For years, I believed leadership was primarily about performance, communication, and presence. Over time, I came to understand that how we show up in the world is rooted in something even more foundational: self-regulation.

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Over the years, I’ve committed myself to understanding personality types, communication styles, and how emotions and energy influence the way we show up professionally, personally, as parents, and as friends. I’ve learned that the ability to pause, reflect, and respond instead of reacting has a direct impact on how we lead, communicate, and connect with others.

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My background in defense contracting shaped a big part of that perspective.  I have held several roles of increasing responsibility, including Buyer, Subcontract Administrator, and Small Business Advocate, where I represented organizations at more than 60 networking events each year.  Those experiences gave me a deep understanding of federal procurement, supplier development, and the challenges small businesses face when trying to grow and compete.

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I also bring a strong academic and professional foundation to my work. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from American Public University and a Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University. I am an International Coaching Federation-trained coach through the ACT Leadership Program at Brown University School of Professional Studies, and I hold certifications in Hogan Personality Assessments and Workplace Mediation.

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As the Founder and CEO of Executive Coaching with Ayana, LLC, I combine my corporate experience with evidence-based coaching to help people strengthen self-regulation, improve leadership effectiveness, and build businesses and lives that feel aligned and sustainable.

 

My coaching is not about perfection. It’s about awareness, accountability, and learning how to lead yourself with intention in real time, in life, in relationships, and in leadership.

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Because when you can regulate yourself, you can transform the way you show up in every area of your life.

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When I’m not coaching, I enjoy traveling, spending time with my five children, family, and friends, and making self-care a priority.