“Starbucks CEO Announces A Huge Change to Win Back Customers”- https://www.inc.com/leila-sheridan/starbucks-ceo-announces-a-huge-change-to-win-back-customers/91284147
Why This Article Is Worth Your Time
This “Inc. Magazine” piece goes beyond business strategy and gets at something deeper: the human need for connection. The idea of the third place reminds us that people are not looking for more transactions. They are looking for places and cultures where they feel seen, welcomed, and able to belong.
That idea matters far beyond coffee shops. I do appreciate the intentionality Starbucks is doing to create a meaningful and human-centered experience for their customers.
Here’s the Core of What It Shows
When organizations intentionally design spaces that invite people to slow down, connect, and stay awhile, trust and loyalty follow. The article reinforces that strong leadership is not about efficiency alone. It is about creating environments where relationships can take root and people feel grounded.
That is the heart of human centered leadership.
Why This Connects to My Work
This concept echoes the work I collaborated on with Dr. Andrea Trudeau during our ISTE+ASCD Webinar Series and poster session at the ISTE+ASCD Conference in San Antonio. It also aligns closely with the conversations Dr. Sonia Matthew and I are exploring in an upcoming podcast series focused on human centered leadership.
Whether in schools, organizations, or communities, leaders shape the culture by shaping the spaces people experience every day.
Bottom Line
Leadership is not just what we measure or manage. It is what we build for people to gather, connect, and belong. This article is a timely reminder that presence still matters and so does place.
Let me know your thoughts and learning on this article. You are invited to the conversation as we are all #StillLearning.
Leadership Liner Notes: Sean Gaillard 