Looking Ahead: Intellect & Empathy — The Head and Heart of Leadership
CLUB18 for Friends launches October 1, 2025
As September comes to a close, we stand at the starting line of something new.
A fresh season.
A fresh rhythm.
A fresh opportunity to grow from the inside out.
Next week, we begin the first step of the CLUB18 for Friends journey—and we’re starting with one of the most powerful tensions in leadership:
The balance between intellect and empathy.
Why We’re Starting Here
The theme for October is:
Intellect & Empathy — The Head and Heart of Leadership
It’s no accident that this is our first focus.
When we think about leadership—whether in our jobs, families, friendships, or personal growth—we’re often pulled in two directions. One voice tells us to lead with logic and clear thinking. Another reminds us to lead with care and emotional connection.
But real, lasting leadership doesn’t choose one over the other. It brings both head and heart to the table. It asks:
“How can I be wise and kind?”
“How do I make thoughtful decisions while honoring people’s feelings?”
“Can I stay grounded in truth while still leading with grace?”
In October, we’ll unpack all of that—and more.
What to Expect in October
This month, you’ll be invited to explore:
The power of balanced leadership—where strategy and sensitivity coexist.
How to make decisions that are both smart and compassionate.
Why empathy isn’t weakness, but a strength that builds trust.
How your natural tendencies (toward thinking or feeling) shape how you lead—and how to grow in both.
You’ll reflect on how intellect and empathy influence your everyday relationships, and you’ll begin developing the kind of leadership that people remember—not because it’s flashy, but because it’s real.
Why This Matters
In a noisy world that often values quick results over meaningful connection, we need a different kind of leadership. One that’s grounded. Thoughtful. Caring.
One that sees people—not just problems.
One that makes space for wisdom and compassion to walk hand in hand.
That kind of leadership starts with you.
The Journey Begins
When CLUB18 officially begins next week, you’ll receive the first session on Intellect & Empathy, and we’ll begin walking the 18-month path of growth, reflection, and deeper leadership—together.
So for now, consider this your invitation to pause and prepare.
To lead from a place that is both thoughtful and kind.
To integrate what you know in your head with what you feel in your heart.
Because when the head and heart work together, the whole person leads—and lives—well.
See you in October.
We’re just getting started.
And remember: we’re taking life, leadership, and friendship—18 inches at a time. Can’t wait to see you on the journey@
Dr. Rich
