Leaders are EVOLVE(ing)

Learn more about EVOLVE and see it in action.

Emily Gaines Demsky shared the origin of EVOLVE and how she hopes leaders keep EVOLVING!

Q: Where did the idea for EVOLVE come from?
A: Early on, a Na’aleh committee identified seven core practices for Jewish leaders and built a dense spreadsheet to capture them. It was useful but hard to engage with. Debs Weinberg and I asked: how could Na’aleh expand without simply adding more programs? That’s when we thought — what if we turned that spreadsheet into something people could actually pick up and use?

Q: Why a card deck?
A: A deck makes leadership practice tactile and interactive. You can shuffle, pick, and play — it’s far more engaging than a document that sits in a drawer.

Q: What was the process of building it?
A: A small team — tested decks, brainstormed design, and created a structure: each practice with solo, partner, and group activities. We piloted, refined, added QR codes, and built it piece by piece.

Q: How do you see leaders using EVOLVE?
A: Leaders might keep it on their desk and pull a card weekly, use it with an accountability partner, or start a board meeting with one. You could tape a card to your mirror, slip one into a note to a colleague, or pair it with a book. It’s flexible — at home, at work, or with your community.

Q: What transformation do you hope for?
A: That leaders see leadership as a practice — an ongoing journey, not just a role. Whether you’re new or experienced, the deck can meet you where you are and spark growth every time you use it.

Q: Any advice for first-time users?
A: Don’t overthink it. Just pick a card and try it — solo or with others. And register your deck with the QR code for great follow-up resources.

Q: Final thoughts?
A: This project grew out of the creativity of a small volunteer team. We built it because we believed in the need. My hope is that people use it, enjoy it, and share it so the practice of leadership continues to spread.