Leadership Coach | Speaker and Trainer | Bestselling Author
CONSIDER YOUR STORY, ALIGN YOUR POSITION, AND RISE FOR IMPACT
I empower progressive leaders to embrace their unique leadership style, to think beyond themselves, take bold risks, inspire their teams and create lasting impact.
LEADERSHIP HAS ONE REQUIREMENT AND ONE REQUIREMENT ONLY – To lead authentically.
Whether you are a manager, a progressive leader seeking to emerge as a trailblazer or an educator shaping the futures of staff and students, you will benefit from investing in your development. I will help you explore your significant story, strengths and weaknesses to identify potential blind spots manage difficult people and how to navigate unexpected workplace situations.
The best chance to become a great leader is right at your fingertips, when you know where to look. The most successful leaders are highly self aware. If you are willing to do the work to understand yourself and your unique style you can create an abundance of opportunities to better serve your people and your organization.
All that has happened to you has qualified you to lead – Your story is significant!
FREE LEADERSHIP GUIDE
5 Ways to Develop Your Governing Values for Clarifying, Compelling, and Catalyzing Leadership
No matter where you are, understanding the unique opportunity for impactful leadership begins with discovering, articulating, and then enrolling your team into your essential governing values. Are you ready to create a system to bridge the gap between your vision and your team's understanding?
Take the first step by downloading the free leadership guide 5 Ways to Develop Your Governing Values.
LEADERSHIP IS Intimidating
Where does one start? With books? With principles from the ancient past? With lectures, formulas, and methodologies from today's foremost experts?
In my experience as a supervisor, an entrepreneur, and Sr. Pastor over the past 25 years, none of these things will do it alone. One becomes a leader not when they have read all the books, learned all the principles or mastered all the formulas and methodologies that lead to illusions or imposters but when they have embraced their identity as a leader and consent to lead according to that I.D. Self-identification is the key to leadership or should i say leaderSHAPE. When a leader becomes self-aware they can find the elusive harmony of leadership and begin to dance in their specific and unique way. They are able to analyze and assess their minds and hearts and by doing so they are able to connect with their passion and purpose to inspire, encourage and empower others authentically.
DOES ANY (OR ALL) OF THESE SOUND LIKE You?
YOU GET LOST IN THE MINUTIA AND CAN LOSE SIGHT OF THE BIG PICTURE.
Along the way (in the leadership journey) many leaders can get lost in the minutia of their own making, tasks, responsibility, books, principles, lectures, formulas, methodologies, and lose themselves among the many great leaders of today. When this occurs the leader must align with what’s important, their identity and commit to be true to their unique leadership style, for this is where the journey begins, when the leader comes alive and dares to lead others in an effective and productive manner that is authentically there’s and not made up. This is where the imposter dies and the leader is resurrected and reimagined!
YOU STRUGGLE TO RALLY YOUR TEAM.
Amidst the demands of metrics, meetings, and management, leaders often forget the essence of what truly inspires a team—their own passion and conviction. The issue isn't your team; it's your approach. This is the moment to reassess and recommit to your unique leadership identity. When you do, you'll not just manage but genuinely inspire your team. This is where the cycle of struggle breaks and your authentic leadership is actualized.
YOU’RE DEPLETED AND BURNED OUT.
As leaders, it's no secret that we're responsible for a lot. So it's also no secret that leaders often find themselves running on empty. This is not a defeat, but a call to action. It's time to embrace your core identity and discover your unique leadership style. When you do, you tap into an inner reserve you thought was depleted. This is where the burned-out leader is reinvigorated and reignited.
MY HOPE is that your leadership grows in both knowledge and profound insight.
You are not here by chance. You are not here by mere happenstance. You were called to lead for a time and a season such as this!
ARE YOU READY? DISCOVER YOUR Unique Leadership Style?
Leadership Expert, Coach, Speaker, and Bestselling Author
HEY THERE, I’M Ralph Bessard
After a 25+ year career as an entrepenuer, Business Owner, Chief Operations Office, and Senior Pastor, I can attest to "the only thing constant in life is change!" It’s learning how to harness, navigate, and create impactful change that leads to true fulfillment, freedom, and symbiotic co-creation between individuals and organizations alike.
I am an employee, team member, small business entrepeneur and dreamer turned personal and professonal development coach, thought leader, inspriational speaker and best selling author, all thanks to an insatiable thirst for growth, a relentless commitment to my authentic self and a fearless attitude toward the unknown and the uncertain by trusting the ONE who is Unseen.
I've done the work and continue to run my race, navigating the responsibilities of life--business, family and helping others. I do it with a full heart, knowing that I am truly blessed and because of that it no longer feels like work. It's been a long road of twists and turns, tough decision making and whole-lotta old fashioned sacrifice to realize how to stay rooted in my own skin, to keep life and work in line with my values and priorities. It hasn't been easy but is has absolutely been worth it.
Now, I’m on a mission to help other big-hearted, big thinkers, like you, find the harmonious intersection between work and life so you can bring your whole self to your most meaningful work. And I can tell you from experience, it feels absolutely incredible!
But it doesn’t just happen on its own. Creating intentional alignment in leadership is accessible to anyone with an open mind, curiosity, and willing spirit. It’s time to finally break the cycle of burnout and build up each other as teams, leaders, and human beings. It would be my honor to help you get there.
THE SHAPED TO LEAD Method?
"Shaped to Lead" is a leadership concept encapsulated by the acronym S.H.A.P.E.D., which stands for Story, Heart, Availability, Perspective, Encouragement, and Determination. This concept represents the essential attributes and qualities that a leader possesses or develops in their journey to become an effective and impactful leader. Let's break down each component.
Whether you’re beginning your leadership journey or have been leading for a long time, I want to help you use discover, own, and amplify your unique leadership abilities!
STORY
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Story
Your personal and professional narrative. It includes their background, experiences, values, and the unique journey that has shaped them. Understanding and sharing their story enables leaders to connect with others on a deeper level, inspire trust, and demonstrate authenticity.
HEART
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HEART
Effective leaders cultivate "Heart". These practices include communication skills, active listening, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Heart help leaders stay organized, focused, and consistent in their leadership approach.
AVAILABILTY
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AVAILABILTY
It’s essential to be present and accessible to team members. Leaders must be willing and prepared to do what must be done first, even when faced with challenges or difficult decisions. They are approachable and responsive, providing guidance and support when needed.
PERSPECTIVE
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PERSPECTIVE
Leaders with a broad "Perspective" can see beyond immediate circumstances. They understand the bigger picture, anticipate trends, and adapt their strategies accordingly. This ability to view situations from different angles helps leaders turn challenges into opportunities and make informed decisions.
ENCOURAGEMENT
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ENCOURAGEMENT
"Encouragement" is the act of inspiring and motivating others. Effective leaders uplift their team members, provide constructive feedback, and create a positive and empowering work environment. Encouragement fosters growth, resilience, and a sense of belonging among team members.
DETERMINATION
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DETERMINATION
Leadership often requires unwavering "Determination." Leaders set ambitious goals, persevere in the face of obstacles, and lead by example. Their determination inspires others to push through challenges and work toward shared objectives.
"BUT NOT SO WITH YOU. RATHER, LET THE GREATEST AMONG YOU BECOME AS THE YOUNGEST, AND THE LEADER AS ONE WHO SERVES."
Luke 22:26
HOW I CAN HELP YOU
My signature transformational offerings are anything but cookie-cutter... in fact, they are designed for leaders who are done settling for the cookie-cutter approach.
WHY NOT CHOOSE THE HAND-CRAFTED OFFER THAT SERVES THIS STAGE OF YOUR GROWTH?
GROUP COACHING
Comprehensive and encouraging community support and guided curriculum for leaders looking to enhance their reach, impact, and influence.
EXECUTIVE COACHING
As the decision-maker and needle-mover in your organization, nothing is more important than ensuring you are optimally prepared to do your most important work. I'm here to guide you to your next level of activation and leadership through private, one-on-one coaching.
ORGANIZATION AUDIT
Is your organization, company, or team facing roadblocks in the areas of culture, collaboration, and communication? If your team needs to regroup and reset for prime impact, I'm here to support your team whether you have 5 of 500 employees.
GUEST SPEAKING AND TRAINING
Looking for a speaker how brings a healthy balance of inspiration, connection, breakthrough, and tactical strategy? Then book me to learn for your upcoming virtual summit, live event, workshop, or training.
"RALPH'S BOOK IS AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE FOR ANYONE ASPIRING TO LEAD WITH INTEGRITY, EMPOWER OTHERS, AND MAKE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT"
“In ‘Shaped to Lead,’ Ralph Bessard offers a transformative journey into the essence of authentic leadership. This book is an essential guide for anyone aspiring to lead with integrity, empower others, and make a significant impact. Its blend of insightful guidance, practical strategies, and personal anecdotes makes it a guiding light for emerging and seasoned leaders alike. A must-read for those dedicated to forging a leadership path that is not only effective but deeply meaningful and impactful.”
SHAWN THORTON, SENIOR PASTOR
THANK YOU, RALPH!
It has been my unique privilege to assist Ralph in facilitating the SHAPE class at our church for the past 7 years. Ralph is a wonderfully engaging teacher using many personal stories to illustrate the five main points of Spiritual gifts, Heart or passion, Abilities, Personality and Experiences. His down to earth leadership style is best demonstrated by the story Ralph tells of first entering ministry as the part time janitor because he was a germophobe, wanting the bathrooms of his church to be clean for his family. His knowledge of scripture and wisdom of application guides participants through the course allowing them to gain valuable insight on how God has designed them for a purpose. Join me in taking full advantage of Ralph’s leadership and wisdom through this website.
JAY DERRICO
"RALPH TRANSLATES SPIRITUAL TRUTH INTO REAL LIFE."
"I first met Ralph as a life coach and teacher of faith. It was clear that he was an energizing and empowering influencer. Steve Jobs once said, “The most powerful person in the world is a story teller”. Ralph connects with people in transformative ways because he is a story teller, first, through his own life. He is able to build trust with others because of his integrity to be true in live to his values, faith and beliefs, and nothing moves faster than the speed of trust. He is also sound in his wisdom. He sees the Bible as God’s ways for our life; our true north star for life’s questions, stressors and defining moments. Best yet, in everyday language, Ralph is also able to translate spiritual truth into real life, where it matters and where we live. He brings truth alive with insights, passion, humor, simplicity and conviction. It’s an honor to partner with Ralph on the Adult Teaching Team at the church we share. His influence on our team, as a story teller, has clarified our vision."
MAT GARCIA
"HIS GUIDANCE HAS TRANSFORMED MY PERSPECTIVE AND WELL AS MY FAMILIES SIMPLY BY HIS UNIQUE AND AUTHENTIC APPROACH TO TEACHING."
"Pastor Ralphs ministry and coaching style has positively influenced my life first and foremost by the bond of love and trust we share. We have been lifelong friends for over 40+ years. His teaching and coaching is a direct reflection of his application of his teaching in his home, business he and his wife share and in his community he serves."
THOM BROWN
Discover your unique leadership style, empower your team and create massive impact.
SHAPED TO Lead
"Shaped to Lead: Discover your unique leadership style, empower your team, and create massive impact" offers a comprehensive roadmap for becoming a leader who not only achieves results but also leaves a lasting legacy. Through a harmonious blend of insightful guidance, relatable anecdotes, and practical strategies, this book equips you to forge a path that resonates with your genuine essence.
With an expertly curated combination of the author's expertise and timeless wisdom from renowned leaders, this book dives into the heart of leadership authenticity. You will delve into the art of defining your STORY, cultivating empowering HABITS, being unreservedly AVAILABLE, seeking enlightening PERSPECTIVE, and harnessing the transcendent power of ENCOURAGEMENT. These pillars, when fused with the symphony of your unique leadership style, create a SHAPE that stands as a beacon of inspiration for those you lead.
Whether you're an emerging leader seeking to carve your path or a seasoned executive looking to refine your impact, "Shaped to Lead" empowers you to become a leader who stands out, empowers others, and creates massive, lasting change. Embark on this transformative journey and shape a future where your leadership leaves an indelible mark on the world.
The best chance to become a great leader is right at your fingertips, you just need to know where to look.
Are you ready to own your distinctive gifts, ignite lasting change, and step into leadership with confidence?