When did leadership become a performance?

Most leaders struggle to be authentic. They want to be more "real," but they're also afraid of appearing weak, indecisive, or incompetent. Sound familiar?

“"I used to think authenticity was just about passion for the mission. But now I realize it's also about how I show up—how I admit when I'm burned out or unsure. That's hard, especially when others are looking to you for energy and answers."
— Workshop participant, National nonprofit leader

In today's hyper-scrutinized world, there's more pressure on leaders to perform than to be real.

Many avoid speaking their minds or showing vulnerability out of fear that it'll be seen as weak and unleaderlike.

But here's what we've learned from years of coaching senior leaders: authenticity isn't something you're born with. It's a skill you can build with practice. And when you do, everything changes—how you communicate, how you connect, and how you lead.

What You'll Experience

Deep Reflection

A full day of conversation and reflection with a small group of thoughtful peers who are navigating the same questions you are.

Practical Tools

Leave with usable strategies to help you stay grounded in tough conversations, speak more directly, and notice when you're defaulting to old patterns.

Real Connection

Good food, a supportive space, and the rare experience of learning in community with others who are showing up with openness and honesty.

Personal Insight

A deeper look at what authenticity really means to you—and how it shows up (or doesn't) in your daily interactions.

  • "Authenticity is often more about SUBTRACTING, not adding—letting go of the inner noise, the instinct to perform, and the pressure to always have the answers."

    Workshop Attendee

  • "The powerful shift that happens when we put 'connection' before 'content'—and the reminder that we don't need to be 'on' all the time."

    Workshop Attendee

  • "Being real, especially in our messier moments, is often what makes us most trustworthy."

    Workshop Attendee

  • Maybe you have a creative project to share with the world

    Quote Source

Meet Your Guides

Tina Collins, PCC | Rethinkery

  • 25+ years as an award-winning consultant, coach,

    facilitator and comedian

  • ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC)

  • Leadership Development, Organizational Development, Scenario Mapping & Strategic Planning

Derek Johnston | Facevalue Coaching

  • 35+ years in coaching, communications, facilitation, and stakeholder engagement

  • Integral Master Coach™

  • Journalist, strategist, spokesperson, lecturer, crisis communications specialist, musician

Get on the waitlist for 
The Authentic Edge Workshop
Add your name to the waitlist to get updates on the workshop, including date, time, venue, when tickets go on sale, and other details!
Thanks for joining the waitlist! Keep an eye on your inbox for updates.

The Details

When & Where

October 16th
8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Fairfield Inn & Suites
578 Terry Fox Drive, Kanata

What's Included

  • Breakfast, lunch, coffee, and snacks

  • Free parking right outside the door

  • All workshop materials

  • Small group setting (maximum 30 participants)

Investment

$985 + HST
The Ontario Job Grant may reimburse up to 80% —contact us for details.