Inspired by Daniel James Brown’s true story about “The Boys in the Boat” and the leadership traits required for a team to exceed all expectations, I interviewed a former competitive crew coxswain, Briana Gallo, to compare her experience with that of the Olympic team in 1936.

Communication skills are essential for leaders to have in their tool kit. Consider five Cs of effective communication to ensure your messaging hits the mark and motivates your team.

Contrary to popular thought, the Economist recently argued that "no one should actually bring their whole selves to work. People are a melange of traits, [many of which] should be kept well away from the workplace." A recent Below Deck Sailing episode provides a humorous reminder why our colleagues don’t need to know about our authentic Friday night selves.

The Suri are a self-sufficient, agro-pastoral people rich in land and traditions. The land, which is part of the diverse Omo Valley in Ethiopia, is located in the southwest along the border with South Sudan. My impression, after a recent trek in the Suri land, is that the women are the hardest-working members of the tribe - and they represent a subtle example of strong leadership.

I recently returned from a new experience: Dogsledding and camping in Ely, Minnesota with the Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge family. It was an amazing adventure augmented by the presence of five incredible Canadian Inuit dogs pulling my sled. These working dogs were friendly, loving, and docile, but when pulling the sled down the trail they became determined machines focused on one thing: Pulling. This display of teamwork made me think about leadership, and what an example they provided!

Leverage technology to reduce tardiness and reframe your view of others who are habitually late. They have virtuous traits your team needs!

One of the top traits to look for in colleagues is listening skills. A good listener is skilled at active listening. Why?

Intentionally build a network and company culture of creativity and inclusion. Ensure that there is no room for bullies at YOUR company.

Some say that copycatting is the best form of flattery. In business, as in life, imitation is an annoying reality.