My name is Joan Gurvis Shields and I am a Board Certified Executive Coach and an outdoor enthusiast based in Colorado Springs. Sure, many people spice up their bios with personal nuggets like this, but over the years, I’ve found that managing a team or a business is much like exploring the outdoors. In each encounter, we choose a path in which we discover new things about the world around us, and ultimately about ourselves. These paths often bring us to an edge, and as we face that precipice we know we must make decisions that seem challenging, and can create a feeling of self doubt.
In those moments, I step into that space to stand with you; to help guide you through the uncertainty so you are able to learn and conquer your fears by trusting yourself to make the right decision for where you are and what you need to do. More importantly, you learn to do the same for your team.
My coaching philosophy
There’s a ton of information out there about leadership development. Just check out any bookstore the next time you are in the airport. Our work with leaders is not about the latest leadership insight, theory or bright new way of thinking. I don’t believe in fads, packaged solutions or fluff. I commit to show up fully present and prepared to work with you. To tell it as I see it and to hear what you have to say. To really listen. As you work with me you will find I bring a mixture of practicality, warmth and directness that helps me to connect with my clients.
My experience
My career and leadership journey has provided me with the opportunity to work with and learn from clients in all industry sectors and geographies. While it is fair to say that my niche is coaching and facilitating innovative and relevant leadership development solutions with CEO’s and their teams, I have deep experience working with all levels of leaders including first line supervisors, project leads, middle managers and Directors. Drawing upon my work at the Center for Creative Leadership a top ranked global provider of leadership development as a highly sought after Senior Faculty, I saw firsthand the power of developing engaged and committed leaders. My years as a Managing Director gave me firsthand experience in leading a complex multi-million dollar business and inspiring the people that created real results. Other stops along the way have been as an Assistant Vice President of a large wealth management firm. I began my career in healthcare, graduating with a BSN from Duke University and earning my Masters in Nursing Administration from UNC- Greensboro. I have been a clinician, health educator and hospital administrator. I am published author in both healthcare and leadership topics. Today, many of my clients are healthcare leaders and executives.
I suppose you can say that people are my passion.
I look forward to the opportunity to get to know you and for you to learn more about me. Click on the main page tab Contact and send me a note to tell me about your leadership challenges or needs and learn how Edgeline Leadership Group, LLC can support you. Until then…