My Philosophy
I believe team time should never feel wasted. Too often, workshops and retreats are filled with activities but light on outcomes—leaving people with more questions than answers. Having worked in both nonprofits and large organizations, I know how valuable time is. Most people simply want to do their jobs well, collaborate smoothly, and feel proud of what they accomplish together.
That’s why I design experiences that are purposeful, actionable, and energizing. I do the work up front—listening, gathering insights, and framing priorities—so that when people come together, the time is spent making decisions, building trust, and leaving with clarity. Teams walk away not just with new ideas, but with confidence, shared direction, and tools they can use immediately.
For me, facilitation is never about checking a box. It’s about surfacing the truth, strengthening relationships, and creating a sense of momentum. I want people to recognize their own value, see the brilliance in their colleagues, and feel the satisfaction of moving forward together.
The Human Current is not a one-size-fits-all program. It’s a customizable process shaped by the needs of each team—whether that means redefining a board’s impact statement, aligning a leadership team on annual goals, or simply strengthening communication and trust. The outputs are endless, but the outcome is always the same: when people are heard and aligned, progress flows.
About Me
I’m Lorrie Cardwell-Panfil, founder of The Human Current. My life’s work has been about one thing: helping people and teams find their voice, align around what matters, and move forward with clarity.
For over 15 years, I’ve worked at the intersection of leadership, narrative, and organizational development—guiding leaders to sharpen their voice, align their teams, and unlock progress. I’ve partnered with executives at some of the world’s most recognized organizations, coached leaders stepping into new chapters of their careers, and designed frameworks that turn individual insights into collective impact.
I’ve also spent years in nonprofit and community leadership, where I learned what it means to bring diverse voices together, create spaces of equity and trust, and help groups thrive even in the most complex circumstances. Whether working with a CEO in a boardroom or a group of young people in a community center, I’ve seen the same truth: when people are heard and aligned, transformation happens.
This belief is what led me to create The Human Current. It’s the culmination of my work in leadership development, thought partnership, and narrative strategy. It’s also a reflection of who I am: a people champion, a bridge-builder, and a strategist who knows how to move groups from complexity to clarity.
My education and credentials also ground this work. I hold a B.A. in Sociology from St. Bonaventure University, where I first began studying how people and systems shape one another. I also completed the Professional Certificate in Leadership and Communications from HarvardX, which included advanced study in Persuasive Writing & Public Speaking and Exercising Leadership: Foundational Principles. In addition, I hold a Certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Career Empowerment from the University of Maryland. This blend of human-centered study and modern tools reflects my belief that clarity comes from both deep listening and innovative methods.
At The Human Current, I bring the full weight of my experience—and the full depth of my conviction—that clarity and alignment aren’t just nice-to-haves. They are the currents that carry teams toward their potential.
Beyond my professional work, I live in mid-coast Maine with my husband and our rescue dog from Puerto Rico. What matters most to me is feeling fully alive—whether that’s walking in nature, sitting by the water, traveling to places I never dreamed I’d reach, or gathering with friends over good food and music. I believe life is meant to be participated in, savored, and shared—and I carry that same spirit of presence and joy into my work with people and teams.