I’m a Harvard-trained educator, Emotional Intelligence researcher, and mom of three.
I began my career as a human capital consultant and executive coach. I recruited and developed talent from entry-level employees to senior leaders. On the side, I worked as a certified fitness trainer, where I had the opportunity to motivate and train individuals from all stages and walks of life.
I noticed people were successful and happy when they were in tune with their emotions—and those of others. These individuals exulted influence, resilience, and purpose. They persisted despite obstacles, succeeded in their goals, and inspired others. They were happier, calmer, and wiser.
I also witnessed what happened when people lacked these skills: lost opportunities, missed connections, and aimless directions.
After becoming a parent, I worked in grade schools and colleges. There, I saw a lack of up-to-date, evidence-based, culturally-responsive, and affordable resources to help students (and parents/caregivers!) develop these essential human skills.
This is alarming. Recent research indicates a decline in our collective emotional intelligence compared to that of the previous decade. Our modes of communication have evolved, now dominated by brief, surface-level exchanges replete with acronyms and emoticons. We make decisions based on the number of Likes. We are feeling more distracted and stressed in this epidemic of loneliness and isolation.
So I dove deeply into research and the lived experiences of diverse cultures and generations. At the world-renowned Harvard Innovation Labs, I developed and launched the 52 Essential Conversations. Fast forward to today, the award-winning 52 Essential card deck series are used in homes, schools, and workplaces in 50+ countries!
