Program Description:

Whether new to OD or seasoned professionals, many of us feel a deep calling to create meaningful change. When faced with complex, ambiguous, or conflicting stakeholder expectations, we are tempted to take on too much, losing sight of our limits and, over time, becoming overwhelmed.

This workshop examines one source of this common temptation—the desire to be heroic leaders—and how it can unintentionally undermine our well-being and effectiveness. Through personal and real-world examples, we uncover subtle expectations that draw us into the rescuer role, feeling responsible to solve clients’ challenges. We explore how our personal needs, professional identity, and client projections shape these patterns. Together, we practice noticing and pausing when we slip into the hero role and shifting toward a coaching mindset that encourages clients to take ownership. We also explore how to focus our influence where it matters most and let go of what lies beyond our control.

Speaker:

Tyler Zabriskie is a global leadership consultant, organization development professional, and executive coach with more than 35 years of experience across six continents. As founder of Zabriskie Consulting, he has worked with organizations such as Walmart, USAID, Mercy Corps, and the Ford Foundation to strengthen leadership, foster collaboration, and guide complex change. With an MBA from UCLA, an MA in Intercultural Studies from Fuller Seminary, and certification as an Action Inquiry coach, Tyler is recognized for helping leaders and teams create trust, navigate complexity, and achieve sustainable impact.

This is an in-person program. Register today!