How Can I Help?
An Equinox Update From Me to You
How can I help?
It's a simple question with endless potential answers. Nearly a year ago I embarked on a new chapter of my career and asked this very question. The responses have been nothing short of phenomenal.
And since today is the Vernal Equinox here in the Northern Hemisphere, the day we sit at the perfect balance between winter and summer, between day and night, and the day that marks the start of spring, of everything new that is to come, it felt apt to share all that's been growing, and where I've found balance in these newfound days.
*I realize this is a departure from my typical Substack writing. I only intend to send an update like this once a year. Regular essays on our weird and wonderful world shall continue at their irregular frequency in due course.
So what am I doing with myself these days?
Thought Leadership: This past year I've shared over 50 talks, workshops, and discussion circles centered on the topics of empathy, leadership, and purpose. I'm grateful to all of the organizations, conferences, and communities who have invited me to be a part of their conversations. If you'd like to work together in this capacity, I’m always open to discussing it. Please connect with me here.
Advisory: Working with leaders and their teams is something I find deeply meaningful. All companies have their challenges and it's up to each of us to contribute where we can to help move things in a positive direction. During the past year I've been fortunate to join the advisory boards of 9 companies, as well as support executive teams consultatively as they move through moments of transformation and change. You can find a complete list of boards and a breakdown of the good work these teams are doing here.
Social Impact: The world is in need of positive change. Through my passions for empathy and allyship I've been focusing my time in these areas of impact:
In partnership with Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient Sister Simone Campbell, we’ve launched Understanding US. This program is a non-profit effort designed to bring discourse training on the topic of depolarization to our towns and communities. If this could help you or those you care about, please let us know.
I am also humbled to serve as the board president of Tribal Link Foundation, a UN-affiliated organization committed to allyship and capacity building for the advancement of Indigenous Peoples worldwide. Indigenous communities are the protectors of sacred knowledge and vital ecosystems. When they are at risk, all of us are at risk. Please feel invited to support us here.
Wellbeing: Finally, as many of you already know, for over a decade I have shared a traditional medicine offering in the lineage of the Nahua Peoples. Treatments in this tradition, known as limpias (cleansings), offer support and guidance for physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. To learn more about this or to schedule a session, you can always be in touch here.
Here is some exciting new stuff just in time for Spring…
A Purpose Cohort Is Launching
Over the past two years, I've conducted extensive research on the topic of purpose work. Not only what it means to “have a purpose”, but perhaps more importantly, what to do once you (sorta) know what you're here to do.
This work is the subject of my next book, Prioritizing Purpose, and has been developed into an immersive 3-month program for self-discovery. Over a dozen individuals have piloted this program with me in the last year and now I'm happy to announce that I am accepting applications for an intimate cohort launching in May. Registration is limited so if you're interested in learning more or if you're ready to get started on prioritizing your purpose, apply now.
Empathogenics for Your Vibey Pleasure
Recently, there has been a lot of talk in the wellness community about "empathogens.” Luckily, I have the good fortune to be on the advisory board of my friend Rachelle's herbalism business. Together we developed a limited-edition empathogenic tincture comprised of herbs blended to create a heart-centered, emotionally opening experience. Coupled with contemplative ritual, this offers a special way to connect more deeply with yourself and others. Get yours or share one with someone you love here.
Q&E Cards Are Back In Stock
Believe it or not, practicing empathy can be both deep and fun.
Back by popular demand, these Q&E cards (Questions & Empathy) are a powerful accelerant for moving small talk to big talk. For years I've used the prompts from this deck to open new conversations, connect more deeply with others, and to continue a practice of self inquiry.
Get your Q&E deck or share one with someone else here.
Vintage Ephemera From Me To You
Halfway Home is a quarterly drop of vintage ephemera that I’ve picked up along the way in the hopes of finding it a new home.
Objects carry with them a sense of meaning and importance that often transcends their physical value. Sometimes they evoke reflection or emotion, while others simply conjure a sense of novelty or a memory from the past. I've always loved to search for these sort of items. Some of you may remember the store my wife Caroline and I created (R.I.P. Calliope) as a means to bring these objects to new homes. While the desire to run back into the hellscape that is bricks-and-mortar retail is not quite calling me, I do miss offering these objects. As such, a few times a year I'll be dropping a small collection of items I've found in my travels. All are available for purchase (with proceeds going to the social impact programs detailed above). The first collection is now live and items are first come, first sold!
That's all for now. Of course there are a few things I haven't discussed that are still being developed because I can't really help myself. Life is far too short so let’s use the time we have to bring ideas, inspiration, and a genuine offering of help to whomever we can.
Finally, I'd also love to hear about what you're doing. Please take this as an invitation to be in touch anytime. I hope this Equinox brings forth new beginnings and continued growth for all of us.
Take good care,
MV
