My Evolving Leadership Development Programs

What’s Changed, What Hasn’t?

When you've spent over five years immersed in Dare to Lead™, it’s natural for people to wonder what’s next. My journey is evolving, and while some things have changed, others remain as true as ever. Let’s break it down:

1. Myth: I’m done with Dare to Lead™.

Truth: Absolutely not! Asking if I’m done with DTL is like asking me to stop being human in my work. DTL is foundational to who I am and what I do. It’s critical to my livelihood and how I approach leadership development and personal growth. Brené Brown’s research and approach to leadership have fundamentally improved how I show up as a leader and a human. This is simply the next chapter. Leadership is an ongoing journey, and Dare to Lead™ will always be a part of mine. I’m evolving the way I offer this work, but the core of it will never leave me.

2. Myth: I’m no longer offering Dare to Lead™ workshops.

Truth: You can still access Dare to Lead™! While I’ve stopped offering public DTL workshops, I’m still delivering private sessions tailored to organizations and teams to existing clients. If you're interested, contact me for a conversation about how we can bring this work to your group.

3. Myth: I’m only focusing on for-profit businesses now.

Truth: My work has expanded. I’ve started a nonprofit (while continuing to operate a for-profit entity) to bring leadership development and self-awareness skills to first responders and civilians. Specifically, we focus on how to find common ground—bridging critical gaps and helping build stronger, more empathetic communities.

4. Myth: Open enrollment sessions are on hold because I’m too busy.

Truth: The pause is intentional and necessary. It allows me to focus on targeted efforts—like customized workshops for organizations and impactful initiatives through my nonprofit.

5. Myth: First responders and civilians don’t need leadership development.

Truth: They need it more than ever. First responders are exposed to trauma regularly, and many civilians don’t understand how to navigate this reality. To dismiss their challenges by saying, “They asked for that exposure when they signed on,” lacks empathy and awareness. My new programming for Core Leadership Academy focuses on empathy, procedural justice, and bridging these divides to foster mutual understanding and healthier communities—because when the people who serve are supported, the communities they serve thrive.

6. Myth: I’ve stopped working with for-profit organizations.

Truth: I’m still partnering with organizations ready to embrace change and build stronger teams. I’m focusing on deeper, more intentional partnerships that align with my values, community needs, and mission. This work applies to any role, in any organization.

7. Myth: My nonprofit is completely separate from leadership development.

Truth: While I’ve moved beyond offering DTL specifically (it was all we did because of demand!), my nonprofit is rooted in principles of effectiveness, emotional intelligence, and leadership. More importantly, it’s about ensuring greater access to this type of development. It’s designed to equip first responders and civilians with the skills they need to build trust, navigate conflict, and strengthen communities. This is the epitome of leadership development.

8. Myth: I won’t miss public open enrollment sessions.

Truth: I will miss the energy of bringing diverse groups together to learn from each other around the DTL framework. Watching utility linemen work with nonprofit leaders, teachers work with first responders and therapists work with manufacturing leaders was priceless. But I’m excited about the new ways I’m creating those connections and expanding this work—including offering public sessions in different formats!

9. Myth: Goats and beavers have nothing to do with leadership.

Truth: Oh, they absolutely do! (Inside joke for those who’ve worked with me and TVA.) Collaboration, creativity, and humor are essential parts of leadership—and sometimes, a quirky T-shirt tells the story better than words. More here.

10. Myth: My nonprofit is only for first responders.

Truth: While first responders are a key focus, my programming is also for civilians. By developing empathy, procedural justice, and leadership skills, this work is about bridging divides between groups, fostering understanding, and ensuring everyone feels seen, valued, and heard. We have to work together to deepen these skills and create lasting impact.

If you're interested in exploring Core Leadership Academy or if you have additional questions about Dare to Lead™ and how it could work for you or your organization, reach out to start a conversation. I’d love to help you bring this transformational work to life!