Doug Lawrence’s journey from a distinguished 25-year career in the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to becoming a pioneer in the field of mentoring is a testament to resilience, purpose, and a passion for helping others. His story is one of personal transformation and professional innovation, shaped by lived experiences, a deep understanding of leadership, and a calling as a healer.

After retiring from the RCMP in 1999 as a staff sergeant, Doug embarked on a new chapter, driven by his desire to guide others. He initially started job coaching university and college students, but his relationships with them naturally evolved into mentoring. This realization marked a pivotal moment in Doug’s career. He discovered that mentoring was not just about providing guidance—it was about walking alongside individuals on their journeys, fostering personal and professional growth.

Building a Foundation for Mentoring Excellence

In 2009, Doug founded TalentC®, a company dedicated to mentoring and mentor certification. Through extensive research, he recognized a gap in the industry: mentoring lacked the recognition and structure needed to establish it as a critical business tool. Partnering with organizations in Canada and the United States, Doug developed a mentor certification program that transitioned from a knowledge-based to a competence-based model, aligning with ISO standards.

This competence-based approach set a new benchmark in mentoring, ensuring that certified mentors possessed the skills and understanding necessary to make a meaningful impact. Doug’s work established mentoring not just as a developmental tool but as a critical support system, particularly for mental health.

Mentoring and Mental Health: A Transformative Intersection

Doug’s personal battle with PTSD following his years of service deeply informed his perspective on the role of mentoring in mental health. He has worked tirelessly to integrate mentoring into mental health support structures, providing a safe space for individuals to navigate challenges like grief, trauma, and emotional distress. His latest initiative, a grief mentoring circle launched in January, expands his reach and impact, addressing a critical and often overlooked aspect of mental health.

Doug’s belief that mentoring can play a significant role in addressing the global mental health crisis reflects his commitment to his calling as a healer. By helping people understand that it is okay to ask for help, he is breaking down stigmas and creating pathways to healing and resilience.

A Leader with a Purpose

Doug’s leadership style is rooted in empathy and a focus on growth. Guided by the Socratic method, he emphasizes asking questions rather than providing answers, empowering individuals to find their own solutions. This approach reflects the core of mentoring: fostering self-awareness, confidence, and the ability to navigate challenges independently.

Doug’s influence extends beyond individual relationships. He has worked with organizations to create mentoring cultures, helping teams and leaders integrate mentoring as a cornerstone of professional development. His efforts have resulted in over 3,400 hours of mentoring, 235 hours of speaking engagements, and 672 hours of teaching.

The Silent Pandemic: Grief and Healing

Doug’s latest book, Grief – The Silent Pandemic, explores the profound connection between grief and mental health. He addresses how cancer, as the leading cause of death globally, leaves a ripple effect of pain, grief, and emotional suffering. Through his writing and mentoring, Doug offers insights and strategies to navigate these challenges, reinforcing his dedication to supporting others in their healing journeys.

Doug’s ability to intertwine his personal experiences with professional expertise makes his work both impactful and relatable. His mentoring approach is not just about professional development; it’s about nurturing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.

Looking Ahead: Mentoring’s Evolving Role

As Doug reflects on the future of mentoring, he envisions it becoming an integral part of mental health support systems. The creation of roles like grief mentors signifies a shift in recognizing the value of personalized, empathetic guidance in addressing emotional and psychological challenges.

For Doug, retirement is not on the horizon. His passion for mentoring and his belief in its transformative power keep him motivated. “As long as I’m excited to put my feet on the floor and begin another day, I’ll keep going,” he says.

Doug Lawrence’s journey exemplifies the profound impact of mentoring, not just as a professional tool but as a lifeline for those navigating life’s most challenging moments. His work continues to inspire, heal, and create lasting change, one mentoring relationship at a time.

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About Doug Lawrence:

Doug Lawrence, founder of TalentC®, is a globally recognized mentor with over 30 years of leadership experience. A retired RCMP Staff Sergeant, Doug holds unique certifications, including the Certificate of Practice – Journey Mentor. He has authored bestsellers like The Gift of Mentoring and You Are Not Alone. With 3,400 mentoring hours and 672 teaching hours, Doug’s expertise spans mentoring, mental health, and grief support. He has developed competence-based mentor certifications and collaborates with organizations to create mentoring cultures. A passionate advocate for mental health, Doug integrates mentoring as a transformative tool for healing and growth.

Doug Lawrence offers a free grief support group, which meets every Tuesday from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM via Zoom. This group provides a safe space for individuals dealing with loss, offering emotional healing, coping strategies, and a sense of community. Participants can expect support in processing grief and finding hope for the future. For more information or to sign up, visit Doug’s Grief Support Group Announcement.

Connect with Doug Lawrence:

• Website: TalentC
• LinkedIn: Doug Lawrence
• Facebook: Doug Lawrence
• Twitter: @DougLawrenceJM
• YouTube: Doug Lawrence Channel
• Books: You Are Not Alone

Kim Lengling is a storyteller who wears many hats—author, podcast host, veteran, animal lover, and community advocate. Her life and work focus on sharing hope and connecting with others through experiences, storytelling, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys in life. From crafting heartfelt stories to recording podcast episodes or walking her dog, Dexter, Kim’s mission remains steadfast: to share “nuggets of hope” with those who might need them.

Creating Her Own Path

In 2020, Kim, like many others, faced an unexpected challenge when she lost her job. Instead of seeking employment elsewhere, she chose a different path: creating a life centered around her passions. This decision wasn’t without its challenges. “The first two years were a bit bumpy,” Kim recalls, sharing moments of uncertainty about finances and self-worth.

But perseverance and passion kept her moving forward. As she heads into her fifth year of this self-made journey, she reflects on the growth and lessons learned along the way. “I kept plugging away, and now I’m doing what I love—writing, speaking, and helping people.”

Nuggets of Hope

One of Kim’s latest projects is her book Nuggets of Hope, released in November 2024. True to its name, the book is filled with stories and reflections aimed at inspiring readers and offering them hope. Kim believes in the lasting impact of words, especially through books and podcasts. “Once they’re created, they’re out there forever,” she says, marveling at the ability to touch lives in ways she might never know.

Her podcast, Let Fear Bounce, is another platform for spreading inspiration. Kim showcases resilience and hope in action by featuring guests who have overcome fears and made a positive difference. Whether through writing or podcasting, she aims to uplift her audience, one heartfelt story at a time.

Giving Back to the Community

As a veteran, Kim’s commitment to service extends beyond her personal pursuits. She is actively involved in the veteran community, notably as a co-chair of Project Support Our Troops. For over 25 years, this initiative has been sending care packages to active-duty military personnel around the globe. Every package, postage included, is funded by donations. “It’s been an amazing journey, and we’ll continue as long as we’re able,” Kim shares.

This dedication to her community reflects her belief in making a difference, no matter the scale. Through her writing, podcast, and volunteer work, Kim focuses on creating meaningful connections and supporting those who serve.

Success on Her Terms

For Kim, success isn’t measured by external accolades or wealth. Instead, it’s about authenticity and impact. “Success for me is knowing I did the best I could,” she says. The heartfelt feedback she receives from readers and listeners fuels her passion. Knowing that a single story or line has touched someone’s heart is the ultimate reward.

Kim also takes pride in following her own path—one not dictated by societal norms or expectations. “I feel good about what I am and will create,” she shares, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself.

Looking Ahead

Kim’s goals for the future are rooted in her love for storytelling and connection. She plans to continue writing at least one book per year, including the third installment of her Paw Prints series, Paw Prints on the Front Porch, slated for release in August 2025. She’s also eager to grow her podcast, exploring potential collaborations and reaching even more listeners.

Beyond her professional ambitions, Kim’s daily life is filled with simple pleasures—drinking coffee, taking long walks with Dexter, and soaking in the beauty of nature. These moments fuel her creativity and keep her grounded.

A Legacy of Hope

Through her books, podcast, and community efforts, Kim Lengling is leaving a lasting legacy of hope, resilience, and kindness. Her authenticity and unwavering commitment to making a difference remind us that even the smallest actions can ripple out to create meaningful change.

In Kim’s world, hope is more than just a word; it’s a way of life. And through her work, she invites others to embrace that same hopeful perspective, one story at a time.

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About Kim Lengling:

Kim is a multi-published author and host of the Let Fear Bounce podcast. Through her books and podcast, she shares her faith, love of animals, and nature, and experience living with PTSD. She is a veteran and an advocate for veterans. You can often find Kim taking long walks with her dog, Dexter, drinking coffee, reading or writing stories, or helping out veterans. 

Connect with Kim Lengling:

• Website: www.kimlenglingauthor.com
• Amazon: Kim Lengling’s Author Page
• Podcast (Apple): Let Fear Bounce
• Facebook: Let Fear Bounce Podcast
• LinkedIn: Kimberly Lengling
• Instagram: @lenglingauthor
• Twitter: @klengling
• TikTok: @klengling

Paul Lawrence Vann is an exceptional leadership expert, certified financial manager, and is Founder and the President of Wealth Building Academy, LLC, a professional development consultancy dedicated to transforming individuals and organizations. With over two decades of military service in the United States Air Force (USAF), including 12 consecutive years in the Department of Defense (DoD), Paul brings unparalleled leadership experience to his work. He has inspired tens of thousands through his speaking engagements, books, financial literacy programs, his podcast and YouTube channel empowering individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential.

A Journey of Resilience and Empowerment

Paul’s passion for leadership and financial literacy stems from personal experiences. Growing up in a family of 10 children that faced significant financial struggles, he developed a deep appreciation for resilience and the importance of education in overcoming adversity. His time in the USAF, as a financial manager of billions of dollars of acquisition programs led to Paul  retiring in the rank of lieutenant colonel, this further shaped his understanding of leadership, equipping him with the tools to drive meaningful change.

“As a child, I watched my parents work tirelessly while feeling financially trapped,” Paul recalls. “Those experiences and it motivated him to not only gain financial independence but also to help others do the same.”

Leadership Is Influence

Paul’s work as a leadership consultant is rooted in the belief that great leadership is the cornerstone of organizational success. His book, Leadership Is Influence, explores how self-awareness, communication, and ethical practices can transform teams and organizations.

“Paul’s inspiration came from seeing how the lack of strong leadership created inefficiencies and low morale,” Paul explains.“ Paul realized he could make a meaningful impact by helping leaders address their blind spots and foster environments where people thrive.”

Through consulting, coaching, workshops, and online programs, Paul has helped leaders across industries improve their communication, embrace inclusivity, and maximize team potential. His ultimate goal is to redefine leadership as an opportunity to serve and uplift others.

Advocating Financial Intelligence

As a certified financial manager, Paul is equally passionate about financial literacy. His forthcoming book on financial intelligence provides actionable strategies for managing finances, paying off debt, and building wealth. He leads Wealth Academy Podcast and the Leadership Is Influence YouTube channel are dedicated to educating audiences about the power of financial independence.

“Financial stress can weigh heavily on individuals and families,” Paul says. “I want to shift how people view money—not as something to fear but as a tool for creating opportunity and security.”

Paul’s work focuses on empowering Millennials, many of whom face student loan debt and housing challenges. By equipping them with practical strategies and a growth mindset, he aims to help them build futures of stability and abundance.

Overcoming Challenges

Paul’s journey has not been without obstacles. In his early career, he encountered leaders resistant to change and individuals skeptical of financial transformation. “Earning trust was a challenge,” Paul admits. “But patience, persistence, and leading by example helped me break through those barriers.”

By demonstrating small, measurable wins—whether in leadership development or financial planning—Paul has inspired lasting change in his clients. His ability to simplify complex concepts and celebrate progress has been instrumental in overcoming resistance and fostering confidence.

Building a Legacy

Through Wealth Building Academy, Paul’s mission is to leave a legacy of empowered leaders and financially independent individuals. He envisions a ripple effect where the skills and knowledge he imparts are passed down through generations, fostering cultures of growth, inclusivity, and excellence.

“Success, to me, is about impact,” Paul says. “It’s seeing leaders grow into their full potential and helping people achieve financial freedom. If my work inspires others to empower those around them, then I’ve succeeded.”

Looking Ahead

Paul’s focus is on scaling his impact through online courses, additional books, and expanded workshops and consulting. He is committed to fostering collaborations with like-minded professionals and organizations to drive meaningful change.

To learn more about Paul Lawrence Vann, visit his website or connect with him on social media:

• https://www.paulvannspeaks.com
• https://www.leadershipisinfluencebook.com
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/paullawrencevann
• https://www.instagram.com/paullawrencevann
• https://www.facebook.com/PaulVannSpeaks
• https://bsky.app/profile/paullawrencevann.bsky.social

Paul Lawrence Vann is not just a leader—he’s a mentor, educator, and catalyst for transformation, inspiring individuals to turn challenges into opportunities and create lasting legacies.

About Paul Vann:

Paul Lawrence Vann leads Wealth Building Academy, LLC a professional development consultancy. Before becoming an entrepreneur, Paul served over 20 years in the United States Air Force (USAF), including over twelve consecutive years in the DoD. He was a Capitol Hill Fellow and worked for a member of Congress in the U.S. House of Representatives. He retired with the rank of lieutenant colonel. Paul is an international speaker, two-time, number one international best-selling author, and is the author of the book, Leadership Is Influence. Paul hosts the Wealth Academy Podcast and the Leadership Is Influence YouTube Channel.