Meet Kathleen Goodman

What inspired your journey into organizational and leadership development?

I’ve always been drawn to the unseen dynamics that shape systems and organizations—the intricate connections and untapped potential waiting to be uncovered. My early background in marine ecology taught me to appreciate ecosystems, balance, and interdependence, which translates beautifully into organizational work. Over the past 30 years, I’ve dedicated myself to helping teams and leaders transform challenges into opportunities and align their unique talents to achieve ambitious goals.

What strengths do you bring to your work?

I combine strategic analysis with deep intuition, blending data-driven insights with an understanding of what drives people. My expertise spans strategy, organizational effectiveness, leadership development, and change management. I’m passionate about drawing out the potential within individuals and teams, uniting their talents to tackle complex problems and create meaningful change.

Key Highlights:

• Education:

• BA in Biology (Whitman College), focusing on ecosystems and interdependence.

• MA in Management and Organizational Communication (Emerson College).

• MA and current PhD candidate in Depth and Archetypal Psychology (Pacifica Graduate Institute), with research on leadership during crisis and disruption.

• Certifications:

• Design Thinking (Stanford University’s d.school).

• iEQ9 Integrative Enneagram and MMTIC Personality Type Indicator for Children.

• Industry Experience:

• Worked in technology, publishing, retail, consulting, and philanthropy.

• Expertise in strategy development, leadership presence, and employee engagement.

What’s your approach to leadership development?

I focus on honoring the potential within each leader and team. My work involves uncovering unique strengths, aligning talents with purpose, and empowering leaders to take bold steps forward. I thrive on creating innovative approaches that blend heart and mind—bringing intuition and analysis together to unlock what’s possible.

What are you learning right now?

As part of my Ph.D. research, I’m exploring the psychological dynamics of leadership in chaotic times and how intuition and analysis can be woven into strategic decision-making. These threads continuously inform my coaching and consulting, helping me support leaders facing uncertainty and disruption.

What are you most proud of professionally?

• Transforming teams from 10 to 5,000 people to align with evolving strategies and revitalize engagement. 

• Developing programs to amplify the voices and talents of underrepresented leaders. 

• Innovating approaches to strategy development that balance intuition and analysis.

What’s life like outside of work?

Creativity is a big part of who I am. I love writing—whether it’s poetry, academic essays, or articles—and creating visual art like paintings and mosaics. I also enjoy performing as the lead singer in my band. Beyond that, I’m passionate about raising my confident and resilient daughter and spending time outdoors, where I feel most inspired.

What’s your leadership philosophy?

Leadership is about stepping into the unknown with courage and belief. I resonate deeply with Edward Teller’s words:
"When we come to the edge of all the light we have and take that final step into the darkness of the unknown, we must believe that one of two things will happen: there will be something solid to stand on, or we will learn how to fly."
In my work, I help leaders find that solid ground—or their wings.

What’s been a career highlight for you?

Watching organizations, teams, and individuals I’ve worked with thrive long after our time together. Knowing I’ve helped create alignment, amplify underrepresented voices, and empower people to pursue bold visions has been incredibly rewarding.