How to Promote Yourself Professionally Without Bragging
Talking about your accomplishments is an important part of career growth. However, it can feel uncomfortable or awkward, especially when you don’t want to come across as bragging. Dr. Julie Pham shares five practical tips on how to promote yourself professionally without bragging and in a humble and impactful way. These strategies allow you to share your achievements without feeling boastful, helping you gain recognition and build stronger connections in your career.
1. Focus on the Impact
When sharing an accomplishment, shift the focus to the impact it had on others. For example, rather than just saying “I created a business development program,” talk about how it helped generate new revenue and customers for 10 independently owned restaurants. By highlighting the results and the benefits to others, you demonstrate your value without sounding self-centered.
2. Share a Lesson Learned
Talking about a lesson you’ve learned not only shows your growth but also adds value to the listener. Dr. Pham shares her experience of creating a program to connect people across different industries. In the process, she learned how to tailor her communication style to suit different audiences. By framing your accomplishments as learning experiences, you make your success relatable and valuable to others.
3. Share the Glory
When discussing your achievements, it’s a great opportunity to give credit to others involved. For example, Dr. Pham mentions how she created a program with three other inspiring entrepreneurs. By sharing the credit, you show that you value teamwork and collaboration, which also makes your accomplishment feel more genuine and grounded.
4. Share Why It Matters
When talking about your accomplishments, explain why it’s meaningful to you. Sharing the personal significance behind an achievement allows you to connect with others on a deeper level. Dr. Pham, for example, is proud of earning a graduate degree because no one in her family went to college. Providing context and showing what you value makes your accomplishments more relatable.
5. Share What Others Have Said
You can also promote yourself by referencing positive feedback you’ve received from others. For instance, Dr. Pham shares how many audience members have told her that her keynote was meaningful. This provides external validation and reinforces your achievements without you having to say much about it yourself.
Conclusion: Promoting Yourself with Confidence
Promoting yourself can be difficult, but sharing your accomplishments adds value to a conversation and helps others get to know you better. It’s not about bragging—it’s about showcasing your contributions and experiences in a way that builds connection and recognition.
If you found these tips helpful, please like and share this post! You can also check out our video on four tips to avoid sounding arrogant
Seven Free Ways to Boost Your Creativity and Learn New Things
7 Free Ways to Boost Your Creativity and Learn Something New
If you’re looking to open yourself up to creative inspiration, here are seven free ways to boost your creativity and learn something new. These simple activities can spark fresh ideas and help you engage with the world around you in a new way.
1. Volunteer for an Unfamiliar Organization
Volunteering for a cause outside of your usual interests is an excellent way to expand your perspective and learn. Dr. Julie shares her experience volunteering with an organization that brings visitors to prisons. During her time at Monroe prison, she had meaningful conversations with incarcerated individuals, gaining incredible insights into the prison system and justice. Volunteering in unfamiliar settings can broaden your knowledge and inspire creative thinking.
2. Browse the Library’s “How-To” Section
The library is a goldmine for learning new skills—especially practical ones. Check out the “how-to” section to pick up a book on home maintenance or another topic that sparks your curiosity. Libraries offer free access to a wide variety of knowledge and skills, providing countless opportunities for creative learning.
3. Go for a Phone-Free, GPS-Free Walk in an Unknown Area
Take a walk in a new part of town without your phone or GPS. This forces you to engage your mind, look for landmarks, and navigate without technology’s help. If you get lost, you’ll have to ask for directions, turning the experience into a fun and interactive way to engage with your surroundings.
4. House Sit in a Different Neighborhood
House sitting offers a unique way to experience new environments without spending money. Look for house-sitting opportunities in different neighborhoods or house styles than you’re used to. It gives you the chance to immerse yourself in a new setting, see how others live, and embrace the experience of living in a different space for a while.
5. Talk to a Stranger
Stepping out of your comfort zone and talking to someone you don’t know can be a source of new ideas and inspiration. Unexpected conversations can offer valuable insights, historical context, and creative sparks that you might not otherwise encounter.
6. People Watch
Engage in people-watching to boost your creativity. Visit a local park, community center, or shopping mall and observe the interactions around you. As an amateur anthropologist, you’ll notice body language, behaviors, and social dynamics that can inspire new ideas. This simple activity can provide a fresh perspective on human behavior and inspire creative thinking.
7. Play Tourist in Your Own City
Tourism doesn’t have to mean traveling far. By playing tourist in your own city, you can gain a fresh perspective on familiar places. Explore with the eyes of an outsider, rediscovering hidden gems and new spots in your area. This shift in perspective can be eye-opening and inspire new creative ideas.
We hope these tips help you break out of your routine, embrace new experiences, and spark your creativity. If you found this post useful, please like and share it!
#16 Curiosity in municipal economic development with Diem Ly
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Curiosity at Work: Diem Ly on Municipal Economic Development and Inclusive Growth
In this episode of Curiosity at Work, “Curiosity in municipal economic development with Diem Ly,” Dr. Julie Pham interviews Diem Ly, Division Director at the City of Seattle’s Office of Economic Development (OED). Diem shares her unique journey from community journalism and telecommunications to leading citywide efforts for inclusive economic growth. She discusses OED’s mission to support businesses, neighborhoods, and entire industries, ensuring opportunities reach all Seattle residents, regardless of background.
Navigating Post-Pandemic Economic Development
As the city adapts to a post-pandemic landscape, Diem reflects on the challenges of prioritizing the diverse needs of various stakeholders. She highlights the complexities of managing economic growth in a city that is rebuilding after a crisis. With a growing team, OED focuses on fostering inclusive growth while addressing urgent and long-term community needs.
The Role of Curiosity in Public Service
Diem, a relatively new public servant, compares her experience in the private sector to her role in public service. She discusses the importance of continuously learning about the many stakeholders she partners with and how public servants must document and share these insights within the organization. This ensures that community groups are not repeatedly asked for the same information, fostering better relationships with local residents and businesses.
Creating a Learning Culture Within OED
Diem emphasizes the importance of creating a feedback culture within her team. She believes it’s essential to encourage openness about mistakes and to embrace learning opportunities. This approach is key to maintaining a dynamic and responsive team. By fostering an environment where learning is operationalized across OED, Diem helps her department continually improve its processes.
Drawing Inspiration from Diverse Perspectives
Diem also draws inspiration from her family conversations, which inspire her personal curiosity. She believes that embracing different perspectives requires slowing down, acknowledging our assumptions, and being open to change. This practice strengthens her ability to practice curiosity at work, enhancing her leadership style and approach to community engagement. Diem underscores how curiosity, when embraced by teams, can build stronger relationships and lead to more thoughtful solutions in public service.
#15 Curiosity as a port commissioner with Ryan Calkins
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Curiosity at Work: Ryan Calkins on Curiosity as a Port Commissioner and Public Service Leadership
In episode #15 of Curiosity at Work, Dr. Julie Pham interviews Ryan Calkins, Port of Seattle Commissioner and advisor at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). With two distinct roles spanning the public and research sectors, Ryan shares how curiosity helps him navigate complex challenges, foster innovation, and balance competing priorities.
Navigating the Port of Seattle and Public Service
The Port of Seattle is a public agency managing the Seattle airport and seaport, with over 2,700 employees, including 1,000 tradespeople. As commissioner, Ryan plays a key role in co-writing the budget alongside the Port’s Executive Director and providing oversight for the agency. In addition to his work at the Port, Ryan advises at PNNL, one of 17 U.S. regional research institutions. PNNL employs 6,500 people, mostly scientists, and Ryan focuses on connecting these scientists with industry to drive innovation.
Overcoming Barriers to Curiosity in Public Service
Ryan discusses the barriers to curiosity in public service, particularly the pressures of balancing stewardship with public scrutiny. As an elected official, he emphasizes the need to adapt to new facts while creating spaces for innovation without compromising essential services. He also reflects on the importance of handling power dynamics carefully, noting that criticizing privately and thanking publicly helps foster trust and collaboration with staff.
Curiosity and Thoughtful Leadership
Through his diverse experiences, from small business ownership to environmental advocacy, Ryan exemplifies how curiosity can fuel thoughtful leadership. Whether addressing complex issues of equity or exploring new opportunities in renewable energy, Ryan’s approach demonstrates the transformative power of curiosity. His leadership not only helps solve challenging problems but also inspires others to innovate and grow.
#14 Curiosity for early leaning providers with Phoebe Sade
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Curiosity at Work: Phoebe Sade on Leadership and Innovation in the Social Sector
In this episode of Curiosity at Work, “Curiosity for early leaning providers with Phoebe Sade,” Dr. Julie Pham interviews Phoebe Sade, Executive Officer of BrightSpark Early Learning Services, to explore how curiosity shapes leadership in the nonprofit sector. Phoebe leads a rapidly growing nonprofit that has expanded from 35 to 145 staff members. BrightSpark supports providers in King and Pierce counties, helping them access essential services to offer the best possible care for children and families.
Navigating Organizational Growth and Scaling Challenges
Phoebe reflects on the challenges of scaling an organization, especially with 40% of the team hired in the last two years. She emphasizes the importance of adapting communication and decision-making processes to better serve both staff and the communities they serve. Phoebe’s leadership style encourages flexibility and innovation as her team navigates the complexities of growth while maintaining the core values of the organization.
The Role of Curiosity in Creativity and Innovation
Phoebe highlights the role of curiosity in fostering creativity and finding innovative solutions. She shares how her team has rethought traditional approaches, such as moving from one-on-one coaching to group models. Despite constraints like funding limitations in government contracts, Phoebe shows how these challenges can spark transformative ideas and approaches. Her leadership philosophy encourages staff to ask questions, challenge norms, and seek sustainable solutions that meet community needs without burning out.
Empathy and Openness: Core Values of Effective Leadership
Through candid reflections on her journey, Phoebe underscores the importance of empathy and openness in leadership. Whether managing rapid organizational growth or rethinking long-standing practices, she exemplifies how curiosity can drive change and create impactful solutions. Phoebe’s story is a powerful reminder of how curiosity, when embraced, can fuel innovation and help leaders navigate complex challenges in the nonprofit sector.
If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe! By subscribing, you’ll never miss an episode filled with inspiring leaders and valuable discussions on how curiosity drives innovation, leadership, and workplace culture. Join us on the journey of continuous learning—subscribe now and stay curious!
Whether you’re looking for new experiences, preparing for an upcoming staycation, or hosting out-of-town visitors, these low-budget travel activities can help you enjoy how to be a tourist for cheap in your own city.
1. Start with a Guidebook
Find a tourist guidebook for your city. These books often list activities and provide a price range for each. Just be sure to check that the prices are current, as they may change over time.
2. Check the Local Newspaper’s “Things to Do” Section
Your local newspaper will likely have a “Things to Do” section, which includes updates on upcoming events. These events will often include the cost, helping you choose options that fit within your budget.
3. Visit a Local Historical Society
Many cities have historical societies, and some even have multiple options. In Seattle, for example, the Southwest Seattle Historical Society offers pay-what-you-can pricing, making it a great low-cost way to learn about the city’s history.
4. Take the Local Bus for a Tour
Take a ride on the local bus and explore your city from a new perspective. If your city has a Hop On, Hop Off bus for tourists, Dr. Pham recommends it as a low-cost and time-efficient way to see many attractions quickly. These buses often include audio tour explainers, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience.
5. Treat Yourself to a Local Food Specialty
You don’t have to go to a fancy restaurant to experience local food specialties. Instead, buy a popular food item from a market or street vendor. For instance, in Seattle, you can purchase candied smoked salmon by the pound at Pike Place Market or enjoy a Seattle hot dog topped with cream cheese.
We hope these budget-friendly tips help you start to explore how to be a tourist for cheap in your own city. If you found this post helpful, please like and share it! Also, be sure to check out our post on How to Be A Tourist for Free in Your Own City
Gift Giving: Which is better – spending money or time?
When it comes to gift giving – which is better spending money or time? Gifts of service and gifts that cost money each have pros and cons. Thoughtful gift-giving of either can deepen relationships. Dr. Pham walks through the benefits and challenges of both approaches.
Monetary Gifts: The Pros and Cons
Pros of Gifts that Cost Money
Convenience: Monetary gifts are easy to buy and ship online.
Tangibility: Physical gifts are clear, and easy to wrap and present.
Luxury: Monetary gifts let you buy something the recipient wouldn’t normally treat themselves to.
Practical Use: You can purchase something the recipient needs, like a baby registry item.
Cons of Gifts that Cost Money
Gift Selection Stress: Finding the perfect gift can be stressful.
Disappointment: The recipient might not like the gift, which is why a gift receipt is helpful.
Budget Worries: You may feel tempted to overspend, going beyond your budget.
Gifts of Time and Service: The Pros and Cons
Pros of Gifts of Time and Service
Personal: Time-based gifts are often unique and more personal.
Strengthening Relationships: Spending time with the recipient deepens the relationship.
Affordable: If you have more time than money, this gift can be meaningful without the cost.
Meaningful for Those Who Have It All: Time-based gifts are valuable to people who can buy what they want.
Cons of Gifts of Time and Service
Intangible: Time gifts may not feel as clearly like a gift.
Unexpected Time Commitment: The task may take longer than anticipated.
Risk of Exploitation: Some may take advantage of your time and ask repeatedly for favors.
Deciding Between Time and Money Gifts
Choosing between time or monetary gifts isn’t easy. Weighing the pros and cons of both helps you decide. Thoughtful gifts, whether time or money-based, strengthen bonds.
We hope these tips help you decide on your gift giving – which is better spending money or time for your loved ones or colleagues. If you found this post useful, please like and share it!
We all fail sometimes, but learning how to embrace failure can lead to growth. Failure is not the end; it’s a stepping stone to success. Three mindset shifts are crucial as you prepare for potential failure, endure it during the process, and recover from it so you can grow stronger. Whether struggling with setbacks in work, relationships, or personal goals, these strategies will help you get stronger, overcome failure, and reframe success.
The Three Stages of Failure
There are three stages to failure: before, during, and after. Each stage requires a different mindset to handle it effectively.
1. Before Failure: Preparing for the Risk
Before taking a risk or starting a new project, it’s natural to focus on what you want to achieve and your goals. But pause to ask yourself: What will I learn, even if I don’t achieve my goals? This shift in mindset allows individuals to approach challenges with the understanding that learning from failure is just as valuable as succeeding.
2. During Failure: Embracing the Struggle
During failure, when things seem to be falling apart, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure how to solve the problem. At this point, take a moment to ask: What is this problem teaching me? This mindset helps individuals focus on the lessons being learned rather than fixating on the failure itself, turning the struggle into an opportunity for growth.
3. After Failure: Sharing and Growing
After a failure, when feelings of embarrassment or shame arise, the natural response is often to withdraw. However, it’s important to share stories of failure with others. Vulnerability can be incredibly powerful, and by sharing your experience, you can help others learn and grow as well. This models a growth mindset—showing that failure is an opportunity for self-improvement and personal development.
We hope these three mindset shifts for each stage of failure help individuals navigate their own challenges. If you found this video useful, please like and share it with others!
Building meaningful friendships in professional environments can be tricky, but it’s definitely possible. Read on for four simple tips to making friends at work. You’ll learn how you can form friendships at work, blend your work and personal life without making things messy, and navigate the challenges of turning colleagues into friends.
Friendly vs. Friends
First, let’s clarify the difference between being friendly and being friends. Being friendly means being approachable and kind at work. But being friends involves having a relationship outside of work. You can be friendly with everyone, but you don’t have to be friends with everyone. I recommend forming friendships at work only with people who are on the same level as you—meaning you don’t report to them, and they don’t report to you.
If you want to become friends with someone who either reports to you or you report to them, it’s best to wait until you’re no longer working together to form that friendship. The power difference can overshadow the friendship, especially in the beginning. However, if you had a friendship before working together, it’s different. You’ve already experienced equality in your relationship, and you can set clear boundaries between work time and personal time.
Four Simple Tips for Making Friends at Work
1. Start Slow Don’t rush into trying to become someone’s best friend right away. Take your time to see if there’s chemistry and if you can have meaningful conversations before exploring the possibility of a friendship outside of work.
2. Invite Them to a Group Non-Work Event This is a low-pressure way to test if they’re interested in spending time together outside of the office. Invite them to a group event like a public concert or neighborhood festival. They can bring someone along, making it even more relaxed.
3. Talk About What You’re Learning at Work, Not Just What You Do Since the friendship will be rooted in the workplace, it’s natural to talk about work. But you don’t have to only discuss tasks. For example, share what you’re learning from a project or new experiences at work. This can make your conversation feel more personal and less about work itself.
4. Avoid Gossiping About Others at Work Gossiping about colleagues can lead to trust issues. If you gossip, your new friend might wonder if you’ll gossip about them too. Keep the conversations respectful and positive to build trust.
We hope these tips help you break the ice, establish trust, and form lasting friendships at work.
#13 How Curiosity Fuels Arts Organizations: Insights from Michael Greer, CEO of ArtsFund
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Curiosity at Work: Michael Greer on Leadership and Innovation in the Arts Sector
Michael Greer, CEO of ArtsFund, joins Dr. Julie Pham on the Curiosity at Work podcast to explore how curiosity drives leadership in the arts sector. As the CEO of ArtsFund, Michael oversees grant-making, capacity building, and advocacy for over 800 arts organizations across Washington State. In this episode, he shares how curiosity helps him manage a hybrid team, balance the needs of grassroots organizations with larger entities, and lead through uncertain times.
Fostering Curiosity and Innovation in the Arts
Michael highlights the importance of creating an environment where innovation is encouraged, and failure is seen as an opportunity to learn. By fostering curiosity, organizations can better adapt and thrive, even during challenging times. He explains how curiosity helps the arts sector move forward by driving new ideas and solutions.
Navigating Uncertainty and Embracing New Technologies
Drawing from his global experience in arts and business leadership, Michael discusses how curiosity plays a critical role in overcoming uncertainty. Arts organizations today face many challenges, but curiosity can help them thrive. Michael shares how ArtsFund goes beyond providing financial support. They also focus on leadership and collaboration across the sector. Additionally, he urges arts leaders to embrace new technologies and entertainment formats. Rather than viewing these changes as competition, they should see them as opportunities to engage new audiences.
Strategies for Cultivating Curiosity and Resilience
Michael’s leadership journey has been shaped by diverse experiences. From his early career as a professional ballet dancer to his time working in China and India, his journey reflects the power of curiosity. He shares practical strategies for cultivating curiosity within teams. His leadership philosophy encourages his team to ask questions, experiment, and embrace calculated risks. These strategies help build innovation and resilience in the arts sector.
If you enjoyed this insightful conversation, don’t forget to subscribe! By subscribing, you’ll never miss an episode filled with inspiring leaders and valuable discussions on how curiosity drives innovation, leadership, and workplace culture. Join us on the journey of continuous learning—subscribe now and stay curious!
#12 How Curiosity Fuels HR Leadership and Talent Strategy: Insights from Britt Provost, CHRO of Siteimprove
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In this episode of Curiosity at Work, host Dr. Julie Pham talks with Britt Provost, Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) at Siteimprove. A seasoned HR professional, Britt has over 20 years of experience in global technology. She creates progressive career experiences through her HR team’s efforts. She believes curiosity is essential to HR leadership and talent development.
Britt’s leadership approach is rooted in curiosity. She sees it as vital for success in fast-paced tech environments. Curiosity helps leaders and teams adapt and stay open to new ideas. It encourages risk-taking and learning from challenges. This mindset is especially valuable in global technology.
During the discussion, Britt and Dr. Pham talk about the challenges of leading global teams. Global teams often span different time zones, cultures, and communication styles. Britt emphasizes how a curious mindset fosters better decision-making and creativity. Encouraging curiosity allows employees to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and stay open to new perspectives.
Britt also highlights the need for structured approaches. These approaches empower employees to engage with curiosity. Leaders can provide tools and frameworks to foster curiosity, driving sustained growth. Britt reflects on how curiosity has shaped her leadership style and organizational cultures throughout her career.
Listeners will gain insights into how curiosity shapes Britt’s leadership philosophy. Britt focuses on people development and strategic HR. Her insights are relevant for leaders in fast-moving industries like tech. Continuous learning, adaptability, and open dialogue are crucial in these environments. Curiosity is not just beneficial—it is vital for long-term success.
111 Leadership Books Written by Native American and Alaska Native Authors
We created this list of 111 Leadership Books Written by Native American and Alaska Native Authors to promote leadership narratives written by people of Native American and Alaska Native Heritage. This list is meant to be a resource, not an official endorsement. The books are not ranked or listed in any particular order.
You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me by Sherman Alexie
Recovering the Sacred: The power of naming and claiming by Winona LaDuke
Braiding Sweetgrass: indigenous wisdom, scientific knowledge, and the teachings of plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer
The Tao of Raven: An Alaska Native Memoir by Ernestine Hayes
Black Indian: A memoir by Shonda Buchanan
Custer Died for Your Sins: An Indian manifesto by Vine deLoria Jr.
Where White Men Fear to Tread: The autobiography of Russell Means by Russell Means and Marvin J. Means
Prison Writings: My life is my Sun Dance by Leonard Peltier
The School Days of an Indian Girl, and an Indian Teacher Among Indians by Zitkala-Sa
The Man Made of Words: Essays, stories, passages by N. Scott Momaday
Muscogee Daughter: My sojourn to the Miss America Pageant by Susan Supernaw
Life of Black Hawk, or Ma-ka-tai-me-she-kia-kiak: Dictated by himself by Black Hawk
Our History Is the Future: Standing Rock Versus the Dakota Access Pipeline, and the Long Tradition of Indigenous Resistance by Nick Estes
Code Talker: The first and only memoir of the original Navajo Code Talkers of WWII by Chester Nez
Abandon Me: Memoirs by Melissa Febos
Heart Berries by Terese Marie Mailhot
As Long As Grass Grows: The Indigenous Fight for Environmental Justice, from Colonization to Standing Rock by Dina Gilio-Whitaker
Crazy Brave: A Memoir by Joy Harjo
Gathering Moss: A Natural and Cultural History of Mosses by Robin Wall Kimmerer
God is Red: A Native View of Religion by Vine deLoria Jr.
The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee by David Treuer
The Inconvenient Indian: A Curious Account of Native People in North America by Thomas King
Lakota Woman by Mary Brave Bird
#Not Your Princess: Voices of Native American Women by Lisa Charleyboy and Mary Beth Leatherdale (editors)
The Turquoise Ledge by Leslie Silko
Men We Reaped: A Memoir by Jesmyn Ward
Dwellings: A Spiritual History of the Living World by Linda Hogan
Bad Indians: a Tribal Memoir by Deborah Miranda
Night Flying Woman: An Ojibway Narrative by Ignatia Broker
Dog Flowers: A Memoir by Danielle Geller
Portage Lake: Memories of an Ojibwe Childhood by Maude Kegg
Everything You Wanted to Know about Indians But Were Afraid to Ask by Anton Treuer
The Assassination of Hole in the Day by Anton Treuer
As We Have Always Done: Indigenous Freedom Through Radical Resistance by Leanne Betasamosake Simpson
Nooping: The Cure for White Ladies by Leanne Betasamosake Simpson
The People and the Word: Reading Native Nonfiction by Robert Warrior
Tribal Secrets: Recovering American Indian Intellectual Traditions by Robert Warrior
Like a Loaded Weapon by Robert A. Williams Jr.
Bear Island: The War at Sugar Point by Gerald Vizenor
The Third Space of Sovereignty by Kevin Bruyneel
Navajo Courts and Navajo Common Law: A Tradition of Tribal Self-Governance by Raymond D. Austin
Firsting and Lasting: Writing Indians out of Existence in New England by Jean O’Brien
X-Marks by Scott Richard Lyons
Red Skin, White Masks: Rejecting the Colonial Politics of Recognition by Glen Sean Coulthard
The Queerness of Native American Literature by Lisa Tatonetti
Speaking of Indigenout Politics: Conversations with Activists, Scholars, and Tribal Leaders by J. Kehaulani Kauanui and Robert Warrior
Standing with Standing Rock: Voices from the #NoDAPL Movement by Nick Estes and Jaskiran Dhillon
Hungry Listening: Resonant Theory for Indigenous Sound Studies by Dylan Robinson
Written by the Body: Gender Expansiveness and Indigenous Non-Cis Masculinities by Lisa Tatonetti
Remembering Our Intimacies: Mo’olelo, Aloha ‘Aina, and Ea by Jamaica Heolimeleikalani Osario
Everything You Know About Indians is Wrong by Paul Chatt Smith
Red Nation Rising: From Bordertown Violence to Native Liberation by Nick Estes, Melanie K. Yazzi, Jennifer Nez Denetdale, and David Correia
Wiping the War Paint off the Lens: Native American Film and Video by Beverly Singer
The People Shall Continue by Simon Ortiz
Poet Warrior: A Memoir by Joy Harjo
The Four Hills of Life: Ojibwe Wisdom by Thomas Peacock and Marlene Wisuri
The Sacred Hoop: Recovering the Feminine in American Indian Traditions by Paula Gunn Allen
Critically Sovereign: Indigenous Gender, Sexuality, and Feminist Studies by Joanne Barker
For indigenous Eyes only: A Decolonization Handbook by Waziyatawin and Michael Yellow Bird
Mark My Words: Native Women Mapping Our Nations by Mishuana Goeman
The Beginning and End of Race: Confronting Sexual Violence in Native America by Sarah Deer
When My Brother Was an Aztec by Natalie Diaz
A History of my Brief Body by Billy-Ray Belcourt
Starvation Mode by Elissa Washuta
The Roots of Ticasuk by Ticasuk (Emily Ivanoff Brown)
Native American DNA by Kim TallBear
Fresh Banana Leaves: Healing Indigenous Landscapes Through Indigenous Science by Jessica Hernandez, PhD
Pollution is Colonialism by Max Libioron
Making Love with the Land by Joshua Whitehead
Nulato: An Indian Life on the Yukon by Poldine Carlo
Cold River Spirits: Whispers from a Family’s Forgotten Past by Jan Harper-Haines
Two Old Women: An Alaska Legend of Betrayal, Courage and Survival by Velma Wallis
Bad Girl and the Man who Followed the Sun by Velma Wallis
Raising Ourselves: A Gwitch’in Coming of Age Story from the Yukon River by Velma Wallis
We Have Not Stopped the Trembling Yet: Letters to my Filipino-Athabascan Family by E.J.R David
Qulirat Qanemcit-Ilu Kinguvarcimalriit: Stories for Future Generations by Paul John
Yuuyaraq: The Way of the Human Being by Harold Napoleon
A Yupiaq Worldview: A Pathway to Ecology and Spirit by Anagyuqaq Kawagley
Qanruyuteput IInruugut: Our Teachings Are Medicine by Alice Rearden
Yupiit Qanruyutait: Yup’ik Words of Wisdom by Ann Fienup-Riordan
Rock Piles Along the Eddy by Ishmael Hope
Blonde Indian: An Alaska Native Memoir by Ernestine Hayes
Indian Stories: Ahtna India Stories from Cantwell, Alaska by Jake Tansy
Cormorant Hunter’s Wife by Joan Naviyuk Kane
Roughly for the North by Carrie Ayagduk Ojanen
People of Kauwerak: Legends of the Northern Eskimo by William A. Oquilluk
Takes of Ticasuk: Eskimo Legends and Stories by Ticasuk Emily Ivanoff Brown
Fifty Miles from Tomorrow: A Memoir of Alaska and the Real People by William Iggiagruk Hensley
Sand Talk: How Indigenous Thinking Can Save the World by Tyson Yunkaporta
Red Paint: The Ancestral Autobiography of a Coast Salish Punk by Sasha Lapointe
Black and Blue: A Memoir of Racism and Resilience by Veronica Gorrie
Spílexm: A Weaving of Recovery, Resilience, and Resurgence by Nicola I. Campbell
Peyakow: Reclaiming Cree Dignity by Darrel McLeod
White Magic by Elissa Washuta
An Indian Among Los Indígenas: A Native Travel Memoir by Ursula Pike
Carry: A Memoir of Survival on Stolen Land by Toni Jensen
A Mind Spread Out on the Ground by Alicia Elliott
Project 562: Changing the Way We See Native America by Matika Wilbur
Know We Are Here: Voices of Native California Resistance by Terria Smith
Think Indigenous: Native American Spirituality for a Modern World by Doug Good Feather
Girlhood by Melissa Febos
The Rediscovery of America by Ned Blackhawk
Seeing Red: Indigenous Land, American Expansion, and the Political Economy of Plunder in North America by Michael John Witgen
Thinning Blood by Leah Myers
Walking the Ojibwe Path by Richard Wagamese
Indigenous Memory, Urban Reality by Michelle R. Jacobs
Starvation Mode by Elissa Washuta
The Lakota Way: Stories and Lessons for Living by Joseph Marshall III
Becoming Kin: An Indigenous Call to Unforgetting the Past and Reimagining Our Future by Patty Krawec
The Bear is My Father: Indigenous Wisdom of a Muscogee Creek Caretaker of Sacred Ways by Bear Heart & Reginah WaterSpirit
In My Own Moccasins: A Memoir of Resilience by Helen Knott
#11 Cultivating Curiosity in Public Planning with Lauren Flemister
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Curiosity at Work: Lauren Flemister on Leadership, Strategic Planning, and Community Development
Lauren Flemister, Assistant Director of Planning and Public Works at Pierce County, brings over 17 years of experience in community and regional planning, architecture, and public affairs. She has held leadership roles in the City of Tacoma’s Planning and Development Services Department and the City of Seattle’s Office of Planning and Community Development. In this episode of Curiosity at Work, Lauren shares insights into how curiosity can transform complex work environments and drive effective leadership.
Fostering Curiosity in Complex Work Environments
Lauren believes that curiosity is essential for organizations to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world. One of her key approaches is fostering a workplace culture where employees feel safe to ask questions and challenge traditional thinking. By encouraging this kind of curiosity, Lauren ensures her team is equipped to solve problems creatively and effectively.
Bridging Long-Range Planning with Infrastructure Development
In her role at Pierce County, Lauren oversees a diverse range of operations, including road maintenance, airports, and solid waste management. She emphasizes the importance of bridging long-range planning with infrastructure development to create lasting impact. A key focus of her work is ensuring that underserved communities receive the attention and resources they need to thrive. Lauren integrates strategic planning with implementation to make this vision a reality.
Creating a Culture of Continuous Learning and Growth
Lauren’s leadership style is shaped by her background in architecture, urban planning, and public affairs. She views herself as a bridge-builder within the organization, fostering collaboration and innovation. Lauren encourages her team to view obstacles as opportunities for learning and growth, which is especially important as the workforce faces a wave of retirements, known as the “silver tsunami.” By supporting staff development and facilitating seamless knowledge transfer, Lauren ensures that curiosity continues to fuel progress in the workplace.
Strengthening Communities Through Leadership and Curiosity
Lauren’s leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that curiosity not only enhances individual growth but also strengthens communities. By fostering a culture of curiosity and continuous learning, she inspires her team to tackle challenges and drive positive change for Pierce County and beyond.
Are you looking to boost your creativity without breaking the bank? You don’t need to spend a lot of money to learn new things. Here are five low-budget ways to spark creativity, immerse yourself in new experiences and open up to learning from life.
1. Ride the Local Bus
Take a local bus ride. This costs only a few dollars. The purpose here isn’t just transportation, it’s about touring your own city. Pay attention to the different stops and the passengers you encounter. Choose a local bus with many stops instead of an express bus. If you have extra time, consider taking three different buses from end to end across three major transit centers. This way, you can start and stop in the same place while exploring three distinct regions in your area.
2. Get Creative with Arts and Crafts
You don’t need to visit an expensive arts and crafts store. Instead, head to a thrift shop and see what treasures you can find. Based on what you discover, create something unique with the materials available to you.
3. Visit a Museum
Check out local museums that offer “pay what you can” days or even free admission. If you can, invest a few extra dollars in an audio tour. You’ll gain so much more insight than what’s simply available on the walls.
4. Experiment with Cooking
Try cooking a classic dish in different ways. This will only cost you the price of basic ingredients. Even if you’re not a great cook – that’s okay! The goal is to explore different methods for preparing one dish. For example, make fried rice and experiment with three, four, or even five different recipes. You can use recipes or just create your own variations.
5. Play Tourist in Your Own City
Put yourself in the mindset of a tourist and explore your own city. This fresh perspective can lead to new discoveries. Check out our other video on how to be a tourist on a low budget in your own area for more ideas.
We hope these low-budget activities help spark your creativity and inspire you to learn! If you found this video useful, please give it a like and share it!
#10 Curiosity and Leadership: Michael Jacobson, Deputy Director at King County
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Curiosity at Work: Michael Jacobson on Leadership, Performance Management, and Equity in the Public Sector
In this episode of the Curiosity at Work podcast, Dr. Julie Pham sits down with Michael Jacobson, an award-winning leader in organizational performance management and Deputy Director at King County’s Office of Performance, Strategy, and Budget. Michael shares insights from his extensive work establishing King County’s performance management systems, including the creation of the first countywide strategic plan and public performance reporting.
Balancing Strategic Planning and Managing Complex Teams
Michael discusses the complexities of his role and the challenges of balancing strategic planning with managing diverse teams. These teams work on key issues such as criminal legal system reform, homelessness, and community grants. He highlights how practicing curiosity has shaped his approach to leadership, particularly in navigating these complex issues.
Fostering Curiosity in Bureaucratic Systems
A key theme in the conversation is Michael’s emphasis on the importance of creating a work environment where team members feel safe to express curiosity, even within a bureaucratic system filled with rules and limitations. He shares anecdotal experiences, like building relationships through informal lunches with colleagues, that illustrate how fostering curiosity and authentic connections can lead to positive results within large, complex organizations.
Leading with Curiosity and Purpose in the Public Sector
Michael also provides candid thoughts on navigating hierarchy, politics, and equity in government work. He offers a nuanced view of what it takes to lead with curiosity and purpose in the public sector. His experiences reflect how curiosity can overcome challenges and drive positive change, even in the most structured environments.
Michael’s Insights on Equity and Social Justice
The episode also touches on Michael’s unique perspectives on equity and social justice. He discusses his work with the Interbranch Equity Team and his efforts to incorporate equity analysis into performance measurement. Additionally, Michael reflects on the role of historical markers and public narratives, challenging listeners to consider who gets to tell these stories and how they evolve over time.
Valuable Lessons for Public Service and Leadership
This thought-provoking conversation offers valuable lessons for anyone interested in public service, organizational leadership, or cultivating curiosity in a structured environment. Michael’s insights provide a powerful example of how curiosity can drive meaningful change in the public sector and beyond.
Do you want to explore your city like a tourist without spending a dime? Maybe you’re looking for new experiences, preparing for a staycation, or entertaining an out-of-town visitor. Whatever your reason, we’ve got some great tips to explore your city as a tourist — for free!
Here are some ways to get you on your way to explore your city as a tourist — for free!
1. Check a Guidebook
Start by consulting a guidebook like Lonely Planet. These books often list activities, including both paid and free options. For example, in Seattle, there’s the Fremont Troll, a popular sight located right under a freeway ramp.
2. Visit Local Parks Department Websites
Check the websites of your local parks department. They usually have information about the different parks in the city. You can also visit local chambers of commerce or convention center websites, which often have event calendars listing free community events.
3. Read the Local Newspaper
Look through the activities section of your local newspaper. They frequently list upcoming events, including those that are free to attend.
4. Visit Galleries on First Thursdays
Many art galleries offer free admission on the first Thursday of each month. This is a great way to experience local art without spending any money.
5. Explore University Campuses
Visit a local university campus. They often have exhibits that showcase the university’s history, which is often tied to the city’s history as well.
6. Discover Chinatown or Ethnic Enclaves
If your city has a Chinatown or other ethnic enclaves, be sure to visit. You can immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences just by wandering through the neighborhood.
7. Tour the Main Library
Don’t forget to visit your city’s main library. The architecture itself often tells a story about the city, and many libraries have free exhibit spaces that you can explore.
We hope these tips help you play tourist in your own city for free! If you found this video useful, please give it a like and share it!
Mastering Delegation: How Leaders Can Manage Their Energy by Letting Go
Many leaders often feel overwhelmed and overworked because they struggle to delegate effectively. One way to ensure optimal energy levels is by identifying which parts of your work drain your energy and which ones boost it. This awareness allows for thoughtful delegation. Here Dr. Julie Pham shares three tips on how leaders can master delegation and manage energy by letting go.
Three tips to help you master delegation:
1. Ask Your Team About Their Preferences
Start by asking your team members which parts of the work they enjoy and which tasks drain their energy. This insight allows you to redistribute tasks accordingly. For instance, some people dislike internet research, finding it very draining. However, you may discover that some team members actually enjoy it, allowing for a more effective distribution of work.
2. Frame Energy-Draining Tasks as Leadership Opportunities
When faced with tasks that are particularly draining, try framing them as opportunities for leadership. Invite team members to volunteer for these tasks by highlighting the benefits. For example, while Dr. Julie doesn’t enjoy event planning, she recognizes it as a valuable skill. She offers it up by saying, “Who wants to plan this major upcoming event?” This approach encourages learning and growth within the organization.
3. Rotate Responsibilities
For tasks that everyone finds draining, consider rotating responsibilities among team members. This ensures that no single person is burdened with the task. For example, rotating the role of note-taker during meetings can help share the workload.
As a leader, it might be tempting to shield your team from energy-draining work by taking it on yourself. However, this isn’t the best use of your time or energy.
We hope you found these tips useful in your leadership journey. If you did, please click like and share this video!
Before delivering her first TEDx talk on curiosity as a practice, Dr. Julie Pham spent over ten weeks drafting around 30 different versions and practicing with more than 70 people. This post will help you learn some of Dr. Julie’s effective presentation tips for TEDx success. Let’s dive into her insights!
Effective Presentation Tips for TEDx Success
Getting Feedback
Know What Kind of Feedback You Want Determine whether you want general feedback, content feedback, or delivery feedback. This clarity helps you ask for what you need. For example, if you’re in the early stages of writing, you might say, “Please focus on my content, not my delivery.” Once you finalize your speech, you can shift to asking for delivery feedback.
Practice as Much as Possible The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll feel. Many people watch TEDx talks and believe they’ll never give one. They often feel honored when you ask them to listen to your practice sessions. Sometimes, you can casually run your talk by a friend over the phone.
Organize Rehearsal Sessions Schedule rehearsal sessions, whether in-person or virtual. Dr. Julie conducted four virtual rehearsals and provided feedback surveys to participants. This approach gathered a lot of feedback at once and made people feel involved in the process.
Content Development
Stick to One Message While you may have many ideas, focus on sharing just one key idea in your talk. Remember, you can share other ideas in different contexts later.
Create a Visual Model Abstract concepts can be challenging to grasp in a short timeframe. Develop a visual model to clarify your message. Dr. Julie used a model representing the gap between expectations and reality, which was illustrated in her slides.
Cite Your Own Evidence Instead of filling your talk with third-party research, rely on your own experiences and evidence first. This personal touch can make your message more authentic.
Use Your Own Words Avoid quoting others unless their words perfectly express what you want to convey. Use your own language confidently—this is your talk.
Delivery
Memorize the Talk While memorizing can be challenging, internalizing your message boosts your confidence on stage. Strive to deliver your talk from memory.
Don’t Move and Talk at the Same Time This can be distracting, so practice separating movement from speaking. If you need to move, do so first, then stop and deliver your message.
Use Your Body to Illustrate Your Point Consider how to use body language to enhance your message. In her talk, Dr. Julie moved her body to illustrate the gap between expectations and reality.
We hope these ten TEDx tips will help you improve your public speaking and presentation skills. Let us know how it goes!
#9 How Curiosity Drives Seattle’s Future: A Conversation with Rico Quirindongo on City Planning and Innovation
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In the latest episode of Curiosity at Work, host Dr. Julie Pham welcomes Rico Quirindongo, the Director of the Office of Planning and Community Development (OPCD) for the City of Seattle. Together, they dive into how curiosity shapes the workplace and the dynamic role it plays in city planning. Rico shares insights into the structure of his office, which comprises 50 people, including planners and finance experts, working across divisions like equitable development and land-use policy. Their mission is to shape the future of Seattle in a way that balances sustainability, community needs, and growth.
Rico discusses the challenges and rewards of balancing curiosity with the pragmatism required in the political landscape. As a department heavily scrutinized by both local and international audiences, OPCD constantly navigates the tension between innovative problem-solving and meeting public expectations. He also touches on how the team works both remotely and in-person to foster collaboration, while keeping an eye on their goal of shaping Seattle into a livable, thriving city.
The episode highlights some of the critical projects undertaken by OPCD, such as working with different stakeholders to explore innovative solutions for transit hubs. Rico illustrates the complexity of these projects, where multiple stakeholders, timelines, and budgetary constraints must align. Despite the challenges, he emphasizes that curiosity remains a vital tool for navigating the intricacies of city development, even when political pressures demand concrete results.
Everyone faces mental blocks, no matter what work they do. Sometimes, you need to reignite your creativity. Dr. Julie Pham shares valuable tips for what to do when you are out of ideas to overcome these mental blocks, find inspiration from new sources, and break away from routine thinking.
8 Tips to Spark Creativity When You’re Out of Ideas
1. Say Yes
Start by saying yes to something you would typically decline. Dr. Julie recalls receiving an invitation to visit a prison, which initially seemed odd to her. However, since she was struggling with writer’s block, she agreed. The experience transformed her thinking, and she left with a wealth of ideas to write about.
2. Visit a Different Museum
Try going to a museum you wouldn’t usually visit. If you typically go to art museums, check out a history museum instead. For example, if marine life doesn’t interest you, visiting a marine museum might inspire new ideas.
3. Keep Your Phone Off
You might be surprised how much your phone can hinder creativity. Dr. Julie dedicated a week to writing while keeping her phone off during the day. She didn’t turn it on until she finished writing, and by the end of the week, she had written 25,000 words!
4. Set a Goal for New Observations
When attending an event, set a goal to notice a specific number of new things. For instance, while on a walk, challenge yourself to notice ten new things. Recently, Dr. Julie discovered a cluster of white mailboxes on her street and a few houses down, another cluster of black mailboxes. This made her wonder why that was the case.
5. Take a Nap
Sometimes, all you need is some sleep to recharge your brain. Dr. Julie often gets great ideas when waking from a refreshing nap.
6. Re-read Your Favorite Book
Consider reading a book you love again. Afterward, write down everything you like about it and also note any things you don’t like.
7. Reconnect with an Old Friend
Talk to a friend you haven’t seen or spoken to in a long time, preferably over a year. They might provide you with fresh perspectives.
8. Try a Different Format
Finally, express yourself in a format different from what you usually use. If you’re a writer, try giving a speech. If you’re a musician, consider doodling.
We hope these strategies help you come up with fresh ideas when you hit a mental block. If you found this useful, please click “like” and share it!
5 Simple Ways to Build Strong Relationships at Work
Building strong relationships at work is essential for creating a positive environment and enhancing collaboration. Whether you’re new to your workplace or looking to deepen existing connections, Dr. Julie Pham shares these 5 simple ways to build strong relationships at work that will help foster a supportive and productive work atmosphere. These strategies are effective regardless of your role in the organization—whether you’re a leader, manager, or a team member.
5 Simple Ways to Build Strong Relationships at Work
1. Make Time for Connection
To strengthen your relationships, prioritize making time for connection. Ask open-ended questions instead of closed ones. For example, instead of asking, “How was your weekend?” you could ask, “What did you do over the weekend?” This encourages your colleagues to share specific experiences, fostering a more engaging conversation. For more tips on effective communication, check out our video on five proven icebreakers for team building.
2. Celebrate the Wins
It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind, but don’t forget to celebrate your wins. Take the time to congratulate and acknowledge your colleagues for a job well done. Be specific in your praise, as this makes your acknowledgment more meaningful.
3. Ask for Help
Don’t hesitate to ask for help, especially from those who aren’t obligated to assist you. This can increase opportunities for collaboration and shows that you are willing to be vulnerable. It can be difficult to ask for help, but doing so can strengthen your relationships. For additional insights, check out our video on reframing asking for help as a way to deepen relationships.
4. Share What Influences You
Whenever relevant, share what influences your approach to work. For instance, you might say, “I grew up in an immigrant household where wasting resources was discouraged.” This context can help your team understand your perspective, especially during discussions like budgeting season.
5. Give Constructive Feedback
While it may seem counterintuitive, giving constructive feedback can actually strengthen relationships. When delivered with the intention of improvement, feedback shows that you care about your colleagues and want everyone to succeed.
We hope you find these tips helpful in building stronger relationships at work. If you did, please click like and share this post!
Drawing from her experience running her family’s newspaper during the Great Recession, to managing her own small business with a remote team, Dr. Julie Pham knows how to make the most of limited resources. Here she shares 5 budget-friendly gift-giving ideas at work.
The spirit of gift-giving during the holiday season is all about demonstrating appreciation for employees’ hard work. Gifts can also strategically reinforce company culture and values, foster a sense of belonging, encourage curiosity, and facilitate sharing.
However, for many small business owners, company-branded swag, big bonuses, and fully catered meals are often out of reach. If you have a limited budget, here are 5 budget-friendly gift-giving ideas at work to support your team, regardless of its size.
5 Budget-Friendly Gift-Giving Ideas at Work
1. Make Time for Intentional Connection
Set aside time during the workweek for team members to connect. This is particularly effective for remote teams or as an alternative to an in-person holiday party. Consider sending gift cards so everyone can grab something to eat or drink during this time together. A simple 60-minute virtual session with breakout rooms can prompt deep discussions and meaningful connections.
2. Host a Potluck
If you prefer an in-person meal, organize a potluck. Sponsor the drinks and the main dish, and ask everyone else to contribute other items based on their budget. This not only showcases culinary skills but also sparks conversations around the dishes brought. Be sure to welcome store-bought contributions as well.
3. Organize a Stuff Swap
Instead of Secret Santa or White Elephant exchanges, which require employees to spend their own money, consider a stuff swap. Employees can bring new or gently used items that their coworkers might enjoy. Any unclaimed items can be donated to charity, making it a great green gift-giving strategy.
4. Donate to Charity
Make a donation to a charity of each employee’s choice. Instead of providing a list of charities, allow them to decide where their dollar goes. This can be any amount, as every contribution is meaningful. Encourage employees to share their chosen charity, helping you learn what matters to them, whether it’s the Humane Society, their temple, or their children’s PTSA.
5. Use Credit Card Points for Gifts
Utilize your credit card points to purchase gift cards. This method can reinforce company values. For instance, Dr. Julie uses her points to give Amazon gift cards, allowing team members to support something they want to try out or learn. One team member even used hers to buy calligraphy materials for practicing lettering.
6. Ask Your Team for Ideas
Don’t feel you have to come up with all the solutions alone. Share your budget with your team and ask for their input. When Dr. Julie did this, one team member suggested organizing a virtual escape room and took care of the research and booking.
We hope you find these simple, budget-friendly work gift ideas helpful. If you did, please click like and share this video!
#8 How do you lead with curiosity in a fast-growing nonprofit?
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In this episode of Curiosity at Work, Dr. Julie Pham chats with Joe Sky-Tucker, CEO of Business Impact Northwest, to explore how curiosity shapes leadership and culture in the nonprofit world. Joe shares stories from his journey—moving from a micromanager to a leader who deeply listens to his team and finds creative ways to say “yes” whenever possible.
Joe talks about the power of promoting from within, trusting people to step into leadership roles, and why it’s important to admit when we don’t have all the answers. Julie and Joe also dive into the challenges of maintaining curiosity when everyone is swamped with deadlines and how finding time to pause and reflect can make all the difference.
If you’re interested in creating a workplace where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued, you’ll want to listen in. This conversation is full of practical advice and real talk on how to lead with empathy, especially when things get tough.
Listen to this episode and let us know in the comments: How do you keep curiosity alive in your work? Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with anyone who could use a dose of inspiration.
#7 Harnessing Storytelling and Curiosity in a Remote Culture with Jennifer Strachan
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Curiosity at Work: Jennifer Strachan on Storytelling, Organizational Culture, and Remote Work Transformation
In this episode of Curiosity at Work, Dr. Julie Pham is joined by Jennifer Strachan, CEO of inReach, a nonprofit that uses the power of storytelling to reshape cultural narratives. With a 25-year career in public and commercial media, including her experience as an Emmy Award-winning producer, Jennifer shares valuable insights into her journey and the work of inReach.
Embracing Remote Work and Organizational Change
Jennifer discusses how inReach navigated a major organizational shift by embracing a fully remote work model. She explains the challenges and opportunities that come with leading a remote team and fostering curiosity within a diverse group. Her approach emphasizes how curiosity can be a catalyst for transformation in both storytelling and organizational culture.
The Role of Communication and Values in Remote Settings
Jennifer highlights the importance of understanding individual communication styles in remote settings. She underscores how recognizing different styles can improve collaboration and strengthen team dynamics. She also discusses how values play a crucial role in shaping workplace culture, especially in a remote environment. By aligning values with communication practices, inReach has created a positive, inclusive, and productive work culture.
Building Connections through Storytelling and Creativity
One of the most creative ways in which Jennifer fosters connection within her team is by encouraging the sharing of personal stories and images. She believes that storytelling is not just for external audiences but is also a powerful tool for building internal relationships. These creative practices help build joy and strengthen bonds, even in a remote work environment.
How Curiosity Drives Organizational Culture and Transformation
Jennifer’s leadership philosophy is centered around curiosity as a transformative force. She believes that curiosity fuels innovation and helps organizations adapt to change. In this episode, Jennifer explains how curiosity drives both the storytelling work of inReach and the evolution of its internal culture. Tune in to learn how curiosity can lead to positive change and drive growth in nonprofit organizations.
We created this list to promote leadership books by disabled authors. This list is meant to be a resource, not an official endorsement. The books are not ranked or listed in any particular order.
1. A Body, Undone: Living On After Great Pain — Christina Crosby
2. A Face for Picasso: Coming of Age with Crouzon Syndrome — Ariel Henley
3. Adult ADHD: How to Succeed as a Hunter in a Farmer’s World — Thom Hartmann
4. An Unquiet Mind: A Memoir of Moods and Madness — Kay Redfield Jamison
5. And Now We Are Going to Have a Party: Liner Notes to a Writer’s Early Life — Nicola Griffith
6. Apocalyptic Best Practices: A unique approach to fear and change — Elisebeth VanderWeil
7. ASL Saved My Life…Until it didn’t — Jenni Kleinman Berebitsky
8. Authentic: The Myth of Bringing Your Full Self to Work — Jodi Ann Burey
9. Be Different — John Elder Robison
10. Being Heumann: an unrepentent memoir of a disability rights activist — Judith E. Heumann
11. Black, Blind, In Charge: A Story of Visionary Leadership and Overcoming Adversity — David A Paterson
12. Blind: A Memoir — Belo Cipriani
13. Body, Remember: A memoir — Kenny Fries
14. Brain on Fire: My Month of Madness — Susannah Cahalan
15. Brilliant Imperfection: Grappling With Cure — Eli Clare
16. Calling all Minds: How to Think and Create Like an Inventor — Temple Grandin
17. Care Work: Dreaming Disability Justice — Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha
18. Chef Interrupted — Trevis Gleason
19. Claiming Disability: Knowledge and Identity — Simi Linton
20. Count Us In: Growing Up with Down Syndrome — Jason Kingsley (Author), Mitchell Levitz (Author)
21. Crazy, Who Me?: My Journey as a Leader Overcoming Depression — John Panigas
22. Deaf in Japan: Signing and the Politics of Identity — Karen Nakamura
23. Deaf Utopia: A Memoir―and a Love Letter to a Way of Life — Coauthored by Nyle DiMarco
24. Defiant — Michael Scott Monje Jr.
25. Demystifying Disability: What to Know, What to Say, and How to Be an Ally — Emily Ladau
26. Disability Incarcerated: Imprisonment and Disability in the United States and Canada — Liat Ben-moshe (editor), Allison C. Carey (Editor), Chris Chapman (Editor), Angela Y. Davis (Foreword)
27. Disability Visibility: First-Person Stories from the Twenty-First Century — Alice Wong
28. Disabled Leadership — Dr. Tom A. Wiggins
29. Disarm Your Limits: The flight formula to lift you to success and propel you to the next horizon — Jessica Cox
30. Disfigured: On Fairy Tales, Disabiity and Making Space — Amanda Leduc
31. Dissonant Disabilities: Women With Chronic Illness Explore Their Lives — Michelle Owen, Diane Driedger (Editor)
32. Don’t Worry, He Won’t Get Far on Foot — John Callahan
33. Elegy for a Disease: A Personal and Cultural History of Polio — Anne Finger
34. Exile and Pride: Disability, Queerness, and Liberation — Eli Clare
35. Extraordinary Bodies: Figuring Physical Disability in American Culture and Literature — Rosemarie Garland-Thomson
36. Fading Scars: My Queer Disability History — Corbett O’Toole
37. Fall Down, Laughing: How Squiggy caught multiple sclerrosis and didn’t tell nobody — David Lander
38. Fearlessly Different: An Autistic Actor’s Journey to Broadway’s Biggest Stage — Mickey Rowe
39. Feminist Queer Crip — Alison Kafer
40. Find Another Dream — Maysoon Zayid
41. Gaby Brimmer: An Autobiography in Three Voices — Gaby Brimmer (Author), Elena Poniatowska
42. Goalkeeper: Memoir of Poet Peter Street — Peter Street, Lorraine Worsley-Carter (Foreword)
43. Golem Girl — Riva Lehrer
44. Haben: The deafblind woman who conquered Harvard Law — Haben Girma
45. Holding Change: The Way of Emergent Strategy Facilitation and Mediation — Adrienne Maree Brown
46. House of Prayer No. 2 — Mark Richard
47. How I Became a Human Being: A Disabled Man’s Quest for Independence — Mark O’Brien, Gillian Kendall (Contributor)
48. How I See It: A Personal and Historical View of Disability — H Penny Mishkin
49. How to Live Free in a Dangerous World: A Decolonial Memior — Shayla Lawson
50. I Am Not a Label — Cerrie Burnell
51. I Am Schizophrenic: Poetry from a beautiful brain — Kerenza Ryan
52. I Live a Life Like Yours: A Memoir — Jan Grue
53. I’ll Scream Later — Marlee Matlin
54. If at Birth You Don’t Succeed: My Adventures with Disaster and Destiny — Zach Anner
55. In the Province of Gods — Kenny Fries
56. Just Human: The Quest for Disability Wisdom, Respect, and Inclusion — Arielle Silverman, PhD
57. Laughing at My Nightmare — Shane Burcaw
58. Life in the Mind Interrupted: Essays on Mental Health and Disability in Higher Education — Katie Rose Guest Pryal
59. Limitless: The Power of Hope and Resilience to Overcome Circumstances — Mallory Weggemann
60. Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger’s — John Elder Robison
61. Loud Hands: Autistic People, Speaking — Julia Bascom
62. Mad at School: Rhetorics of Mental Disability and Academic Life — Margaret Price
63. Madness: A Bipolar Life — Marya Hornbacher
64. Marbles: Mainia, Depession Michelangelo, and Me — Ellen Forney
65. Mean Baby: A Memoir of Growing Up — Selma Blair
66. Mean Little Deaf Queer: A Memoir — Terry Galloway
67. More the Same than Different: What I Wish People Knew About Respecting and Including People with Disabilities — Lorraine Cannistra
68. Moving Violations: Warzones, Wheelchairs, and Declarations of Independence — John Hockenberry
69. My Body is Not a Prayer Request: Disability Justice in the Church — Amy Kenny
70. Not a Poster Child: Living Well with a Disability – A Memoir — Francine Falk-Allen
71. Nothing about us without us: disability oppression and empowerment — James I. Charlton
72. On the Spectrum: Autism, Faith, and the Gifts of Neurodiversity — Daniel Bowman Jr.
73. Planet of the Blind — Stephen Kuusisto
74. Poster Child: A Memoir — Emily Rapp Black
75. Resistance and Hope: Essays by Disabled People — edited by Alice Wong
76. Rolling Warrior: The Incredible, Sometimes Awkward, True Sotry of a Rebel Girl on Wheels Who Helped Spark a Revolution — Judith Heumann
77. Rough Waters: From Surviving to Thriving with a Progressive Muscular Dystrophy — Heather C. Markham
78. Sick: A Memoir — Porochista Khakpour
79. Sitting Pretty: The View from My Oridinary Resilient Disabled Body — Rebekah Taussig
80. Songs of the Gorilla Nation: My Journey Through Autism — Dawn Prince-Hughes
81. Speedbumps: Florring it through Hollywood — Teri Garr
82. Staring: How We Look — Rosemarie Garland-Thomson
83. Still Me — Christopher Reeve
84. Strangers Assume My Girlfriend Is My Nurse — Shane Burcaw
85. Successfull to Burnt Out: Experiences of Women on the Autism Spectrum — Karletta Abianac
86. Switched On: A Memoir of Brain Change and Emotional Awakening — John Elder Robison
87. The ADHD Advantage: What You Thought Was a Diagnosis May Be Your Greatest Strength — Dale Archer, MD
88. The Body Silent: The Different World of the Disabled — Robert Francis Murphy
89. The Difference That Disability Makes — Rod Michalko
90. The Disability Experience: Working Toward Belonging — Hannalora Leavitt
91. The Essential Franklin Delano Roosevelt — Franklin Roosevelt
92. The Fully Recovered Mindset — Maddie Neibanck
93. The Ghost in My Brain: How a Concussion Stole My Life and How the New Science of Brain Plasticity Helped Me Get It Back — Clark Elliott
94. The History of My Shoes and the Evolution of Darwin’s Theory — Kenny Fries
95. The Obsessive Joy of Autism — Julia Bascom
96. The pretty one: on life, pop cultue, disability, and other reasons to fall in love with me — Keah Brown
97. The Story of My Life — Helen Keller
98. The Way I See It: A Personal Look at Autism and Asperger’s — Temple Grandin
99. The White Album — Joan Didion
100. The World I Live In — Helen Keller
101. Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism — Temple Grandin
102. To Know As We Are Known: Education as spiritual journey — Parker Palmer
103. Too Late to Die Young: Nearly True Tales from a Life — Harriet McBryde Johnson
104. Typed Words, Loud Voices — Various (Author), Amy Sequenzia (Editor), Elizabeth Grace (Editor)
105. Unleash Different: Achieving Business Success Through Disability — Rich Donovan
106. Unwritten Rules of Social Relationships: Decoding social mysteries theough autism’s unique perspectives — Temple Grandin
107. Waist-High in the World: A Life Among the Nondisabled — Nancy Mairs
108. Walking Papers: The Accident that Changed My Life, and the Business that Got Me Back on My Feet — Francesco Clark
109. We Are Never Meeting in Real Life — Smantha Irby
110. What Doesn’t Kill You: A Life with Chronic Illness – Lessons from a Body in Revolt — Tessa Miller
111. When the Chant Comes — Kay Ulanday Barrett
112. Why I Burned My Book and Other Essays on Disability — Paul K. Longmore
113. Wishful Drinking — Carrie Fisher
114. Year of the Tiger: An Activists Life — Alice Wong
115. You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me — Sherman Alexie
