June is the month that always brings reflection for me. It’s the month we celebrate Father’s Day—a time to honor the “dads,” mentors and father figures who show up with guidance, encouragement and sometimes just a steady presence, when it matters most.
As the father of three, now-grown children—two daughters and a son—I find myself reflecting each year on the lessons learned throughout the years. From bedtime stories to college drop-offs, and everything in between, fatherhood has shaped who I am. And those lessons didn’t stay at home. In many ways, they’ve influenced how I show up in my professional life—as a leader, mentor and, as the team here lovingly calls me, the “office dad.”
These roles are never easy, and sometimes we don’t want to wake up and be in them , but here we are, and I’m proud of all my children, both those born to me and those I found along the way.
Remember, having young people looking to you for guidance is an integral role in our society, in our lives and in our businesses. Your children at home may not always want your advice, so remember when those who are coming to you WANT it, give it freely. Show up when they need you, even when they tell you they don’t. Remember the days of soccer games. You made the time and showed up. The same should apply to our employees. Make time to show up for their needs. It’s important and they will remember it.
Over the years, I’ve earned the unofficial title of “office dad” around here—and I wear it proudly. Whether it’s fixing the printer (again), grabbing those heavy boxes of magazines for an event, offering a steady ear during a tough week or making ordering pizza on deadline day a priority, I’ve come to realize that being a leader isn’t always about big decisions. Sometimes, it’s about the little things that make people feel supported and seen. Just do it (sorry Nike). Don’t ask if it needs to be done – just make it happen.
Yes, sometimes they just want to feel heard. Be reminded that they matter. Or told they can be better.
To me, being the “office dad” means being present. It’s listening when someone needs to talk through an idea or offering perspective when the path forward isn’t clear. It’s reminding our team that their work matters—and so do they, as individuals. I’m constantly inspired by the passion and professionalism of the people I work with and I’m grateful every day to be surrounded by such a driven, thoughtful group.
And the truth is, I need them just as much as they need me. I was recently reminded that I need support too, and to those kids at the office, thank you. Thank you for appreciating me as much as I appreciate you.
Enjoy our father and son cover story this month. Both Larry and Brett are phenomenal human beings. Thank you, to both of them, for sharing their story with us. I hope you find some good nuggets in there. We certainly did.
