About
Leadership for what’s next
I help leaders and changemakers grow their capacity to take on what matters most, especially when it’s messy, complex, or uncertain.
Meet Amanda
I began my career in South Florida newsrooms, taught in public schools, and spent more than a decade working across local and state government. Along the way, I helped launch leadership programs for youth, pass bold legislation, and design inclusive community engagement efforts.
I love a good dumpster fire (really!) There’s joy in helping my clients find clarity in chaos.
Today, I bring that same energy to my clients: helping them tackle tough challenges, navigate change, and lead with clarity and courage. I’ve partnered with entrepreneurs, public figures, nonprofits, and government agencies alike, always tailoring the work to the people in the room.
I believe better is possible—and I help people get there.
Grounded in experience.
Guided by values.
My work is rooted in the adaptive leadership framework and shaped by my background as a journalist—curious, clear, and unafraid to ask the hard questions. I’m a trained coach, strategist, and facilitator with over 20 years of experience across various sectors.
Credentials:
Harvard Kennedy School (Gates Family Foundation Fellow)
Kansas Leadership Center
University of Miami
International Coaching Federation (ACC in progress)
What guides the work
COURAGE
facing what is. Acting on what could be.
CURIOSITY
staying open. Asking better questions.
CONNECTION
Rooted in people, systems, and place
CREATIVITY
experimenting and reinventing.
what does “ayo” mean?
After a visit to my local Boys & Girls Club, I told a friend, “My heart is full.” He laughed and asked, “Full of what?” I said “joy,” and he gave me a nickname: Ayo—the Yoruba word for joy. When I launched this practice, I wanted a name that honored that feeling.
why the bird?
The ibis is native to South Florida, where I grew up. It’s known for returning first after a hurricane and symbolizes resilience and courage. It’s also a nod to my journalism background (in ancient Egypt, ibis represented wisdom and writing) and my global perspective.
what about community?
I serve on several nonprofit boards, including being the Board Chair for the Denver Fire Department Foundation. Additionally, I volunteer with the Denver Broncos Boys & Girls Club and support organizations such as Mile High Lab Mission and the Denver Botanic Garden — my unofficial downtown office.
Things you might not guess from my resume…
hometown:
Fort Lauderdale, FL
childhood idol:
Barbara Walters
snow day hobby:
Knitting or sewing
favorite public space:
Libraries (beaches are a close second)
dream ride:
In the passenger seat with the Blue Angels
current favorite show:
Abbot Elementary