It was my daughter who first said, “Mom, you have to watch this TED Talk.” She knows I’m always on the lookout for stories or videos that spark reflection and shift perspective. And she was right—Drew Dudley’s Leading With Lollipops hit me straight in the heart.
Watch this video – it’s about 6 minutes well spent!!
This story beautifully illustrates a core message from Chapter 5 “ Demonstrating Respect” chapter of my book Your B.R.A.N.D. Unleashed:
You are a leader.
Yes, you. Regardless of your title, your role, or how long you’ve been with the company.
Leadership isn’t reserved for the C-suite. It lives in every interaction, every decision, every moment of kindness. Whether you’re answering phones, managing projects, or greeting clients at the door, you have the power to influence someone’s experience. And that influence starts with respect.
Respect Is the Foundation of Leadership
Respect isn’t just about being polite. It’s about recognizing the value each person brings to the table. It’s about listening, acknowledging, and celebrating the quiet contributions that often go unnoticed.
When we treat every team member like they matter, because they do, we create space for these “lollipop moments” to happen. We empower people to lead in their own way. We build cultures where clients feel the difference, not just in service, but in spirit.
In fact, some of the most powerful leadership moments happen when no one’s watching. When someone steps up to help a colleague. When a team member goes the extra mile for a client. When someone chooses kindness over convenience.
These are the moments that shape your brand. These are the moments that build loyalty, trust, and connection.
Success Exercise: You’re Leading Already – Let’s Make It Intentional
So here’s my challenge to you: Look for the lollipop moments. Create them. Celebrate them. And most importantly, respect the people who make them possible.
Bonus: Turn this into a team discussion. Ask each team member to watch this Ted Talk and then share how each member has demonstrated leadership or been the recipient of an act of kindness.
Because you never know when a simple lollipop moment will shift the life of a stranger.
Would it be crazy to build a culture of leadership, empathy, and impact in your business?
I’d love to help. Through my B.R.A.N.D. Method workshops, speaking, and/or coaching, I help leaders like you unleash the power of emotional intelligence and communication to grow your business and your team.
Let’s connect and start building your leadership awareness and skills—one lollipop moment at a time.
Lisa Shorr is a Certified Image Consultant, Business Communication Coach, Co-Owner of a thriving MSP, and best-selling, award-winning author of Your B.R.A.N.D. Unleashed: 9 Proven Strategies That Build Trust and Maintain Lasting Client Loyalty. With over two decades in the IT industry, Lisa specializes in helping MSP and small business owners and leaders develop their executive presence, improve client retention, and become trusted authorities in their field. Through her proven B.R.A.N.D. Method and high-impact coaching programs, Lisa transforms technical teams into confident, client-focused professionals who lead with clarity, connection, and confidence.
Originally published on Substack.
