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The Trio Program is designed to build and strengthen leadership, trust, communication, and collaboration through a series of structured “Jam Sessions.” While the work begins within the Trio, its purpose extends beyond it. The program fosters personal and professional growth by equipping participants to lead with confidence, navigate conflict, and engage in high-stakes conversations in real organizational settings. Through intentional reflection and practice, members deepen self-awareness, strengthen relationships, and develop team dynamics that translate directly to their home units, professional networks, and leadership roles, amplifying the impact well beyond the Trio itself.
Welcome video
Welcome video
What’s involved?
What’s involved?
Ten Jam Sessions: Trios follow a deliberately structured curriculum over a four-month timeframe. Each meeting or “Jam Session” lasts 60-75 minutes and occurs every other week.
Maintenance Sessions: We hope that after the 10 Jam Sessions, participants will find value in the process and will continue meeting regularly as needed or desired to maintain relationships, accountability, revisit goals, and support one another's involvement and contributions in broader Pathfinder initiatives. Your Trio involvement, like your involvement in Pathfinder, is more than just another task. It represents a dedication to building and strengthening yourself, the Pathfinder team, and the Air Force.
Jam Session 1: Foundations of Trust & Self-Awareness
Jam Session 1: Foundations of Trust & Self-Awareness
Overview
Jam Session 1 allows Trio members to build individual and team awareness, setting the foundational tone for trust, cohesion, and shared understanding.
Why this matters
Teams thrive when individuals understand how their strengths, and the overuse of those strengths, shape interactions. Self-awareness is the starting point for trust, effective collaboration, and learning together.
Pre-work
Complete assessments in Cloverleaf: https://pathfinder.cloverleaf.me
Review personal and team results.
Reflect on how your strengths and growth areas influence your interactions in team settings.
Consider writing down your reflections in a personal document to prepare for group discussion.
Part 1: Sound Check
Share one assessment result that surprised you.
Part 2: Strengths and Shadows Exercise
Choose a strength from your assessment.
Share an example of how it helped in a past project or relationship.
Then, share how this same strength can become a liability in both personal and professional situations (e.g., overuse, misalignment with situation).
Part 3: Rhythm Check
On a scale of 1–10, how well do you know your Trio members now?
What could we do differently next time to build stronger connections?
Post-work
Share a key insight from today's Jam Session with your Trio asynchronously (e.g., Signal, Teams, etc).
Consider how content discussed in today's Jam Session could be relevant for personal and work situations out of your Trio.
Review your trio in the Cloverleaf team and notice and overlaps and gaps.
Jam Session 2: Building Psychological Safety
Jam Session 2: Building Psychological Safety
Overview
Jam Session 2 introduces psychological safety and explores how it shows up within the Pathfinder program, your Trio, and your broader teams.
Why this matters
People do their best work when they feel safe to speak up, take risks, and share ideas. Psychological safety—pioneered by Amy Edmondson—is a key ingredient in high-performing teams.
Pre-work
Watch: What is Psychological Safety? (7 min) What Is Psychological Safety?
Reflect on a time when you felt psychologically safe—or unsafe—in a team or group setting.
Consider jotting down your thoughts to support deeper discussion.
Part 1: Sound Check
Share a time you took an interpersonal risk in a team or group situation and how it played out.
What contributed to feeling safe or unsafe in that experience?
What behaviors have you noticed (in yourself and others) encourage psychological safety?
Part 2: Creating a Safe Space Exercise
This exercise co-creates team norms that support trust, dialogue, and feedback.
Use the Team Dashboard in Cloverleaf to complete the “Building Trust in Your Team” activity.
Steps: Log-in to Cloverleaf. On the Team Dashboard, access the “Cloverleaf Spotlight” in the left column under “Activities.” Set-up and complete the “Building Trust in Your Team” activity. Note: click “View Directions” button at top right for activity details/discussion prompts.
Write down detailed norms that you’d like to follow as a Trio. Consider both procedural and relational norms.
Procedural norms are agreed upon ways work is managed. How we...
Plan and make decisions
Track action and accountability
Use tools and platforms
Capture our learning
Relational norms are how we are expected to treat each other. How we...
Ensure psychological safety
Communicate when things are difficult
Handle mistakes
Create the optimal environment for our work together
Example Team Norms
Procedural
Communicate via Signal mostly, use Teams/Email on as needed basis.
Attend all meetings – if need to miss, let team know ASAP.
Get the next meeting scheduled at the end of every meeting.
Relational
Assume positive intent in all interactions.
Provide constructive feedback with specific observations and suggestions.
Encourage curiosity by asking questions before making assumptions.
Part 3: Rhythm Check
On a scale of 1–10, how safe do you feel sharing openly on this team?
What actions could strengthen psychological safety?
Post-work
Practice one team norm in another setting (e.g. at work) and observe the impact.
Share your observations asynchronously with your Trio to keep between session communication flowing.
Jam Session 3: Effective Communication & Feedback
Jam Session 3: Effective Communication & Feedback
Overview
Jam Session 3 explores a core Pathfinder capability: communication. Participants examine challenges, habits, and best practices for giving and receiving feedback effectively.
Why this matters
Miscommunication and unspoken frustrations can derail even the most skilled teams. Learning how to give and receive feedback effectively helps prevent misunderstandings and fosters continuous growth.
Pre-work
Invite your team coach to this jam session.
Identify a recent communication challenge that you experienced or observed either within the Pathfinder Program or at work.
Consider writing down your thoughts ahead of the session.
Part 1: Sound Check
What communication habits work well for you?
What are examples of people in your life who are optimal communicators? What is it that you’ve noticed that works so well?
What makes receiving feedback easier, or harder?
Part 2: Feedback in Action Exercise
Use the Team Dashboard in Cloverleaf to complete the “Supercharging Collaboration” activity. Note: click “View Directions” button at top right for activity details/discussion prompts.
Watch 4 Steps to Giving Constructive Feedback (2:52 min) and discuss ways in which concepts from the video can be implemented in your life, personally (e.g. at home and with relationships) and professionally (e.g. in your Trio, in other Pathfinder efforts, at work).
Part 3: Rhythm Check
Complete a 3-minute survey reflecting on your experience in Trios. We use this data to adjust the curriculum and process before each new cohort starts.
Post-work
Practice implementing insights from today’s Jam Session in another setting.
Share what you did and how others responded with your Trio asynchronously.
Jam Session 4: Collaboration Styles & Conflict Resolution
Jam Session 4: Collaboration Styles & Conflict Resolution
Overview
Jam Session 4 uses insights from the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Model to explore another Pathfinder capability, collaboration, through the lens of conflict styles and resolution.
Why this matters
Conflict is inevitable in teams. When navigated skillfully, it becomes a source of learning, creativity, and stronger relationships.
Pre-work
Reflect on a time you handled conflict well and a time you didn’t.
Reflect on a time that you observed someone else handle conflict well. What did you take from the observation?
Part 1: Sound Check
What’s your conflict style? How does it affect teamwork?
What have you learned from observing others engage in successful conflict resolution?
What are some areas you’d like to maintain and what are some areas you’d like to grow?
Part 2: Conflict as Opportunity Exercise
Use the Team Dashboard in Cloverleaf to complete the “Solving Problems as a Team” activity.
Steps: Log-in to Cloverleaf. On the Team Dashboard, access the “Cloverleaf Spotlight” in the left column under “Activities.” Set-up and complete the “Solving Problems as a Team” activity. Note: click “View Directions” button at top right for activity details/discussion prompts.
Watch this overview of the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Model (TKI) or read the following description:
Competing (High Assertiveness, Low Cooperativeness) – A win-lose approach where one person prioritizes their own goals over others’. Best used when quick, decisive action is needed, such as in emergencies.
Share your dominant style with the group and an example from your work or personal life where your style showed up, e.g., “In a past project, two team members disagreed on priorities. One pushed for speed, while the other wanted detailed planning. This led to frustration instead of synergy. If we had used a collaborative approach, we might have found a balance between efficiency and thoroughness.”
How can you apply concepts discussed today in other contexts (e.g., Pathfinder, work, and/or home?)
Post-work
Observe your conflict style in action and share with your Trio.
Jam Session 5: Aligning Purpose & Goal Setting
Jam Session 5: Aligning Purpose & Goal Setting
Overview
Through structured discussion and goal-setting, Jam Session 5 helps Trios set goals and support each other with accountability.
Why this matters
Purpose and clarity enable sustained momentum. Alignment strengthens commitment, focus, and follow-through.
Pre-work
Invite your team coach to this jam session.
Reflect on one personal or professional goal and one Pathfinder goal.
Part 2: Crafting a Trio Charter Exercise
With your “Sound Check” and previous discussions about Trio norms in mind…
Part 3: Rhythm Check
On a scale of 1-10 (0 = not likely, 10 = extremely likely), how likely do you feel you are to take action on your goals between today and the next Jam Session?
What adjustments can be made to make it even more likely that you’ll take action in the direction of your goals?
Does the goal need to be smaller? Does it need to be more important? Do you need accountability from the Trio or from someone else?
Have one representative from your Trio complete this Trio Vision and Goals Form to notify Pathfinders of your Trio's vision and goals.
Post-work
Check-ins as helpful/desired (via Signal, Teams, or some other means).
Set a reminder for a personal reflection on short-term goals.
Optional Further Study: Growth Mindset vs Fixed Mindset: What Do They Really Mean?
Jam Session 6: Leading & Adapting in Uncertainty
Jam Session 6: Leading & Adapting in Uncertainty
Overview
Jam Session 6 explores resilience and leadership during ambiguity, confusion, and change.
Why this matters
Adaptability in uncertainty builds resilience, creativity, and leadership.
Pre-work
Reflect on a recent or current ambiguous situation.
Watch the 2-minute video, Leading Through Uncertainty (Todd Adkins).
Discussion Prompt: How do we handle ambiguity and change?
Part 2: Navigating Ambiguity Exercise
Complete a 3-minute survey reflecting on your experience in Trios. We use this data to adjust the curriculum and process before each new cohort starts.
Post-work
Identify one small action to intentionally embrace uncertainty this week.
Micro check-ins as helpful/desired.
Optional Further Study: Harvard Business Review article: “How Resilience Works” by Diane Coutu
Jam Session 7: Strengthening Trust Through Accountability
Jam Session 7: Strengthening Trust Through Accountability
Overview
Jam Session 7 focuses on trust built through consistency, reliability, and shared commitment. This session will help members balance personal responsibility with team commitments and create accountability structures that foster trust.
Why this matters
Trust is the foundation of any strong team, and accountability is key to building that trust. This session helps members create supportive accountability structures, ensuring commitments are met and relationships are strengthened.
Pre-work
Reflect on a time when accountability helped you follow through on a goal.
Identify an area where you would like more accountability support.
Consider writing down some of your thoughts on the above in a personal document.
Part 1: Sound Check
How do we balance personal responsibility with team/Trio/Pathfinder commitments?
Share an experience where accountability worked well (or didn't).
Discuss what makes accountability feel supportive rather than restrictive.
Part 2: Crafting Accountability Exercise
Building trust requires vulnerability. This exercise will encourage members to openly share their challenges and seek accountability in a meaningful way.
Each member shares one goal where they struggle with follow-through.
The other two members provide accountability strategies.
The trio agrees on how to check in with each other moving forward.
Reflection Questions:
What type of accountability works best for you—gentle nudges, structured check-ins, or public commitments?
How can we create a culture of trust and follow-through?
Part 3: Rhythm Check
Commitment Roundtable:
Share one action you will take to strengthen accountability.
The group reflects on how they can support each other in these commitments.
Set a Trio check-in date to follow up on progress.
Post-work
Set a reminder to check-in with each other to track progress on your commitment.
Optional Further Study: Covey, S. (1989). The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People (Habit 1: Be Proactive (page 31) & Habit 4: Think Win-Win for accountability (page 102)).
Jam Session 8: Navigating High-Stakes Conversations
Jam Session 8: Navigating High-Stakes Conversations
Overview
Equip participants with tools to maintain composure and clarity in high-pressure, high-stakes conversations, ensuring constructive outcomes and preserving team trust.
Why this matters
High-stakes conversations can make or break team dynamics. Handling them with composure and clarity builds trust and ensures constructive outcomes. By mastering emotional management and staying focused, you’ll strengthen team communication and collaboration, even in tough situations.
Pre-work
Watch this 6 minute video on Crucial Conversations: Video Review for Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson
Consider writing down your thoughts in response to the content above.
Exploring the psychological and emotional dynamics that contribute to high-stakes situations.
Importance of recognizing personal triggers and stressors during tough discussions.
Part 2: Dissecting Conversations and Skillsets Exercise
Jam Session 9: Applying Lessons Beyond The Trio
Jam Session 9: Applying Lessons Beyond The Trio
Overview
Jam Session 9 assists Trios in reflecting and considering deliberate actions they can take to translate the learning and growth experienced within the Trio to broader teams and real-world challenges.
Purpose
The lessons learned in the Trio are valuable beyond the group. Applying trust-building, communication, conflict resolution, and leadership to broader teams and real-world challenges strengthens professional growth. By translating these skills into everyday work, you’ll foster collaboration, navigate uncertainty, and drive success in any context.
Pre-Work
Watch the 6-minute Power of Habit Summary Video on how to use the 3-step loop to change behavior.
Part 1: Sound Check
Reflect on the core lessons learned in the Trios: trust-building, communication, conflict resolution, and leadership in uncertainty.
How can these lessons be applied to different contexts outside the Trio?
How does the Trio experience mirror challenges encountered in daily professional life?
Part 2: Creating Roadmaps Exercise
Action plan development: Each participant creates a roadmap for applying Trio lessons to a current project, team, or personal goal.
Engage in peer feedback and accountability: Review and provide feedback on each other’s action plans.
Part 3: Rhythm Check
Actionable steps to integrate Trio learnings into broader professional endeavors
How to maintain a growth mindset in everyday work, especially in leadership roles and complex projects.
Post-work
Reflect on your own goals and roadmap. Make updates as needed and create specific milestones to support your goals.
Optional further study:
"The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business" by Charles Duhigg (addresses the power of behavioral change and habit formation in professional environments)
"Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't" by Simon Sinek (focuses on applying leadership lessons in various team settings).
Jam Session 10: Reflection and Future Growth
Jam Session 10: Reflection and Future Growth
Overview
During Jam Session 10, Team Coaches will facilitate deep reflection on the Trio experience and create a forward-looking strategy for continuous growth and relationship-building beyond the program.
Why this matters
Reflection and growth are key to sustaining progress. This session helps solidify the lessons from the Trio and create a roadmap for future development. By reflecting on personal growth and leadership skills, and setting future goals, you’ll ensure continued learning and maintain strong relationships, both within the Trio and beyond.
Pre-work
Invite your team coach to this jam session.
Watch this 4-minute video on Atomic Habits.
Reflecting on the last 10 sessions, what surprised you about this experience?
Part 2: Trio Reflection Exercise
Share your “highlight reel,” your most significant insights or transformation you've experienced within the Trio. Offer constructive feedback to one another.
Share with the group areas of further personal and professional growth.
How can the Trio members continue supporting each other moving forward?
Concrete steps for future personal and professional development; review/renew goals.
Complete a 3-minute survey reflecting on your experience in Trios. We use this data to adjust the curriculum and process before each new cohort starts.
Post-work
Check in with teammates as desired, commit to goals established, and reflect on areas of growth and opportunity.
Optional further study:
"The Art of Reflection: A Guide to Self-Assessment for Professional Growth" by Wendy L. Grolnick (focuses on reflection as a tool for ongoing professional and personal growth).
"Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones" by James Clear (helps set habits for sustained success and growth).
Additional Notes for Maintenance Phase
Additional Notes for Maintenance Phase
After the completion of the 10 Jam Sessions, the maintenance phase is crucial for sustaining the relationships, accountability, and skills developed throughout the program. As the trio continues to meet in the decided fashion, each member should:
Revisit Personal Development Goals: Re-evaluate short and long-term goals and track progress.
Engage in Continued Feedback: Regularly check in with one another to ensure feedback continues to flow constructively.
Practice and Deepen Leadership Skills: Apply lessons from the Jam Sessions to real-world situations and encourage each other to take on leadership roles within the Pathfinder program.
Foster Community Building: Continue to build a sense of camaraderie and mutual support within the group by encouraging collaboration beyond the Trio.
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