We hold up a mirror, investigate narratives, and identify current blind spots.

Clear values, accepted norms, and the shared beliefs by which individuals and groups operate is culture. Oftentimes culture is nothing more than a set of values on a powerpoint slide that fail to guide an organization. We believe that culture must serve as the nucleus of an organization. It needs to be incorporated into critical strategic decisions, impact the internal systems and designs, and achieve team member alignment and buy-in, which creates a self-reinforcing cycle, further strengthening the culture.

Over my time as an executive coach to founders, CEOs, and c-suite executives, I have found that one of most momentous and challenging evolutions for organizations is a liquidity event, whether in the form of an IPO or acquisition. During these transitions, executives face the intersection of opportunity and ambiguity. Learning from and alongside them over the course of these events has further solidified the immense respect I have for these leaders and the responsibilities (and burdens) that they carry as they navigate the transition, wrestle with uncertainty, and continue to push the frontier of potential for their organizations.

As I reflect on conversations I’ve had with leaders about goals and goal setting, I’ve found that there are common lessons that emerge. We’re sharing those here to help leaders better prepare to deliver, achieve, and assess goal clarity throughout their organizations. These lessons allow leaders to achieve ambitious goals in a way that’s sustainable, scalable, and that leads to an ever increasing rate of learning.

The Burns Brothers and LionPoint Coaching have created a strategic alliance to provide coaching and development services to executives who are growing early-stage companies and already recognize and embrace the power of diversity, equity, and inclusion as foundational elements for shaping, solidifying, and scaling organizational culture and growth.

…the right coach becomes an important partner, helping you actualize your fullest potential. Of course, right is a complex word here. Naturally, people then ask “What is the best type of coaching for me? How do I find the right coach, the right model?”

The decision to partner with an executive coach spans personal and professional considerations. It’s an investment of time and money that requires significant tangible and intangible returns. That said, I also believe the “right” executive coach is a crucial tool for business leaders, and it should be a part of your design and operating model.

On a cool, misty day in October of 2019, Eluid Kipchoge ran the fastest marathon ever along the Danube River in Vienna. He ran 26.2 miles in 1:59:40 — at a pace of 4:34 per mile — breaking the previously impenetrable barrier of two hours. It was an awe-inspiring feat. (At that pace, I can probably run about an eighth of a mile, maybe a quarter mile on a good day). Kipchoge, known for his softspokeness and humility, would go so far as to compare this achievement to running’s equivalent to the moon landing. 

Actualizing potential is a path to a better world: as individuals, parents, leaders, friends, and citizens. My path towards this belief started in formative years and continued through my time at West Point, as an officer and Apache pilot in combat, and as an executive at Bridgewater Associates. Ultimately, it led me to become an executive coach who supports leaders in their individual and organizational pursuit of growth. Today, it brings me to launch LionPoint Coaching, a venture that unites my own path towards reaching potential with that of the clients I serve.