Progress in Motion: A Personal and Collective Pause

By Casey Long

As we reach the halfway point of the year, it's incredible to reflect on how much has unfolded—both personally and professionally. The saying “time flies when you’re having fun” often rings true, but let’s be honest: sometimes, you're simply getting through it. At Roanhorse Consulting, we understand that people aren’t operating at 100% all the time and that’s perfectly okay. Some days you’re at 60%, other days 90%. That’s the beauty of being human.

On a personal note, I celebrated another trip around the sun in March. This time in a new country and with new people: Tauranga, Aotearoa (New Zealand). In fact, I had two birthdays this year, one in New Zealand and one back in the U.S. I usually spend this time solo on a reflective trip, but this year I was surrounded by others while still finding moments of reflection. It was a refreshing change, full of new stories to share with family. Also, a special shoutout to Bobby’s Fish and Chips for redefining what I thought fish and chips could be—fresh, flavorful, and unforgettable!

Professionally, it’s been a dynamic and fulfilling time at Roanhorse. We’ve had the chance to travel alongside with clients, but also hosted our own RCLLC retreat this June in San Diego, California. This retreat was especially meaningful to me, as I’ve long championed a change of scenery from our usual Albuquerque meet-ups. I deeply appreciate leadership for listening and gifting us a beautiful space by the ocean. We celebrated each other with heartfelt shoutouts that acknowledged the hard work, dedication, and care everyone brings. There were tears, laughter, and lots of joy. We also received individual wellness stipends to take care of ourselves. Mine went to a beach run, delicious meals, and time at the spa. Overall, our retreat was, in a word, PERFECT!

Roanhorse continues to evolve and expand. This year, we welcomed a new Research and Evaluation Associate, Operations Associate, Ecosystem Development Associate, and soon, a Design and Marketing Associate. We’ve also engaged several contractors to support key projects and help us move with intention and clarity through this next phase of growth. Our Center Native platform is gaining momentum as we continue to highlight work across our ecosystem and embrace its complexity. And our Rematriating Economies Apprenticeship welcomed a new cohort of eight Indigenous women to be future decision-makers in investment and fund management.

It means a lot to share this small glimpse of life, with all its movement, joy, and reflection. As we move through the rest of the year, I invite you to take a moment to pause, reflect, and honor how far you’ve come. The big milestones matter, but so do the small wins. The quiet breakthroughs, the steady progress, the moments of care you offer to yourself and others. Celebrate them. They matter more than we often realize.