Connect with us

Changemaker Interviews

Heidi Diercks: Empowering Women to Transform Challenges into Triumphs

Published

on

Heidi Diercks: Empowering Women to Transform Challenges into Triumphs

Life is a journey of transformation, filled with moments of joy, adversity, and growth. For Heidi Diercks, founder of Heidi’s Advent Living, this journey has been the foundation of her work as a master life coach. With over 20 years in education, a transition to coaching, and a life shaped by both triumphs and trials, Heidi brings an authentic and holistic approach to empowering women to find purpose, achieve their goals, and embrace happiness. Her story is not just one of personal transformation but a beacon of hope for others navigating life’s challenges.

From Educator to Empowerer

Heidi’s path to life coaching wasn’t linear, and that’s what makes her journey relatable. Having spent decades as an educator, she developed a knack for nurturing growth and instilling a mindset of resilience in her students. Her brief stint in manufacturing and human resources provided a broader perspective, but it was her own life experiences that ultimately led her to entrepreneurship.

Living with ADHD, navigating perimenopause, and enduring the challenges of depression and anxiety were transformative chapters in Heidi’s story. Like so many women, she often masked her struggles, keeping up appearances while grappling with internal battles. Yet, these experiences became a wellspring of empathy and insight, fueling her passion for supporting others.

“I’ve always been a source of guidance for others,” Heidi reflects. “Promoting growth mindset and grit came naturally to me. But when I faced my own struggles—like divorce and redefining my life—it was clear I needed the same support I had been giving to others.”

It was through counseling and working with a divorce coach that Heidi found clarity and healing. Inspired by this transformative process, she decided to channel her passion into life coaching, creating Heidi’s Advent Living—a name that symbolizes her own journey of becoming and her mission to guide others on theirs.

Transforming Challenges into Strengths

For many women, life transitions such as divorce, career changes, or navigating physical and mental health challenges can feel overwhelming. Heidi’s personal story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of seeking support. “The tools I used to overcome my own struggles—mindfulness, journaling, goal-setting, and embracing a growth mindset—are the same strategies I now integrate into my coaching practice,” Heidi explains.

Through Heidi’s Advent Living, Heidi provides a supportive space for women to embrace their authentic selves, overcome obstacles, and build fulfilling lives. Her holistic approach addresses the mind, body, and spirit, recognizing that true transformation comes from within. From goal-setting frameworks to mindfulness practices, Heidi’s methods are tailored to each individual’s unique journey.

“Living with ADHD has taught me to be adaptable and empathetic. Navigating perimenopause has deepened my understanding of resilience. And overcoming depression and anxiety has given me the courage to share my story and inspire others to do the same,” she shares. Heidi’s openness about her own experiences fosters a sense of trust and connection with her clients, allowing them to feel seen and supported.

Building a Legacy of Empowerment

For Heidi, coaching is more than just a profession—it’s a calling. Her mission is to ignite a ripple effect of empowerment, resilience, and joy. “When women feel empowered, they uplift their families, communities, and beyond. That’s the legacy I want to leave—a legacy of transformation and connection.”

Through Heidi’s Advent Living, she envisions creating a vibrant community where women can share experiences, support one another, and grow together. Her plans include developing accessible tools such as online courses, workshops, and group coaching programs, ensuring women at all stages of life can benefit from her guidance.

Long-term, Heidi aspires to write a book that chronicles her journey and the strategies that have shaped her life and work. “I want to show women that even life’s hardest moments can lead to beautiful transformations. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to embrace their unique paths and discover their strength.”

Turning Obstacles into Opportunities

Heidi’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that challenges are not barriers but stepping stones to growth. “What motivates me to keep going is the knowledge that even the hardest moments can lead to new strengths and insights,” she says. Her work is a testament to the idea that life’s trials can be powerful catalysts for change.

Through her coaching, Heidi helps women reconnect with their worth, clarify their goals, and embrace their unique contributions to the world. By integrating strategies like mindfulness, goal-setting, and holistic wellness, she empowers her clients to turn obstacles into opportunities for growth.

Inspiring a Movement of Growth and Positivity

At its core, Heidi’s Advent Living is about transformation—not just for individuals but for the broader community. Heidi believes that when women thrive, they create a ripple effect of positive change that extends to families, communities, and beyond. “Empowered individuals can spark a movement of growth, connection, and positivity,” she emphasizes.

Heidi’s journey from educator to life coach is a powerful reminder that our struggles don’t define us—they shape us. By sharing her story and using her experiences to inspire others, she is creating a legacy of hope, resilience, and empowerment.

Through one-on-one coaching, group workshops, and the vibrant community she’s building, Heidi’s mission is clear: to help women embrace their authentic selves, overcome challenges, and live purpose-driven lives. In doing so, she’s not just changing lives—she’s creating a movement.

About Heidi Diercks

As a mother of four, a divorcee, a retired educator, and an entrepreneur, Heidi Diercks founded Heidi’s Advent Living to provide holistic life coaching. With over 20 years of experience in education and a successful transition to coaching, she now helps women achieve purpose, accomplish goals, and find happiness. Having lived with ADHD, navigated perimenopause, and faced concealed struggles with depression and anxiety, Heidi draws on her personal challenges to inspire others. Known for her genuine care and positive impact, she uses her diverse experiences to support individuals in need, driven by a passion to help others overcome obstacles and thrive.

Connect with Heidi

https://www.hopp.bio/heidis-advent-living

Changemaker Interviews

The Heart and Hustle Behind Greg Stewart’s Work

Published

on

The Heart and Hustle Behind Greg Stewart’s Work

Behind every successful career lies a story of heart and hustle—a blend of passion, perseverance, and purpose. For Dr. Greg Stewart, a telehealth counselor, executive coach, and author based in Rockwall, Texas, this combination has defined his journey. From his early days in ministry to his current work helping individuals and organizations build emotional resilience, Greg’s story is one of relentless effort and deep emotional commitment.

The Heart: A Passion for Helping Others

Greg’s heart for helping others was shaped early in life. After recommitting to his faith at the age of 20, he felt called to ministry. But it wasn’t just about preaching—it was about connecting with people on a deeper level. This passion led him to pursue a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Counseling, where he discovered his love for counseling and emotional intelligence.

For Greg, counseling isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. “Helping people grow is the most fulfilling part of my work,” he says. “It’s about equipping them to handle life’s challenges and transform their hearts and souls.” This passion is evident in his two books, I3 (cubed) and I3 for Couples, which aim to help individuals and couples harness the power of their emotions to build stronger, healthier lives.

But Greg’s heart isn’t just about helping others—it’s also about personal growth. He openly shares his own struggles, including a period of insecurity that led to an emotional affair. This experience, while painful, became a catalyst for a decade of reflection and growth. “Trials expose weaknesses,” Greg explains, “but they also provide opportunities for growth.” His vulnerability and willingness to learn from his mistakes have made his message all the more impactful.

The Hustle: Relentless Effort and Strategic Planning

While Greg’s heart drives his work, it’s his hustle that has turned his passion into a successful career. Over the years, he has worn many hats: pastor, professor, counselor, coach, and consultant. Each role required not only skill but also a relentless commitment to growth and excellence.

Greg’s hustle is evident in his academic achievements. While working full-time as a pastor, he pursued a dual master’s degree and later a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. His dissertation on emotional intelligence, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment laid the foundation for his work as an organizational consultant and executive coach.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought another opportunity for Greg to hustle. As telehealth counseling became the norm, he adapted quickly, leveraging technology to expand his reach and help more clients. “The greatest change in my industry came during COVID,” he says. “It allowed me to work from home and reach a far greater number of people.”

Greg’s hustle also extends to his writing and public speaking. Balancing a full-time counseling practice with writing books and teaching as an adjunct professor for 20 years is no small feat. Yet, Greg has managed to do it all by staying consistent and disciplined. “Accomplishing large projects is about doing a little at a time and persevering through times of low drive,” he says.

Balancing Heart and Hustle

For Greg, the key to success lies in balancing heart and hustle. He emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly. He also takes a weekly Sabbath day to rest and recharge—a practice that helps him stay grounded and focused.

But perhaps the most important balance is between work and personal life. As an empty-nester, Greg and his wife lead a small group at their church, nurturing their own relationship while helping others. “Master your personal flow of energy,” Greg advises. “There’s a time to start and a time to end.”

A Legacy of Resilience and Hope

Greg’s journey is a testament to the power of heart and hustle. From his early days in ministry to his current work as a counselor and author, he has consistently sought to help others unlock their inner strength. His mission to build emotional resilience is not just a professional goal—it’s a personal calling.

As Greg looks to the future, he plans to write his third book, The Leadership Quotient, and expand his reach through public speaking and a podcast. His heart for helping others and his relentless hustle ensure that his work will continue to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals.

To learn more about Greg’s work, visit www.becomingmore.com or connect with him through his social media platforms: https://linktr.ee/drgregstewart.

Continue Reading

Changemaker Interviews

Leadership Lessons from R. Harrison Baxter’s Resilience and Reflection

Published

on

Leadership Lessons from R. Harrison Baxter’s Resilience and Reflection

Leadership isn’t just about making decisions or directing teams—it’s about creating meaningful connections that inspire others to achieve their best. Few embody this principle as profoundly as R. Harrison Baxter, a transformational leadership expert celebrated for his pioneering work in reflective listening and the neuroscience of leadership. Through his unique approach, Baxter has empowered leaders across industries, fostering empathy, resilience, and high performance.

From Adversity to Advocacy: A Personal Journey

Baxter’s commitment to transformative leadership is deeply rooted in his own journey. Growing up in the Bronx during the 1970s and 1980s, he witnessed the devastating impacts of the crack epidemic, poverty, and systemic inequality. Many of his peers fell victim to addiction, violence, and limited opportunities, but Baxter’s resilience set him apart. He found strength and purpose through football, academics, and music—three outlets that instilled discipline, teamwork, and hope.

Mentorship played a pivotal role in his life, as Baxter encountered individuals who believed in his potential and guided him toward a brighter future. These experiences shaped his understanding of the power of empathy and reflective listening in transforming lives. Today, Baxter channels these lessons into his work, helping others rise above challenges and lead with purpose.

A Legacy of Empowerment

 Baxter’s professional journey is nothing short of remarkable. As the author of The Reflective Advantage, he explores how reflective listening—a practice of truly understanding others by hearing their needs and emotions—can unlock potential, drive innovation, and build stronger connections. This groundbreaking book has earned him international acclaim, including an Impact Award recognizing his ability to inspire change on a global scale.

As the Managing Director and Lead Trainer of Impactful Solutions Academy, Baxter works with Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and academic institutions. His training programs combine neuroscience-based strategies with actionable tools, enabling leaders to enhance emotional intelligence, communication, and team dynamics. Whether he’s coaching executives or mentoring young leaders, Baxter’s work is guided by one simple yet powerful belief: leadership is about empowering others to thrive.

The Power of Reflective Listening

At the heart of Baxter’s philosophy is the practice of reflective listening. This technique goes beyond hearing words; it involves understanding the speaker’s deeper needs, emotions, and perspectives. Reflective listening fosters trust, strengthens relationships, and enhances decision-making—skills that are vital for effective leadership.

Baxter’s emphasis on empathy is especially relevant in today’s fast-paced, results-driven world. In his workshops and keynotes, he teaches leaders how to pause, listen, and reflect, creating a culture of inclusivity and collaboration. These skills are not only transformative for individuals but also for organizations striving to build cohesive, high-performing teams.

Turning Failure into Strength

Baxter’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. While attending Duquesne University, he faced significant setbacks after contracting mononucleosis. Poor academic advice led him to take on an overwhelming course load while still recovering, resulting in failing grades and eventual dismissal. This experience left him feeling isolated and broken, but it also became a turning point.

Through resilience and self-reflection, Baxter rebuilt his academic career, earning both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree. Today, he is pursuing a PhD in Performance Psychology. His experience taught him that failure is not an endpoint but a catalyst for growth. This perspective shapes his approach to leadership, inspiring others to view challenges as opportunities for transformation.

Building Bridges and Shaping Futures

Beyond his work in leadership development, Baxter has made a lasting impact through community initiatives. As the founder of The Bronx Rebels Football Club, he has provided countless young people with opportunities to grow through sportsmanship and leadership. The program emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and resilience, empowering participants to envision brighter futures.

Baxter’s influence extends to underserved communities, where he equips youth and marginalized groups with tools to break cycles of adversity. Through mentorship and reflective listening, he fosters resilience and leadership skills that not only transform individual lives but uplift entire communities.

The Next Chapter Ahead

Looking ahead, Baxter is committed to expanding his impact on a global scale. He plans to broaden access to his reflective leadership training programs, integrating cutting-edge neuroscience techniques to inspire leaders across industries. His upcoming projects include additional publications and the development of a global leadership institute focused on empathy, resilience, and social impact.

Baxter also envisions leveraging digital platforms like The Listen to Learn Suite to deliver high-quality leadership training to underserved populations. By harnessing technology, he aims to ensure that his teachings reach emerging leaders around the world.

Inspiring Change, One Leader at a Time

Harrison Baxter’s work is a testament to the power of empathy, resilience, and connection. From corporate boardrooms to grassroots organizations, he continues to inspire leaders to rise above challenges and create meaningful change. His journey, marked by personal adversity and professional triumph, serves as a powerful reminder that leadership is not about authority—it’s about empowering others to thrive.

Through reflective listening and neuroscience-based strategies, Baxter is revolutionizing the way leaders communicate, collaborate, and connect. His mission is clear: to leave a legacy of leaders who elevate those around them and make the world a better place. Whether he’s guiding a young athlete, coaching a corporate executive, or addressing a global audience, Baxter’s message is universal: with empathy and purpose, anyone can lead and transform lives in the process.

Connect with R. Harrison Baxter

Continue Reading

Changemaker Interviews

From Self-Belief to Servant Leadership: The Will Lukang Story

Published

on

From Self-Belief to Servant Leadership: The Will Lukang Story

Success isn’t always about where you start—it’s about how you choose to move forward. Will Lukang’s story is one of perseverance, transformation, and an unwavering commitment to servant leadership. Growing up, he didn’t stand out academically like his siblings. His parents often voiced their concerns about his future, making him question his own potential. However, during his junior year of high school, everything changed.

In a moment of self-reflection, Will made a pivotal decision—to believe in himself, even when no one else did. That mindset shift was the turning point in his life. Instead of focusing on comparisons or past failures, he leaned into his strengths, worked harder, and took control of his own journey. What followed was a career in software development that would eventually take him across the world, proving that our determination and resilience can shape our destiny.

From Learner to Leader

While Will found success in the corporate world, he quickly realized that technical skills alone weren’t enough to make a lasting impact. The true differentiator was leadership. But leadership, he learned, isn’t something you master overnight. There’s no step-by-step guide, no single blueprint. Instead, leadership is cultivated through experience, challenges, and a genuine desire to serve others.

His leadership philosophy wasn’t about authority or control—it was about service. He embraced the principles of servant leadership, where the focus is on empowering others to reach their full potential. This passion for developing leaders led him to co-found a company dedicated to leadership development and coaching. His goal was simple: to create spaces where aspiring leaders could learn, grow, and lead with purpose.

To further that mission, Will authored The Seeds of Leadership, his second book, designed to help individuals navigate their own leadership journeys. He believes that great leaders don’t just manage people—they inspire, uplift, and create opportunities for those around them. His work is a testament to that belief.

Staying Motivated in Difficult Times

Every journey comes with challenges. There are moments of doubt, setbacks, and times when giving up feels like the easiest option. But for Will, quitting was never on the table. His biggest motivation? His family.

His two daughters and his wife inspire him to give his best every day. They remind him of the importance of perseverance, integrity, and staying true to his values. No matter how difficult things get, knowing that he is setting an example for his children keeps him pushing forward.

Balancing work and personal life is another challenge he has learned to navigate. Success isn’t just about professional achievements—it’s about maintaining a life that is fulfilling and meaningful. For Will, setting priorities and boundaries is key. He makes sure to dedicate time to his family and personal well-being, proving that leadership doesn’t just happen in the workplace—it starts at home.

Lessons for Future Leaders

For those just starting out in their careers, Will offers practical advice:

  • Master the basics. A strong foundation in your field will always set you apart.
  • Be a team player. Collaboration and adaptability matter more than individual talent.
  • Invest in learning. Never stop growing—whether it’s through formal education, mentorship, or hands-on experience.

Will believes that leadership isn’t just about climbing the corporate ladder; it’s about making a meaningful impact. His work helps people become more effective in their roles while also teaching them how to enjoy life more. When leaders are empowered, they create environments where others can thrive.

Giving Back and Leading with Purpose

Will’s dedication to leadership extends beyond business. He is deeply committed to giving back to his community, regularly volunteering at his church to support others. He believes that true leadership is about service—helping people grow, supporting those in need, and creating positive change wherever possible.

Looking ahead, his mission remains clear: continue spreading his message, traveling the world, and developing more servant leaders. He knows that one person’s influence can create ripples that extend far beyond what they can see. His journey is a testament to what’s possible when self-belief meets purpose-driven leadership.

Through his work, books, and mentorship, Will Lukang is not just building leaders—he’s building a legacy.

About Will

Will Lukang is a change agent, diversity champion, award-winning author, and C-suite executive specializing in leadership development and executive coaching. Known for building high-performing teams, he is also a skilled presenter and mental health advocate.

A firm believer in servant leadership, Will prioritizes nurturing talent and leading by example, a value instilled by his father. He co-authored The Character-Based Leader and frequently delivers impactful training on organizational development.   He also released his second book Seeds of Leadership.

Will holds an MBA from Iona College, a master’s from Seton Hall University, a master’s certificate from George Washington University, and a bachelor’s from the University of Santo Tomas.

Connect with Will

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Our Newsletter

Subscribe Us To Receive Our Latest News Directly In Your Inbox!

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

Trending