INSIGHTS
Table of Contents
Writing
James offers a scientific perspective—rooted in physics, chemistry, biology, and neurology—to explain the trends and events that are reshaping businesses, economies, societies, and cultures. His insights help leaders in the commercial, public, and social sectors develop a deeper understanding of the cognitive connections that are profoundly impacting every aspect of their organizations, their communities, and the planet we share.
Offering A Hand
“Our hands bear the marks of our lives—scars from building, protecting, and loving. As we focus on thinking and talking, we often forget the power of doing. Maybe it’s time to use our hands more, to create, to help, and to make a difference. Let your scars be the reminders that you lived fully and impacted others.”
Don’t Look Back
“Like chameleons, humans have a unique ability to look forward and backward at the same time—yet, this mental skill often traps us in the past. To truly grow, we must deliberately choose imagination over memory, embracing new ideas rather than clinging to outdated traditions.”
What Do You Mean?
“Claude Shannon’s Information Theory revolutionized communication by prioritizing speed and efficiency over meaning. As our digital world accelerates, are we losing clarity and depth in our interactions? Discover how the rapid transmission of information might be stripping away the very essence of our messages.”
Learning To Read Maps
“GPS may have made navigation easier, but it also took away our ability to chart our own course. Remember the days of unfolding a map and figuring out your path? Let’s reclaim that mindset—mark your own spot, choose your own route, and take the time to navigate your life’s journey on your terms.”
Why Yvon Chouinard’s decision to give away his company shouldn’t surprise you.
“Patagonia’s unwavering commitment to environmental values over profit transformed it into a global leader. By prioritizing sustainability and ethical practices, the company built a loyal customer base, reshaped industries, and proved that businesses can thrive while staying true to their mission.”
It’s Not About The Music (How to create a 50-year fan base)
“Bruce Springsteen built lasting loyalty by connecting personally with fans, creating unforgettable moments that made them feel seen and valued. From sharing a baloney sandwich to dedicating songs, his genuine recognition fueled his legendary career and community.”
Leaders Don’t Predict The Future. They Create It.
“Jane Jacobs didn’t just theorize about healthy neighborhoods; she mobilized communities, uniting them in shared purpose. By involving everyone—from her children to local shopkeepers—she proved the power of collective action, creating lasting change in urban development.”
Agapic Energy
Diane Nash, a fearless civil rights leader, transformed from a sheltered Chicago girl to a nonviolent activist who led desegregation efforts and Freedom Rides, embodying the relentless pursuit of justice and equality in America’s fight against racism.
The Power Of Purpose
Ibrahim Abdel Qader and Fares Hammadi were brutally betrayed by a friend whose loyalty to ISIS overshadowed their bond. Their tragic story underscores the perilous power of Purpose, driving even the deepest connections to destruction.
You…Complete Me
Steve Jobs’ return to Apple in 1997 marked a turning point, thanks to his partnership with Jony Ive. Ive’s design genius filled Jobs’ creative gaps, transforming Apple’s vision into reality and redefining its future.
Seeing What Others Don’t
Despite immense pressure and financial strain, Steve Jobs believed in Pixar’s potential, leading to the groundbreaking success of “Toy Story.” His ability to see value where others didn’t revolutionized the film industry and solidified his legacy.
Where will your organization be…in 300 years?
Husqvarna’s 325-year success lies in anticipating future needs. From weapons to outdoor power equipment, they’ve thrived by innovating and partnering with customers like landscapers to ensure sustainability and profitability in an evolving industry.
Laughing All The Way To The Bank
In 1971, Sandra Force took a chance on a little-known airline, Southwest, during a time of uncertainty. Herb Kelleher’s relentless drive and Southwest’s innovative profit-sharing turned it into an industry leader, rewarding loyal employees like Sandra and forever changing the airline industry.
War and Peace
Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, though different in their methods, both sought to create a sense of belonging for Black Americans—King through peaceful unity and Malcolm X through empowerment and self-identity amidst racial injustice.
Secret Ingredients
Arthur T. Demoulas, the beloved CEO of Market Basket, inspired unprecedented loyalty through his people-first leadership. Discover how his values sparked a grassroots movement, uniting employees and customers in a fight to bring him back.
Blind Trust
Even stellar character isn’t enough if it doesn’t meet others’ expectations. Bernie Madoff’s perceived competency and consistency won him trust, but his deception reveals the power and danger of manipulated loyalty.
Mr. Consistency
Seth Godin’s daily blogging routine over twenty years has built an unwavering trust among his readers. His consistent effort and reliability create a safe space for creative journeys, earning him a loyal following who depend on his guidance.
Focus. Focus. Focus.
Warren Buffett’s lifelong focus on patience, compound interest, and a clear vision made him a trusted financial leader. His disciplined approach, free from distractions, earned him loyalty and shaped modern investment strategies.
Building An Army Of Davids To Fight Goliath
Bill McGowan’s relentless drive and visionary leadership turned MCI into a telecommunications giant, breaking AT&T’s monopoly. He earned loyalty by inspiring his team, proving he had the resources and influence to defy the odds and succeed.
If You Aren’t A Know-it-All, You Probably Should Be.
For 35 years, Car Talk’s enduring success was built on warm-hearted wit and an unwavering command of automotive knowledge. Ray and Tom Magliozzi’s brilliance lay in making complex car repairs accessible, keeping listeners informed and entertained, episode after episode.
Videos
You Can’t Handle The Truth
When it comes to relationships, being honest is more important than being nice.
You Aren’t Who You Were Yesterday
The ever-changing human mind shapes our thoughts, emotions, and perceptions, influencing how we navigate the world each day.
Putting Your Money Where Your Mouth Is.
Are you and your organization ready to guarantee your products and services? Can you truly deliver on the promises you make?
Nature’s First Strategy
Nature’s winning strategy is simple: life thrives when it sustains itself, optimizes energy, and grows. When it can’t, it fades. Humans flourish by following the same blueprint.
Our education and development are built on learning and acquiring new information. But unlearning old information is just as important.
Unlearning
Understanding one’s value is about more than recognizing their current abilities. It’s also envisioning the greatness they’re capable of achieving.
Seeing Potential
You don’t always need to do great things yourself. Sometimes, your greatest achievement is bringing together those who can.
Matchmakers
Our brain is naturally inclined to take the easy route, favoring routines and avoiding challenges. To achieve success, we must deliberately activate curiosity, creativity, and optimism—because they won’t spark on their own.
Static Thinkers
Myths & Mythmakers
Coming Soon.