Alloy Solutions Leadership Blog

Do you remember the old Nielsen TV ratings? The surveys that tracked what Americans were watching? 

I know they've become automated now, but if someone were analyzing my household's viewing habits today, they'd probably have one question: 

Why is there so much golf on in this house?  Are they OK? 

Ten years ago, I would've wondered the same thing. 

Ironically, the first fans of PGA Tour broadcasts in our home weren't the humans - they were the Labradors. Peaceful scenery, calming voices, beautiful landscapes, and just enough background sound to rest by and keep the outdoor noises at bay. 

Somewhere along the way, though, the humans started paying attention. 

Not just to the golf, but to the people. 

Every tournament is filled with remarkable stories and, if you're willing to look for them, powerful leadership lessons. Professional golf provides an unusually clear window into decision-making under pressure, emotional regulation, resilience, preparation, focus, and the ability to ...

Our newest family member is unknowingly teaching us valuable lessons about leadership. Meet four-month-old Dottie – precocious younger sister to the wiser, calmer eight-year-old Denver.  We’re in the full-on teething phase where those razor-sharp teeth find themselves embedded in any and every available surface, including human arms, hands and feet.  Blood has been drawn and redirection and training is happening at every one of these painful learning opportunities.  Thankfully, we know this is just a phase and with proper attention and training she’ll be using that “soft mouth” and gentle spirit that Denver and other labradors are known for. I’m encouraged in these painful moments by watching Denver gently receive toys, treats, and any and all attention from his humans, including our toddler grandchildren.  In his presence, our fingers and toes are safe and none the worse for wear.   The remarkable thing that helps us in training Dottie isn’t that Denver has teeth. It's that Denver kno...