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Consulting
I help organizations build resilient, values‑aligned cultures by combining adult development theory with years of community‑building and learning design in higher education.
I work with you to plan practical, tailored strategies and programs that turn intentions into everyday behaviors: skill‑building trainings and interactive workshops with individual leader coaching (when useful).
For off‑sites and retreats, I can integrate guided walking and labyrinth experiences to deepen reflection and connection. Expect clear outcomes, shared language, simple daily practices, and leader guides your managers will actually use—delivered virtually or on‑site.
What people say about their experiences
Wild Wayfinding in Action
Resilience Training
Support your teams with skills to handle change, bounce back, and build strength from within.
“Her human and deeply authentic approach allowed participants to take a step back, reconnect with their values and develop concrete strategies to improve their resilience at work. Through her facilitation and inspiring presence, Lea was able to create a powerful space for reflection, promoting both resilience and professional development.”
—Sanaâ M.
Professional Coach, Insight Coaching
Mindfulness Workshops
Build individual competencies for managing stress and uncertainty.
“Lea's calming presence, thoughtful guidance, and intentional approach created such a grounding and meaningful experience for all of us. She reminded us of the power of slowing down, tuning in, and being present—not only in our work but in our everyday lives. The practices she shared will stay with us and continue to support our well-being moving forward.”
—The Wellness Team
Speaking Engagements
Bring motivation and inspiration to your next team event.
“Lea graced our stage and left us all in awe. She spoke with raw honesty, reminding us that ‘flourishing comes in choosing to make the best out of the moment.’ Her journey is a testament to resilience—not just surviving, but thriving with grace and intention.
Lea's presence is powerful.”
—Ehmandeh R.
Off-Site Experiences
Strengthen team trust and connection through shared movement and reflection.
“Lea is an expert guide who began by encouraging us to define an issue for which we sought clarity. Lea provided a workbook which served as a valuable tool to help guide our thinking. Each activity promoted self-awareness and added a new layer of depth to the experience. At the end of the day, I found myself with a newfound sense of clarity.”
—Wayfinding Day Participant
Professional highlights:
Trusted by values-aligned organizations across sectors and with global audiences—from higher ed to fintech to faith-based communities.
• facilitator of an online wellness retreat for alumni/ae of Erickson Coaching International, on their Erickson+ platform
• presenter and workshop facilitator on wellbeing at work for the online women's leadership network at global fintech company Ava Fin
• presenter on building resilience at the African Coaching Summit based in Morocco
• featured speaker for She Stories, Flourish Storytelling Event
• guest lecturer in the course, “Current Issues in Career Education and Counseling,” at Cal State Northridge
• three-time presenter and panelist at President Obama’s Interfaith and Community Service Campus Challenge in Washington, DC
• keynote speaker at the UM Benefits Conference in San Diego on the topic of clergy wellness
• presenter on community building and human connection at numerous national professional association conferences
Curious whether this kind of support is right for your team or organization?
I’d love to connect.
Wild Wayfinding is the solo practice of Lea Appleton. I design and facilitate every engagement. When scope calls for it, I collaborate with trusted partners. When you see “we,” it means you and I working together (and, when relevant, a named co‑facilitator). Based in Southern California, I am available for online, in-person, and will travel.