How to Become More Likable in 3 Simple Steps

conversation

When was the last time you had a great conversation with someone? I’m serious. Think about the last time because I want you thinking about that conversation as you continue to read today’s blog. We will review the 3 elements that make a great conversation and you can see if they showed up in that […]

Want to Have Better Conversations at Your Holiday Parties?

3 Reminders to Help Strengthen Conversations & Relationships

party

If you’re like me, as we enter the holiday season, I begin to think about the parties and family gatherings to come. We all enjoy seeing the friends and family but let’s be honest… sometimes our conversations could be improved and we’re the ones who might need to change! I began this year with a blog […]

Do You Make This Communication Mistake?

I did. The ONE forgotten step that kills relationships

punch anger

It’s no secret some people interpret disagreement as a sure sign you’re an enemy combatant. How do I know? Because I’m as guilty as the rest of us. When somebody disagrees with me (e.g. business, politics, religion, etc.) my brain jumps into battle stations, “Shields up! Divert all power to the forward cannons! Fire when […]

One Question That Can Change Your Life

Do you really want to improve? Try this...

Catalyst 2018 Groeschel Lysa Hodges

My wife and I were both excited to attend the leadership conference! The lineup of speakers included one of my favorites and one of my wife’s favorites.  I was amped to hear from Craig Groeschel on topics like leading change and building systems. My wife was most excited about Lysa Terkeurst and her talk on […]

5 Ways to Develop Leadership Approachability

Leader Presence - Part 2 of 3: Approachability

Woman Leader

The conference call went silent for only a second while she was thinking. Then my boss said, “Russ can be there. Set up the meeting.” Well, it looks like I was about to book a flight to Boston from Houston. Without any thought to my personal schedule, my pregnant wife, or my 2-year-old son. I’m […]

4 Horsemen of Apocalyptic Relationships

and how to overcome each one

Angry woman

I’ve had my struggles with relationships and I’m definitely no saint. Maybe that’s what led me to Dr. John Gottman’s research in the first place. Relationships aren’t easy, but that’s also what makes them so rewarding when they’re working well! What I appreciated most from Dr. Gottman’s research are the four predictors he found for […]

How to Have the Best Conversations in 2018

and build stronger relationships with family and friends

Slattery Peterson Dinner Dublin Ireland

It was a conversation for the ages! My family and our dear friends from Dublin were all seated around their dining table in Ireland. The conversation was full of laughter, questions, tears, intrigue, and dreams. We were swimming in deep waters and we loved it. But what was it exactly that made this 3-hour conversation […]