Sylvia's Blog
The Beginning
I hope you and yours are well, this is the first of my letter blogs, this blog is a 40th anniversary gift to me. I want freer self-expression without the conditions of academia, the demands of reporting, assessment and analysis. It’s a space to tell the stories about my career. I hope readers will include family, friends and colleagues.
Untangling Team Dynamics: Insights from Patrick Lencioni’s Framework
Recently, I had the opportunity to work with a senior leadership team facing significant challenges in their peer relationships. The underlying tensions and strains were palpable, and it became clear that they needed support to navigate these complexities. This experience prompted me to dive deeper into resources that could aid them on their journey, leading me to Patrick Lencioni’s insightful book, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team.
Testimonial
What They Say
“I have had the privilege of inviting Dr. Sylvia Smith to present modules on a Therapeutic Foster Care Program based in Ireland over the last 2 years. Dr Smith presented modules on Diversity and Inclusion, and Becoming an Anti-racist practitioner, which were presented to foster carers and social work/care practitioners. Her interactive and participatory approach coupled with her gentle and engaging style of presentation put the groups at ease for what can be difficult subject matter to think about, especially for a predominantly white group. Her use of case studies and lived experience brought the subject matter to life and deepened the learning of the group, leaving the group eager to hear and learn more. I couldn’t recommend her training highly enough, we were privileged to have such a knowledgeable and skilled trainer facilitate on and enhance our training program.”
Andrew Kennedy - Social Care Manager
“I have worked with Sylvia for several years in different capacities and our co-facilitator relationship is one of the best and most memorable that I have experienced. She is a true partner, one that I feel I can be myself with, share wisdom and experiences, cultivate skills, hold a reflective space and importantly, laugh, together. Sylvia has been an inspirational leader, coach, teacher, facilitator, podcaster, writer, colleague and friend and a joy to be around. Her contribution to anti-racist practice, leadership and supervision has influenced me personally and professionally. I am grateful that we crossed paths at work and to have her in my network. Any individual or group needing a containing, empathic, safe, kind, calm and wise facilitator will experience this with Sylvia..”
Jo Williams - Freelance Trainer & Consultant Social Worker
“Sylvia’s team consultations were a game-changer for our child protection unit. Through systemic mapping and trauma-informed reflections, she guided us to surface and resolve long-standing dynamics that were holding us back. Her anti-racist lens ensured every voice was heard, and we now collaborate more effectively than everI’ve had the privilege of knowing and working alongside Dr Smith and I continue to be inspired by her thoughtful approach, deep knowledge, and her grounding in theoretical psychological frameworks. Her demonstrative commitment to elevating voices across social work and related professions, offering a platform where experts share insights that are both practical and profound.
What stands out most is the compassionate and insightful way she used her podcast during the COVID-19 pandemic. At a time when many were seeking clarity and connection, she provided both.”
Dr Arlene Weekes - Author, Academic & Consultant