Ascendant Now

06/03/2026

Many people relate to the flight response, but the fight response can show up in subtle ways too. Feeling misunderstood, raising your voice, or reacting with intensity may be connected to a need that doesn't feel met.

05/27/2026

Something for job seekers to keep in mind: more than 53% of candidates report pausing their search due to burnout. The goal isn’t to apply everywhere, but to build a steady, sustainable rhythm that keeps you clear and confident.

On the JobThe paced job search: Why slowing down could help you get hiredStacia DossSenior Manager, Content Strategy & Optimization | May 13, 2026 At a glance: With burnout on the rise, more than 53% of job seekers have paused their search for mental health. Job seekers recommend a paced approach: s...

05/19/2026

Conflict doesn’t end once you identify the problem. Real leadership is shown in how you guide people through it.

In Part 2 of our Leading Through Conflict series, we explore practical strategies leaders can use to rebuild trust, navigate crucial conversations, and create stronger team alignment through tension.

From the STATE Method to key do’s and don’ts of conflict resolution, this article focuses on leading difficult conversations with clarity, empathy, and intention.

Read Part 2 of our Leading Through Conflict blog:

05/12/2026

Strong leadership isn’t about always being available. It’s about creating clarity, protecting your energy, and leading intentionally.

In Episode 4 of Means to Ascend, we discuss how professional boundaries help prevent burnout, improve communication, and strengthen trust within teams. Listen to the latest episode!

Professional boundaries help leaders protect their time, reduce burnout, and lead with clarity and confidence.

05/08/2026

Leadership starts with understanding people. And understanding people requires awareness, empathy, and emotional discipline.

Trust isn’t built through titles or perfection. It’s built through consistency, integrity, follow-through, and the willingness to own mistakes. Because ultimately, you can’t lead people who don’t trust you.

05/06/2026

When leaders normalize putting people, families, and themselves first, it sets a healthier standard for everyone. Clear expectations don’t reduce productivity, they reinforce it.

05/01/2026

Small boundaries create real change! Start by replacing just one habit, like scrolling with reading, and aim for consistency, not perfection. Even 80% is a win.

04/30/2026

Monday marked the sixth annual Executive of the Year event that I attended as a BNSME Board member. I was truly inspired by Donald Boyd's message as the the President and Chief Executive Officer of Kaleida. He is incredibly humble and the true embodiment of servant leadership. Don said he is the least important person at Kaleida Health. He went on to elevate the healthcare workers who go in each and every day to deliver the best healthcare possible. They are the people that matter most. As the official healthcare provider of the Buffalo Bills "Every day is game day for them!"

I'd also like to congratulate Stephanie Newberger for being awarded the BNSME scholarship award through her education, community service and hard work in the field of marketing.

Thanks for attending with me Amy!
Lindsey Zajac

04/28/2026

Conflict is inevitable. How you handle it is what defines your leadership.

The difference between tension that breaks a team and conflict that strengthens it often comes down to how you show up in the moment. Done right, it can unlock better ideas, stronger alignment, and real growth.

If you want to understand the true costs, causes, and types of conflict, and how to lead through them, read part 1 of our Leading Through Conflict blog:

When handled well, conflict can be a catalyst, revealing misalignments, surfacing new ideas, and ultimately strengthening your team.

04/23/2026

There’s no such thing as perfect work-life balance. For leaders, trying to evenly divide energy across every area of life is unrealistic and exhausting.

The real goal isn’t balance. It’s alignment.

Alignment means your time reflects your values. Your energy matches your priorities. Your work supports your life, not the other way around.

It starts with awareness:
-What’s fueling you?
-What’s draining you?
-What are you saying yes to that no longer fits?

Wellness isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s a leadership requirement. Because your state doesn’t just impact you, it impacts your team. When you’re grounded and focused, they feel it too.