The Journey Behind the Woman

I didn't start out teaching confidence. I lived the gap between who I was and who I knew I could be, and I figured out how to close it.

After earning my degree in Communications from UMass Amherst, I spent decades navigating corporate environments, boardrooms, and high-stakes conversations. I watched brilliant people get overlooked, not because they lacked talent, but because no one had ever taught them how to communicate with presence, command a room, or carry themselves with the kind of authority that makes others lean in.

That frustrated me. And it lit something in me.

I went back for my Master's in Organizational Leadership and Development, dove deep into the science of human behavior through DISC profiling, earned my certification in International Etiquette and Protocol from the Protocol School of Washington, and dedicated myself to becoming the coach I wish I'd had earlier in my career.

  • I founded Master Soft Skills with one mission: to give women the tools, strategies, and confidence to stop shrinking and start leading. Because the world needs more women who own their seat at the table. I know EXACTLY how to help you get there.

My Credentials

Education

  • B.A. in Communications — University of Massachusetts, Amherst (1985)

  • M.S. in Organizational Leadership & Development — Mountain State University (2012)

Certifications

  • Certified Expert, International Etiquette & Protocol — The Protocol School of Washington (2019)

  • Certified DISC Expert (2019)

Toastmasters

  • Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) — Highest earned designation in Toastmasters International

  • Competent Communicator | Competent Leader

  • Area Director — Nashville & Chattanooga, TN (2022)

Affiliations

  • Toastmasters International | Alpha Chi Omega

Six pink star-shaped objects lined up in a row.

Thank you for hosting the Women's Mastermind classes and leading discussions on so many interesting and informative topics designed to maximize success in the workplace. Your coaching style was always positive, upbeat, and forward-thinking, as you encouraged all participants to share their experiences, learn from one another, and practice new skills.

Talking points included Time Management, Taking Ownership, Negotiating Like a Pro, Turning Obstacles into Opportunities, and Managing Arrogancy. My favorite topic was "Expansion Thinking," which included Expanding Your Network, Expanding Your Knowledge, and Expanding Your Mindset. All of these can lead to amazing and unforeseen opportunities in business. and in life!

Cheers to expanding your horizons and living abundantly!"

Ann

Can you relate? If this is you, I can help ensure this stops happening!

“I’ve tried everything and it’s not enough.”

“I have achieved a lot on paper, but I still feel insecure.”

“I think I missed an opportunity, because I didn’t speak up.”

“I got tongue-tied and didn’t say anything.”

Stop being passed over because you think your work will speak for itself- it won’t. 

If you are stuck, hesitating, overthinking, and wrestling with imposter syndrome, I’m here to help. Let’s go get your next promotion!

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