In this episode of Founders Future, with host Mishal Saeed, we sit down with Colleen DelVecchio, founder and principal of Maxady LLC, a leadership development firm transforming workplace cultures through trust-based coaching and team performance strategies. Colleen shares her journey from recognizing the critical gap in managerial training—where high-performing employees get promoted but lack leadership skills—to building Maxady’s signature "Confident Manager" program, which pairs participants with mentors (even from competing organizations) for real-world guidance. She dives into why human connection remains irreplaceable in leadership training, especially in an AI-driven world, and how her focus on actionable skills—like running effective meetings—sets Maxady apart.

Colleen also opens up about scaling her business, revealing that 73% of clients come from referrals and how she’s leveraging TikTok (yes, TikTok!) to reach unexpected audiences. She discusses her plans to systematize sales, hire a dedicated business development lead, and double down on LinkedIn ads—while staying true to her core belief: leadership isn’t about scripts or AI, but about fostering genuine human collaboration. Whether you’re a founder, HR leader, or aspiring manager, Colleen’s insights on outsourcing wisely, playing to your strengths, and the future of leadership development offer a masterclass in growing a purpose-driven business.