Blog & Podcast

The holiday season brings warmth, celebration, and connection—but for many neurodivergent professionals, it also introduces sensory overload, social pressure, and disrupted routines. As a leader, your ability to create inclusive environments during this time isn’t just compassionate—it’s strategic. Neurodivergent team members may experience the holidays differently due to sensitivities around noise, light, crowds, or changes in structure. By leading with awareness and adaptability, you can foster belonging while reducing unnecessary stress. Why Holidays Can Be Challenging for Neurodivergent Employees Sensory Overload: Office parties, decorations, music, and crowded spaces can be overwhelming. Social Expectations : Unspoken norms around gift exchanges, small talk, or group activities may feel confusing or exhausting. Routine Disruption : Shifts in schedules, travel, and year-end deadlines can heighten anxiety or executive functioning challenges. Masking Pressure : The pressure to “fit in” or appear festive can lead to emotional fatigue and burnout. Inclusive Strategies for Leaders Here’s how you can support neurodivergent team members with grace and intentionality: Offer Opt-In Social Events Make participation optional and clearly communicate that declining is welcome. Provide alternative ways to connect—like virtual gratitude walls or one-on-one appreciation notes. Create Sensory-Friendly Spaces If hosting in-person events, designate quiet zones. Avoid flashing lights, loud music, or strong scents. Ask for input on what feels comfortable. Respect Communication Preferences Some team members may prefer written updates over verbal announcements or need extra time to process changes. Use multiple formats and give advance notice for schedule shifts. Honor Routine and Flexibility Maintain predictable workflows where possible. Offer flexible hours, remote options, or asynchronous participation in holiday activities. Model Inclusive Language Avoid assumptions like “everyone loves this time of year.” Instead, acknowledge diverse experiences and invite open dialogue: “We know the holidays feel different for everyone—let us know how we can support you.” Educate and Empower Your Team Share resources on neurodiversity. Encourage peer learning and normalize accommodations as part of a thriving workplace culture. Leadership That Listens Inclusive leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. When you listen deeply, adapt thoughtfully, and lead with empathy, you create a workplace where every team member feels seen, respected, and safe to show up as they are.  This holiday season, let your leadership be a gift: one that honors difference, invites authenticity, and celebrates connection in all its forms. Reach out if you want to talk more about strategies to support all of your team members this holiday season.

Letting go to lead.  What does that mean for you? Autumn is nature’s quiet invitation to release. As the trees shed their leaves, they remind us that letting go isn’t a loss—it’s a necessary step in renewal. In leadership and life, we often cling to outdated beliefs, roles, or expectations simply because they’ve been with […] The post Letting Go To Lead appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Are you in need of a mindset shift that unlocks growth? In the pursuit of personal and professional growth, one of the most subtle yet powerful shifts we can make is moving from rationalizing to scrutinizing. Rationalizing is the art of self-justification—explaining away decisions, behaviors, or outcomes to preserve comfort or avoid discomfort. Scrutinizing, on […] The post A Mindset Shift That Unlocks Growth appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Unlocking your next level of leadership is no small feat – it takes grit, determination, and growth as well as defining the kind of leader you wish to become.  Leadership isn’t just about climbing the ladder—it’s about becoming the kind of leader others want to follow. At McGinty Coaching, we believe that true success is […] The post Unlocking Your Next Level of Leadership appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Effective management of a global team is a critical skill these days, and it’s not easy. Have you been a part of one?  Led one before?  If so you know that managing a global team (or even a remote one) presents unique challenges, but it also offers numerous advantages for businesses. Benefits of a Global […] The post Effective Management of a Global Team appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Delivering a performance review with curiosity can be a game changer for both you and your team members.  Have you ever sat in a performance review where it felt like your boss was giving you feedback that didn’t resonate?  Or shared general feedback (to protect the anonymity of the provider) that was not helpful?  Has […] The post Delivering a Performance Review with Curiosity appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Fostering trust among team members is one of your most important roles as a leader.  Have you ever led a team where there was little to no trust?  Did you feel helpless, yet accountable for turning things around?  I’ve been there.  As a leader, you understand the importance of trust and how easily it can […] The post Fostering Trust Among Team Members appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Strategic influence is the power of persuasion as a leader.  Do you consider yourself a salesperson?  I never used to either.  I have been a lot of things…a COO, a leader, a manager, a marketer, an operator, a chief of staff, an entrepreneur, among many other roles…but I never considered myself a seller.  That was […] The post Strategic Influence is the Power of Persuasion as a Leader appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Reconnect with your purpose, embrace learning, build relationships, celebrate wins, and be open to change, to rediscover passion in your career and love what you do.

Gratitude as a leadership practice in the workplace is far more than a fleeting “thank you” scribbled on a sticky note or tacked onto the end of an email. For leaders, genuine gratitude is a powerful tool that shapes culture, boosts morale, and helps teams navigate the inevitable storms of high-stress seasons. When leaders weave […] The post Gratitude as a Leadership Practice appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

How are you navigating the fog?  As the calendar inches toward its final pages, many leaders find themselves in a peculiar emotional fog. The year’s momentum slows, yet expectations remain high. Revisiting goals, evaluating performance, and the pressure to “finish strong” collides with fatigue, ambiguity, and the quiet whisper of “what’s next?” This season also […] The post Navigating the Fog appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Mentorship in motion isn’t just a catchy phrase.  The concept of mentorship being in motion refers to the power created by a reciprocal, dynamic, and evolving relationship. Effective mentorship spans generations, career stages, and even industries, forming a web of support, insight, and growth for everyone involved. Mentorship in Motion At its core, mentorship is […] The post Mentorship in Motion: Building Reciprocal Relationships That Last appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Finding the power of work-life balance and fulfillment is challenging in a world that celebrates hustle and productivity. It’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Many professionals chase success only to find themselves burned out, disconnected, and wondering if the trade-offs were worth it. But sustainable success isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing […] The post Finding the Power of Work-Life Balance and Fulfillment appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Coaches help clients build professional networks.  Do you have a strong network?  Could it be stronger?  Do you like networking?  Some leaders find networking to be exhilarating while others (usually introverted leaders) find it exhausting.  Regardless of how you feel about the process, networking is all about relationships.  And relationships are what matter most when […] The post Coaches Help Clients Build Professional Networks appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Coaches help individuals master time management and improve productivity. Do you have enough time in your day to get everything done that you planned?  Do you get interrupted by a text, email, instant message, phone call, people swinging by your desk or office – sometimes all at once?  How do you stay focused?  What do […] The post Coaches Help Individuals Master Time Management appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Coaches help leaders navigate career change.  For leaders, navigating a career change can be as exhilarating as it is daunting. Sometimes the change is their choice and sometimes it isn’t.  Regardless of how the career change came about, it is more daunting for a leader to pursue a new path than those earlier in their […] The post Coaches Help Leaders Navigate Career Change appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Revisit your “why,” break goals into manageable steps, build accountability, and celebrate success to sustain your momentum and turn your resolutions into realities.

Taking a digital detox is an act of leadership that enhances effectiveness and fosters a more mindful, resilient, and innovative workplace.

Reframing failure and using it as fuel for growth opens ourselves up to new possibilities and greater resilience to achieve what we desire. Our response matters.

The power of micro-habits lies in their ability to bypass resistance and foster consistency leading to lasting change.

To move from burnout to boundaries, you must lead with grace - show up authentically, honor your limits, and invite others to do the same

Let’s be honest, staying healthy during the holidays is challenging. And I’m not just talking about physical; maintaining your mental health can be a challenge, too. Between festive gatherings, travel, and year-end deadlines, it’s easy to lose sight of our well-being. The good news? With a few intentional choices, you can protect your physical and mental health while still embracing the spirit of the season. Prioritize Mental Health with Boundaries and Balance Set Realistic Expectations You don’t have to do it all. Choose what matters most—whether it’s quality time with loved ones, rest, or meaningful traditions—and let go of the rest. Perfection isn’t the goal; presence is. Schedule Downtime Block out time to recharge, even if it’s just 15 minutes a day. Read, journal, take a walk, or simply breathe. Protecting your peace is a form of leadership. Say “No” with Kindness It’s okay to decline invitations or step back from obligations that drain you. A simple, “Thank you for thinking of me, but I’m not able to join this time,” honors both your needs and the relationship. Stay Connected—Your Way If large gatherings feel overwhelming, opt for smaller meetups or one-on-one check-ins. Connection doesn’t have to be loud or crowded to be meaningful. Support Physical Health with Gentle Consistency Move Your Body Daily You don’t need a gym or a perfect routine. Stretch in the morning, dance in the kitchen, or take a brisk walk after meals. Movement boosts mood, digestion, and energy. Hydrate and Nourish Amid holiday treats and toasts, don’t forget water and balanced meals. Start your day with a protein-rich breakfast and aim for colorful, whole foods when possible. Sleep Like It’s Sacred Late nights are common this time of year, but consistent sleep is key to immunity, focus, and emotional regulation. Try to keep a regular bedtime and wind down with calming rituals. Listen to Your Body Pay attention to signs of fatigue, tension, or overwhelm. Your body is wise—honor its cues with rest, movement, or support. Celebrate with Intention Health isn’t about restriction—it’s about alignment. What brings you joy? What helps you feel grounded? Whether it’s a quiet morning walk, a shared meal, or a moment of gratitude, let your celebrations reflect your values. And if this season feels heavy or complicated, know that you’re not alone. Reach out. Ask for help. Offer grace to yourself and others.  Because the most meaningful gift you can give—at home, at work, or in your community—is your whole, healthy self. Reach out if you want to talk more about how to maintain your health throughout this holiday season.

There is life beyond the bargains. As the world rushes into Black Friday with urgency and noise, leaders have a unique opportunity to step back and ask: What are we really chasing? The day after Thanksgiving often marks a cultural shift—from gratitude to consumption, from connection to competition. But it doesn’t have to. For leaders committed to legacy, impact, and values-based living, Black Friday is a powerful moment to reclaim what matters: rest, reflection, and reciprocity. Rest as Resistance In a culture that glorifies hustle, rest is a radical act. It’s not laziness—it’s leadership. When you choose to pause, you model sustainability, self-respect, and trust in your team. Block off time for deep rest, not just surface-level breaks. Encourage your team to unplug without guilt. Resist the pressure to fill every moment with productivity. Rest is where renewal begins. It’s where clarity emerges. And it’s where leaders reconnect with their purpose. Reflection Over Reaction Black Friday thrives on urgency. But leadership thrives on reflection. Use this day to look inward: What did you learn this year? What values did you uphold—and where did you drift? What legacy are you building, one decision at a time? Invite your team into this process. Host a “Lessons Learned” circle or share a personal reflection that models vulnerability and growth. Reciprocity Instead of Consumption While the world chases deals, leaders can choose to give differently. Reciprocity isn’t about transactions—it’s about mutual uplift. Write a note of appreciation to someone who shaped your year. Offer mentorship to an emerging leader. Share resources, wisdom, or time with someone who needs it. This kind of giving builds trust, culture, and community. It’s the kind of leadership that lasts. A New Kind of Friday Imagine if Black Friday became a day of intentional leadership—a pause between gratitude and goal-setting. A day to rest, reflect, and give back. You don’t need a campaign or a hashtag. You just need to choose differently. Because the most powerful leaders aren’t the ones who chase the loudest trends. They’re the ones who listen deeply, act intentionally, and lead with heart. So today, skip the frenzy. Reclaim the moment. And let your leadership be the gift. Reach out  if you want to talk more about taking that necessary pause.

Unmasking success can feel scary and not just in a creepy, Halloween way.  Halloween is the one day a year we’re encouraged to dress up, play pretend, and step into someone else’s shoes. But what about the other 364 days? As professionals, leaders, and even coaches, we often wear invisible costumes—roles, personas, and expectations that […] The post Unmasking Success appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Explore the fluid nature of achievement and how the definition of success evolves throughout different life stages from external markers toward internal ones.

In this episode of Success Your Own Way , Alex Popp shares his inspiring shift from a successful R&D & Sourcing career at General Mills to purpose-driven entrepreneurship rooted in permaculture. After a spiritual awakening in 2022 shifted his trajectory, he left corporate life and founded PermaCulture Party in February 2024. Shortly after, he met his fiancé, Chanel, and together—they transform landscapes into foodscapes, host plant & dance parties, gift trees, plants and food forests to children through Neighborhood Forest, and cultivate eco-conscious-tourism through Airbnb experiences. Alex discusses how his definition of success evolved—from career milestones to heart-led impact, gratitude, and alignment with the natural world. Mentorship played a key role, from family and colleagues to permaculture guides and business coaches. He explains permaculture as a framework for living in harmony with Earth, guided by three ethics: People Care, Earth Care, and Fair Share. His proudest moments include proposing to Chanel and hosting a PermaCulture Party at Earth Vibe Festival, where his vision of planting a food forest while dancing and playing at a conscious festival came to life. Alex encourages listeners to: 🔥 Discover their soul’s purpose 🧘‍♂️ Use meditation to tune into intuition 💡 Plan wisely before making career shifts 🌱 Explore permaculture through books, videos, or design courses  His story is a powerful reminder to live intentionally, embrace abundance, and trust the journey.

Welcome to our Thanksgiving episode! As we gather for this special time of year, we’re taking a heartfelt journey into the power of gratitude—what it truly means, why it matters, and how it can transform our lives. In this episode, we reflect on the joys and challenges of the past year, sharing personal stories and moments of thankfulness—from everyday experiences like taking a child to the movies, to life-changing journeys toward parenthood. We revisit some of our favorite guest moments from the season, highlighting what our guests are most grateful for: family, friends, mentors, resilience through hardship, and the opportunity to give back. We explore the science behind gratitude and its many benefits, from boosting happiness and resilience to strengthening relationships and fostering personal growth. Our guests open up about navigating adversity, practicing self-advocacy, and the importance of both receiving and giving support. Along the way, we offer practical tips to help you weave gratitude into your daily life—whether it’s through journaling, mindful reflection, or simple acts of kindness.  Links to Episode Buzzsprout link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2468012/episodes/18236174-thanksgiving-reflections-the-power-of-gratitude.mp3?download=true

In this episode of SuccessYourOwnWay, “Success, Self-Leadership, and the Power of Choice”, executive coach and leadership advisor Sadie Wackett shares her journey of redefining success. With 20+ years in global HR leadership, a former CHRO, and as co-founder of Life Intended, Sadie empowers women through self-leadership and intentional living. She reflects on her career and […] The post Success, Self-Leadership, and the Power of Choice appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Do you have the courage to make bold transitions in your life?  If so check out this episode of Success Your Own Way! From First-Gen Student to Corporate Fellow: A Story of Bold Transitions with Christine Nowakowski In this inspiring episode, Dr. Christine Nowakowski—Corporate Fellow at Cargill and one of General Mills’ most prolific female […] The post A Story of Bold Transitions appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

In this powerful episode of  SuccessYourOwnWay, you’ll meet Maychee Mua, a 2025 Bush Fellow, systems change leader, and first-generation Hmong-Chinese American.  Maychee shares her transformative journey of identity, advocacy, and redefining success. Maychee is navigating cultural duality, discovering her own neurodivergence, pioneering autism policy in Minnesota, and raising neurodivergent children. Maychee’s story is one of […] The post Authenticity, Advocacy, and Ancestral Strength with Maychee Mua appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

In this episode of Success Your Own Way, Yifat Rogers shares her journey from growing up in Israel to becoming a food scientist, corporate leader, and now a consultant. A study abroad experience at NC State sparked her passion for food engineering, leading to a Master’s degree and PhD. Though she once aimed to be a […] The post The Power of Process: Yifat’s Story of Transformation appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

In this episode of Success Your Own Way, “From Engineering to Empowering”, Yifat Rogers and I sit down with Jess Kaskov, who shares her remarkable journey from a 15-year engineering career at General Mills to becoming an author, coach, and speaker. Jess opens up about the pivotal career moment that pushed her to reflect on what truly mattered, […] The post From Engineering to Empowering: Jess Kaskov’s Story appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

It is the season of harvesting, not just crops, but harvesting wisdom.  This article is my 50th and this isn’t just a creative milestone—it’s a harvest. Each piece represents a seed planted in service of others: a thought offered, a question posed, a perspective shared. Over time, those seeds have grown into a field of […] The post Harvesting Wisdom – 50 Articles appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Parenting in the Fast Lane.  What does that mean and what does it have to do with coaching? Let me explain.  Parenting is a journey I have been on for over a decade – both enjoying and contemplating how to do it better.  One summer day, I was driving kids to their camps, and it […] The post Parenting in the Fast Lane appeared first on McGinty Coaching.

Seinfeld characters would struggle as professional coaches. My husband and I recently started watching old episodes of Seinfeld. Before diving into the first episode, I recalled fond memories of the series, watching it with college friends back in the 90’s – laughing and incredulous at the silly storylines and funny behavior. Watching it with my […] The post Seinfeld Characters Would Struggle as Professional Coaches appeared first on McGinty Coaching.