06/17/2026
Reflections from Virginia Beach 🌊
Yesterday, I had the privilege of presenting two sessions for Virgina Head Start Association. Leaders across Virginia’s Head Start and Early Head Start programs. In the room were education leaders, coaches, mental health managers, family advocates, nutrition leaders, site managers, assistant directors, and others who dedicate their lives to supporting children, families, and educators.
What struck me most wasn’t the number of people in attendance—it was the energy in the room.
The conversations flowed naturally. People laughed, shared their experiences, asked thoughtful questions, and filled pages with notes. Instead of rushing through slides, we followed the needs of the audience, and the learning became a true conversation rather than a presentation.
My favorite part of the day was the second session, when we shifted into live coaching. Leaders brought real challenges they were facing, and together we explored solutions in the moment. I also had the opportunity to connect one-on-one with several attendees throughout the day—something that is always the most meaningful part of any conference for me.
One piece of feedback I received keeps echoing in my mind: people appreciated that the session felt relatable and interactive. They said it felt more like a conversation than a training.
As speakers, leaders, and humans, it’s easy to focus on the few people who may not connect with our style or message. Yesterday reminded me that our goal is not to be everything to everyone. Our goal is to serve the people who are ready for the message we have to share.
I left feeling grateful—not just for the opportunity to speak, but for the opportunity to learn, connect, and plant seeds. Every conversation matters. Every connection matters. Every perspective shift matters.
This work continues to remind me why I do what I do: helping leaders move from stress to joy, from compliance to connection, and from overwhelm to possibility.
Today, as I watch the sunlight dance across the ocean before heading home, my heart is full.
Meeting dear friends and making new friends!
Grateful. Purposeful. Blessed.
06/09/2026