Author: Marc Ragsdale

Be a better guest, friend: a reflection on respect and hospitality in India

If these people welcomed you into their home, proudly sharing their rich culture, ancient recipes, and intricate customs refined over centuries, would you instead mock their struggles, publicize unflattering images, and discourage others from visiting? Recently, I came across a travel vlog of a British gentleman traveling through India, where he captured scenes of poverty, […]

The forthcoming AI-powered worker analytics revolution

In the near future, the workplace as we know it will undergo a transformative shift powered by AI and advanced analytics. All the data we’ve been collecting—from absenteeism to engagement levels—will be subject to AI-driven scrutiny, providing insights that were once unimaginable without considerable effort. This revolution will enable managers to access comprehensive, 360-degree reviews […]

Modern liberalism and the psychology of self-hatred

In the ever-evolving landscape of political thought, modern liberalism has emerged as a dominant force, advocating for social justice, equality, and individual freedoms. However, intertwined with these noble ideals is a complex and often troubling phenomenon: the undercurrent of self-hatred among some of its proponents. This article explores the intricate relationship between modern liberalism and […]

Building trust-based relationships with remote workers

In today’s increasingly remote work environment, building trust between business owners and remote workers is more crucial than ever. Yet, the use of workplace monitoring tools often sparks debate, with some critics dismissing them as “Big Brother” tactics—derogatory language that suggests an overbearing and invasive approach to management. However, when implemented thoughtfully and transparently, these […]

Disagreement as a compatibility test

In the intricate dance of professional relationships, particularly at the juncture of leadership transitions, the manner in which disagreement is navigated can reveal the robustness and resilience of the bond between incoming and outgoing parties who have to work together. As an experienced CEO, I’ve often found myself in situations where a transfer of control […]

Elevating competence above the comfort of “feeling heard”

In this discourse on leadership and organizational effectiveness, I navigate the nuanced landscapes of competence, merit, and the inherent value they bring to decision-making. While the aim to make everyone feel heard is commendable, it’s imperative to understand its appropriate place within the broader spectrum of our organizational priorities. The Appropriate Contexts for “Feeling Heard” […]

Pronouns

As my company expands our search for upper-level management in America, we’ve observed that about a quarter of people at this level have declared their pronouns in their bios. This led to some confusion among my Southeast Asian recruitment team, who wondered why men and women were sharing what they perceived as obvious information. After […]