WORKING TOGETHER

In every organization, the challenge isn’t just strategy. It’s what’s not being said.

Greater Peoria Leaders

Challenge: Regional business leaders were called to take collective accountability for Peoria’s long-term vitality. With 30+ employers and a dozen civic organizations involved, alignment and prioritization efforts were complex.

Misty conducted in-depth interviews with CEOs and civic leaders, then facilitated structured working sessions to surface shared priorities, organize initiatives, and create a clear path forward.

Defined focus areas: Talent Attraction, Vibrant Regional Core, Positive Regional Narrative
Established a formal nonprofit (Greater Peoria Leaders)
Launched grant programs funding dozens of initiatives
Sustained multi-year momentum and cross-sector alignment

“It hasn’t been a ‘here’s what you should do’—it’s been a real partnership. I’m proudest of the visibility we’ve created together and the excitement of being part of something where you can do more. The positive voices are now the loudest.”

— Laura Cullinan, Gilmore Foundation

“Sessions that might typically result in great conversation—but limited traction—became true turning points, with clear direction, momentum, and deliverables that drive real impact.”

— Natalie Davies, Stratitude + EMEA Co-President

AMIN Worldwide

Challenge: A global network of 70+ independent agencies needed alignment across regions, cultures, and priorities to create meaningful value for members.

Over three years, Misty facilitated global board sessions using Patrick Lencioni’s Advantage model, establishing a clear rallying cry, organizing committee work, and building governance rhythms that drove accountability.

Improved board health and engagement
Achieved the goal of becoming “The A Network”
Delivered 2x perceived member value
Advanced into next-gen strategy (productization, tiered models, new value proposition)

Jones Bros. Jewelers

Challenge: Owner Bob Woolsey wanted his 12-person team to grow beyond their roles so they could see their work as both professional and personal development. The team had varying backgrounds and limited exposure to self-worth frameworks.

Misty delivered a multi-month, in-person coaching series, meeting with the team before store hours. Using The Misty Effect^SM framework, she introduced concepts of self-esteem, self-compassion, and individual “superpowers,” paired with discussion and reflection.

Increased individual confidence and clarity of strengths
Improved delegation based on superpowers
Reported improvements in quality of life and mindset
Stronger team connection and purpose

“After participating in The Misty Effect^SM, it’s awesome to see the growth we’ve had as an organization—and in our people. Finding your ‘Superpower’ changed how we delegate and show up. I was especially touched by teammates who had life-changing breakthroughs. It truly became a springboard to where we are today.”

- Bob Woolsey, Owner

“Participating in this as part of work made it clear we care about our employees as whole people. There’s a camaraderie that forms when your ‘whole self’ is invited into the workplace—and that’s powerful. For companies that truly want to impact mental health and growth, I can’t think of a better investment.”

— Nick Knuffman-Brewer, Sr. Director, HR

Simantel

Challenge: Misty launched an internal cohort-based program (17 participants), integrating group sessions, 1:1 coaching, writing prompts, and optional deep-dive whiteboarding sessions to map key decisions and tensions.

Misty built reflective leadership experiences that gave employees language, structure, and support for both personal and professional transitions.

90% of participants reported meaningful personal benefit
80% applied tools directly in manager/employee conversations
Increased cross-team relationships and trust
Significant gains in confidence and clarity; several described the experience as “life-changing”

The Leader’s Life

Challenge: Leadership can be isolating, especially at the senior level. In Greater Peoria, opportunities for executive development and peer learning were limited. Faculty from Bradley University saw the need for a confidential, structured environment where leaders could come together to learn, reflect, and grow alongside one another.

Misty partnered to create a structured cohort-based experience where senior leaders could learn together, reflect honestly, and build trust across organizations.

Sustained program for 10+ years in the Peoria region
Strong cohort-based alumni network that remains active today
Expanded network of speakers and facilitators contributing to the program’s growth
Continued demand from organizations seeking leadership and management development

“Misty and her team at The Leader's Life did a masterful job curating a cohort that brought together both established and emerging leaders from across the community. The opportunity to learn about—and from—each participant, build lasting friendships, and gain practical insights I could immediately apply at my company led to meaningful, immediate impact.”

- Jim Hallenback, Principal Construction Management & Design (PCM+D)

The Misty Effect^SM Podcast