This work began with a simple invitation. A female executive at one of Australia’s “Big 4” banks returned from a Harvard leadership program and asked me to create something similar for the women in her organization. She had experienced the power of small, coach-facilitated groups—safe spaces where women could share openly, explore challenges, and commit to action.

At the time, I had coached many of the bank’s top executives—nearly all of them men—and I knew what it took to operate at that level. She wanted me to help mid-level women build the skills, confidence, and strategies to navigate their careers.

So I designed a coaching program, bringing women together in small groups to learn, practice, and hold each other accountable. We explored how to move through barriers—whether systemic, situational, relational, or personal. Over time, the program grew into a series of core modules with space for reflection, application, and shared accountability.

That program, Women on the Rise, quickly took on a life of its own, expanding into other organizations and geographies. I watched women share their stories, break through obstacles, and rise as leaders—and I knew this was the work I was meant to do.

Today, I’ve worked with more than 1,000 women who describe our work together as empowering, transformative, eye-opening, and invaluable. I love seeing a woman light up when she realizes what her next step is, hearing her excitement as she shares the action she’s taken that made a difference, and witnessing the joy that comes from having both a purpose and a plan.

When I’m not coaching, you’ll likely find me hiking, camping, or listening to live music—or visiting my children and friends in Portland, Oregon, and Sydney, Australia. I live in St. Louis, Missouri, where I’m grateful to be part of a robust international community.