When we get a glimpse into other people’s lives, it’s typically in the form of their highlight reel: a company getting funding, their promotion, starting a new job. You get the picture.

The reality is that there’s a lot that happens between those things. It’s the journey.

This page isn’t a recitation of all the things I’ve done. (If you’re interested in that, go to my LinkedIn).

The content that I’ve created here has a specific bias towards success in your current role. What you’re doing within the journey. Not how to climb a corporate ladder.

My guides focus on having an impact where you currently stand. And hopefully, solid execution in those areas leads to positive outcomes.

For me, those in between times have been filled with lots of challenges. I don’t think I’ve ever had the same day twice in my post-college career. (Monday orientations come close, but even those have their surprises).

As well, I feel that it is important to acknowledge my biases. My experience is largely based in the world of venture funded software technology companies headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area. This only represents a fraction of the companies out there. And I recognize what I write here may not be applicable (nor the best advice) for companies elsewhere or in other industries.

I’m fueled by a generalist spirit. It’s part of how my brain is wired. Everything is a puzzle. And I like solving puzzles. (This also has downsides. But more on that another time).

I’ve maintained a generalist attitude for years, through which I’ve gotten deep exposure to a wide array of People and G&A topics. And an even greater appreciation for those who can ‘go deep’ on a given topic.

One of my favorite things to do is give someone a ‘running start’ in their role by having built a good foundation (not perfect, but good. Making things perfect - or close to it - is why we hired them!) I love seeing strategies they put into action and learning from their work.

There are a couple of areas of hyper focus for me. I still love learning more in each of these areas. Currently, those include things like compensation practices, equitable design / radical empathy, systems-oriented thinking and organizational design.

My areas that I am looking to grow are as an HR Business Partner and within Employee Experience. (I’ve had some amazing colleagues to learn from in these areas. And gush over their work).

My commitment is also to grow as a People manager. I don’t think that ever stops. I appreciate everyone who has been on a team of mine over the years and appreciate them learning along the way with me. I’ve learned so much from each of you.

I’ve experienced a fair amount of burnout. It’s been a long few years for People professionals. And, on the other side, I’ve seen healthy balance from supportive managers. Both hyper growth and lean times. Taking on brand new hats and handing off old ones. Writing playbooks that we’re all going through for the first time.

This ‘lab’ of mine is where I’ve distilled thousands of things learned.

It’ll be my journal to look back on. And I hope it helps with your own journey.