“Becoming a leader is synonymous with becoming yourself. It is precisely that simple, and it is also that difficult.” ~ Warren Bennis
Building leaders from the inside out.
Today I’m honored to share with you Dr. Holly Latty-Mann, president and co-founder of The Leadership Trust®. The Leadership Trust is a training organization based in Durham, North Carolina. Holly, along with the late Dr. Jim Farr, created this unique training organization in 1998. Of special note, is that Dr. Farr was the initial founding director of the Center for Creative Leadership, back in the late 1960s and sold his previous firm, Farr Associates, making The Leadership Trust his last leadership initiative.
The basis behind the training that Holly and her group offer is that leadership is built from the inside out through a highly psychologically driven process. Regarded as life-changing, nearly all past participants have called this the best training they’ve ever had – both personally and professionally. And this is evidenced in the many video and written testimonials of their graduates, found at The Leadership Trust website. I encourage you to check these out, even just for the inspiration they offer, given they do not fit the norm. It is so worth reading/viewing some of these – just take a couple of minutes to really let this all soak in.
Holly has created a learning environment that truly promotes fundamental change, in a safe and caring environment. With a rich history of alliances that include Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, their Coach K Center for Leadership and Ethics (COLE) as well as Wake Forest University’s Babcock Graduate School of Management, The Leadership Trust currently enjoys an informal partnership with NC State’s Organizational Behavior program where their collaboration has produced research findings on leadership behaviors that work and don’t work.
Please join me in welcoming Holly here today.
1. Tell us a little bit about who “you” are (family, career, any special life experiences you’d like to share, etc.)
Lance, I notice you ask about family first before career in your question, and I say you have your priorities right!
While most people tend to offer positive spins when asked about specifics of who they are (family, special life experiences, etc.), I’ve found those sensational life events, including the ones where I made mistakes, have turned out to be wonderful training grounds for not only helping me become my best, but also helping others do the same. So here are some special life experiences that molded and shaped me because of my responses to them: I lost my brother Michael when I was almost 3, and he was almost 9. Michael was my everything. My father was an alcoholic, albeit a successful business executive. That’s because his drinking started when he came home in the evenings. I went steady with Billy Graham’s son for two years in high school, but he broke up with me because I was a “goody two-shoes,” and he had discovered “wild” girls during his prep school years at Stony Brook. Years following my divorce at the age of 30, I saved myself from a second marriage. Don’t laugh when you hear my doctoral dissertation was on mate selection. After years of being married to my company, I’m now finally ready again. Continuing to speak to special life experiences, I’ve had one supernatural experience that has nurtured a metaphysical orientation to my faith. Another “supernatural” experience was my losing half of my hearing overnight in 1992 due to a virus. But most importantly as a result of working steadily on myself over time, I can say with gratitude in my heart that I am a happy, secure person who loves life and believes the best in humankind! No, I am not naïve. I have watched thousands of people go from anger, despair, insecurity, arrogance, and selfishness to happy and peaceful. I am a true believer that people change, and my passion is playing a role in supporting meaningful, lasting change in others.
You’ll learn from this link about my career, educational background, and what I do in the name of showing leaders how to inspire and motivate. It was only this past year that I asked all faculty members to add what they do for fun in the last paragraph. As for me, that includes foreign travel (52 foreign countries so far), playing the piano, playing tennis, hiking, and most fun of all, biking! I feel like a free child as soon as I start to peddle!
Lance’s Commentary: Holly, I love the approach you took with this question. Life has bumps for all of us, and those bumps along our journey really can lead to lasting change. You are doing wonderful things on all levels, and I’m sure that’s in part to what your past experiences have taught you.
2. You are the president and co-founder of a pretty innovative organization. Tell us briefly about “The Leadership Trust” and what it is?
How about our mission statement for starters? The Leadership Trust® is an organization dedicated to support on a global basis the creation, development and implementation of highly effective, high integrity leadership serving the ultimate well-being of all persons everywhere.
3. What is the deeper purpose of your organization?
Our deeper purpose is to support the growth of the human spirit in order to contribute toward a kinder, gentler world.
Lance’s Commentary: The human spirit – what a deeply meaningful purpose. Holly, I think this answer alone speaks to just how “right” what you are doing is. The more connected with our deeper self, the more we see life through the lens of humanity and what is possible! What a great place to work toward, and you get to help others do this every day – how awesome!
4. Who is your typical student in these programs? Who can this apply to?
A typical program has a diversity of students, so it’s difficult to say we have a typical student. We do have more male participants except during the summer months. And it’s funny you should ask this question. We are awaiting results from an independent research firm who gathered data over several weeks to offer us a profile of the “typical student,” so that we can target that audience. Truthfully, our most robust workshops have people playing different roles (CEO, IT, HR, CFO, technician, project manager, etc.) from different industries (seriously, you name it) of any size (anything from a Mom/Pop enterprise of one person to huge global corporations). We also have on occasion someone in school, between jobs, or facing retirement. Because these programs are personalized, meaning one size does not fit all, we encourage this diversity because effective leadership involves relating to people representing various tiers and roles within any organization.
Lances’ Commentary: Holly, I know your class sizes are very small – and I’m sure this facilitates a very highly personalized experience for everyone going through your programs. That’s what I think is so unique about this, is that it’s something we can all get something from. It’s leadership. And yet it’s so much more than that, on a personal level, and how really so many of your participants have realized a myriad of life-changing benefits both professionally and personally. And I think that really speaks to the importance you place on making this truly a life-changing experience for everyone.
5. You do one thing (or a subset of that one thing) and do it very well. Leadership training is your sole focus. What makes your training unique?
Our unique self-awareness workshop (SAW) that is subsumed within our hallmark 5-day program offers processes on the emotional intelligence aspects of leadership that explains our highly unusual testimonials. Our graduates on video also talk about how we’re different. Secondly, our unique 360 feedback process has everyone primed to give their best to the Self-Awareness Workshop that starts the evening of the first day. The attention to group culture, keeping it safe with each person’s dignity held intact, is key to how a group of strangers bond into a tight team within 28 hours from onset.
Lance’s Commentary: The testimonials are so affirming to read and listen to. And this idea of bringing together a group of strangers and creating an environment that builds real and strong bonds — I just really sense how this adds so much to this experience!
6. Self-awareness is a big part of the learning development that goes on with participants attending your programs. Tell us more about the importance of this.
Well, if you don’t know, you can’t fix. And if you keep doing what you’ve been doing, then you’ll keep getting what you’ve been getting. Root cause to whatever is holding us back tends to be housed in the subconscious (your unawareness). It’s a matter of bringing crucial material from your unawareness into your conscious awareness so that you can make choices regarding what to do about it. It’s a rare person who doesn’t want to change that which is holding him or her back. The biggest outcome in terms of emotion is joy along with a profound sense of relief.
Lance’s Commentary: Or peace, maybe… This whole idea of being more self-aware, I believe is hugely important. In getting to know ourselves better, we become more open to the world around us.
7. I am fascinated by the many testimonials you have. Specifically, how program participants draw such deep meaning out of your program. Is there something specific that’s a real eye opener for these people?
Yes, there is. I once playfully told an interviewer who asked the same question, “If I told you, I’d have to kill you.” A better response is this: If I were to tell you, it would contaminate an otherwise optimal experience. This is akin to the notion if we humans would just get ourselves out of the way of divine intervention, we may stand a greater chance to grow and prosper.
Lance’s Commentary: Ha! I’m glad you’re not going to kill me, Holly!! This reminds me of a retreat I attended a few years ago, where there were several things that occurred which I was unaware of, and that just made the whole experience that much more meaningful. So, the bottom line is: sign up, right!
8. Tell us one unexpected thing that has happened to you, from going down this path of starting the “Leadership Trust”?
My co-founding partner died just days before our second workshop. This was during the time we were in partnership with Wake Forest Babcock Graduate School of Management. So the dean asked if I would do both Jim’s part and my own. Not only did I take on that challenge, but during the 3rd day of the workshop, they sent a limo to take me to the church to deliver my eulogy on my co-founding partner and friend, only to turn around and finish the workshop. The evaluations were unusually favorable and strong, and I later learned WFU had wondered if it was because of the emotion of the interruption. Months and months passed with the same level of testimonial intensity which inspired talks of franchising this program to offer nationally, even globally.
Lance’s Commentary: An emotional response can definitely trigger bringing out the greater good in everyone. This reminds me of former Green Bay Packer quarterback Brett Favre a few years back – playing before a national audience only a couple of days after unexpectedly losing his father, and having one of his greatest games ever. Yet, the truth is, you’ve maintained this same deep connection with your participants, and I really believe that speaks to the quality of this program, and the dedication of you and your staff to make this as meaningful as it has been for everyone.
9. If you had to pick one thing as your greatest achievement, what would it be (and why)?
I am involved in animal welfare and have been since the early 1980s, and while I’m sure my donations and letters (including letters to the editor) have made a difference, I once was instrumental in saving literally hundreds of dogs from inhumane treatment/death.
Why did I choose this as my greatest achievement? I value all life, and I guess it was the enormity of this project and the nature of the pain these animals were subjected to suffering. It’s important to add that this achievement would not have happened at all had it not been for the power of prayer, and how the solution could not have been attributed to coincidence.
Lance’s Commentary: Holly, I love this achievement you’ve listed. It can be easy to look at accolades we’ve recieved, or prestige we’ve achieved. Deep down, though, what really matters is humanity, dignity, caring…basic principles within us all. Your helping to save so many animals from a life of misery – what a gift not only to those animals, but also to humankind. Through your actions, others have been lifted up in what our core values are. And that’s pretty wonderful!
10. Going back several years, I know that you co-founded this organization with Dr. James Farr. And then he suddenly passed away after your opening. Were these difficult days, for you to continue on? Or were you inspired by what Dr. Farr had helped to create?
These were very difficult days, mainly in light of it how Jim died a little more than a year before 9/11 hit, and people were not traveling, and contracts for Graylyn International Conference Center had been signed with painful penalties attached for cancellations. Furthermore, Dr. Farr had made arrangements with WFU to bring to a close our partnership after 18 months had gone by – and wouldn’t you know this was only days before 9/11! So here I am on my own not sure how to run a company, much less make one grow. Interestingly, I had an advisory board telling me to bring in an Executive Director to run things for me, but the Trust didn’t have the monies for any of their suggestions, and I was so naïve at the time I didn’t even know the right questions to ask of this board. I had no family nearby to help me, and my hearing impairment made it next to impossible to network at social gatherings. It was a low point in my career, and it lasted for several years.
So what pulled me through? I felt a calling to do this work – it was that strong. And indeed what Jim and I had created together was all the inspiration I needed to never give up.
Lance’s Commentary: The human spirit at work! Holly, thank you for sharing about these difficult days. What you have today is a sure sign of your perseverance, your dedication to making our world a better place, and your real belief in the message your organization is delivering.
11. Deep-down, Holly, what makes you, “you”? And what does a typical day away from the “Leadership Trust” involve?
My passion for life, a joie de vivre is a big part of who I am. Perhaps what makes me “Holly” is like a recipe, and all of us humans can boast a unique recipe. My ingredients would include compassion, courage, ethics, gentleness, stamina, service, intuition, humility, industry, playfulness, and adventure. I believe I am as accepting and nonjudgmental with myself as I am with others. I see the best in myself no differently than how I see the best in others.
Typical day away from The Leadership Trust® usually involves both the mundane and the fun side of life. Mundane is maintaining house and yard and all the errands that are a part of that. I have wonderful friends, top quality friends, authentic “no airs about them” friends, friends with great depth who love to poke fun at life so as not to take ourselves too seriously. I am an avid reader and love word games, and work my crossword puzzles in ink. I love staying fit while I enjoy the great out-of-doors. I am blessed being able to spend ample time with my spirited 91-year-old mother, an amazing woman who is extremely active to this day. I have an unshakeable faith and am fortunate to have found a church that is not elitist in its outlook on the human race. I enjoy supporting my church in a number of different ways. I love my cat “Romeow” whom I rescued (despite greater appreciation for dogs’ personalities…sorry, Romeow!). Oh, and I’m writing to complete my first book this summer, “Leaders Stripped Naked: The Power of Exposure” (I hope this doesn’t scare anyone away!)!
Lance’s Commentary: What a wonderful prescription for life! Life is about living. In all the ways that are meaningful to each one of us. Holly, your “recipe” for life is what really draws me to you, and what you offer. And I love the name of your cat – Romeow – how creative!
And you have a book coming out, that’s very exciting. And that name, no – we won’t let it scare anyone away!
Closing Thoughts: Holly, thank you for sharing so openly here today. You have created something very special in The Leadership Trust. Helping people to become more aware of themselves, and really let out that leader within is such a great thing for our world. And you seem so balanced at where you are in your life right now, which I believe is an important part to overall personal health on so many levels.
And I’m tempted to pack up my bike and come for a visit! I love to get out and ride the trails!
For anyone interested in learning more about the Leadership Trust, check out the very information-packed website they have. If you have any further questions, or would like more information, Holly and her team can be reached at:
The Leadership Trust
Phone: 888−313−2750
Email: info [at] leadershiptrust.org
NOTE: There is a current special Holly is offering, with 50% off the tuition for the first attendee per company. Hard costs still apply. To take advantage of this savings, you can download from their blog their discount scholarship coupon using this link.
Holly, thank you for joining us here today, and sharing a bit about you and your approach toward leadership and life!
This is a great interview, Lance. I’m impressed by the sheer amount of passion Holly has for training future leaders. Also, the fact that she uses emotion to rid her students of the personal issues which hold them back. I believe Holly really is enhancing the human spirit.
Thank you both for the great interview, Lance and Holly! I wish you best of luck for the Leadership Trust.
.-= John´s Last Fabulous Post ..How to Kiss Your Boredom Goodbye =-.
I love that Billy Graham’s son dumped you for being too “goody two shoes”! LOL!
I have been in education for 20 years. I loved working for people who were great leaders. I flourished under those circumstances. They gave me the freedom to risk and grow. I hated working for insecure people who micromanaged because of their fear. Not only did they micromanage but they wouldn’t make a decision about anything important because they didn’t want to be held accountable for it. This way they could choose a subordinate and throw them under the bus. My tire tracks look really pretty with the right outfit. Now, I have started my own business so I have to lead or fail. It’s fun.
Hi Lance & Holly. I enjoyed reading this and appreciate how you illustrate that mistakes and challenges can turn both your’s and other’s lives around. So often we feel like victims when challenges happen “to us”.
I completely agree with this: “Root cause to whatever is holding us back tends to be housed in the subconscious (your unawareness). It’s a matter of bringing crucial material from your unawareness.”
It really helps to hold this focus when crossing other’s paths, to not connect in such a way that you react, rather than respond to them, if they act undesirably.
.-= Davina´s Last Fabulous Post ..Roaming with the Metaphor =-.
Holly, all I can say is keep on getting the leadership program out there (not that you need any encouragement!). Without a doubt, the world needs more effective leaders with self awareness and integrity. And the purpose of your organisation — “to support the growth of the human spirit in order to contribute toward a kinder, gentler world”, well, in my opinion, you’d be hard pressed to have a better purpose than that! Thanks Holly and Lance.
.-= Sami — Life, Laughs & Lemmings´s Last Fabulous Post ..8 Ways to Laugh More =-.
Wow. Just the approach Holly took to the first question sold me on her. One of the biggest truths I’ve learned and embraced recently is the importance of respecting and even treasuring the messiest aspects of life. I used to think I was supposed to pick myself up, sweep the mess under a big rug, and walk away. Now I know I must carry those pieces with me, and see what new, wonderful creation can be made from them. Clearly Holly really knows and lives this truth I am just beginning to grasp.
Thanks for sharing this great interview and commentary!
.-= Kristin T. (@kt_writes)´s Last Fabulous Post ..Life lessons from Pitchfork =-.
Leadership is a topic I’ve been thinking about a lot lately. I’ve read a couple books, but it’s always great to hear of a leader like Holly starting from within. It’s great to read such an insightful interview, and Lance’s commentary was great too.
Thank you both so much!
.-= Nathalie Lussier´s Last Fabulous Post ..What is the Raw Food Diet? =-.
What a great interview! Thank you for sharing this with us!
.-= Positively Present´s Last Fabulous Post ..the positive power of music =-.
Hi Holly and Lance — My favorite part of this interview was “if you don’t know, you can’t fix.” Self awareness is an essential part of leadership. I’ve been part of a leadership development program at work for two years and self awareness is always stressed to us. The phrase above however is a great way of saying that if you start from what actually is you can make changes upon that. Sometimes we don’t want to see ourselves for what we really are, but that basis in truth is the only way to become what you really want to be! Thanks for a wonderful interview.
.-= Amanda Linehan´s Last Fabulous Post ..Just Ask “Why?” =-.
Lance, you always invite your readers to get acquainted with such uplifting, creative people! Thanks for taking the time to encourage visitors here to expand theri horizons.
.-= Liara Covert´s Last Fabulous Post ..10 Revelations about 2012 =-.
I like the way you pointed out, Dr., that having your priorities straight means valuing family over career.
.-= Vered — MomGrind´s Last Fabulous Post ..Happily Ever After =-.
Great interview and great points about making leadership come from within and value based leadership. I think this is critical as well. Thanks everyone for the added points and comments, its great to see the influence an organization like this is making in developing leaders.
.-= Mike King´s Last Fabulous Post ..Maintain Your Business Connections =-.
Great questions and commentary.
Lance, I especially liked your ability to punctuate the insight and I liked the way you framed this … “An emotional response can definitely trigger bringing out the greater good in everyone.“
.-= J.D. Meier´s Last Fabulous Post ..How To Prioritize with Criteria and Weight =-.
Hi Lance .. what an amazing lady Holly is .. I’m coming back to check out her website and reread this interview again and again .. it needs some absorbtion and thought .. I couldn’t do it last night and haven’t really taken it in now .. well worth revisiting, together with her work.
Great that you’re able to point us in her direction — thank you .. and your comments too always round off each point — many thanks ..
Hilary Melton-Butcher
Positive Letters
.-= Hilary´s Last Fabulous Post ..Would Dew Ponds be a help in climate change? =-.
@John — Holly has been such a wonderful person to get to know. And she has a real gift of bringing out the deep-within goodness in others.
@Laurie — The “goody two shoes”…that brought a smile to my face too! A great leader can make all the difference in really getting people to follow along. I think we’re drawn to leaders who show this deeper understanding because of the value they place on really the person. And leaders who give us that freedom to grow, while also nurturing us along the way — these are people who we’d follow through the good and the bad. Great thoughts Laurie. And I know you lead very much from a compassionate heart…a great place to be.
@Davina — Hi Davina. The “poor me” attitude… Really, though, if we take responsibility for our actions, and also accept that some things are out of our control — but never our ability of choice — then we don’t have to see ourselves as “victim”. And being aware, how powerful that can be. Davina, thanks for all these wonderful thoughts.
@Sami — Hey Sami, I can always count on you to be the cheering section — and I love it!! And yes, the more aware we are of self, the more aware we become to those around us. And that purpose statement of Holly’s organization — that’s a pretty great place to be isn’t it!
@Kristin — That Holly shared some things that were far from pleasant really shows the depth of her character and the “true” Holly. And that’s real. Like life for all of us, even though we may sometimes try to brush it under the rug. Kristin, thank you for your honesty here as well, for for noting just how important all aspects of our life are. And it’s not to say that our past is us — it’s to say that our past is a part of us. And even the messy parts of our life have meaning and substance — especially if we see them through our heart… Thanks so much for sharing all of this.
@Nathalie — Holly shared some deeply moving stories in this interview, and it all falls in line so well with the premise behind the leadership her organization develops. Starting within — even though this may not always be easy — being there just really puts us so much more in touch with humanity.
@Positively Present — Thanks much Dani!
@Amanda — Being aware is such an important thing, isn’t it. And how awesome that your company has you involved in a leadership training program. Amanda, I know this will serve you well. And even beyond that, the more connected we become to ourselves, the more we connect with those around us. Keep doing that, my friend…
@Liara — And Holly surely fits that picture! She has been such a wonderful person to get to know, and it’s an honor to share her and her story here!
@Vered — It’s our connection with others that make a real difference. In some form or another, almost all of us have family. And especially if you view “family” not only as related family members, but also those we hold close and dear to us — friends who are also like family. And in the end, the deeper connections with these people are what really count…
@Mike King — Thanks Mike! Holly makes some wonderful observations on leadership and what it means. And it’s something we can all relate to — what matters to each of us, and to being valued. And if it matters to us, it matters to others, as well. Holly and her organization are doing some very wonderful things! And great comments from everyone, really adding so much to the conversation here today.
@J.D. — We are people with emotions, even if we don’t always express those emotions. Yet when we do let our emotional side out, it is coming from a deeper place within — and this really is something people can connect with.
@Hilary — Yes, do check out Holly’s website and organization. Especially check out some of the testimonials. I’ve found them to be so uplifting. Hilary, thank you for being here and reading today.
Great interview, Lance! And what a good program this would be. I am in a leadership position in my church and chairman of a committee that is somewhat at odds with one another. It is always so tense in those meetings and I feel wrung out after. Perhaps I can use the idea of how we’re all different in some way to make this group bond with each other.
.-= Lynn´s Last Fabulous Post ..Return, sign and wee =-.
Great interview, Lance — and if you’re reading, Holly, good luck with the Institute and in finding what your heart desires!
This was my favourite line; it brought the post full circle, and resonates with how I try to live my life. We’re all leaders, especially those of us who parent or nurture online communities: Becoming a leader is synonymous with becoming yourself.”
You choose such fitting quotations!
.-= janice´s Last Fabulous Post ..Holidaying at Home: The East Neuk of Fife =-.
Lance,
You always find such wise and inspiring people to introduce us too. You are a connector, there’s no doubt about that! Great interview and thanks for finding such a gem.
.-= Tess The Bold Life´s Last Fabulous Post ..Magic Monday Freebie from The Bottom Line Book Club =-.
Hi Holly and Lance, I enjoyed the interview and Lance’s commentaries. My favorite part of the interview was when Holly said about her organization, “Our deeper purpose is to support the growth of the human spirit in order to contribute toward a kinder, gentler world.” I find that very inspiring, and I hope in the near future more organizations and people can say the same thing.
.-= Diane C.´s Last Fabulous Post ..Urban Wildlife =-.
Her dissertion on “mate selection,” lol.
One smart lady with a buoyant spirit. Very inspiring as to just what a person can do in the face of challenge.
.-= Jannie Funster´s Last Fabulous Post ..Review of “Mirror Blue” by Thomma Lyn Grindstaff: A Novel You Can Really Sink Your Teeth Into. =-.
Lance:
Wow, great interview filled with some awesome content! I’ve been wanting to improve and study leadership and this is a great place to start. I agree that awareness is the first step to improving ourselves, whether it be leadership, public speaking or whatever. Lance, I really enjoyed this interview and reading your commentary. I want to do more of this as I re-launch my blog in the next few weeks. Thanks for sharing this!
.-= Tim´s Last Fabulous Post ..All-Stars Among Us =-.
Hi Lance,
Thank you so much for introducing all of us to Holly. The interview provided some interesting insights and definitely some food for thought. I love it. This is so awesome!
It is also wonderful to know that there are people like her out in the world.
.-= Nadia — Happy Lotus´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Times They Are A Changing =-.
Hi Lance,
What an interview! You really know how to get to the heart of all matters. Thank you to Holly, too, for being so open in her communication with you. The program sounds great. I’m looking forward to viewing the testimonials. Favorite line from the interview: “…if we humans would just get ourselves out of the way of divine intervention, we may stand a greater chance to grow and prosper.” Love that! Thanks, Lance!
.-= Jodi at Joy Discovered´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Wings of Freedom =-.
Please accept this note here as my open letter to all of you amazing people who wrote a comment in response to this interview. Lance, that’s leadership on your part to have drawn so many humanistic souls to your site — it’s a gift you no doubt developed early on in life and continued to hone over time. I can honestly say that your interview took on a slant different from any I’ve ever had, and that is what allowed me the freedom to share on a very different and deep level.
Admittedly I wrote Lance earlier to say that I was absolutely blown away when I started reading everyone’s comment and could tell that this is no ordinary audience of readers but rather a subsample of our population brimming with an enlightened spirit and eager to continue on this path. What I heard collectively was a resonance with passion for enhancing the human spirit and indeed growing from our mistakes and challenges, heartaches and heartbreaks, all of which takes self-awareness — a bold journey. In summary, there is a special understanding here that “everybody is somebody’s baby”.
Finally, I thank you all for your encouragement and vote of confidence. Once our Center for Life and Living is ready for its public debut, you’ll find our mission statement is exactly what was presented here (…to support the growth of the human spirit in order to contribute toward a kinder, gentler world). What you may not know is that I had not made up my mind to use it until so many of you latched onto that statement with all your passion attached. That was hugely validating. So thank you — and thank you for taking time out of your busy day to offer your amazing insights. I remain humbled by your own heartfelt sharing and look forward to visiting you own special posts! Rich blessings, Holly
Great interview! Every change begins with ourselves.
.-= Sagan´s Last Fabulous Post ..When nutrition gets neglected =-.
I am in total agreement to the finding that root causes to our problems often lie in our subconscious. My work largely revolves around unearthing these for my clients so that they can create the life they want.
Great interview! It will be wonderful if more of us look into ourselves for soul growth.
.-= Evelyn Lim´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Story Of The Wounded Child =-.
@Lynn — Thank you Lynn! And I wish you only the best on your church committee. We are all different. Getting others to see this, and to see the good in this — that’s not always easy. But so worth trying. , as it will only make your whole committee stronger if you’re all focused on the greater purpose of your group, and not on how your differences divide.
@Janice — Thank you Janice. Becoming ourselves, or really getting to the core of who “we” are, that is such an important part of this whole puzzle. And when we get there, leadership becomes more focused on compassion — and compassion can bring out such good!
@Tess — Hollly is such an inspiration, and it’s been such a pleasure getting to know her better! And thank you, Tess, very much — for all you’re saying here. I am touched deeply by your words. I’m so glad you’re here — thanks for all your support and for being such a great friend…
@Diane C. — Hi Diane. The deeper purpose of “The Leadership Trust” is one that speaks so clearly to our world becoming such a caring place to live. And to think of us as individuals getting to this space, or for organizations getting to this space — how uplifting this is!
@Jannie — Yep, I found that funny too — the “mate selection”. And that’s a great thing about Holly, she’s not afraid to have some fun with all of this (fun? that’s something I think you can relate to!). A “buoyant spirit” — what a great description of Holly! She is so full of life, and I’d say it’s like floating around with a little glimpse of heaven…
@Tim — Tim, I encourage you to check out the program Holly and her organization offer. It may or may not be a fit, but I do think just in reading at her site, you’ll get a better understanding not only of “The Leadership Trust”, but also of yourself and what leadership means to you in your life. While I haven’t taken the program, Holly and I are discussing dates for this. And from all that I’ve read on her site, I believe completely in what she is offering and how life-giving it can be! And best to you on the upcoming re-launch of your blog…I’m looking forward to it!
@Nadia — Hi Nadia. Holly is so connected to her being, and it shines through in every conversation I’ve had with her, in this interview, and on her website! And it’s beautiful to see, and to feel that love she has going out into the world!
@Jodi — Do check out the testimonials, they are moving accounts of the experience. I have found them to be hugely transformational even just in my thinking about how this course connected with people. Thanks so much for being here and reading this Jodi — your spirit shines in all you write…
@Sagan — Thanks Sagan! Right — we can’t expect to change others, if we’re not even willing to look at ourselves…
@Evelyn — Getting to those “root causes” that are within our being, and breaking down the barriers that keep us from achieving all that is possible — that is such a wonderful thought! Evelyn, I know you are doing some great things in area, and that’s so awesome! And that’s much like what Holly and her team of people are doing as well — and in the whole process helping others to grow a closer connection to their soul…
Holly,
Thanks you for stopping in here and taking the time to share in the comments as well. Your message is one that is resonating very deeply with so many people. And I think that speaks to the real value we have for connecting with our deeper self. Within each of us, is that voice from within, that one which “knows” us. And too often, that voice never gets heard — drowned out by the all the “noise” in our life. And that’s where I see you training program to be so “right on track”. There just feels like such a deeper connection is developed by those who have attended in the past. And that really does make for a training program that is transformational at a very deep and personal level. So Holly, kudos to you for what you’ve created! This is a very special organization, and one I’m so blessed to have crossed paths with.
And how wonderful about your Center for Life and Living — and the mission statement you’ll use! This whole idea of growing the human spirit toward a kinder and gentler world is one which really did resonate with so many here — including me. And it just shows how much we do value this idea of a world that is kinder and gentler. So, the more ways that message can be spread throughout the world, the better…
Holly, thank you once again for being such a bright and shining light in our world. You have most assuredly touched lives in ways it’s hard to fully comprehend!
Wow. The response to the first question was packed and stunning. Her attitude about losing her hearing — SUPERNATURAL. The loss of a big brother — I can relate how traumatic that must have been. My son is 3 and his big sister 11. No doubt, such an early loss shaped this beautiful person. Thanks for bringing this to us, Lance. These questions and answers I’ll revisit again.
.-= JenX´s Last Fabulous Post ..i see sally =-.
Thank you for sharing this interview; Holly is incredibly inspirational, and the program sounds so appealing. I love their mission: “Our deeper purpose is to support the growth of the human spirit in order to contribute toward a kinder, gentler world.“
I believe that’s what we need now, and am reassured as I meet more and more people who are living this mindset.
Blessings & joy!
.-= Megan “JoyGirl!” Bord´s Last Fabulous Post ..Seeing God In Action =-.
Lance, I bet you say that to all the Jannies who comment here!
.-= Jannie Funster´s Last Fabulous Post ..Review of “Mirror Blue” by Thomma Lyn Grindstaff: A Novel You Can Really Sink Your Teeth Into. =-.
Outstanding interview Lance!!
PS. I’m highlighting “Jungle of Life in my newest episode next Monday!
You Rock!!
.-= Tabitha@ichoosebliss´s Last Fabulous Post ..Gratitude On Thursday =-.
@JenX — Yes, Holly is such a beautiful soul, and that really shines through in just the first question alone. While there were several things that could be viewed as traumatic, they have helped to shape Holly as she is today. And it’s good for me to read this, and be reminded that even in difficult moments, they too shall pass. Especially with a positive outlook on life and what can be. Jen, thanks so much for reading today, and please do come back to this — and for even more uplifting thoughts, check out the “Testimonials” page linked up above. So good, all of it. And cherish all the moments with your children — they are a gift…and you are a gift to them!
@Megan — Holly has been such a joy to work with through this whole interview, and in all our conversations leading up to this. She’s the real deal! And the mission is so charged with a deep connection to soul, which I connect so well to also! Holly shines light into this world…just as you do!
@Jannie — Why yes…YES I do say that to all the Jannies around here. And we know there are so many…they’ve taken over the top spot in the most active commenters!
@Tabitha — Thanks much Tabitha! And — WOW! (patience…have patience…he tells himself)
Lance, what a wonderful interview. I really enjoyed “meeting” Holly and learning more about her. She seems like such a caring and thoughtful and compassionate person who loves to inspire others. I loved reading about her hardships and how she overcame them. It sound like anyone would benefit from her classes. Just reading this interview makes me want to be more in tune to myself. I can tell that she will only continue to be wonderfully successful in what she does. Her passion about what she does shines. Thank you Lance.
.-= Jennifer´s Last Fabulous Post ..What is in Your Bank Account? =-.
Wow Holly and Lance, this is fantastic.
Part of my personal mission statement reads like this: ” Having previously been a daughter of the culture, I desire to voice my new life in Christ as one that goes against cultural norm, believing that all of God’s creations are good willed, good hearted people.…..”
Holly really struck something in me with her belief that people can change. I believe that too. The culture will tell you otherwise. People make one mistake and the culture rates it, shames it and your life is over. I believe that we all sin and make all sorts of mistakes, but God can change people. Even the worst among us, (which we often feel like is ourselves) can become great again. If we just give them a chance. This sounds like a wonderful organization that will help guide people toward tolerance, peace and forgiveness.
As always, you’ve done great Lance!!!
.-= Audra Krell´s Last Fabulous Post ..Brand Marketing 101 with WD-40 =-.
Lance & Holly,
I keep coming out here to read the comments and get distracted by all the interesting blog posts that are listed and then don’t post a comment so I am blindly scanning past all the comments and just adding my two cents! Holly — it is one of the visions I have for my life to walk a path similar to yours. It is very encouraging to read your story and your leadership workshop sounds great. Lance — you are always such a great support and I am going to send you a personal email to talk more about your biking / networking group. Thanks for stopping by and writing. It is always a treat and you should know that you just entered yourself a chance to win a free month of social networking classes — not that you need it!
.-= Amy Jewell / Cirklagirl´s Last Fabulous Post ..Reaching Your Network =-.
Hi Lance&Holly,
What an awesome interview with an equally awesome person.
I love your spirit Holly. You just ooze positivity Holly.
Thank you for bringing such wonderful people to life on your blogs and sharing them with us.
.-= Zeenat {Positive Provocations}´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Power Of NO! =-.
@Jennifer — Getting to know Holly better has been a real joy for me too! Caring, thoughtful, compassionate — I’ve felt that in all the conversations I’ve had with her — and this really has drawn me in to her message and what she’s teaching. And the hardships she’s overcome show the true resilience of the human spirit! Jennifer, thanks so much for reading this — it was a deeply meaningful experience for me, and working with Holly.
@Audra — Audra, thanks so much for sharing a part of your own personal mission statement. I love it — it speaks so much to the goodness that we all do have within us! So, the idea of people being able to change — absolutely, I agree. Sometimes society around us can hang onto the sins we’ve committed. In the end, though, that’s not what matters. I’m pretty sure we agree on the life-giving presence of our God, and in a God who forgives and cares. And that’s pretty awesome! That Holly seeks tolerance and peace — I believe this really shows her own very deep connection with the spirit within her. In fact, that spirit has shined in all our conversations! Audra, thanks so much for this, and for reading about Holly and her organization. It’s all something I deeply believe in…
@Amy Jewell — Hey Amy! It’s great having you here. And I know what you mean, there are so many wonderful people here leaving comments — that have some very awesome material of their own (like you!)! Leading from a place of compassion and understanding is such a gift to share with others — and that Holly promotes this and helps others to achieve that level of leadership is so powerful! Thanks much for reading this Amy!
@Zeenat — Hi Zeenat. Holly has been such a gift in my life, and getting to know her even better through this only makes her light shine brighter into my world! Thank you for reading this today!
reading about holly and her mission was awe-inspiring. Thank you Lance!
And Holly, as the ‘mom’ to two rescued dogs, I say thank you for your work in animal welfare.
.-= brandi´s Last Fabulous Post ..I have stories to tell… =-.
Hi Brandi,
Holly has really worked to create something special, and it’s been a privilege for me to share that here. And what she has done for animal welfare is a real gift to this world, and especially to the countless animals she’s helped.
So glad to connect with you on Twitter — and absolutely love your site! I will definitely spend some time searching around a bit to get up to speed, but you have a new follower in me. I really enjoyed this interview as well — your questions are thought-provoking and it’s written in such a conversational tone. Thanks Lance!
.-= Laura at The Journal of Cultural Conversation´s Last Fabulous Post ..Hate Your Job, But Still Love Your Life: How to Be Happy No Matter Where You Work =-.
Hi Laura,
Welcome! It’s great to have you here! And to connect on Twitter. Holly was such an inspiring lady to work with, and her answers to the questions really led into this conversational style. Glad to hear you enjoyed it!