Follow the Leader (But Not Too Closely)

 The response to my last blog post, the one dedicated to Dr. Richard Fountain, was overwhelming. I was genuinely surprised, though perhaps I shouldn't have been. Dr. Fountain, as I'm reminded every time I attend a social event for the Pensacola business community, holds a special place in the hearts of many. (A testament to his profound impact.) The outpouring of stories and memories made me realize something about the true power of mentorship, and it prompted me to look beyond the present, to examine the threads of guidance woven throughout my life. Particularly I want my peers and colleagues to think about those mentors who are no longer with us. Those who have passed to the other side, leaving behind their legacies of wisdom and influence, but knowledge that they can no longer pass along to the next generation. There have been many people in my life who shaped the person I am today. Some of them, unfortunately, are no longer walking the earthly plane. So, this isn't just...

As I approach the fourth anniversary of my initiation as a Deltasig, I feel that it's time to reflect on how being a part of this fraternity has impacted me as a young professional. -- My undergraduate business studies began amid the disorienting conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time when most first-year students are expected to become involved in their business world, the entire world was just tentatively reopening. I was surrounded by many peers who were still carrying the weight of isolation, a hesitation to socialize, often lacking the very social skills that business demands. I, too, felt a sense of isolation, but for different reasons than my peers who had always had the benefit of brick-and-mortar schooling. My upbringing had always made me feel like an outlier, and now, amidst that sea of hesitant faces, I again found myself adrift. At that time, ironically, the only people who seemed genuinely willing to engage in the spaces I occupied were the faculty. It was w...

I chose "Pop Muzik" by M (Robin Scott) to set the tone for this post because of its ability to worm its way into playlist as a new wave, disco punk song with an uplifting effect on the listener. It is a musical celebration of a particular expression and invites the listeners to take part in this celebration.  The songs that I love the most are the ones that bring together multiple elements that seemingly do not agree. I take a similar approach to my own professional wardrobe. There is no need for me to blend into the pack of gray, navy, and black suit wearing professionals. Not when my style exists as the perfect opportunity for expressing myself within a workplace. My thesis is that for too long "professional" has been synonymous with "muted". This comes from the idea that to be taken seriously, professionals must blend in so they can become another cog in the corporate machine. Ironically, this is a surprisingly gender-neutral stance to be taken by...

 As an early-career LGBTQ professional navigating the world of business academia, I've experienced firsthand the unique challenges we face when it comes to mentorship. While many mentorship programs are often touted as pathways to career advancement and self-empowerment, I've encountered the frustrating reality: a lack of inclusive support systems and a surprising amount of resistance to the idea of mentoring, both from potential mentors and mentees. These are generic issues with mentoring programs before we even begin to touch on the struggles faced by LGBTQ persons of business. This observed disconnect stems from a complex mix of factors, including unconscious biases, an all around lack of awareness about the specific needs of LGBTQ professionals, and a deep-rooted fear of vulnerability. I've decided to attempt to delve into these challenges, drawing on my own experiences as both a mentee and a coordinator for an executive mentor program at my institution, to explore how ...

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 ...