Weekly Posts and Insights
Why the World Needs Catalytic Leaders
In today’s fast-changing world, urgent crises often crowd out the important work of long-term transformation. Drawing inspiration from outgoing Southwestern Vermont Health Care CEO Tom Dee—a humble, strategic, and community-minded mentor—this post explores the power of catalytic leadership. Catalytic leaders don’t just manage organizations; they spark momentum, align diverse stakeholders, and drive systemic change.
The Leadership Flex of Listening, Honesty, and Trust I Direct Application with Matt Harrington
Welcome to the inaugural interview episode of Direct Application, the podcast where leadership theory meets Monday morning reality. Hosted by Matt Harrington, this show explores how to turn good leadership ideas into better workplaces. In this episode, Matt sits down with Karin Tierney, a seasoned HR consultant with over 25 years of experience in leadership development, organizational culture, and fractional HR.
Building Trust Through Better Listening with Surveys I Direct Application with Matt Harrington
In this Solo Blogcast episode of Direct Application, Matt Harrington unpacks the underestimated power of surveys during strategic planning. Too often, surveys become checkbox exercises - sent out, ignored, and forgotten. But when done right, surveys become powerful trust-building tools that surface real insights and show your stakeholders that their voices matter. This episode dives into the leadership mindset behind meaningful surveying and gives you a checklist to ensure your survey efforts actually drive decisions and build credibility.
Harrington named one of VermontBiz’s 91 Influencers of 2025
Vermont Business Magazine (VermontBiz) has named Matt Harrington, Executive Director of the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce and founder of Harrington Brands, to its inaugural list of 91 Influencers of 2025.
Don’t Skip the Discovery Phase with SWOTs I Direct Application with Matt Harrington
In this Solo Blogcast episode of Direct Application, host Matt Harrington revisits the classic SWOT analysis - Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats - but with a modern, practical twist. If your SWOTs feel like checkbox exercises or dusty whiteboard sessions, it’s time for a refresh.
The Future (Should/Could) Be for Coaches and Trainers, Not Just Motivational Speakers
Motivational talks can inspire, but lasting change comes from skilled coaching, training, and facilitation. Discover why organizations should invest in trainers and coaches who transform people, strategies, and results.
Harrington’s Top Tips, Tricks, and Tactics for Public Speaking
Public speaking can be daunting, but with practice, it becomes a powerful tool that can elevate your leadership and communication skills. Embrace these tips, and remember: every great speaker was once a nervous beginner.
Change Champions, Bystanders, and the Toxic Few | Direct Application with Matt Harrington
In this episode of Direct Application, host Matt Harrington dives into the human dynamics of change. Whether you're launching a new vision, strategic plan, or organizational shift, how people respond matters just as much as the change itself. Learn the three core groups you’ll face: the energized Change Champions, the cautious Bystanders, and the disruptive Toxic Few (or Resistors).
Pre-Season Strategic Planning: Discover Before You Decide With Surveys
Surveys and assessments are essential tools for gathering meaningful feedback that informs strategic planning, decision-making, and organizational improvement. This blog explores how to design effective surveys, avoid common pitfalls like survey fatigue, and build trust by using and communicating results. Learn the types of surveys to consider—and why feedback is a gift that should shape, not just support, your leadership.
The One Page Strategy That Gets People to Buy In | Direct Application with Matt Harrington
In this episode of Direct Application, Matt Harrington breaks down the One Page Strategy (OPS) - a simple but powerful tool to turn big ideas into real action. If your strategic vision has ever stalled after a board meeting or team presentation, it might not be the idea - it might be how you're delivering (or showcasing) your idea.