Business Growth Spotlight

Ep. 22: Unlocking Leadership Potential with Susan DeWoody

Heidi Schalk

In this episode of the Business Growth Spotlight podcast, host Heidi Schalk speaks with Susan DeWoody, president of Strata Leadership. They discuss Susan's journey from academia to leadership development, the importance of character in coaching, and how Strata tailors its programs to meet diverse organizational needs. The conversation also explores the significance of trust in building high-performing teams, the role of authenticity in leadership, and the integration of AI in leadership development. Susan shares insights on visibility challenges in the coaching industry and future trends in leadership development, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation.Dr. Susan DeWoody is a proud first-generation college graduate, lifelong learner, solution finder and champion for the underdog.

Prior to joining Strata Leadership as President, Dr. DeWoody was part of the nonprofit

leadership sector of CarterBaldwin Executive Search, a firm listed among

the top 1% of search firms in the nation by Hunt Scanlon. For the past 20 years,

she has served in multiple areas on college and university campuses: recruitment,

advising, campus life, NCAA DII athletics, and academic affairs to name a few.

Her most recent academic post involved serving on the president’s cabinet at

Oklahoma Baptist University as the first female Provost in the institution’s more

than 113-year history.


Dr. DeWoody brings a dynamic blend of expertise and passion to her roles as an

executive coach, leadership facilitator, and public speaker. With a career marked

by unwavering dedication, she fearlessly tackles the complexities of leadership in

today's ever-changing landscape. Dr. DeWoody's authentic voice resonates as she

shares her personal journey with imposter syndrome, emphasizing the

transformative power of embracing vulnerability in leadership. She champions

navigating difficult spaces with courage and resilience, guiding organizations

through turbulent waters with her keen insights into change management. Dr.

DeWoody inspires audiences with her fervent belief in the profound impact of a

growth mindset and lifelong learning, empowering individuals to thrive amidst

facing life's complexity.


Dr. DeWoody earned the Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership in

Higher Education Administration from Dallas Baptist University. She earned the

Master of Science in College Student Personnel Services from Northeastern State

University. She earned the Bachelor of Science in Education from Arkansas Tech

University and an Associates of Arts degree from University of Arkansas – Fort

Smith.

Although she has also lived in Arkansas, Texas, and North Carolina, her heart

and her roots are firmly planted in Oklahoma. She has been married to Dr. Dale

DeWoody (English PhD and educator) since 2003.

Dr. DeWoody believes deeply in the never-ending pursuit of learning and has a

strong desire to inspire others to be intentional about finding their purpose.

To connect with our guest, click on the links below:

 Website:  www.strataleadership.com

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/susandewoody/

Connect with me:

Spotlight to Scale: Spotlight to Scale Blueprint

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidischalkcoaching/