Ready to take the next step in your leadership journey? COLLAB is the professional supercharge that hundreds of executives and leaders have credited with their success.

In today’s world, communication isn’t a soft skill—it’s a power skill. That’s why we’re thrilled to welcome two incredible new voices to the Begin Team: Holly Mandel and Sharita Wilson.

Both bring decades of experience helping leaders build confidence, sharpen their message, and master the art of communication—not just in a boardroom, but in every room they walk into. Their arrival marks an exciting expansion of our executive presence programming, and we couldn’t be more energized about what’s ahead.

Missed our recent session with seasoned OD expert Michael Fischer? Catch a glimpse of the magic in action by watching the video below

Michael introduced The Strategy Map™ — a powerful one-page framework that helps leaders align purpose, define bold objectives, and drive real results. This session was packed with practical tools and real-world insight for anyone navigating complexity in leadership or organizational development.

Our recent Eventbrite on COLLAB Essentials brought together a dynamic group of leaders ready to sharpen their practice and show up with more presence, clarity, and impact. From practical frameworks to honest conversations, this session unpacked six essential tools that help leaders collaborate more effectively—especially in seasons of uncertainty and change.

In our conversation, Malika shared something that stayed with me. She said, “That was the best leadership development experience of my entire career, and that is my goal. That they look back, even a decade later, and say, that changed things for me.”

That is not a quick win. That is a long-view commitment to doing work that matters.

It made me think about what each of us is working toward. Will it last? Will it leave someone better, clearer, stronger? Or will it fade as soon as the moment passes?

Malika Begin, CEO and founder of Begin Development, an organizational development company that supports leadership development, retention, succession planning and company culture, has been named a winner of the 2025 Enterprising Women of the Year Awards, an annual tribute to the world's top women entrepreneurs. Begin will be recognized at the 23rd Annual Enterprising Women of the Year Awards Celebration & Conference, for her leadership. The event brings together dynamic women from around the world to share business insights, expand their networks and deepen mentoring commitments. It will be held from Thursday, March 27th to Saturday, March 29th, 2025 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee.

New year, fresh goals… but let’s be honest—too many of us are already running on fumes.

Burnout isn’t just about working too much—it’s about working without recovery, clarity, or purpose. Here are some ideas we discussed last month to keep up our energy for creativity and collaboration.

This month, I am delighted to introduce Malika Begin, CEO and founder of Begin Development, a consulting firm based in Malibu, California. Malika shares her insights on the transformative power of generous leadership—an approach rooted in empathy and purpose—especially during crises like the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles.

With many people spending significant time at work, it’s no surprise that the workplace can have an effect on one’s mental health. This week, Dr. Patrice chats with Malika Begin - Founder and CEO of Begin Development - about pressures and divides at work and creating healthy team dynamics.

This year, Begin Development was featured in VoyageLA Magazine’s Community Spotlight, highlighting our origin story and mission to cultivate people-centered leadership and build thriving, resilient teams.

Begin Development has been busy leading Succession Planning Sessions across the globe this year, thanks to a client who requested a full program. As a result of this work, Forbes invited Malika to share insights on how to choose a second-in-command. Naturally, she emphasized the importance of aligning core values between leaders—crucial for building a strong, unified team that can thrive through any challenge.

Last month, I became certified in Strengths Deployment Inventory (SDI), a tool I’ve worked with for years but now use more with Begin Development clients. This deeper dive has been a great reminder of a belief I hold close: we all deserve to be on exceptional teams, and building one together is always worth the effort.

The Five Tools for Self-Awareness:

1. Future Vision: Envision where you want to go in life.

2. True Passion: Identify what excites you.

3. What Am I Known For?: Understand and shape your personal brand.

4. Who Are Your People?: Recognize your support network.

5. Reflection: Reflect regularly to integrate learning.

Learn more about Malika's business journey and her thoughts on building something significant. Discover why Begin Development holds such significance for her, fueled by a bold vision and relentless passion. It’s an inside look at her gratitude, personality, and the energy she brings to every project. 

Last month, I found myself in the heart of Encino, surrounded by 16 extraordinary C-level women, each carrying a unique story, a legacy in the making, and a deep passion for creating positive change. This wasn’t just another weekend retreat—it was the beginning of something I’ve yearned for: a space where connection and growth intertwine in the most meaningful way.

Key Takeaways:

• Invest in potential successors immediately

• Start knowledge transfer conversations now

• Reflect on the conversations you need to have with your team

In today’s rapidly evolving work environment, hybrid work has become the new norm. But with it comes a unique set of challenges. Our founder, Malika Begin, was recently featured in The Financial Brand discussing how to navigate communication overload in a hybrid workplace.

Discover your inspiration and moments of rest in these remaining summer weeks.

What a gift to have Jeremy Utley join the Begin Development team for a quarterly call that truly shook up our thinking on AI and innovation.