Lisa L Moland

My success is grounded in two key sources. First and foremost, I honor God for who He created me to be. Over time, I have grown into a person shaped by my experiences, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had—through my education, my work, and the relationships that have supported and influenced me along the way.

The second foundation of my success is my family. They have been unwavering in their support. I am blessed with five adult children and seven grandchildren—six grandsons and one granddaughter. My family has been an integral part of my journey. While I was earning my degrees and working as a teacher and principal, they were by my side—visiting my office, helping me decorate, and staying involved in my work. Today, they continue that support by helping build my website and taking my professional photos. Their encouragement touches every aspect of my life, and in turn, I have the joy of witnessing their own successes.

This strong foundation allows me to connect authentically with the clients I serve. When someone is struggling, I approach them with honesty and empathy, without pretense. When challenges arise, I intentionally place myself in the client’s position and ask, “What would I say to someone in this situation?” I speak to myself with the same truth and compassion I offer others.

The most valuable career advice I have received is to clearly understand my “why.” Knowing why I do what I do keeps me grounded and focused. When I can confidently answer that question, I am less likely to lose direction or second-guess my path. In moments of uncertainty—when I wonder if I am truly on the right track—I return to my “why” for clarity and reassurance.

I have intentionally defined and documented my purpose, much like a vision board. For me, my “why” is centered on the outcomes I want my clients to achieve—the impact I want them to walk away with. I am confident in my ability to guide them toward that outcome.

Ultimately, the best advice I was given is simple but powerful: understand the purpose behind the work you do, and let that purpose guide you.

I believe our stories should never be lost. Sharing our experiences allows us to connect with others in meaningful ways—it is what inspired me to pursue this work. Everyone has a story, and my first piece of advice is to honor and remember your own.

Equally important is the ability to authentically listen to someone else’s story. Not every client will be the right fit, and that’s okay—it’s part of the process. However, while determining that fit, it is critical to listen with genuine presence. If we are forming judgments or making decisions while someone is speaking, we are not truly listening.

Another key principle I follow is to remain true to myself and my capacity. It is important not to overextend or take on more than I can effectively manage. Each client deserves my full energy and attention—not what is left over. If I am not able to show up at my best, it is appropriate to communicate that and reschedule. Providing consistent, high-quality support requires honesty and self-awareness.

Lastly, while personal stories can help establish connection, it is important to maintain professional boundaries. This work is ultimately about the client, not about me. Sharing just enough of my story can build trust, but oversharing can blur the professional relationship. Maintaining that balance is essential.

One of the biggest challenges I encounter—what I would describe as a significant hurdle—is helping individuals make the decision to take the steps necessary for growth, especially when they are facing fear or uncertainty. Questions like, “What happens if I leave my job—what’s next?” can be overwhelming. That’s where I come alongside them to help clarify possibilities and create a path forward.

For many, the greatest obstacle is not the investment required to work together, but rather overcoming the fear of change. When someone truly decides they are ready to move forward, they are willing to invest in themselves. I’ve made that same investment in my own growth, and I encourage others to view it through that same lens—focusing on the long-term outcome and sustainability.

My ultimate goal is to help clients reach a place of independence and confidence, where they no longer need my support. I want them to be able to say, “Thank you, I’ve got this,” and then go on to share what they’ve learned with others. The true measure of my success is not how long a client works with me, but whether they leave equipped, self-sustaining, and empowered to thrive and help others do the same. That kind of ripple effect and self-sufficiency is the outcome I strive for.

Still, getting to that point often requires pushing past fear. Some individuals may explore the possibility, have a conversation, and then pause because they are not quite ready. But when they are ready, the shift is unmistakable—they reach out with urgency and excitement, asking, “When can we begin?” Those moments are incredibly meaningful, because you can see that realization: change is not only possible, it is within reach.

Often, the barrier holding someone back is much smaller than it feels. It’s like a thin strand of dental floss—delicate, yet somehow strong enough to keep them stuck. But once that strand is cut, even with just a few intentional steps forward, everything begins to open up.

The values that guide both my professional and personal life are deeply connected, and at the core of both is authenticity. It is important for me to be true to who I am and what I know. I do not believe in “faking it until you make it,” because ultimately, authenticity will always come to light. Instead, I choose to show up as my genuine self—honest, transparent, and grounded. For example, if I am not at my best physically, I will communicate that openly while remaining committed to serving others with integrity.

Another core value is the importance of maintaining strong character. I hold myself to a standard of acting in ways that reflect integrity, respect, and positivity.

For me personally, my faith plays a central role in shaping that character. It influences how I treat others, how I make decisions, and how I show up in my work. While I do not explicitly present my faith in my business materials, it is foundational to who I am and naturally informs how I engage with clients.

Ultimately, I strive to ensure that everything I do—both professionally and personally—aligns with these values. I am committed to showing up authentically, acting with integrity, and creating an environment where clients feel respected, supported, and genuinely cared for.