The Story We Instantly Tell Ourselves
By Andrea Chilcote
As an observer of human behavior — sometimes as a student, sometimes as a teacher — I continue to marvel at how many simple and reliable tools exist for making relationships easier. And yet, even when we know these tools well, we often fail to use them in the moments that matter most. One is a simple mental model called positive intent.
Gravitas, Reconsidered
By Andrea Chilcote
I’ve been hearing the word “gravitas” a lot lately. Again.
For years, the term has lingered in conversations about leadership and executive presence, often shrouded in mystery. Gravitas. Presence. Influence. Confidence. The ability to command a room without demanding attention.
And now, in 2026, the conversation has become even more nuanced. In a workplace shaped by constant change,
You Have To Consider It.
By Andrea Chilcote
Much of my time is spent gathering and delivering 360-degree feedback to accomplished leaders. Receiving feedback requires as much skill as delivering it does. It doesn’t matter how tough-minded you are, or how many times you have received feedback surveys; it’s hard to hear or read critical comments about your behavior.
Control … or Peace?
By Andrea Chilcote The need for control is a behavioral trait many of us, as leaders, are gifted – or cursed with, depending on perspective. To some extent, we all have a need for control. Certainly, when directed at our own actions, control represents agency – the ability to shape one’s life with autonomy.
Leadership Growth is Not a Solo Sport
By Andrea Chilcote
The conversation with my client went something like this:
“Joel, I challenge you to do this task: Prepare the following, then meet with the people whom I interviewed and who provided feedback for your 360° assessment.”
Thank you for providing feedback. Here’s what I learned: (Very brief statement of a change you are making, or need to make…
2026: The Year of Being Who You Are
By Andrea Chilcote
I was sitting with a client as she reflected upon the feedback she just received. “What hurts is that they are attributing motive to your behavior,” I said. “It’s done frequently in work
Executive Transition Coaching During Change
By Andrea Chilcote
The fourth edition of William Bridges’ classic book, Managing Transitions, was published in 2017. Eight years ago, that was the 25th anniversary edition. The concept, relevant for 33 (33!) years, is simple: People don’t experience “change.” A change is just that:
My, how time flies! And some things haven’t changed enough.
By Andrea Chilcote
I’m not typically one who celebrates (or even remembers!) anniversaries. If it weren’t for LinkedIn messages from many of my colleagues, I wouldn’t have remembered that Morningstar Ventures is 25 years old! It’s hard to believe that much time has passed,
What is Emotional Intelligence and Why It’s Important for Leaders
By Andrea Chilcote
The construct of emotional intelligence emerged on the scene in the early 90s, about the time I began my career as a leadership development specialist and fledgling coach. Of course, the skills
Give Yourself a Break
By Andrea Chilcote
Hello and welcome to summertime! (How did we land in July already?)
I hope you have made time for disconnecting from the day-to-day and have found renewed energy in whatever way you relax.
In early June,