Before the Circle
Before joining the Influential Leadership Circle, one of my biggest challenges was interpersonal leadership in group settings. I often knew I had something valuable to say, but in certain moments, especially around senior people or in a group, I could freeze, lose confidence, stumble on words, and almost disappear. I also felt a growing gap between the kind of relational leader I wanted to be and the more transactional, efficiency-driven way I had started to operate in startup life.
Why I joined
I decided to join the Influential Leadership Circle because it felt deeper than a normal leadership program. I was not looking for another training with frameworks, slides, or surface-level reflections. I wanted something that would help me understand myself more honestly, build stronger relationships with others, and become more свободный (free), engaged, and grounded in the way I show up as a leader and as a person.
The experience
The experience was intense, layered, and very real. What made it unique is that you do not just talk about leadership — you experience yourself in real time, in relation to others. At first, you may come in with one goal, but during the Circle you realize that the work goes much deeper. You begin to see your patterns, your fears, your posture, your energy, your impact on others, and also your strengths, much more clearly. That kind of learning is hard to get from traditional workshops.
What I also valued a lot is Tara's facilitation. She creates a space that is safe, deep, and honest, but at the same time challenging enough that you cannot stay on the surface. I felt very clearly that this was not about performance or saying the right thing. It was about doing real work. That balance is rare.
What shifted
Since participating in the Circle, I have seen a meaningful shift in how I lead. I regulate my emotions better, especially when speaking with senior stakeholders. I am more free to raise concerns, share opinions, and speak with confidence. I also believe this has already had a positive impact at work, and my efforts are being noticed and appreciated more.
Beyond work, I became more attentive with my wife, more authentic in how I lead my family, more open to community, and more confident about the next chapter of my life and career.
Who it's for
I would recommend the Influential Leadership Circle to anyone who feels that there is more in them than what currently comes out in relationships, leadership, or group settings. If you are ready to look at yourself more truthfully, connect deeply with others, and grow not only as a professional but as a human being, this experience is worth it.
"For me, this Circle was not only about becoming a better leader at work. It helped me become a better husband, a more present person, and someone more ready to build the kind of life, relationships, and future I actually want."