of-towners) onto a crowded Bronx subway after a New York Yankees game. The sea of humanity, the noise, (the smells), and the chaos were all ingredients for what an epic disaster could’ve been. But as any leader knows, every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Here’s what I learned about leadership from our intensely wild subway experience.

1. Prioritize and Communicate (Quickly)
Leadership, in any setting, requires clear priorities and rapid communication. While waiting with 40,000 of our closest friends at the subway platform, we had to decide quickly: Who’s holding whose hand? Who’s watching which child? And most importantly, what’s the goal? (Hint: It was to get all 6 of us on the same subway car!). It reminded me of leadership in high-pressure situations—communicate the game plan, be concise, and ensure everyone’s on board (yes, pun intended).

2. Stay Calm When the Plan Goes Off Track
The subway train we needed to board was packed – BEYOND PACKED - and we had to adjust on the fly. Similarly, leaders often face situations where the plan just doesn’t line up as expected. Instead of panicking, we regrouped and decided to live as New Yorkers live – confidently. Staying calm and flexible in the face of setbacks is key to good leadership—sometimes the best strategy is to wait, reassess, and then go for it!

3. Watch for the Small Details
In leadership, it’s not just about the big picture. The little things matter too. And it was my responsibility to handle our ‘littlest of guys.’ I was keeping one eye on the subway doors and one on my youngest child, who couldn’t let go of his brand-new Yankee bat. Just like in leadership, those small details—often overlooked—can make or break your success.

4. Lead by Example
When you’re in charge, people (especially your kids) are watching how you handle adversity. I didn’t want to show my emotions, even while standing elbow-to-elbow with total strangers. Leading by example—whether in a business setting or on a subway platform—sets the tone for how others respond to challenges.

5. Celebrate the Small Wins
Once we finally boarded the train (surprisingly, all kids accounted for), we felt like we had just hit a Aaron Judge-like walk-off grand slam versus the rivaled Boston Red Sox (despite the Yankees losing 1-7 only moments earlier). In leadership, it's important to recognize and celebrate small successes along the way. Whether it’s completing a project or surviving the post-game subway rush (and it was a rush!), every win counts.

Navigating leadership, like navigating a crowded New York subway in the Bronx, requires adaptability, clear communication, and a calm demeanor (full disclosure – I was not always calm). And, as I learned this past weekend, sometimes the greatest leadership tests come in the most unexpected places.

Back To School, Back To Leadership

Back to School, Back to Leadership: Embracing the 'New Leader' Mindset

As the summer sun finally sets, the annual 'back-to-school' mindset has taken hold. For students (I have four of my own), it's a time of fresh beginnings—new notebooks, sharpened pencils, and the excitement/nervousness of what lies ahead. But this mindset shouldn’t just be for students; it’s an ideal metaphor for new leaders stepping into new roles.

At Southeast Ohio Leadership Retreats (SOLR), we believe that just like students, leaders should embrace a back-to-school mentality—whether you're stepping into leadership for the first time or gearing up for the next big challenge. Here’s how:

1. Sharpen Your Pencils (and Skills)

Students start the school year equipped with a new backpack, full of fresh supplies, ready to tackle new subjects. Similarly, leaders need to keep their skills sharp and ready for the challenges ahead. Whether it's brushing up on negotiation tactics or mastering the latest in leadership theory, the beginning of a new leadership role is the perfect time to hone your tools.

2. Embrace a Growth Mindset

Back-to-school season is synonymous with learning. Students know they'll be facing new subjects and growing their knowledge base. Leaders, too, must embrace continuous learning. At SOLR, we emphasize the importance of a growth mindset—seeing every challenge as an opportunity to learn and evolve. Leadership isn’t static; it’s a journey of constant development.

3. Building Connections

The first weeks of school are filled with introductions, new classmates, and the building of connections that can last a lifetime. In leadership, relationships are just as crucial. Whether you’re leading a team or collaborating with peers, strong connections can make all the difference. SOLR retreats are designed to cultivate these relationships, helping leaders build networks that support their growth and success.

4. Setting Goals for the Year

Just as students, faculty, and administrators all set academic goals for their school year, leaders should set benchmarks for what they want to achieve. Whether it’s increasing team productivity, launching a new project, or refining your leadership style, goal-setting is key. At SOLR, we guide leaders in setting and achieving their goals, helping them transition from 'good' to 'great.'

5. Navigating the New Curriculum

Every school year brings a new curriculum, full of challenges and discoveries. Leadership is no different. The modern workplace is constantly evolving, and leaders must navigate new challenges, from technological advancements to shifting team dynamics. SOLR retreats offer a 'curriculum' tailored to today’s leaders, ensuring you’re prepared to tackle whatever comes your way.

As the school year settles in, take a moment to reflect on your personal leadership journey. Are you ready to embrace new challenges, build new connections, and set new goals? Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just beginning your journey, adopting the back-to-school mindset can set the tone for a year of growth and success.

At SOLR, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Let’s make this leadership year your best yet!

Leadership Under The Sun

Fantasy Football: The Unexpected Training Ground for Great Leaders

In honor of both the NFL Season and "Leadership Under The Sun” kicking off this week…

In the corporate world, leadership is often associated with boardrooms, strategic planning, and decision-making under pressure. But what if I told you winning your fantasy football league could be just as valid a testament to strong leadership skills as navigating a Fortune 500 company? It might sound far-fetched, (and, yes, it truly is) but consider the parallels between leading a successful fantasy football team (as I have done three times, thank you very much) and leading a team in the workplace.

1. Strategic Vision and Planning

A successful fantasy football manager doesn’t just rely on luck (although, bad luck has always seemed to be at the core of my ‘bad beats’). It takes a keen sense of player performance, team dynamics, and upcoming matchups to build a winning roster. On many levels, this insight mirrors the strategic planning necessary in business leadership, where a leader anticipates market trends, assesses his or her team’s strengths, and allocates resources, both human and financial, effectively. The ability to foresee challenges and opportunities—whether on the gridiron or in the marketplace—is a hallmark of a strong leader.

2. Data-Driven Decision Making

In fantasy football and leadership, decisions should be, on some level, grounded in data. Savvy fantasy managers analyze player stats, injury reports, and game conditions to make informed choices. Similarly, business leaders rely on data to make decisions that drive their organizations forward. A leader who can make sense of complex information and offer actionable insights is one who can lead a team to victory, whether in a fantasy league or a corporate setting.

3. Adaptability and Flexibility

No fantasy season ever goes exactly as planned (believe me -I can fully attest). Injuries (cough… Aaron Rodgers), underperforming players (looking at you, Austin Ekeler), and surprise breakouts (GENO – HailWV) force managers to adapt on the fly. The best fantasy managers can pivot quickly and make smart trades or waiver wire pickups to stay competitive. In business, this translates to a leader’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions, reallocate resources, and pivot strategies without losing sight of the overall goal.

4. Team Management

Like in the workplace, fantasy football success requires managing a team effectively. This means knowing when to bench your WR1, when to take a risk on a sleeper pick, and how to navigate those pesky Bye Weeks throughout the season. Business leaders also need to manage their teams by understanding individual strengths, fostering collaboration, and motivating employees to perform at their best.

5. Calculated Risk-Taking

Winning a fantasy league often requires taking calculated risks—like starting a lesser-known player with a favorable matchup at home over a more established, but struggling, star, who is on the road for a Thursday night tilt (my ‘studs’ have burned me too many times on Thursday). Strong business leaders are also adept at taking calculated risks. Whether it's investing in a new market or launching an innovative product, leaders tend to weigh potential rewards against possible setbacks and dare to take bold steps when necessary.

6. Resilience and Learning from Failure

Even the best fantasy football managers experience losses (many, many losses!), just as the best leaders face setbacks. What sets apart a winning manager (or leader) is the ability to learn from these failures, adjust strategies, and come back stronger. Resilience in the face of adversity is a critical leadership trait, and a fantasy football season is a microcosm of this larger leadership challenge.

Conclusion: Leadership in Action

So, the next time someone scoffs at your fantasy football obsession, remember that your journey to the top of your league is more than just a game—it’s a testament to your leadership abilities. From strategic vision to team management and resilience, the skills you polish in your fantasy league are directly transferable to the boardroom. After all, leadership is about guiding a team to victory, and whether that team is composed of NFL stars or your colleagues at work, the principles remain the same.