I’ve been thinking about how often leaders get placed in new rooms and assume they need to perform… instead of learn.

This week’s Amputate to Elevate ThinkLetter features a powerful conversation with Marie Royce — former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs.

She’s led billion-dollar portfolios, built international exchange programs, and navigated cross-sector leadership transitions most would never attempt.

What stuck with me?

She walked into a global industry event of 5,000 people, brand new to the space — and said: