In the News

Harnessing Emotional Intelligence with Back Pocket Questions Conflict and discomfort are inevitable parts of relationships, whether at work or in personal life. These moments can be challenging, but they also provide an opportunity for growth and connection—if approached thoughtfully. That’s where back pocket questions come into play. What Are Back Pocket Questions? Think of back pocket questions as tools for your interpersonal toolkit. These are intentional, open-ended questions designed to guide conversations toward understanding and collaboration. They’re especially helpful when emotions run high, offering a way to keep discussions constructive instead of reactive. How Emotional Intelligence and Self-Awareness Play a Role [...]

As the new year begins, leaders in our region from Aspen to Parachute have a unique opportunity to reflect on their leadership journeys and set meaningful goals for the year ahead. Leadership isn’t just about guiding others; it’s also about personal growth and cultivating a sense of belonging within your team and community. To help you start the year right, here are seven potential leadership resolutions to consider: Enhance Communication Skills In our diverse and dynamic region, effective communication is vital. Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, a municipal team, building trust within a family, or a small business, commit to improving [...]

As the year draws to a close and the holidays bring us together, we find ourselves reflecting on the remarkable power of community and leadership - two values that remain at the heart of Roaring Fork Leadership (RFL).   Leadership is not just about taking action; it’s about creating connections, strengthening bonds, and inspiring others to build a better future. It is in moments of shared purpose and collective growth that we find hope—hope for what we can accomplish together.   In 2024, we witnessed the extraordinary ways leadership can unite us and transform our communities. Thanks to our donors, alumni, partners, and [...]

Thanks to our incredible community, this year’s Colorado Gives Day was a success! Together, we raised almost $7,000 between November 1st and December 10th to support scholarships, our current programs, and exciting new opportunities in 2025.  We also want to extend a special thank you to those who participated in the recurring gift match. Your ongoing commitment ensures that we can continue empowering leaders year-round.  Your support makes a real difference for our small, but mighty, organization.  Your generosity makes leadership development accessible to more individuals through scholarships while sustaining and expanding our programs. As Margaret Cousins said, “Appreciation can change [...]

At Roaring Fork Leadership, we celebrate organizations that demonstrate leadership through service to their community. This month, we’re excited to highlight the Colorado River Valley Chamber, a dedicated organization selected as one of RFL Academy’s Civic Impact Projects.  The Colorado River Valley Chamber serves as a vital resource for businesses in the region.  The Chamber serves Silt, Rifle, Battlement Mesa, and Parachute and engages local businesses to better understand their needs and deliver resources that drive growth and community engagement. Their mission is to advance the regional economy through leadership in collaboration with decision-makers for business advocacy and by strategically facilitating [...]

The Gift of Growth: Why Professional Development is Key to Organizational Success As we step into a new year, there’s no better time to reflect on the future of your organization and the people who make it thrive. Investing in the growth and development of your team isn’t just a good idea, it’s one of the most impactful decisions you can make to ensure lasting success. Enter Roaring Fork Leadership’s CoLab, a unique initiative designed to meet the evolving needs of organizations in today’s fast-paced world. What Is RFL CoLab? The name “CoLab” encapsulates its essence: collaboration and laboratory. It’s a [...]

RFL Mastermind is a five-month women’s collaborative leadership program. Starting this January, a group of 12-14 women come together (led by the preeminent coach & facilitator Nancy Fredericks) to support one another, share wisdom, and set new goals. We believe that connecting to ourselves, and our community, is fundamental to flourishing leadership.  The agenda of RFL Mastermind belongs to the participants as we create a career – and life – that thrives today and far into the future. Together we hone our business and personal skills by challenging each other to create goals, brainstorm ideas, and support each other with honesty, [...]

At Roaring Fork Leadership, we believe that everyone is a leader, and everyone belongs in leadership. This guiding principle fuels our work year-round—and Colorado Gives Day is your opportunity to join us in creating a stronger, more inclusive community.  This year, Colorado Gives Day falls on Tuesday, December 10, but the giving starts early! You can schedule your donation starting now, and thanks to a generous matching fund, every recurring gift up to $100 will be matched dollar for dollar. That means your support goes twice as far in helping RFL develop empowered, compassionate, and effective leaders across the Roaring Fork [...]

At Roaring Fork Leadership, we celebrate organizations that embody leadership through service to our community. This month, we’re thrilled to highlight SANA: Safe and Abundant Nutrition Alliance, a remarkable organization chosen as one of RFL Academy’s Civic Impact Projects.   SANA is a coalition dedicated to combating food insecurity and promoting community well-being in the Roaring Fork and Colorado River Valleys. Their mission is to ensure that all families in our community have access to nutritious foods, fostering a healthier and more prosperous community.   SANA tackles the critical community challenge of food scarcity, working to expand access to healthy and culturally relevant food [...]

We're seeking talented, dedicated board members who are passionate about empowering the next generation of leaders and shaping the future of our community. Becoming an RFL board member is more than a role—it’s an opportunity to lead, learn, and make a lasting impact.  Current board members share that serving with RFL has enhanced their own personal and professional development, fostered a growth mindset, and supported lifelong learning—core values that are at the heart of leadership. Many are driven by the opportunity to contribute their unique skillsets to meet organizational needs while working toward the greater good of our valley, building a [...]