Service, Connection, Gratitude, and Bold Pursuits

Lisa Lombardo shares a journey rooted in service, shaped by parents who “stayed in service throughout the bulk of their career.” She describes discovering her talent as a “serial connector,” matching people’s capacity with their passion in nonprofit fund development and later helping leaders exceed their own expectations. She recounts taking a significant pay cut to pursue consulting, working with boards, and eventually being drawn into hospitality as Chief Culture and Strategy Officer.

Lisa discusses advocacy, emphasizing knowing “when you are the right messenger and when you’re not,” and the importance of gratitude and asking policymakers “what’s on their radar.” She explains networking through inclusivity, authenticity, and connecting people who may benefit from knowing one another. Public speaking began as a challenge, her teacher once questioned her “social skills,”but she pursued it deliberately, developing confidence starting with a fifth-grade assembly and continuing through contests and church readings. Lisa also speaks about learning from other industries, borrowing ideas, and relying on both conferences and outside examples to shape growth.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• “I’m a really good serial connector.”
• “Knowing when you are the right messenger and knowing when you’re not.”
• “Authenticity goes a long way.”
• “I wanted to be someone that people feel I’m relatable to.”
• “Be bold.”

Closing Reflection

Lisa’s reflections highlight service, connection, and intentional boldness. She demonstrates how gratitude, curiosity, and authenticity strengthen relationships and open doors. Her willingness to take risks, learn from diverse spaces, and help others grow shows how leadership becomes a lived practice, not a title. Lisa encourages approaching opportunities with courage, centering personal values, and staying open to new paths that may unfold unexpectedly. Her insights affirm that being bold, grounded, and generous with others can create remarkable impact in any environment.