Most resolutions fail when they’re made alone. As we’re likely to head into a year of extremes, the real advantage won’t come from motivation, but from shared commitments, clear systems, and the confidence to navigate uncertainty together. In this episode, Bonny is joined by co-host Mark Harrison, a serial entrepreneur, community builder, and purpose-driven leader. They unpack why resolutions and goals are far more successful when they’re set collectively, with a deep understanding of what your colleagues, clients, and teams are aiming for and are supported by structures that enable execution. With 2026 shaping up to be a volatile year, the conversation moves beyond fear to confidence, and how scenario thinking, resilience, and building trust help teams stay grounded. They also dig into the trends leaders need to prepare for: the growing impact of AI paired with the rising value of human judgment, the importance of building rhythms and routines to counter uncertainty, and why human-centric leadership is no longer optional, but a business imperative. Key Takeaways: ➡️ Leadership that lasts is practiced, not promised: Instead of relying on resolutions, strong leadership is built through determination, adaptability, and consistent follow-through over time. ➡️ Balance vision with rhythm: Align on a clear long-term direction, then use short, repeatable cycles of reflection and learning to stay focused and adaptive as a team. ➡️ Build confidence before pressure hits: Scenario thinking and confidence-building help leaders respond with clarity rather than panic when conditions shift. ➡️ Human leadership is the real differentiator in an AI-driven world: As AI accelerates work, human judgment, empathy, and clarity matter more than ever. In a high-intensity year, culture, connection, and trust are essential leadership priorities. Listener Challenge: 1️⃣ In complex, uncertain years like the one ahead, leadership isn’t about carrying everything yourself. Momentum is built through shared resolve, when goals are understood, supported, and carried together. 2️⃣ So ask yourself: Whose goals are you helping to carry in 2026, and who’s helping to carry yours? Tools & Resources: ➡️ Read more about the Year of the Fire Horse ➡️ Follow this Step-by-Step Guide for Scenario Planning ➡️ Leading in a 90 day world with EOS Our Co-Hosts: Mark Harrison Mark Harrison founded the MH3 Collective, a group of ventures grounded in passion, people, profit and purpose. The Collective includes Humanity, T1, Sidekick, and SponsorshipX. In addition, he co-founded the Black Talent Initiative to combat racism through economic resilience and Park Street Education, a charity to remove all barriers to children’s education. His community involvement includes serving as the Board Chair of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Toronto and as a Board Member of the CAMH Foundation and the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences/The JUNO Awards. Mark is a recipient of the Black Business and Professional Association's Harry Jerome Award, the Association of Canadian Advertisers’ 2022 Gold Medal Award winner, a 2025 Marketing Hall of Legends inductee, and the 2025 Sponsorship Marketing Council of Canada Hall of Fame winner. Mark is also CBC Toronto Metro Morning’s business columnist, regularly discussing marketing, workplace, and entrepreneurial matters. Bonny van Rest Strategic Thinker. Bold Challenger. Grounded Visionary. Bonny is a strategist, facilitator, and co-founder of Sidekick Consulting who believes momentum is built in the middle of the mess. With a background as a CMO and over a decade of experience across startup and corporate environments, she’s known for her sharp thinking, no-nonsense mindset, and ability to turn big ideas into grounded action. Bonny brings a calm presence, clear direction, and just the right amount of edge to move things forward—with intention. Production by PRCPRN Studio. Directed by Giuliana DiBonaventura
