Past, Present, Pride 🏳️🌈 🏳️⚧️
When I started Luminary People Advisors, my very first blog post was about Pride. One year later, after working with so many incredible organizations, it feels right to return to this topic—especially as the national conversation around Pride and the LGBTQ+ community has shifted dramatically. On a personal level, this moment takes me back to […]
When DEI Falls Out of Favor: Holding the Line on Progress
Introduction Spring 2020 was an extraordinarily difficult time. The pandemic ravaged New York City, lockdowns strained mental health, and on a personal level, I became a dad for the first time. But the murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd—tragically familiar stories of Black lives cut short—were among the most devastating moments. I […]
Beyond the Blackboard: A Teacher’s Guide to Thriving as a Startup People Leader
Introduction When Tim Walz was announced as Kamala Harris’ running mate, I was heartened to learn of his background as an award-winning social studies teacher and football coach, not to mention a pioneering faculty supporter for his school’s gay-straight alliance. I can attest that teaching is the best leadership training there is. While we may […]
Unlocking Success: The Power of Culture in Digital Health Startups
The surge of tech-driven healthcare startups in recent years is striking. In 2010, digital health companies raised $1 billion in venture capital. By 2021, this soared to $29.1 billion, fueled by the pandemic’s push towards telehealth and digital solutions. Despite this growth, early outcomes are disappointing. Digital health startups have even higher failure rates than […]
Pride at Work: Lessons from the Queer Community
I came out 24 years ago this month. Notwithstanding the support of friends, family members, and teachers, I never imagined back in 2000 that I’d be married with two children and working in a progressive ecosystem that is not only accepting, but celebratory. But in the last quarter century (time flies!), I’ve realized that fully […]
