Press Release
Launching alongside the forthcoming book, Be the Boss You Wish You'd Had , the cohort-based program combines expert-led instruction, interactive workshops, and peer learning to develop stronger, more effective managers.
BOSTON, MA — October 19, 2026 — PathWise, a career development and professional training firm, today announced the launch of Being the Boss , a new 12-week management training program designed to help new and experienced managers develop the skills, confidence, and practical tools needed to lead people effectively.
The program launches in conjunction with the forthcoming publication of Be the Boss You Wish You'd Had: A People-First Guide to Management , co-authored by PathWise CEO James (J.R.) Lowry and organizational psychologist Daniela De Luca, PhD. Published by Page Two and distributed by Macmillan, the book offers a practical, people-first approach to navigating the challenges of management.
Addressing a Critical Gap in Management Development
Despite the enormous influence managers have on employee engagement, performance, and retention, many enter management roles with little formal preparation. Gallup research has consistently shown that managers account for approximately 70% of the variance in employee engagement across teams, underscoring the importance of effective management.
"Most managers are promoted because they're good at their jobs, not because they've been prepared to lead other people," said Lowry. "They're expected to figure out how to motivate employees, give difficult feedback, navigate conflict, and build high-performing teams, often with very little guidance. We created Being the Boss to change that."
A Practical, Interactive Approach to Learning
Unlike traditional management training programs that rely heavily on lectures or self-paced content, Being the Boss combines the flexibility of prerecorded instruction with the engagement and accountability of live, cohort-based learning.
Over 12 weeks, participants develop essential management capabilities through a combination of:
- Expert-led, prerecorded training: Accessible learning modules that introduce core management concepts, practical frameworks, and proven techniques.
- Live, interactive workshops: Facilitated sessions that allow participants to explore management challenges, ask questions, and practice new skills.
- Peer-based learning: Small-group discussions and shared experiences that help managers learn from one another and build supportive professional relationships.
- Role-plays and real-world scenarios: Hands-on exercises that give participants opportunities to practice difficult conversations, work through management dilemmas, and apply what they've learned.
- Practical tools and reflection: Exercises and resources that help participants translate learning into changes in their day-to-day management practices.
The program addresses fundamental management challenges, including making the transition from individual contributor to manager, building trust, communicating effectively, coaching and developing employees, providing feedback, delegating, managing performance, and navigating difficult workplace situations.
"Our philosophy is that you don't become a better manager simply by listening to someone talk about management," said De Luca. "You improve by practicing, reflecting, getting feedback, and learning from the experiences of others. That's what we've built into the program."
Bringing the Book's Principles to Life
Being the Boss builds on the central premise of Lowry and De Luca's forthcoming book: effective management begins with understanding people, including yourself.
The book draws on management research, practical frameworks, and lessons from decades of leadership experience to help managers avoid common mistakes and develop an authentic, people-first approach.
The training program takes those ideas a step further, giving participants a structured opportunity to put them into practice over three months.
"We wanted to do more than write a book that people read, enjoy, and put on a shelf," Lowry added. "We wanted to create a way for managers to build lasting habits and become the kind of boss they would have wanted to work for themselves. The book provides the ideas and the framework. The training program helps people turn those ideas into action."
Designed for Individuals and Organizations
The program is intended for professionals who are new to management, preparing for their first management role, or looking to strengthen their existing leadership capabilities. It also offers organizations a practical way to invest in their management talent, improve the employee experience, and build stronger teams.
By bringing managers together in cohorts, PathWise aims to create a learning environment in which participants can share experiences, test ideas, build confidence, and support one another as they put new skills into practice.
Program Information and Enrollment
Organizations and individuals interested in learning more about Being the Boss , including upcoming cohorts and enrollment opportunities, can visit the PathWise website , email [email protected] or call (855) 728-4947.
Additional information about PathWise and its professional development offerings is available at www.pathwise.io .
About PathWise
PathWise is a career development and professional learning company dedicated to helping people navigate their careers and thrive at work. Through training programs, workshops, coaching, and practical career resources, PathWise helps professionals build the skills and confidence to succeed at every stage of their careers. Its offerings support both individuals seeking to accelerate their development and organizations investing in their people.
About the Authors
James (J.R.) Lowry is the CEO of PathWise, host of the Career Sessions podcast, keynote speaker, and former senior executive in the financial services industry. An engineer by training, former U.S. Air Force officer, and former McKinsey partner, he brings decades of experience leading teams and developing talent.
Daniela De Luca, PhD , is a researcher specializing in organizational behavior. Her work focuses on leadership, management, career development, and the human dynamics that shape people's experiences at work.
Media Contact
PathWise
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (855) 728-4947
Website: www.pathwise.io
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