Leadership conversations don’t always happen on stages or behind podiums. Sometimes they happen over coffee, around a table, in thoughtful conversation with people who simply want to grow and learn more.
That’s the spirit of the WISL Roundtables. Each month, leaders from different industries and backgrounds gather for a simple, one-hour conversation about what it means to lead with service, humility, and purpose. Multiple locations across Wisconsin (Milwaukee, Green Bay, Appleton, & La Crosse, to name a few) meet up in-person or virtually for your convenience. Occasionally, there are presentations, but there is no pressure—just thoughtful dialogue and shared learning. You can learn more about the topics that are covered monthly and the format of these meetings on our website.
Welcome to Roundtable Roundup #1! If you’ve ever wondered what happens at a Roundtable, or felt a little shy about joining one, here is a look at what we explored during the first few months of 2026. Once you learn more, we hope you’ll join us at a future Roundtable!
January Discussion: Awareness & Mindfulness in Leadership
The year began with a conversation about something many leaders struggle with: being fully present.
Participants reflected on mindfulness, awareness, and the role these play in servant leadership. The conversation explored how leaders can slow down enough to truly understand their teams, their environments, and the people they serve.
One thought to consider from this discussion is: “The most basic and powerful way to connect to another person is to listen. Just listen” (Rachel Naomi Remen).
Roundtable participants shared particular ways they try to stay grounded during busy workdays, from taking a moment before meetings to actively listening rather than preparing the next response.
The biggest takeaway is that leadership often starts with awareness. You can learn more in our blog, How to Be a Good Leader Through Listening and Empathy.
February Discussion: Giving Feedback That Helps People Grow
February’s roundtable explored a topic nearly every leader wrestles with: how to give feedback in a way that empowers rather than discourages. There is a natural tension around feedback. On one hand, people may be looking for feedback, yet on the other hand, many people fear hearing feedback.
The discussion emphasized that feedback isn’t just about correcting mistakes; it’s about helping people improve and feel supported, not just to point out failures or wrongdoings.
One quote from Ken Blanchard that particularly resonates with this topic is: “Feedback is the breakfast of champions.” Reframing feedback as fuel for improvement rather than personal judgment makes it less intimidating.
Leaders and team members must understand the intentional effort required to create environments where feedback is normal, honest, and rooted in growth rather than seen as criticism. Roundtable discussions like this give opportunities for anyone to learn how to give and receive feedback positively.
March Discussion: Empathy in the Workplace
March’s roundtable focused on a cornerstone of servant leadership: empathy.
This discussion prompted participants to look at how empathy shows up in everyday workplace interactions, from difficult conversations to moments when colleagues are struggling personally or professionally.
A quote from Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella can add to this reflection: “If you can’t empathize with the people you’re leading, you can’t lead them.” This is a reminder that empathy isn’t a weakness. In fact, it is the #1 leadership skill of the future and should be embraced as a strength.
So, what makes WISL Roundtables different? How do these conversations make an impact?
What Makes WISL Roundtables Different
One thing newcomers often notice right away: roundtables are intentionally simple.
Each session follows a similar rhythm:
- A brief introduction (often with a fun icebreaker)
- A topic centered on servant leadership
- Small group discussion
- One takeaway or action item to bring back into daily leadership
There are no speeches to sit through and no expectations to have all the answers. Instead, roundtables create space for something important in leadership development: honest conversation.
These community conversations are where real growth and learning happen because diverse POVs converge to work together. People share experiences, listen to others, and often leave with fresh perspectives they didn’t expect. You can learn more about what and when WISL Roundtables are here.
Thinking About Joining a Servant-Leader Roundtable?
If you’ve been curious about attending a Roundtable but are unsure of what to expect, you’re not alone. Many people come to their first Roundtable simply to listen and learn. That’s perfectly okay. The goal isn’t to impress anyone; the goal is to grow together.
If you’re interested in joining a future Roundtable, we’d love to have you at the table! Whether that is virtual or in-person, we offer various times, meeting dates, and locations to offer you flexibility. We’re always looking for new members to come share their experiences and learn with us.
Note: Insights and quotes were provided by Gene Wright, Assistant Professor, MSOE Rader School of Business, 2026. Wright also leads the monthly Milwaukee West (in-person) and Milwaukee Downtown (in-person) Roundtable meetings!