holding the line

a collection of essays and prompts about leading with moral courage in the face of moral injury

holding the line

I'm currently on retreat and taking some much-needed time offline to rest and reconnect. In the meantime, I’ve pulled together a collection of a few recent posts that center on leading with moral courage in the face of moral injury and institutional betrayal. Whether you're new to this community and my work or in need of a gentle reminder or a spark to carry you forward, I hope these reflections offer a bit of light while I'm away. 🩵

In solidarity + gratitude,


when a nation abandons its moral compass: moral injury and institutional betrayal in america
Each week feels heavier than the last.
when values are tested: facing fear, holding humanity, and navigating moral injury
This week, public servants, humanitarian workers, and mission-driven professionals are witnessing their life’s work unravel—agencies shut down, mass firings executed, and long-standing commitments to human rights and public service erased with the stroke of a pen. The emotional toll of this moment is profound, as both leaders and staff grapple with the …
the weaponization of empathy
History has shown us that before people are stripped of their rights, they’re first stripped of their humanity.
beyond individualism: moral courage and mutuality as a model for leadership in a fractured world
Leadership can often feel isolating, especially in a world shaped by the industrial revolution’s legacy of individualism—a version of success rooted in competition, perfectionism, and solitary achievement, often associated with “masculine” leadership traits. While these traits can serve a purpose when balanced, their d…