About/Testimonials

Executive Coach Mary Lee Gannon, ACC, CAE

Mary Lee has a unique perspective as a certified executive coach and a 19+ year corporate CEO, currently running a $33 million organization within a 95,000 employee company. She helps leaders be respected, advance at the executive level, and figure out the next phase of their life, without neglecting their well-being or disconnecting from the people who matter. Her clients include leaders from Adobe, Google, Ford Motor, Johnson & Johnsons, Amazon, The Air Force, PayPal, The Pittsburgh Steelers, and many other organizations in the US and abroad. See the testimonials below.  

See Mary Lee coach LIVE is this ASK the COACH session.

 

The Biggest Benefit of Executive Coaching with Mary Lee:  

You have executive presence and a satisfied life - you finally are respected and a ‘must have’ in any leadership position, knowing what to do with the thoughts that used to hold you back so that you can advance, get promoted, get hired, sustain healthy eating/sleeping/exercise habits, earn more, and relate better. You trade expectations, assumptions, blame and complaining for becoming comfortable with the uncertainty of situations you can't control and certainty about yourself. 

You feel confident - know you belong and are worthy. You have the ability to see beyond bureaucracy, personal agendas, cynicism and posturing to the big picture where you anticipate with strategic execution not react, defend, or withdraw with regret.

You don’t need to be right. You get it right. And when you go to sleep at night you rest easy knowing you are effective, respected and content.

You will have:

- The essential mindset hacks needed to up-level your career

- The fastest way to gain clarity on your purpose and career aspirations

- The process to nail down your Unique Value Proposition and how to package it

- The effective, practical strategies to win the opportunities you want

 

Certifications: 

Mary Lee is an International Coach Federation Certified Coach, a Certified Professional Coach by Duquesne University, a Certified Association Executive, an alumnus of the UCLA Mindful Awareness Practices Program and the Harvard Medical School and McLean Hospital Coaching in Medicine & Leadership Conference, a scholarship recipient of the Search Inside Yourself Leadership Institute at Georgetown University’s Institute for Transformational Leadership created at Google, and a member of Pittsburgh Coaches Association. She is the author of two books: Reinvent You – From Welfare to CEO and Starting Over.

At a certain career level everyone is smart, experienced and highly capable; those traits are no longer differentiators. Unfortunately, at this level there are few supports. What do you do when bureaucracy, personal agendas and posturing are ubiquitous? When doubt shatters progress? When working harder just leaves you more exhausted? Success is freedom not more hours.

 

Personal Turnaround: 

Mary Lee’s personal turnaround came as a stay-at-home mother with four children under seven-years-old who endured a divorce that took her and her children from the country club life to public assistance from where she re-invented her life to support her family.

 

Awards/Recognition: 

Mary Lee is the recipient of the Marquis Who's Who Distinction for Executive Coaching and Corporate Leadership, the Honorary Woman of Courage Award by Pennsylvania Women Work, The Lifetime Achievement Award by Pittsburgh Society of Association Executives, The Women of Integrity Award by Pittsburgh Professional Women, The Leading Lady Award by Oakland Catholic, WHIRL Magazine's Women in Business Award and Influential Leader Award by Pittsburgh Professional Women for her work during COVID19. Mary Lee is a former reporter for The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and columnist for The Ladders. She’s been featured in Money Magazine, ABC, CBS, NBC, NPR, Yahoo.com, U.S. News and World Report, msn.com, Forbes.com, CareerBuilder.com, Monster.com and many other publications. 

 

Clients: 

Mary Lee has coached for corporations and individuals from: Google, Merrill Lynch, Amazon, Ford Motor Company, Johnson & Johnson, United States Department of Labor, PNC, Adobe, Nokia, PayPal, Philips, US Chamber of Commerce, The University of Southampton - UK, The Pittsburgh Steelers, ConnectiveRx, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, IBM, US Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Sage Intacct, Mitel, John Wiley and Sons, Department of the Air Force, HNTB, University of Tennessee, United States Postal Service, Channellock Tools, Innovative Systems, Pegasus Laboratories, The Good Feet Store, VMware,  The Beck Group, Talking Rain, Levy, University of Pittsburgh, LOFT, Dick’s Sporting Goods, SAP Ariba, USAA, Allegheny Health Network, BankUnited, Mon Health Medical Center, Ametek, RiseSmart, Sabra, Nebraska Public Power District, Select Medical, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC Law Firm, The United Way, Strassburger McKenna & Gefsky Law Firm, The EMJ Group, Ebb, Allegheny County Medical Society, Clean Slate Media, Mosaic Wealth Consulting, Excela Health, Pittsburgh Promise, Easter Area Adult Services, Bravo Group, The Ellis School, Crime Victim Center of Erie County, Pittsburgh Professional Women, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, Franklin Templeton Investments, Nuage Networks, Cedar Gate Technologies, Bedford County Chamber of Commerce, Volunteer Administrators of Southwestern PA, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.  

 

Community Service:

Mary Lee’s leadership and dedication to volunteer service is evidenced by her tenure on dozens of non-profit boards of directors, specifically in the role of past president of Rotary Club of Fox Chapel Area, past president of Pittsburgh Society of Association Executives, past president of St. Lucy’s Auxiliary to the Blind, Chairperson of The Medallion Ball, and chairperson of the Development Committee for Healthcare Council of Western Pennsylvania. She has served as a trustee on the boards of Pittsburgh Planned Giving Council, Eastern Area Adult Services, Women’s Auxiliary of the American Cancer Society, St. Margaret Foundation, and Community Organized Representatives for Education under the Association of Retarded Citizens, and Community Swim Club. She has volunteered for POWER, Dress for Success, Society of Children’s Book Writers, editor of her church newsletter and as a Girl Scout Leader for several Brownie, Junior and Cadette troops, and on the Inclusion Committee at UPMC St. Margret Hospital. Additionally, she has provided pro-bono consulting for HEARTH, New Choices/New Options, Pennsylvania Women Work, Dress for Success, Urban League of Pittsburgh, Employment Advancement Retention Network, Girls Scouts of Western PA, Workquest, One Vision One Life, McKeesport Employment and Training Network.

Download Mary Lee's Flow on the Go Guide - Weekly Planning Tool. You already have a calendar. This is a way to track your daily goals and your well-being.

Learn more about individual coaching programs with Mary Lee here.

 

Testimonials:

 

Gaby Pfeifer, PhD,
CPsychol, FHEA
Lecturer in Psychology
University of Southampton
England

"Mary Lee’s coaching has been instrumental in overcoming my self-doubt and strengthening my boundaries in both professional and personal interactions. Before starting the program, I lacked the tools for a consistent communication style, which often resulted in volatile, situation-dependent responses and left me feeling sidelined in conversations. Mary Lee’s guidance has helped me achieve the steady, calm, and assertive communication I was missing.

Her strategies, especially the prep-talks before significant discussions and meetings, have been particularly beneficial. They help me stay grounded and focused, enhancing my ability to present ideas effectively while listening to and incorporating feedback from others. Mary Lee has also taught me valuable skills such as managing up, handling discomfort, and maintaining momentum with greater certainty and less judgment.

Her integrative approach to coaching – addressing both professional and personal challenges – has clarified my sense of self and my future direction. I am truly grateful for the positive changes Mary Lee’s support has brought about. I highly recommend her program to anyone looking to enhance their executive presence and the value it brings to themselves and their interactions with others."

 

Erica Clayton Wright
Senior Advisor Policy and Media
U.S. Department of Labor

"Simply stated, working with Mary Lee Gannon was one of the best investments I have ever made in myself.  I began working with Mary Lee during a transformational period in my life. It was a decision on my part to take the knowledge, skills and experiences gained throughout my career and focus my energy towards roles that fit my leadership and creative skills while helping others and contributing to my community.  Mary Lee provided me with thoughtful insight about myself, taught me to get to the root of my uncertainty by pausing in order to maintain my leadership presence and bring the best out in others.  Her program provided me with the tools and resources to position myself to embrace my personal evolution with grace, grit and most importantly greater awareness.  One of the most valuable lessons I learned about myself through Mary Lee was the hard work that got me to where I am today is not the skill that is going to take me to where I am going.  I also learned that in order to make this transition, I need to dig deep within myself to stay true to my values and boundaries in order to have the freedom to have the career and life I want to have and live.”

 

Marina Tharayil
Smart Mobility Analytics Product Development and Data Scientists' Manager
Ford Motor Company 

“Mary Lee Gannon was exactly the mentor and guide I needed to help clarify my priorities, face my fears and move towards my goals. I’d been reading her newsletters and was inspired by her personal story as well as her holistic and integrated approach to success. When the opportunity came up to be coached by her, I was thrilled! She was present, kind, generous, available, practical and honest in her interactions with me.

· I entered the program with uncertainties and fears in my personal life, and left with healthy boundaries to protect myself and my son and put us on steady ground.

· As a working single mom, I came with feelings of insufficiency and guilt as a mother, insecurity towards how much I can commit to my career, and exhaustion from trying to do it all, alone. I ended the program with a concrete self-care routine I’m committed to, and specific commitments to my son articulated so I can be the mom I want to be, guilt free. I am also focusing on the areas at work that matter and am not as concerned about face-time or clocking hours.

· Mary Lee helped validate my internal guidance and identify internal markers for when I maybe going off track. I was able to release expectations of what success would look like and trust that I have what it takes to pursue my own unique path. She led me to clarity on what my ideal life would look/feel like, and confidence to claim it.

My focus was not to get a particular job, but I stand more assured of myself and trust myself to know what the right next step is for me. What I value the most about Mary Lee is her integrated, mindful, authentic approach to help you live your best life, from the inside out. I am grateful for her grace, generosity, and wisdom!”

 

Adam Sellers
Detection and Investigation Staff Manager
PNC Bank

“Anyone who participates in Mary Lee’s program will find they can take their leadership to another level. Mary Lee helped me get to the root values of who I am and made me cognizant of how to utilize those values in my professional life. Utilizing Mary Lee’s program, I was able to successfully change careers and am happy professionally for the first time in my life. Additionally, those who are seeking “Emotional Intelligence” need to look no further. You will obtain the techniques necessary to have a high level of emotional intelligence working through Mary Lee’s program. I recommend her program to anyone who is seeking advancement, fulfillment, or a fresh start in their life or career.”

 

 

Bill McNamara
President and CEO
The EMJ Group

 “Mary Lee’s method of coaching came to me at a time of critical career decision making. Her process enabled me to step off the seemingly never-ending treadmill of work and home responsibilities and enabled me to take pause, look at myself in a way I never have before.

I’m now able to use her training on a daily basis at both work and home to have that balance restored and allow every day challenges to come to me in an orderly and expected way, without the stress these events cause.

No matter what your career or position, I highly recommend you engage with Mary Lee and give yourself the gift of power over your thoughts, reactions, relationships and centered peace of heart and mind.” 

 

 

Ginger Fritz
Vice President
Total Rewards & HR Shared Services
Axia Women's Health

"When I first contacted Mary Lee I had reached a point of despair in my job, and had hit a plateau in my career. I was experiencing frustrations and difficult feelings that were taking a personal toll on my health, my family and, ultimately, my success. Work-life balance didn't exist, and I hadn't prioritized myself or my family as much as I had my work, and I recognized something needed to change. Through our time together, working through the content of the modules as well as our personal connections, I carefully began to peel back the layers of those challenges, as well as the self-perceptions that were driving them, and something amazing happened - I discovered that the 'something' in my way wasn't someone else, or a lack of skill, capability, or shortcoming. Simply stated, it was my perception of myself. A lack of confidence that had spilled over from years of negative self talk and playing small.

While I'm convinced the journey of self-discovery and growth is a life-long commitment, the skills I am now proud to have in my toolkit from our time together will stay with me forever. With Mary Lee's coaching, I explored my values and mission, identified my fears and triggers, and addressed my uncertainty - head and heart first. I'm proud to say the self-discovery helped me turn the page to a new chapter in my career, solidly built on a solid foundation of confidence, expertise, and self-love. If you are feeling lost or uncertain in your career or personal journey, this program is for you! I wish I had discovered Mary Lee's program so much sooner, but I'm excited to explore a clearer path forward and see where this new journey takes me. I now see the possibility and 'big blue sky', and you can too. Invest in yourself...you are worth it!"

 

Dr. Troy Joyner
Program Analyst
Department of the Air Force

"I just finished Mary Lee’s executive coaching program and it was a life-changing experience. The concept of mindfulness was a critical cornerstone of this program. As a result, I am learning to be more empathetic towards my peers, subordinates, and senior leaders. Also, I can now manage conflict resolution from a self-aware perspective leveraging the “Pause Café” tool. Another profound aspect of the program is the “Flow-on-the-Go Guide.”  This instrument allows me to remain in the moment by focusing on the daily routines with purpose and intent. More importantly, the tool provided a template for value identification, roadmaps for success, and daily appreciation for life. Currently I am utilizing Mary Lee’s “Mindful Presentation Tips” strategies due to abundant remote work opportunities. Given the state of our society, this executive coaching program is the responsible investment to make."

 

Laura Ley Carlson
Executive Director
Development, AHN Psychiatry & Behavioral Health

"Post-COVID, I began to notice a loss of energy and excitement that had always accompanied me at work. As a full-time working parent, the pandemic had taken its toll. While I was experiencing a variety of personal factors that influenced this change, feelings of being overwhelmed seemed to affect me most strongly in the workplace. I had adopted and internalized thought patterns related to inadequacy and failure and was leaning heavily on my fall-back style -- working harder and longer -- as a solution that had been effective in my early career.  Mid-career, this approach no longer served me. Burn-out set in and weighed heavily on me daily and I knew intuitively I needed to find a new support system outside of my organization. I understood professional coaching primarily as it related to career advancement. For me, seeking a coach equated to ensuring survival and keeping me in the game for the long-term career I had envisioned and value. 

Mary Lee's visual analogy of the "treadmill to nowhere" resonated with me deeply as did her personal story of overcoming obstacles, raising her family and building a career of social impact. Mary Lee graciously, and confidentially, accepted me in a complete state of vulnerability. Frankly, I felt broken and was embarrassed to admit I needed support. I had always relied on myself to 'push through' and 'figure it out' -- working harder and longer. From our first conversation, Mary Lee was skilled at catching negative thought patterns, reforming perspective, and guiding me through program material to reflect on my deeper skillset and personal value system. Mary Lee's program was extensive and rich in educational materials for reading, watching, and engaging. Boundaries, defining unique professional and personal priorities, and maximizing time for energy-building activities were key concepts in the course work. Mary Lee adjusted the pace of the program to fit my needs and I was able to create and save content to reference and view at any time. Mary Lee started each personal coaching session asking how she could best support me that day. She celebrated moments of my growing clarity of how I wanted to show up personally and professionally, and shined a light on the actions that would enable me to accomplish that vision.

Today, 18 months after completing the curriculum, I feel empowered with strategies to support a long-term career approach. Tools like personal value propositions, a leadership impact plan, yearly personal career and life planning tool, and building executive presence are referenced as needed. Most important to me, feelings of joy, peace, grace, and gratitude for being able to contribute to social impact in my own unique way not only returned, but have been experienced on a much deeper level. Mary Lee's understanding that "pausing" -- literally and figuratively -- to step off the "treadmill to nowhere" are essential lessons for leaders at every career phase.

I highly recommend Mary Lee and often refer to her lessons and words of wisdom. I am also grateful to Mary Lee. We are not broken, we are all simply meant to re-discover and continuously nourish the spark that enables us to be our favorite version of ourselves."

 

Alan Peters
Senior Operations Manager
AMETEK Process Instruments

 "I truly appreciate the guidance Mary Lee provided as it has certainly helped me grow and become a stronger leader. My confidence is different. I have more tools/skills that I can quickly pull from to respond to a situation.  This supports me being able to walk into most scenarios and drive direction and resolution. Other people now see me as ‘in-charge/in-control.’ I now have a practice when stuck. I now go back and review the facts/data to reset how I am thinking about the problem. Now I can remove the emotion."

 

 

Nancy Cardone Raia
Senior Enterprise Customer Success Manager
TRUCE Software

“Before working with Mary Lee, I was completely stuck and unhappy. I felt like things were never going to change and I was unsure how to make things different. I also wasn't sure I was good enough to make a change and do something different. Luckily after working with Mary Lee for a few months, I regained a sense of self-worth, figured out what career path would make me happiest and determined a way to get me to my next step. I recently accepted a senior consulting position with a major international enterprise software player.

I went from being unhappy and stuck in a specialized industry to working for a well-respected company in a position with limitless possibilities.

This is the happiest I have been in years and I owe it all to Mary Lee. If you are in a similar position and are unsure how to make a change, consider working with Mary Lee. Not only is she extremely experienced and knowledgeable, but she truly cares and wants to see her clients succeed.

Working with Mary Lee changed my life. Worth every penny. If anyone is unhappy at their job, give yourself this gift. You will thank yourself and Mary Lee later.”

 

Kelly Singh, MABM, BSCJ
Chief Compliance Officer
Geneva Financial LLC
Chandler, AZ

“Mary Lee's program is truly effective. Working with Mary Lee, I was able to identify blind spots and roadblocks that were otherwise not visible to me.

After working with Mary Lee, I have experienced a greater self-awareness and improved self-regulation, and built a larger professional network. These skills are now part of my toolbox and I have used them in some of the most challenging professional situations.

I recommend Mary Lee's program to any leader looking to acquire real, tangible skills to drive them forward.”

 

Dina L. Perry, MBA
Vice President, Physician Services
Bayhealth Medical Center
Dover, DE

"I have been in progressive roles in healthcare leadership for 30 years. Mary Lee helped me secure and thrive in a vice-president role.

I had reached the point in my career where to take the next step in the C-suite, I felt it prudent to partner with an executive coach. Through Mary Lee’s executive coaching program, I received reinforcement of my strengths as a leader and more importantly gained insight into how to eliminate barriers toward taking the next step in my executive career. She provided thoughtful course content, rich with resources that I could explore at my own pace and revisit as I dug deeper into the areas on which I wanted to focus. These resources did not just focus on the “nuts and bolts” of leadership, but probably more importantly the self-care and awareness we all need to be fulfilled, happy human beings. Through those exercises, goal setting with Mary Lee, and practical application with my teams, I was able to hone in on what was holding me back, I implemented daily mindfulness practices, and made some difficult decisions to remove myself from situations my personal life that were starting to affect my wellbeing.

There is no doubt that without this exploration I would not now be poised to take on the next phase of my career. Discovery of clarity and owning the ability to control my destiny are invaluable outcomes to having Mary Lee as a coach. I am ready for anything that comes my way!"

 

Beth K.
Actuarial Director
MA

I really appreciated Mary Lee’s direct and honest approach to coaching. She gives concrete, practical advice to get past roadblocks. I have found myself better able to see my reactions from an outside perspective and adjust as needed. I am now comfortable asking for feedback. I don't want to have blind spots. I'm no longer afraid of taking things personally. I thoroughly enjoyed my sessions with Mary Lee and would highly recommend! 

 

Valerie Y. Nance, MJ-LEL, SHRM-SCP
Human Resources Director
Penn Hills Charter School of Entrepreneurship

"When I first reached out to Mary Lee Gannon in 2022, I felt addicted to busy-ness.  COVID had been a blur of nonstop work, interpreting policies and regulations as they were written, providing guidance to employees and developing procedures within my organization as part of the Pandemic Response Team.  During that time, I completed my professional certification and entered law school. I loved learning, I loved my job, but there was a low buzz of terror and guilt.  If I just did more, it would go away, right?  I chastised myself for not pushing through.  Self-care was an emergency procedure rather than a regular part of my life.  I had always been a high achiever and a hard worker, but something I couldn't even define was holding me back.  I attended presentations, saw my peers serving on boards of directors and publishing articles, and logically I knew I could do those things, but something subconscious told me I wasn't ready.  I needed one more accomplishment, one more degree, one more year of experience.  Those feelings were so deep that I didn't even recognize them or identify them as problematic until, through my work with Mary Lee, we uncovered the sources of those feelings of doubt.  The work was deep, and it was difficult.  Mary Lee's program guided me through self-reflection and insight in a firm, unflinching, but never judgmental way.  The one-on-one coaching with Mary Lee was invaluable.  She knows exactly how to identify and interrogate self-doubt, fear, guilt, and other negative emotions to get to the core issues.  Her methods provide tremendous clarity and wisdom.   

Even months after our formal coaching engagement had ended, I reached out to Mary Lee in a moment of professional frustration, and the wisdom she provided and the guidance in interrogating my feelings provided powerful and lasting insight that I continuously refer back to. 

One year after starting my coaching relationship with Mary Lee, I am starting a committee chair assignment for my professional association and serving on their board; I have completed a Master of Jurisprudence degree in Labor and Employment Law from Tulane Law School; remain active as an alumni with developing strategic initiatives for the program; developed and delivered a presentation based upon my legal research; developed a webinar on the same topic to be presented to my professional association in January; submitted a proposal to present on another topic at an upcoming conference; and will start volunteering with an animal rescue organization in a few weeks.  Work is not merely about being busy, pushing through, being self-reliant, doing one more thing; it's fulfilling and interesting and adventurous. I feel energized, and I have room in my life for rest and relaxation. I've always had all the tools and resources I needed.  Mary Lee helped me understand that I didn't need "one more thing" to make me "ready" to do the work that fulfills me."

 

 

Director of Finance
Marashlian & Donahue, PLLC
The CommLaw Group
Tysons Corner, Virginia 

"What changed the most for me is that I am now able to catch, interrupt and re-direct the negative thoughts and stories running in my brain! One of my bosses pointed out that I have ‘presence.’ This was toward the end of the coaching series. He did not know that I had hired a coach. 

Now I write a pros and cons list when I’m contemplating a change. I am in continuous learning mode via reading, listening to Mary Lee’s podcasts, and listening/watching other podcasts that are presented by people that I respect and admire."

 

 

Leah Tapp, PE, VMA
National Practice Manager
HNTB Corporation
Detroit, MI

“Mary Lee, I wanted to share my perspective on how the coaching process has benefited me.  My boss and I have had a couple conversations about coaching since I let him know I had entered your program, and this morning (seriously!) he asked me if I would mind sharing information about how I connected with you and your coaching program. I forwarded one of your recent newsletters with the link for a consulting call. He’s interested and commented that he’s seen a change in how deliberate I am now with how I approach what I work on and how much more intentional I am with my actions and responses. I couldn’t ask for a better validation of the improvements I’ve felt on the inside. I am deeply grateful for the time you took and for your willingness to coach. It is a selfless act to be patient while someone works through their inner grime and gunk, but the results, for me, are nothing short of amazing.  I did tell my boss if I ever get the opportunity to do the same for someone else, I’m all in.

When we first connected, I was frustrated with my lack of effectiveness in my position and within my organization. I felt undervalued and couldn’t make the impact I wanted to no matter what I tried. Going through the coaching process with you helped me see that it wasn’t specific behaviors holding me back; instead, I was letting fear and doubt influence my decisions and keep me from building good work relationships. During your program, I received a promotion with nearly a 10% raise and have increased my visibility and leadership potential in my office. Since completing your program, I have multiple opportunities in front of me with significant growth potential, all within my company. I’m excited about the potential I have. Most importantly, my work is meaningful, I have the promotion I wanted, and I look forward each day to helping others around me feel the same.”

 

Michael Spencer, MBA, CCIFP
Risk Management SQ Manager
The Beck Group
Dallas, Texas

"In working with Mary Lee what has changed is my approach in dealing with difficult situations and/or people. I've learned techniques to deal with them in a positive manner. The best part has been that there is so much material, combined with the personal coaching, the podcast, as well as the ability to email her at any time whereby she responds right away.

The struggle I have overcome is dealing with a difficult boss, which has been something I never encountered before. I have much more peace about it now. I know now that it is not about me and that there are things I can do differently to deal with it more effectively. I would say to anyone who is hesitating in working with Mary Lee, that I have worked with a coach in the past, and in comparison, I have gotten much more with Mary Lee. She has been able to get to the heart of my issues and speak directly to those with a personal touch. You just have to be open to listen deeply to her advice. Plus there is so much supporting information available in the program."

 

Sr. Director, Customer Experience
The Association for Materials Protection and Performance
And Principal ConsultantPrincipal Consultant, MKMC

"The most prominent thing I realized working with Mary Lee is to be able to recognize and name my emotions. It helps me focus and calm down when I'm in a stressful situation and I can realize that I'm not alone.

Having someone with experience to listen to me and provide advice and perspective without judgement.

I am tough on myself and struggle with Imposter Syndrome like many executives. I've gotten better at recognizing the value that I bring and not being afraid to share my thoughts. 

If you've ever thought about working with an Executive Coach, and you like what Mary Lee is offering, take the step and invest in yourself. Investing in your growth and education is one of the best investments you can make.

Overall, I think our engagement helped me to clarify what I want out of a career. This was a piece of the puzzle. I've spent over 25 years working for other people and hating the grind. Working with you, combined with being unemployed the past few months and doing some soul searching, made me realize that for my own work-life balance, I need to be the one calling the shots. I don't want to be tied to a 9 to 5 office job. I want to work where I want and when I want doing what I like. So now I'm starting my own consulting business and I'm going to be a Content Creator targeting small businesses and nonprofits who need to learn how to market on a budget."

 

 

Rita Palanjian
Proposal Bid Manager
IBM

"I never realized how much inner work I needed to do before my job search. The whole process of job search, and job growth starts internally, or I should say, we should all start with internal work first. Going through the thought-provoking exercises was very helpful in discovering what was important to me, what were my values, who were the important individuals in my life, who I emulated, and why. The biggest challenge was learning to be mindful and present with all that life throws at me. I struggled to see the value in myself. Coaching with Mary Lee focused on the value I bring as a mother and an employee. As women, it is our natural instinct to take care of our families first, however, studies have been done that show that women who stay in this mode start compromising their health because part of their soul is not being taken care of. Mary Lee is going to help you work on your subconscious and your inner negative dialogs, and you're going to come out having lifelong tools that you can rely on all the time. This is truly an investment for you, and you deserve to care for yourself this way."

 

Sandy McLachlan
Director of Human Resources
Prince Albert Grand Council, Canada

"When I first contracted Mary Lee I felt defeated, deflated and downtrodden; I was “done”. Done with what – I wasn’t sure. My anger and unhappiness were palpable.

Mary Lee listened to me, asked thought-provoking questions. Provided me tools which helped me to be thoughtful and mindful. She and guided me to exercises in her program that made me stop and think. Provided me framework to do something, something to help me get out of my own way. It wasn’t easy, and some days are easier than others. I felt a renewed sense of purpose. It was if I had been stuck in the mud and you offered me a way out. I was able to flourish and become an integral part of the team.

By working with Mary Lee I have a found a new level of interest and energy in my work that I thought was lost. I feel enthused, energetic and hopeful. I’ve stopped waiting and started creating a different version of the future than what I had been holding on to for too long.

The other day I was walking down the stairs at work and realized that there is a shift in me. I used to walk down the stairs say out loud to no one but the 4 walls, "I'm done". That is no longer happening; there is a spring to my step that I can feel that has not been there for a long time.

I renewed my sense of belonging and owning my seat at the table. Working with Mary Lee was refreshing. She has an uncanny ability to see to the heart of the matter help find solutions to what is holding us back. There is no time like the present to give yourself the gift of self-development and work with someone who is thoughtful and non-judgmental." 

 

 

Sharon Noro
Regional Vice President
Select Medical

"With 30 plus years of leadership experience, I made a leap and released myself from the world of autopilot. Before working with Mary Lee, I was not aware that I had moved through my career in autopilot mode and my identity and self-value was exclusively intertwined with my career success. Now that I have completed the program, it is evident to me how one dimensional the world of auto pilot actually is.

Working with Mary Lee challenged me as both a leader and an individual. The dynamic relationship between our self-talk, self-doubt, and our performance is inextricably linked.  She always knew when to push me, delve deeper and always posed thought provoking questions.  Mary Lee possesses the ability to assist you to visualize and work from a 50,000-foot view to the meaningful details.  I truly appreciated our one to one sessions and conversations working through the material and applying the concepts. Her authenticity, knowledge, and genuine desire to support shines through in these sessions.

Her program has truly changed and inspired me. It has allowed me the opportunity to assess my talents and strengths while making meaningful changes that will impact me both professionally and personally for years to come. Whether you are a new or seasoned leader, Mary Lee and the program will help you to further develop your executive presence and expand your skill set."

 

Sheri Leix
Sales Operations Manager
Ebb

"You know that tread mill that you’re on....well I was running and running on that treadmill and got nowhere.  The harder I worked the more miserable I was in my job. 

I lost my passion, my drive, my self-confidence, my voice...   I knew I was struggling, disconnected, unproductive and negative with my work, with my colleagues.  I knew I had to make a change, work on my communication skills, change my attitude, change my life.

Mary Lee and her leadership program taught me how to communicate effectively, gain self-confidence, improve my leadership skills and build my executive presence.  I just didn't change my professional career around, I changed my life, my outlook on life.  I used the Pause-Cafe moment strategy and was mindful of my actions and other’s actions so I could take control of situations.

Working with Mary Lee was the best decision I made.  I recently received a promotion. I now live in the present aware of my behaviors. I listen before I speak and extend compassion to the individuals around me.

Thank you, Mary Lee.  I will continue to work on myself and daily practices and goals."

 

Caleb Crousey
Financial Advisor
Wells Fargo Advisors 

“I highly recommend Mary Lee for anyone who is interested in taking their leadership to the next level – regardless of current responsibilities or title. What I found most impactful was not only how to become more self-aware but how it correlates with the ability to lead. Mary Lee’s genuine nature and commitment to results - combined with her ability to communicate a wealth of knowledge and resources in a concise and personal way, leads to a powerful and life-changing experience.” 

 

 

Crystal Palermo
Vice President of Human Resources
Quick Med Claims

"Working with Mary Lee has been inspiring, energizing and delightful. She possesses a wealth of wisdom to help leaders reach their full potential.

Her program has been beneficial in so many ways but the greatest takeaway for me was helping to further develop my emotional intelligence skills which has produced fantastic results. I now have the ability to communicate more effectively, coach my team in such a way that inspires them to perform at their best and has assisted with building trust. I would highly recommend her program!

When I began working with Mary Lee I was a Director. One day I met with a former boss for a project we had been working on where she told me that this had been a breakthrough year for me, and I had achieved “executive presence!” Amen! Ultimately, I was able to achieve a Vice President role in a leading organization. Mary Lee, Thank you for all your wisdom, guidance and support!"

 

Kristy DiGiacomo, MBA
Inside Sales Supervisor
Kennametal

"For months, I had followed Mary Lee's posts and sound advice through LinkedIn. As a mid-level sales and marketing professional with an MBA, I found myself in a place of confusion and a clouded vision of where I was in my career, where it was that I desired to be and how in the world to get there. After an initial consultation with Mary Lee, I knew that she had the skill set, experience and know how to help me untangle the confusion. Upon completing the executive coaching program with Mary Lee, the fog has cleared, I know exactly where I am in my career and the next steps that need to occur. Thank you Mary Lee for setting me straight on the path to success, personally and professionally! I would encourage any level professional who is searching for ways to improve to contact Mary Lee Gannon, you will be glad you did!" 

 

Bill Hargraves
Senior Project Manager and Communications Director
Jones Petrie Rafinski Corporation
South Bend, IN

“It’s up to you whether or not you are ready for a life-changing experience, because Mary Lee coaches only those who have their ‘moons’ aligned (mind, body, and spirit) and are prepared to make the life changes in discovering their best self!  

How?  Read, Listen, Practice, and Believe in all the exercises.  There are no shortcuts or quick fixes. If you cross the finish line, you will be a different person to your business, your family, and most importantly to yourself; you will also be among the respected team of successful executives who understand the commitment required to be an effective leader and serve others. Mary Lee works and lives daily by the very principles she coaches, so you are getting firsthand professional advice towards achieving your professional goals. I write this not to tell you my success in the program, but to hopefully touch those future executives who wish to make the world a better place. This is not a road many choose to take, but the rewards are priceless. 

I chose to commit to the program and the results not only included a new executive position and great job opportunity, but it also improved my family and personal relationships. Commit to yourself, your family, and your business colleagues, then bring on your “A” game!  Good luck!”

 

Jennifer Chew
Customer Documentation Engineer - Senior Technical Writer 
Nuage Networks - Nokia
San Jose, CA

"I have always been a conscientious person who wants to do the right thing. I continuously make adjustments as I get things done. Mary Lee has helped me get through some challenging situations where I could lose view of the big picture and become frustrated with something out of my control. After working with her, I am calmer, more resilient, and more connected with others in all aspects of my life. And I was able to secure a new role in an organization more aligned with my values working with Mary Lee."

 

Gretchen Kugel
Senior Management Consultant at Leidos, Inc.
Information Technology and Services Consultant
Reston, VA

"I cannot say enough about my coaching experience and work with Mary Lee Gannon.  Laid off and heard her speak on a webinar provided by my company’s outplacement services and knew, despite the uncertainty in my life, that I wanted to work with her. I was potentially at the end of my career when I was laid off and between that and the pandemic coupled with the political unrest in the country (and world), I was in need of an overhaul. I knew I wanted a career change, but I didn’t know what to do and was uncharacteristically sinking in body, mind, and spirit. I have always loved working and being a part of the world, but I wasn’t even sure I wanted to continue that. Working with Mary Lee was one of the most energizing and freeing things I have ever done. I finally was ready – and had the time – to do the hard work required by her coaching program to move forward from a very stuck place and to claim who I always was. I took a deep breath on my “intake” call with Mary Lee and was completely gut-level honest with her.  The risk I took allowed Mary Lee, who is a deep listener, help me reclaim myself and at long last overcome some of the struggles that have plagued me and my executive presence for years, struggles based in fear and centered in a lack of self-confidence. The daily mindful practices Mary Lee suggests, which require consistent action to attain results, allowed me to address and overcome lifelong issues and fears. I regained my inherent optimism, re-assessed my career in a positive light with a different perspective, and I was willing to try, when she suggested, a simple job to reconnect with the world. Even there, I can (and do) practice my executive presence.

I always said I wanted to play my life like 18 holes of golf, open to the given course on a given day. In recent years, this philosophy has been a cruel tool of self-criticism for all I had not done or achieved, but after three short months with Mary Lee, I re-assessed what that philosophy actually entails – the hours of practice on long and short game, driving, putting, reading greens, knowing where sand traps are and how the water hazards play out, where I spook myself, and where I find sheer joy in the “zone” of the game. It is a way to remain open to the possibilities life brings with the end result of 18 holes well played, to the best one can on the day in question. It fits and supports all my values – constant learning, the integrity not to blame weather or clubs for how I played, the poise under any condition (physical or mental), the mental and spiritual health of a good game played, and kindness to others on the course – and to myself. Re-assessing my “golf philosophy” helped me find the word that will be my intention for the next year: Open. To be open to new experiences, to be open to the little judgements I hear myself make internally and let them go, to open my heart more, to be open to the mystery of life and all I don’t understand, to be open to new opportunities with the confidence that I can meet them, to clear and remove obstructions, to unfold.”

 

 

Yvonne Davis
President and CEO
DAVIS Communications
Windsor, Connecticut

“Mary Lee is able to go 30 thousand feet in the air and look down at a situation to correctly and properly ascertain what is really going on and make the most thorough and thoughtful recommendation(s) for her clients. I would highly recommend Mary Lee in any professional capacity. She is an asset and strength to any team or individuals who may hire her.”

 

Linda Doman
Executive Director
Easter Area Adult Services
Pittsburgh, PA 

"Mary Lee facilitated a strategic visioning session for our agency’s Board of Directors. This was one of the most engaging board meetings that I have had in my 25 years of nonprofit management experience."

 

Michael Kumer
Principal
Boards MTO
Former Executive Director
Nonprofit Leadership Institute, Duquesne University

“Mary Lee Gannon has developed a well-earned reputation as an exceptional Servant Leader. Her vast (and highly successful) senior level experience, strong interpersonal skills, tireless work ethic and overall commitment to excellence have provided her with the skills to offer powerful, results-oriented coaching and consulting. Highly recommended!”

 

Teresa Zezza
Store Manager
LOFT

“Going into working with Mary Lee, I felt unfulfilled in my work and powerless. During our time, we set goals to realign myself and develop myself professionally. Mary Lee not only showed me the tools I needed to find a more successful position, which I secured, but aided me in becoming a composed and thoughtful leader. The exercises and methods I’ve learned not only helped me in the moment, but taught me that I already have inside myself what I need to shine and succeed.”

 

Maria S. Allshouse, CFT, SFN, ISSA
Manager, Marketing Campaigns
Dick’s Sporting Goods

“Mary Lee's coaching is heartfelt, engaging and effective. Here is what has changed in my career, business and personal life since I began working with her: · I have strengthened my leadership skills and continue to be recognized as an effective leader to my team and collaborative areas. · I’ve proposed changes that would have never happened otherwise. · I am able to quickly shift my mindset when my negative thoughts get the best of me. · I am able to succinctly describe what my team does and why it is important. · I more confidently participate in large group discussions. · I have learned how to practice gratitude. · I have learned the effectiveness of practicing mindfulness and how powerful just practicing it for 10 minutes a day can be on a daily basis. It refreshes your mind and reboots it. · I have been able to self-reflect and realize how truly accomplished I am both personally and professionally. · I have gotten the confidence back to revisit owning my own small business. · I have put together a solid roadmap for the year and I am off to a great start.”

 

Fatimah Adisa
Pittsburgh Promise Graduate
Full Scholarship Recipient
University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering

"What I learned from Mary Lee is that I don’t need to feel overwhelmed by my story. I’ve also learned some skills to help myself grow and become a better more confident version of myself. Coaching with Mary Lee helped me realize that there is no need for me to feel ashamed/guilt in my past. It is up to me to own it. I don’t need to feel the need to share my story with everyone, but I don’t need to completely envelop myself in it. I can share whenever I am ready.

I’ve slowly begun to figure out who I am and where I want to be. I felt like previously I held a lot of things in too, but I’ve begun to journal a lot more. Also, I’m learning to speak with more confidence. I still need to make progress in this area. I commit to more actively journaling and watching my diction as I speak, i.e. more actively replacing my ‘sorrys’ for ‘excuse me’ and speaking with more confidence. Also, instead of shying away from opportunities, I will put myself out there more often and go about making more friends.

Overall, I just want to build my brand. I think Mary Lee was a great coach. Her coaching provided just the right amount of encouragement as well as advice as to how to improve. I didn’t feel as if she tiptoed around anything. I think the only limiting factor was really amount of time for coaching. This was a very new experience for me, thank you!"

 

Anita Buzzy Prentiss
Founder, Buzzy Beauty and Buzzy Photo

“Here is what has changed in my career, business and life since I started working with Mary Lee: - I can better articulate what my business is- my “brand”- what makes my business stand out and why. - I have been enjoying my work so much more because she has helped me identify where my passions and interests lie. I have given some real thought to what my ideal day looks like, and she has helped me figure out how to create it. - I have been taking better care of myself- getting enough rest, spending quality time with people I love- balancing it out by good work habits- paying attention to what my priorities are. - I have let go of some fear- I am ok with having conversations about topics where I’m not sure of the answer. Mary Lee asks me questions that make me think about everything a little differently. I trust that I can work through problems and ask help when I need it. - Mary Lee has really helped me to clarify what my true objective is. - My business has grown, and I am generally happier in all areas!”

 

Roseanne R. Wholey
President
President Roseanne R. Wholey and Associates Physician Coding/Billing/Collection

"I met Mary Lee Gannon several years ago when I began chairing large events for a major organization. Mary Lee was an executive board member and immediately struck me as a competent, confident, caring woman who was above all of the drama. If ever an issue would arise everyone would naturally look to Mary Lee for her opinion. She could immediately command the attention of the room, encourage the women to think clearly about the issues, and work towards an intelligent solution. She continues to be highly respected by everyone in the organization. Mary Lee was one of the most effective presidents the organization ever had. She began her year by hosting a Board Retreat so that we knew the qualities of an effective Board and the significance of our role within the organization. She brought us out of the stone ages with regard to technology and she coordinated a complete upgrade of the website. If ever a hostile discussion would arise, I would watch in awe as she would allow for all sides of an argument to be heard, defuse the conflict, and then focus on assessing the pros and cons of the situation to make an educated decision. Her calming voice and respect for all opinions made everyone feel as if they had been heard. I later found out about Mary Lee’s past as a stay at home mom with 4 children who went through a divorce and ended up on public assistance. She had to re-invent herself to support her family. I heard about her struggle to climb the ladder of success to become the president of a major hospital foundation – a $31 million organization – as well as launching MaryLeeGannon.com to pass along her knowledge to help people trust their abilities and exceed their own expectations. It is her mission to help people thrive. The fact that she overcame such hardship, and the fact that she is now helping others, caused me to respect her even more. When I was president of this organization I could not have made it through the tough year if it were not for Mary Lee. I felt a sense of security having her as my coach – my sounding board for problems and to gently nudge me in the right direction. She taught me how to let go of my anger at those who were working against me and to move on in a productive manner to be an effective leader. She taught me to let go of the bad things, to establish and work towards my goals, and to have some fun in the process. I found her humor to be the highlight of every bad day. I consider myself to be very lucky to have had Mary Lee as my personal coach – on my side at this very hard time. If I had Mary Lee Gannon as my life coach every day of my life I could probably be president of the United States."

 

Paul Lukach
Executive Director
Crime Victim Center of Erie County, Pennsylvania

"Mary Lee Gannon inspired our board to look at our services in very different ways than we were used to. She guided us through challenging exercises to help us understand what the outside view of our organization was (what the general community may think we do) and how to begin the necessary steps to either confirm that image or to change the views not in line with our goals, vision and Mission. Mary Lee left us with challenging homework, a defined plan stating who is responsible for each area or goal and an excitement to go beyond our current boundaries – real or imagined." 

 

Sandy McLachlan
HR Business Partner

"When I first contracted Mary Lee I felt defeated, deflated and downtrodden; I was “done”.  Done with what – I wasn’t sure.  My anger and unhappiness were palatable.

Mary Lee listened to me, asked thought-provoking questions. Provided me tools which helped  me to be thoughtful and mindful.  She and guided me to exercises in her program that made me stop and think.  Provided me framework to do something, something to help me get out of my own way.  It wasn’t easy, and some days are easier than others.

 

Why Leadership Impact Direction from Mary Lee? Because you and your team may not hear the right message from constituents, address what's at the heart of their needs or execute effectively when they are on autopilot. Complacency is where innovation takes a back seat to routine, where listening is not hearing, where discomfort spurs retreat to the safe zone versus a breakthrough to reinvention. Mary Lee’s mission is to wake you and your team up from autopilot so you can notice the formative moment, ask the mindful questions, demonstrate empathy and position your unique Leadership Signature to transform the world instead of just flying around it.

What are the bottom line takeaways from a presentation or coaching with Mary Lee?

   1. First you will wake up from autopilot to eliminate the head trash that holds you back from your leadership impact.

   2. Secondly, she will show you how to be more confident and establish the presence necessary to influence decisions.

   3. Third, she will walk you through the action steps for a clear line-of-sight with self-awareness and in particular how to position your unique value to enthuse a movement that matters.

   4. And ultimately you and your colleagues will generate your own Leadership Influence Signature to knock on the door of success and step inside instead of waiting on the front porch for an invitation.

 

Contact Mary Lee to set up a complimentary strategy session. It's time.
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