5 Things / Inherited

Growing up, my immigrant parents had a simple philosophy: others always have it worse. Be grateful. Suck it up. My older sister had a word for people who complained too much: "windy whiners."

I never wanted to be a windy whiner. So I became a "suck it up" leader.

That caused turnover and tension, so I overcorrected. I then got too soft and let accountability slip. I learned some hard lessons from that, too.

Now I know that empathy without accountability isn't kindness. It's just a different kind of letting people down.

It's wild how the messages from childhood inform so much of how we adult. What leadership default did you inherit — and is it still serving you?

I’m cheering you on-

Bernadette

This Week's Good Vibes:

Mariska turns advocacy into policy

After learning thousands of rape kits sat untested nationwide, actor Mariska Hargitay helped launch the Joyful Heart Foundation’s End the Backlog campaign, which led to rape kit reform in all 50 states. Survivors are often failed by systems that delay or ignore evidence. Testing backlogs disproportionately harm women, LGBTQ+ people, and marginalized survivors seeking justice. ♐️ Track accountability systems publicly and fund reforms beyond awareness campaigns.

Zoo tours unlock memories gently

Berlin Zoo now offers guided tours designed for people living with dementia, using sensory engagement, animal interaction, and slower pacing to create calm, connection, and memory stimulation. Tours include tactile objects, quiet spaces, and trained guides who adapt conversations to participants’ comfort levels. I love that this is all about joy and community inclusion. ♐️ Design public experiences that support participation, not just supervision.

History you can literally touch

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History is expanding its “Tactile Tours” program, helping blind and low-vision visitors explore history through touch, using raised maps, textured replicas, and hands-on artifacts instead of visual-only displays. The experience encourages visitors to “decode” history physically and not passively receive it secondhand. ♐️ Build exhibitions for multiple senses from the start.

San Antonio officially sees trans people

San Antonio established its first official Transgender Recognition Week, recognizing the contributions and visibility of trans residents through city-backed events and public acknowledgment. When there’s an onslaught of anti-trans legislation, this local recognition in the State of Texas is significant. ♐️ Public affirmation from government signals belonging and visibility, especially for trans youth and families.  

Women trainers finally get their flowers

Cherie DeVaux became the first woman trainer to win the Kentucky Derby. Her victory highlights growing visibility for women in elite horse racing leadership roles, where training, ownership, and decision-making power have traditionally remained concentrated among men. ♐️ Invest in leadership pathways for women across every level of sports.

Good Vibe to Go:

The WNBA season starts this weekend! Catch yourself up for what will be a great, historic season by watching this video. I’ll be cheering for the Chicago Sky.