

Leading Change from the Inside Out
Did you know that sunflowers symbolize change because of their ability to thrive in challenging conditions? In our lives, change keeps...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Apr 11, 20253 min read


The Future Is Here—How Will We Lead in the Age of AI?
The Power of Possibility Expo Panel Conversation I recently attended The Power of Possibility Expo hosted by AI Ready RVA at the...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Mar 13, 20254 min read


Beyond Politics: Richmond Leaders’ Retreat Focus on Trust, Transparency & Teamwork
Richmond City Council President Cynthia Newbille tries to lead a blindfolded Mayor Danny Avula around a series of obstacles during a...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Mar 7, 20253 min read


The Power of Coaching and Innovation and the Lessons We Learn Along the Way
More than a decade ago, I had an opportunity that would change my professional and personal trajectory: I got my first executive coach,...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Feb 21, 20253 min read


The Power of Storytelling to Shape the Future
Photo by Jay Paul Growing up, I had the privilege of having a grandfather, Henry Towns, who was a great storyteller. I would listen to...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Feb 13, 20253 min read


Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement: A Legacy of Innovation
Early in my career, I spent an unforgettable afternoon with Dr. Wyatt T. Walker, Chief of Staff for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., at the...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Jan 16, 20253 min read


Lessons in Innovation and Ingenuity from the Richmond Water Crisis
While working to meet a deadline, there was a knock on my door, and it was my neighbor who had a case of purified water, alerting me that...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Jan 10, 20253 min read


The Ujima Legacy Fund: Redefining Philanthropy Through Collective Giving
What does it mean to innovate in philanthropy? For the Ujima Legacy Fund, it means coming together with a shared vision, pooling...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Dec 31, 20242 min read


Building Innovative Solutions to Transform Housing
I'm witnessing firsthand that we're in the midst of a housing crisis that calls for bold solutions from diverse groups of stakeholders in...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Dec 13, 20243 min read


Travis Hunter's Masterclass on Humanity & Life
As I watched Travis Hunter’s 2024 Heisman Speech , I saw a young man embracing the moment, his humanity, and all those who supported him...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Dec 13, 20244 min read


A Season of Gratitude and Growth: What I Learned from 9 Years of Leadership with Philanthropy Southeast
As the season of Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself reflecting on a profoundly meaningful nine-year journey with Philanthropy...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Nov 28, 20243 min read


Embracing Change as the New Normal
We've heard the stories of household names like Blockbuster, Sears, and Kodak, who are powerful reminders of what can happen when we fail...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Oct 31, 20243 min read


More Than Dancing : Lessons in Innovation from the 2nd Street Festival and the Richmond Folk Festival
As I danced and just enjoyed the vibe at two of Richmond's most enduring fall traditions, the Richmond Folk Festival and the 2nd Street...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Oct 24, 20243 min read


The Future Starts Today: Generational Diversity, Innovation and Succession
Succession is becoming one of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of an organization's sustainability. My current work shows...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Oct 17, 20243 min read


Coaching CEOs to Lead the Five-Generation Workforce
How can CEOs lead a five-generation workforce successfully?

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Oct 9, 20243 min read


Thanking Our Partners!
Your commitment to being a creative force for good and positively impacting your team, organization, and community is truly inspiring....

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Sep 27, 20241 min read


Breaking the Silence: How Innovation Can Support Mental Health and Well-Being
It's no surprise that mental health is emerging as a critical topic of workplace conversation in today's fast-paced world. Sometimes, we...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Sep 19, 20243 min read


Creating Innovative Pathways to Build Wealth and Close the Wealth Gap
Growing up, my mom and dad worked three jobs between them, and we never discussed money beyond saving and my parents ensuring we had...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Sep 5, 20243 min read


Beyond the Gold: Lessons on Coaching & Innovation from the 2024 Paris Olympics
While watching the post-game celebration of the gold medal basketball game at the Paris Olympics between the United States and France, a...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Aug 22, 20243 min read


Breaking the Silence: How Courageous Conversations Fuel Innovation
How often do we pride ourselves on politeness? How often are our meetings a symphony of nods and agreements, where we do our best to...

Robert L. Dortch, Jr.
Aug 5, 20243 min read

