“As an international affairs professional in my mid-thirties, I began working with Shelby after experiencing a layoff.  Previously, I had the opportunity to observe her approach to leadership as a senior executive at the State Department, where she led with love and a commitment to excellence.  When I learned about the Leadership Tea Podcast, I became a dedicated listener and a true fan of Shelby (and Belinda!)  So this summer when all of my assumptions about my career path were upended, I knew who to call. Something I have appreciated throughout my coaching experience is how Shelby is always ready to meet me exactly where I am, messy feelings and all.  Our sessions range from introspective to concrete, including big picture discussions on my priorities and actionable advice on specific challenges.  Shelby has encouraged me to speak up when my tendency would be to hold back, which has already helped open new doors in the four months we’ve been working together.  When I find myself falling back into unhelpful patterns or considering approaches that don’t align with my priorities, she holds me accountable while still being kind.  Shelby is generous with her time and always ready to help when I have asked for her input on time-sensitive issues outside of our scheduled sessions.  Plus she’s really fun to talk to - she’s like the coolest, smartest, most thoughtful big sister anyone could hope to have. For anyone else who may be navigating a career transition or working to strengthen their leadership skills, I can’t recommend Shelby highly enough.  Getting to learn from her has truly been a highlight of the year for me.”

- Lauren Eades, Washington D.C., 12/18/2025

“Shelby guided me through a point in my career that, looking back, was a bridge. She helped me vocalize what my career in public service meant to me and build the strength for a much-needed change. I ended coaching with Shelby more than a year ago, and I am still drawing lessons from the experience of working with her. When times are challenging, I know who I am and what my purpose is. I did not understand what Shelby meant when she said “lead with love” was her first leadership principle. Love is not something for work, right? But actually, I now perfectly understand this is exactly what’s needed and what happens when my purpose, mission, and a deep caring for those around me come together. Thanks to my work with Shelby, I understand better that my job is not to perform but to show up as me with all of my unique skills, which also means I will stumble and need to pick up the pieces sometimes. This is a scary place, but also where I am strongest, and what I tap into to build teams and work that matters. ”

- Mid-Career Professional, U.S. Department of State, 10/23/2025