All Posts

One thing to NEVER say in response to plagiarism accusations I take a close look at the risk of unintentional plagiarism, explain why a defensive reaction to plagiarism allegations can backfire, and outline what a more effective, integrity-focused response looks like. Find out how to shift your thinking from proving innocence to demonstrating integrity. Read the full article on Substack →

Why Polarization Could Be The Biggest Crisis Leaders Face in 2026 I explore why facts alone are now often insufficient to guide public opinion or protect leaders during a crisis. Growing polarization is changing how crises form and escalate, creating a new kind of risk for organizations, governments, and public figures. Find out what leaders can do to respond more effectively in situations when facts are no longer persuasive. Read the article on Substack →

One thoughtless comment or online post meant for a private audience can quickly turn into a reputational problem you didn’t intend. In this article, I walk through a real-world scenario in which a frustrated remark about a meeting spread beyond its original circle, triggering formal complaints and risking professional credibility. Learn how missteps like this create lasting impressions, why common defensive reactions make things worse, and what leaders and communicators can d

I discuss why academic reputation matters deeply in a career where perceptions, peer review, citations, and professional conduct shape opportunities and long-term standing. I break down how reputational risk can arise, how common reactions make things worse, and what practical steps scholars and research professionals can take to safeguard their credibility and professional relationships. Read the full article on Substack →

Lessons from a real-world example in which a well-known professional body lost a major discrimination case... a situation that was so surprising precisely because that organization should have been an expert in preventing such outcomes. What happens when you fail at the very thing you’re meant to excel at? Why do defensive communications often make the credibility gap worse? How do you begin to rebuild trust when an expertise failure threatens stakeholder confidence? Find out

When something goes seriously wrong in a research lab or team, the instinct to tell people to stay quiet can feel natural. I explain why that instinct is almost always the wrong call and how attempting to shut down communication amplifies reputational risk, erodes trust, and invites damaging rumours to spread. Find out how to replace secrecy with transparency, rebuild confidence through clear communication, and handle crises in a way that protects both your leadership and you

When a regulatory inquiry from the NIH lands on your desk, everything can start to unravel. Fast. I walk through why the way you communicate with stakeholders during an NIH inquiry matters as much as the technical and compliance issues themselves, and how strategic, calm messaging can protect your credibility and future. Find out how to frame messages with internal teams, funders, and collaborators, and why consistency across audiences is essential. Read the full article on S