Steve Maloney, in a recent post, discussed the concept of “the right room,” which refers to being surrounded by people and environments that help maintain momentum toward personal and professional goals. He credits Chris Robinson’s book, Drift to Drive, for introducing him to this idea.
Maloney highlighted Robinson’s view that effective encouragement is not about comfort but about being challenged and supported beyond the status quo. According to Robinson, such support is intentional and comes from choosing the right group of people. The book poses questions for self-reflection: “Who are you consistently connected with who is dreaming big and achieving big? Who challenges you to do better and shows you how to be better? Who in your life has an abundant and generous mindset?”
He also referenced an analogy from cycling: in races like the Tour de France, riders form a “peloton” to conserve energy by working together. This collective effort can reduce resistance significantly, illustrating how progress is easier when not done alone.
Reflecting on his own career in HR leadership over the past decade, Maloney noted that leadership roles can be isolating. He stated he could have benefited from more support at times: “Looking back, I could’ve been more intentional in seeking out the right room and people to help me navigate my roles.”
Maloney advised leaders not to work in isolation but instead build a network of contacts for both challenging moments and periods of growth. “Leadership is a journey that doesn’t need to be taken alone,” he wrote.
Currently, Maloney works closely with Randy Wolken, President of MACNY (Manufacturers Association Of Central New York), and David Freund, MACNY’s Chief Leadership Officer. He described them as mentors—Freund also serves as his coach—and said their workplace exemplifies “the right room.” Maloney added that while his support system extends beyond MACNY, he values having access to such mentorship.
He concluded by encouraging others seeking leadership development or coaching services to reach out: “Recognize that we want to be in the right room with you and support you in your leadership journey… We’re just a phone call or email away.”
