Hello!
I’m excited to share my insights on collaboration on Substack.
My hope is that you will use these insights for inspiration to see the art of the possible—learning how others achieved remarkable success by consciously choosing to collaborate in a highly effective manner, and applying these lessons in your own life.
My Background
For 20-plus years I have researched and advanced the art, science and practice of how to create (and sustain!) highly collaborative relationships.
Sometimes that means helping organizations go from good to great. And other times it means getting partners back to the basics by repairing fractured relationships that suffer trust gaps and a deep-seated us-versus-them chasm.
Everything I do—from researching and teaching to writing books like my latest book, The Vested Way—is about how to drive exponential results through collaboration.
Before I joined the faculty at University of Tennessee (where I lead research on strategic partnerships), I worked at fast-paced and innovative companies like P&G and Microsoft.
My background has offered me the precious gift of being able to view relationships from all angles: buyers, suppliers, and consultants alike.
My real ah-ha into cracking the code on collaboration came after joining the University of Tennessee where I’ve had the opportunity to study some of the world’s most successful business partnerships. My research got a lift when the Air Force became intrigued and provided funding.
The initial research focused on complex outsourcing partnerships that demanded trading partners work together for success. That early work has evolved from research to a recognized methodology—called Vested—that involves creating highly collaborative relationships in which the parties have a committed and profound interest in each other’s success. Simply put, the parties are vested in each other’s success: they are most successful when both are successful.
In my research and practice, I’ve witnessed what it truly means to have the magic of collaboration, the kind of relationship where 1+1 equals 11. I’ve had the opportunity to unpack how that magic happens and the platform to share this message across nearly every industry and business function. It’s been rewarding for me to see how Vested relationships can lead to new opportunities and mutual success across a variety of situations.
My Promise
Don’t expect academic jargon on my page. Instead you’ll find information that is easy to read and clearly shows you how to get the most out of your most important relationships.
Expect practical solutions and simple ideas to help you rethink how you are working with your partner.
My challenge to you
For those who want to dig in deeper and drive real change in your most precious relationships, I encourage you to join the Vested movement. While my research is steeped in complex strategic deals, the rules can be applied to any type of relationship. I encourage you to share my notes and insights with business partners and teammates—and use what you learn to shape a healthier home life for you and your family.
