Week 24 - June 21

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Picture of the Week

Dinner with Siva.


Overall

A dynamic and expansive week that spanned policy engagement, strategic collaboration, and meaningful reconnections. From Georgetown to Chicago, the conversations reflected both urgency and imagination—on the future of retirement, leadership in healthcare, and institutional evolution. Amid the movement, there was also grounding: in health routines, old friendships, quiet moments of music, and the familiar rhythm of the golf course. The balance of purpose and presence felt steady.


Takeaways from the Week

Strategic awards and recognition can be powerful levers to shape industry norms and spotlight values-based leadership.

Thoughtful frameworks—like CATCH, HALT, PICK, and PAIR—help navigate complex roles and relationships with greater clarity.

Progress often looks like small habits done well, from sunscreen to statins.

Missed moments (like book group) are part of the give and take of a full life—and can be reclaimed later.


Behavioral Takeaways

Developed a personal framework of four guiding acronyms to support clarity, emotional regulation, and grounded connection in daily life:


CATCH – Perspective

A mindset that centers personal growth, relational presence, and adaptive strength.

• Curiosity – Approach life with wonder and inquiry

• Aptitude – Cultivate skill and keep learning

• Teamwork – Value collaboration and shared progress

• Change – Embrace transition as part of growth

• Human – Lead with empathy, humor, and purpose


HALT – Self-Regulation Check

A pause before meetings or critical moments to notice your internal state.

• Hungry

• Angry

• Late

• Tired

Ask: Am I in HALT mode? If so, proceed with caution—or not at all.


PICK – Caregiving Mindset

A preparatory posture before emotionally asymmetric interactions, especially with aging parents.

• Patience – Give time and space without hurry

• Inquiry – Stay curious, not reactive

• Care – Offer presence and kindness

• Kindness – Speak gently, especially when unreciprocated


PAIR – Your Partnership Strategy

A relational contract for coexisting with difference in shared life projects.

• Patience – Respect each other’s rhythm

• Alignment – Clarify ownership and boundaries

• Independence – Let each work in their own way

• Relationship – Protect the bond, not just the task


Work

Spoke at the 2025 CRI Annual Policy Innovation Forum at Georgetown. Shared perspectives on the growing gap between legacy retirement models and today’s longevity realities. Joined a thoughtful panel moderated by Kendra Kosko Isaacson and featuring leaders across policy, corporate benefits, and advocacy. Emphasized the urgency of designing next generation retirement solutions that account for extended lifespans and evolving workforce needs.


Met with Jessica Cole in Chicago for a working lunch. Explored the design of a TIAA Institute Award for Visionary Leadership in Healthcare, modeled on the Hesburgh Award. Discussed qualities of potential honorees, award governance, strategic partnerships, and next steps for concept development and pilot launch. Aligned on shared purpose and the value of visibility in recognizing sector leadership tied to equity, innovation, and long-term well-being.


Met with CEO Thasunda and Micky to align on preparation for the upcoming board retreat. Discussed framing, positioning, and core priorities for Institute engagement and leadership presence.


Home

Enjoyed using the new app to control irrigation for plants and lawn. Convenient, efficient, and satisfying to see the system in action.


Health & Fitness

Improved consistency in using sunscreen lotion. A small but important step in long-term skin care and self-discipline.

Started statins. A new chapter in preventive health, guided by long-term planning and informed decision-making.


Music

Heard Rahul practicing the baritone Sa. Surprisingly good tone and presence. A small but satisfying musical moment in the week.


Writing etc

Listened to Reid Hoffman’s discussion on AI. Found the framing thoughtful and relevant—particularly how human values, creative synthesis, and responsible deployment remain central as the technology evolves.


Social

Met up with classmate Siva, visiting from India. A warm and grounding reconnection that bridged time, place, and shared history.

Missed book group this week due to travel to Chicago. A reminder of the tradeoffs between professional commitments and personal rhythms.


Sports

Played golf on Saturday. A chance to stay active, reset focus, and enjoy time outdoors.


Travel Plans

Flew to DC Monday evening. Attended Georgetown conference Tuesday.


Entertainment

Rewatched The Sting and thoroughly enjoyed it. The craftsmanship still holds up. Looked deeper into the real-life Gondorff brothers who inspired the characters—an intriguing layer of history behind the story.

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