Follow the Leader (But Not Too Closely)

Have you grown tired of the same old cookie-cutter business attire? Do you balk at off the rack overcoats and cry at the prices of tailors? Maybe it's time to redefine your professional style and embrace a more authentic approach. In my own evolution of style, I've always been drawn to iconic figures like Alan Grant and Dr. Henry Jones Jr. (Examples to follow.) There is a timeless style in the portrayals of these two characters: practicality meets individuality. These characters’ wardrobes aren’t dictated by trends but by purpose, blending rugged durability with subtle sophistication. Their influence has shaped my professional wardrobe, grounding it in pieces that are versatile, functional, and most importantly, me . Reference For those who haven’t spotted me in my vintage Sears catalog leather jacket, yes, it’s a staple of mine. It’s not just a jacket; it’s a nod to breaking free from the rigid constraints of traditional business wear while still embracing professionalism. So,...

 Does LinkedIn need another trans man's perspective on navigating the professional world? Based on what comes down in my feed every single day...yes. Today, with it being Trans Day of Remembrance, I am once again forced to reflect on the complexities of navigating the professional world as an out and proud trans man.  It is not overly dramatic so say that existing as a trans person is a constant balancing act. A daily performance where I'm expected to justify my existence at every turn. In my career, I've often found myself in situations where my analytical mind and strategic thinking are lauded, but my identity as a trans man is met with (mainly) confusion. How am I supposed to happily exist in a world where my intelligence and capabilities are conditional upon my adherence to outdated gender norms? Many of my colleagues probably can't understand the pressure that comes with misgendering, questioning glances, and dismissive comments. Though I do recognize that many of ...

Now that we've passed election day, my peers and colleagues should not be surprised to hear that I'm taking inspiration in finding my place in a changing landscape from classic country music. The title of this post comes from the Johnny Russell hit "Rednecks, White Socks, and Blue Ribbon Beer". If you're not familiar with the song, make sure to check it out (below) before reading the rest of this post.  It's certainly a strange time to be a diverse business professional working on LGBTQ+ business research in a state that often feels like it's stuck in a time warp. I've heard rude comments, snide remarks, and been exposed to outright hostility. "Why don't you just move to a blue state?" is a common refrain among people in my community. My answer is simple: Florida is my home. This is where my family (by blood and chosen) is, where my friends are, and where I've spent a long time building my life. This is a place with a rich history, a ...

As someone who grew up under complex circumstances, I have long prided myself on an ability to maintain the delicate balances necessary for being an adult.  At some point (for legal reasons: after 21), my motto for approaching stress became, "I don't do [blank] because it might disrupt my careful homeostasis created by caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and melatonin".  While some people don't understand the logic of this statement, many of my peers and colleagues have the nuance to know why I respond to stress in this way. Or in the words of John Mulaney, "What is someone gonna do to me that's worse than what I would do to myself?" However, sometimes, my good intentions turn out to be possible compulsions once I can reflect on decisions I've made with little thought. Such as when I purchased a case (or two) of one of my favorite energy drinks at a discount store. A place I usually go to find niche products that I can't find elsewhere in Pensacola. At ...

As an ambitious graduate student researcher with a passion for community service and strategic management, this blog is a space where I’ll be sharing insights, research, and reflections from my academic and professional journey. With a strong foundation in business administration, nonprofit leadership, and entrepreneurship, my goal is to explore key topics that shape the world of business today, including innovative fundraising, relationship building, and creative problem-solving.  Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to develop effective strategies that drive positive outcomes, from leading nonprofit initiatives to delivering top-notch customer service. My research interests focus on the intersection of business ethics, leadership, and community impact, and I’m committed to making a meaningful difference through collaboration and analytical rigor.  Whether you’re a fellow business researcher, professional, or someone passionate about leadership and social good, I in...