Peter Laughter
When big change happens typical leaders grasp for more control, yet the greatest leaders give more of it away
Frederick, Maryland, United States
Actions
Twelve years ago, I had an experience that changed everything I thought I knew about leadership. At the time, I was steeped in the command-and-control mindset that had defined my entrepreneurial career. Then, while serving on the board of a Quaker school,
we faced an “unsolvable” problem. But instead of relying on authority or titles, we turned to the collective brilliance of the community. What happened next was transformative, not just for the school, but for me. I discovered that leadership isn’t about control. It’s about connection, partnership, and unlocking the potential around you.
That moment set me on a new path.
For over a decade, I’ve been studying innovative organizations, experimenting with new leadership approaches, and working within communities like Conscious Capitalism to help leaders navigate an increasingly disruptive world. What I’ve found is this: to thrive in today’s environment, we must move beyond outdated command-and-control structures. We need dynamic, human-centered leadership—where authority is distributed, creativity is unlocked, and connection drives success.
What I Bring
I’ve spent 25+ years founding businesses, leading teams, and creating solutions that earned accolades like the Inc. 500. I pioneered the first SaaS platform for enterprise contingent labor programs, served elite consultancies and banks, and built three successful firms in the staffing and recruiting industry. These experiences taught me what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to leadership.
But my work today isn’t just about business success. It’s about helping leaders reimagine their roles so they can create workplaces full of resilience, connection, and yes, even joy.
Connecting Through Storytelling
I’m a TEDx speaker on Radical Empathy and a three-time Moth Story Slam winner, with one story featured on The Moth Podcast. I believe storytelling isn’t just a skill—it’s how we connect, inspire, and move people to action. Whether on stage or in conversation, I bring stories that resonate, challenge, and inspire leaders to see new possibilities.
When I’m Not Working
You’ll find me pedaling trails on my bicycle, lost in a good book, or laughing my way through another adventure with my wife Stacey. Most of all, I love riding the Cyclone with my daughter Eddy.
Area of Expertise
Topics
Please note that Sessionize is not responsible for the accuracy or validity of the data provided by speakers. If you suspect this profile to be fake or spam, please let us know.
Jump to top