Description:

Steve from the Global Leadership Exchange (GLE) discusses a transformative approach to leadership and collaboration in the fields of behavioral health, disability, and substance use. His perspective highlights the importance of humility, respect, and relationship-building in creating lasting change. Drawing inspiration from the natural world, Lori uses the metaphor of a lobster shedding its shell to illustrate how growth requires stepping outside of old frameworks, embracing vulnerability, and giving people the space to evolve.

GLE’s success lies in fostering a flat, peer-driven environment where innovation is encouraged through shared experiences and open dialogue. Their collaborative groups, which meet regularly online and in person, provide safe spaces for individuals from around the world to connect, learn, and support one another. By focusing on a relational approach rather than a hierarchical one, GLE empowers individuals to lead, share, and grow together in ways that celebrate both successes and challenges. The organization’s vision is to create a global network of peers committed to improving the lives of people affected by mental health and related issues, all while cultivating a sense of shared purpose and community.

Learning Objectives

1. Understand the Importance of Humility in Leadership: Participants will learn how humility and respect in leadership foster empowerment, allowing individuals to take ownership of their growth and decision-making processes within behavioral health, disability, and substance use settings.
2. Develop Peer-Driven, Relational Approaches: Participants will explore how building relationships based on trust and openness creates effective learning environments where peers can share lived experiences and support each other’s development.
3. Leverage Failure as a Tool for Growth: Participants will gain insights into the value of learning from failures and challenges, and how these experiences contribute to continuous improvement in leadership and service delivery.
4. Create Safe Spaces for Vulnerability and Learning: Participants will learn strategies for creating environments where individuals feel comfortable being vulnerable, sharing both successes and failures, and engaging in continuous learning and development.

Apply Non-Traditional, Playful Learning Approaches: Participants will explore innovative, informal learning methods—such as peer exchanges, group activities, and outdoor interactions—that encourage creativity and productive collaboration.