What does real leadership look like?

A Note from the CEO

Last week, I was teaching a class for beginner-level players. One of the first topics you learn on your chess journey is major vs. minor pieces. Simply put, major pieces are queens and rooks. Minor pieces are bishops and knights. Only major pieces can move across an entire rank or file in a single move. A single major piece can deliver a checkmate to a lone king, whereas a minor piece cannot. We talked about how major pieces often play a central role in executing long-term strategic plans.

Later, a student was playing a game and gave away their bishops and knights. I asked why he gave away pieces of value. He said because they weren’t in his long-term strategic plan. I said, why not?

That sparked a powerful conversation—not just about chess, but about how we define value, purpose, and contribution.

In both chess and life, it’s easy to focus on the most visible moves and boldest players—the ones that cover the most ground or get the most recognition. But true strategy demands a deeper understanding. Bishops and knights may not span the board in a single move, but they are essential to shaping the position, setting traps, creating opportunities, and protecting the core. They do what no other piece can.

Every piece has a unique strength. Knights leap over barriers. Bishops cut across diagonals, quietly influencing the board. Rooks bring power when coordinated, and queens execute and finish the job. There’s no such thing as an unimportant role when the goal is long-term success.

Whether you're building a team, leading an organization, or designing your next move in life, remember: progress comes from harmony, not hierarchy. It’s not about major or minor—it’s about making sure every piece is seen, supported, and strategically positioned to thrive.

That’s what real leadership looks like.

I have a feeling my student won’t be so quick to give up their knights and bishops next time—and that’s a win on and off the board.

xx,

Ashley Lynn Priore

Quote of the Week

"Each piece on the chessboard has its purpose. Greatness lies in knowing how to use them all." – Me! There…I said it.

Coming Up in the Pod

Micaela English on Owning Your Story, Embracing Change & Building a Career with Heart

In this episode of Queen Me, we sit down with Micaela English—a dynamic journalist, storyteller, and digital innovator whose work spans luxury, lifestyle, fashion, and beauty. From navigating unexpected career detours to redefining success on her own terms, Micaela shares a candid and empowering look at her path through the evolving world of media. This conversation dives into the power of resilience, the future of digital storytelling, and what it really means to unleash your inner queen.

Puzzle Solution:

Nxb3, Kxb3

h5, gxh5 (tricky!)

g5, hxg5

fxg5 (just keep moving!)