siY, LLC - Be safe Be inspired Be YOU

08/12/2025

02/19/2024

The 100 Miles of Dialogue™ journey is all about fostering meaningful conversations and creating environments where dialogue leads to impact. Recently, during a 3-mile walk at Chastain Park in Atlanta, GA, I had the pleasure of walking and talking with Susan Gambardella, a connection initiated as a result of sharing my walk with R. Eric McCarthey on LinkedIn.

There was something that resonated with Susan when she saw my post, and she shared with me that it was further verified when she noticed Eric’s name – someone she has always respected as a leader. Our online exchange ultimately evolved into a shoulder-to-shoulder walk in the park, a perfect way to kick off the new year with meaningful connections and shared goals for 2024.

As we strolled through the park, Susan shared her aspirations for 2024. More external intellectual thought-leadership and learning, a focus on mindfulness and wellness, and a desire for more live music—goals that perfectly align with the spirit of embracing new perspectives and experiences in the new year. And I couldn't agree more.

I appreciated when Susan shared details of her journey over the last few years. From navigating major life changes, embracing new challenges, and witnessing the culmination of resilience and dedication. For Susan, last year represented the peak of four years marked by hard work, tough times, and inspiration drawn from her team's commitment. She takes immense pride in her team and their focus on serving their customers.

The outdoor setting allowed for a unique, judgment-free space where our conversation flowed effortlessly, covering a spectrum from history and careers to family, current opportunities, and challenges, making the walk an inviting exchange of insights and a truly enjoyable experience. As Susan said, “It was fun, a good walk 😊 and I learned a few things.”

Key Takeaways:

- and : When you are sparked by an idea connect with the other person without hesitation. Explore common interests, and extend your network. Taking small risks, guided by trust and respect.

- : Simple concepts require structure to scale. Having commercial expectations hinders genuine dialogue.

- and : Leadership's toll on resiliency and the need for alternative perspectives. Find people who can listen and provide an alternative perspective. There are lessons to be learned in listening and being listened to.

- : Shoulder-to-shoulder in nature provides a freeing experience. Next time we will plan an even longer walk!

- and : Be open to unexpected opportunities for learning. Shifting from "never eat alone" to "never walk alone."

Beyond the professional insights, I'm grateful for the friendship forged during our walk. Susan's kind words about family and influencers made a huge impact on me, and I'm excited to continue building this remarkable relationship by influencing others who seek our guidance.

02/16/2024

A few weeks ago the much-awaited walk with Frank Spadavecchia finally took place in, of course, New York City. We covered 3 miles as part of the 100 Miles of Dialogue™ journey with constant banter, sharing stories that covered our decades-long friendship that began at Standard Register (Taylor Corporation). But, my most vivid memory surrounds the aftermath of 9-11 when we would go to pray for the lost lives of so many at The Rooftop at Club Quarters Hotels - World Trade Center. The impact on both of us is impossible to describe. We shared that what makes friendships last is mostly common interests and when there is a difference, it’s an opportunity to learn and compromise.

We started our time together at Trinity Church Wall Street and reflected on our journeys in NYC. How awesome it was to walk by some of the historical sites in our country’s history, is it so important because it provides a context for understanding the present and helps us learn and grow. Our family discussions were filled with great stories and some challenging ones that made us stronger.

We ended our walk with some great food Il Cortile. The food was fantastic, we laughed non-stop, and let’s not forget the Primitivo wine. The brisk walk to the EAR Inn was well worth the chill and dirty streets, what a historical dive bar. It is truly all about family, friendship, food, wine, laughs, and faith.

Takeaways:

- : Friendships that last are often built on common interests. Differences in interests can be opportunities to learn and compromise.

- : Starting at Trinity Church and walking by historical sites in downtown NYC was a meaningful experience. Historical context is crucial for understanding the present and fostering personal growth.

- : Family discussions during the walk were filled with both great and challenging stories. The Italian saying "La famiglia e tutti" (family is everything) holds personal significance for Frank, even tattooed on his arm. Family is a source of strength and a central focus.

- : The walk was invigorating, even if not a lengthy one. The brisk walk to the EAR inn was well worth the chill and dirty streets, what a historical dive bar.

- for : Acknowledging the importance of friendship in personal growth and progress.

- : Emphasis on the importance of family, friendship, food, wine, laughs, and faith. These elements are highlighted as fundamental aspects of a fulfilling life.

- : Our good friend Billy Baker joined us for a few drinks and a great meal. The three of us proved the power of intentionality in relationships. Yes, it takes effort but even Red Sox and Yankees fans can be life-long friends.

As my Grandma/my Mum told me, choose those close to you wisely and your life will be full.

02/09/2024

During a recent trip back East, I was able to coordinate a very cool walk with Billy Baker. We met back in my Standard Register days when Billy joined our organization in 2006.

When I speak about the bi-directional nature of mentoring, my relationship with Billy always comes to mind as we intentionally communicate in a way that constantly expands our thinking. Billy influenced me as a CEO during a period of transformation in our company as I sought to introduce a whole new generation into our business. What I discovered was a person that I trusted, relied upon, and respected deeply as a confidant and ultimately a friend. I would say that if you can get on his Christmas card distribution, you can see what family truly means as the Baker’s are a beautiful family. This walk covered ~12 miles with a beverage, from the Hudson Yards, down The High Line, along the Hudson River Park, a stop at Trinity Church Wall Street, Alexander Hamilton’s grave, the Ear Inn, and Il Cortile with our good friend Frank Spadavecchia.

So many great insights ….

- Matters - Even for a walk, you need the right shoes if you are going to hit the streets of New York City.
- - When we met in Chelsea there was a plan, including a tour of , with an amazing view from a vantage point that I had never seen overlooking the West Village. We looked down The High Line towards our destination in the Financial District in the distance. Intention matters when meeting a friend, a coworker, or a family member. Find a place that is inspiring and meaningful to the person you are connecting with.
- Having - Deep relationships extend beyond the work that we do and are housed in our life stories.
- - We are at different stages in our lives; however, our essence is based on family, commitment, and belief in the future. It’s inspiring when you can have non-stop engagement for 12 miles. I am a fan of short meetings and long walks.
- - Being real and bringing yourself to the workplace, a walk or a conversation matters. Leaders who bring their authentic selves build trusted relationships.
- - Providing an opportunity to someone you believe has the potential can positively impact an organization and specifically that person's life. Leaders who provide coaching, without the walls of rigid organizational hierarchy, create a ripple effect in a pond, and the waves will continue to make an impact into the future.
- Staying - Being in touch requires some effort but no agenda. Just being present with others lets them actively participate in our lives. I encourage you to make a list of people that have influenced you and a second list of people that you want active in your life. !

The time spent together will repeat itself, likely on a new trail in the woods in New England finishing with more storytelling and a plan for the next walk.

02/06/2024

A few months ago, Knight Campbell and I had a call regarding inspirational leadership programs as we both are quite intentional about our approach to human connection. Shortly thereafter, Tim Satterthwaite reached out regarding the ™ journey inviting me to take a walk at Radnor Lake in Nashville, TN. On a beautiful afternoon, we spent an hour walking 4.5 miles, engaging in a conversation about nature, referencing The Extended Mind: The Power of Thinking Outside the Brain, by Annie Murphy Paul.

A really important takeaway for me was that sometimes when you say yes to an invitation, a friendship and deep learning is the result. Look for more from Tim and Joe.

A few takeaways:

- - Once you share a step of someone’s journey, you are a part of their life.
- - There are some things we know are consistently impactful purely from the experience of doing them.
- - Sharing time and experience with people who share your conviction is one of life’s joys. It leaves you inspired and excited.
- propagates out and can return to you in unexpected ways.
- - People love to talk but learning to listen is the skill to cultivate. Listening leads to depth and vulnerability.
- Lead conversations with curiosity. People have a lot to offer you when you are curious about their story.

Cairn Leadership Strategies

12/19/2023

On a cool partially rainy day in on the campus of College of the Holy Cross, I had the wonderful opportunity to walk 4 miles on the hilly campus overlooking my hometown with Maura Sweeney. We met while recording a video on my perspectives as an Alumnus of the school. Our video shoot was in January of 2020 just before COVID-19 changed everyone’s context on human interaction. So, now 4 years later we are back together in person having a walk and an intentional dialogue for the 100 Miles of Dialogue™.

A few key takeaways:

- – Forming something new with a trusted partnership yields great outcomes if you are willing to keep learning.
- – When you have a Vision for change, and it aligns with a period of need the results can be awesome.
- – Sometimes our personal insecurities aren’t evident to the other person until we share how we feel at our core. Take a walk.
- One Person @ a Time – Like change, an empathetic conversation is best achieved one person at a time. Understanding a person’s context is so important in the process of influence
- where they are – The only place you can start from, essentially the base. Walking is meeting someone literally where they are. It is so powerful.
- of Energy – Knowing the room allows us to direct ourselves toward people who can provide perspective.

What makes a friendship endure?

College of the Holy Cross Alumni

12/06/2023

Just after Thanksgiving, Michael Crowl and I took a 5-mile hike in Austin, TX for the 100 Miles of Dialogue™. I was honored to get to meet Michael’s amazing wife Ashley after our walk.

Michael and I first met several years ago during a strategy retreat that I facilitated for UFCU along with Chloe Adams. Since that initial meeting, Michael has become the CEO of UFCU and our relationship has evolved where I am now honored to provide coaching and advisory services.

Here are some themes from our walk that have impacted me as I reflect on our time together:

- - Right from the start I was asked what I would like to do. The first great thing about the experience was his initial question - Hike, walk, or run? Easy, moderate, or some harder sections. There are ample hills in ATX. We went for the full-on hike!

- and - Early on in the walk we confirmed that you can have each individually but when both are combined it can drive extremely powerful outcomes.

- Beauty and - Each walk in our lives has the potential to transform us if we slow down. Michael called out to me at one point when I powered past a beautiful landmark. Being stopped allowed me to turn back, slow down, and witness nature.

- CEOs aren’t all the same - When you google CEO, the definition is ‘a chief executive officer, the highest-ranking person in a company or other institution, ultimately responsible for making managerial decisions.’ Human attributes are not mentioned but are vital in creating followership - Knowing where you fit best is a key enabler.

- and - Did you hear that bird, that stream, change in terrain, or sense another’s challenge?

- Help people help you - Letting people get to know you allows them to bring their best selves to the relationship.

- - Side by side on a trail with nature’s creativity all around allows for open expression and vulnerability, fears (I do not like snakes), challenging elevations, and teamwork (we got this together and a cold beverage after).

- Relationships - Openness to alternative viewpoints makes the journey more fulfilling and honestly, more productive. The timing of when you ask for input matters so waiting until it's fully baked is either too late or minimally, wicked disruptive.

UFCU

11/29/2023

The 100 Miles of Dialogue continues, most recently on a 4-mile walk with Tammie Leftwich. We walked in the Nations starting at Office Evolution , the place where we first met and my current office space. Tammie was a rock for me during the COVID period when I would come into the office waive, talk from a distance, and then head to my safe space, the closed office.

Our conversation covered many topics, but here are a few that stand out to me now:
- - A warm smile backed up with such a helpful service approach can really create the path for a relationship.
- - People often find commonality amongst each other when they have a sense of being at home.
- - We have new opportunities for friendship in each chapter of our lives. It’s just making the time.
- - We have opportunities that require effort or even small commitments. Each of us has lost people that we wish were close to now. If you have the chance, take the walk.
- and - If you don’t have either where you spend your work time, get access ASAP.
- - We all have stories that we want to share, find a story buddy.
- Life Conversations - Co-working spaces while centered on work can create an opportunity for affirming conversations and chance encounters.
- - Being out in nature can present a really unique opportunity for getting to know one another.

Office Evolution Nashville

11/27/2023

Last week, Patrick Crean and I took a 2.5-mile walk from Grand Central on a circuitous route to Times Square for the 100 Miles of Dialogue™ journey. Fortunately, the weather on was beautiful as we completed a busy few days of meetings on the East Coast.

Paddy and I initially met over 20 years ago during an International Partners meeting while I was working at Standard Register, and he was leading Paragon ID Group in Europe. Shortly after 9-11 Paddy made the trip to Dayton in solidarity with our team. A lot has changed over time Grenadier Holdings; however, the desire to build a high-performance company and culture has remained constant, with the Group now a global leader under the guidance of Paddy and his carefully curated team. Today, I work with Paddy as a strategic advisor in the Americas.

Takeaways:

- View - There are nuances across the globe that, when understood, can create substantial value.
- - There is always a balance in the day-to-day, but spending time with great people is both a learning experience and a lot of fun.
- - Without a successful business, we can’t continue to advance and grow.
- - Being with people aligned on a common purpose is a key element of in building value.
- Growth - Recognizing early that new talent is required builds confidence in the durability of the plan.
- - A clear plan creates the potential for value, but the upfront assessment and rapid integration make concepts profitable.
- - We share so many common things in our lives as we grow older - families, stories of our past, and hopes for a bright future for the next generation.
- - We negotiate in business every day but we spoil our little ones.

11/22/2023

Previously, I wrote about my sister, Sheila Noon, and how much having her walk with me during this journey would have brought me joy. Recently, I was able to walk with my brother-in-law Pat Noon and nephew Will Noon for the 100 Miles of Dialogue™. We had such a great dialogue about the current state of our lives, hopes for the future, and of course, memories of Sheila. My biggest takeaway was the reminder that our time together is one of the highest-priority gifts.

We walked 2 miles through a nice park in Bellevue, WA where there were kids in Halloween costumes, clowns painting faces, an amazing gymnasium and so many smiles from the families. We concluded our Sunday afternoon walk with a great lunch at Duke's with fish tacos and clam chowder. I am extremely excited about spending time with the guys during my next trip.

Takeaways:
- - Each person in our life is on a trajectory, and making time is so important.
- - There is a different feeling when you are together, cherish it.
- - Each of us offers a perspective, being curious about the lives of others is a gift in the making.
- - requires choices.
- Cold Beer on Sunday is very much underrated.
- A walk in the park - This is such a historic phrase but our benefits from this simple act.
- – we all have memories of the past that influence the steps we take in our lives. The key though is to always keep moving whether it’s participating in a or developing new relationships in your life.
- 80-20-80 - spend 80% of your time on the 20% of the things that return 80% of the benefit.

11/21/2023

At McCabe Park in Nashville, TN, I took an incredible 3-mile walk with Eric McCarthey for the 100 Miles of Dialogue™.

Eric and I first met when he was a former board member at Standard Register (now Taylor Corporation) when I was CEO. His wisdom on brand, strategy and overall governance was matched only by his understanding that people are truly at the core of great businesses. There are so many areas that I admire about Eric's approach as a Board leader that have influenced my work today!

There were many valuable takeaways from our conversation, but what stands out to me the most are the following:
- - Emerges through conversation. Sometimes it's important that we find the appropriate amount of time for the complete conversation.
- - Seek to simplify always.
- - Being a student of situations helps form questions that balance enlightenment with the creation of a path forward.
- mindsets are admired - Board members who learn the nuances of a business bring forward an amazing level of impact.
- Corporate bureaucracy detox - When you work in highly structured organizations it can build muscle memory that can prevent free thinking. Exposure to the entrepreneurial spirit is important. In my case, I actually went to The Abbey of Gethsemani for three days of reflection and reading many of Thomas Merton’s writings.

National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD),

11/21/2023

I recently had the opportunity to speak to a group of Nashville Business Leaders at Hendersonville Rotary Club about the 100 Miles of Dialogue™. The dialogue was high-impact impact as had been the walks themselves. If you would like to join us along this journey, I would enjoy speaking to your group.

📩 Send me a message if you are interested in learning more about the Dialogue Catalyst™ Program Inspired by the 100 Miles of Dialogue™.

⭐️ SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT ⭐️

We were truly honored to have Joseph Morgan, the visionary Founder & CEO of siY, LLC - Be safe Be inspired Be YOU, join us recently. His talk on "100 Miles of Dialogue" left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds.

Joseph's dedication to fostering meaningful conversations and building bridges of understanding is truly inspiring. His insights have ignited a spark of change within us.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Joseph Morgan for sharing his wisdom and passion with our audience. Stay tuned for more inspiring speakers in the future! 🎙️🤝