Do we solve problems by shouting louder through social media and packed public meetings, or do we invest in building stronger systems for genuine partnership?

We've all been in situations where someone asked for our opinion, nodded thoughtfully, and then proceeded to do exactly what they were going to do anyway. Call it what you like, but that's not collaboration. It's theater.

"His whole profession was climbing on rafters... he had six cars, lost them all, had a high-rise downtown, lost it all…and then he ended up in a homeless shelter." 

The most effective leaders don't just share updates—they share understanding. They distill complex issues into what people actually need to know, then invite them into the conversation.