For decades, leaders were expected to direct employees, solve problems themselves, and step in to fix issues as they arose. But today’s workplace demands a different approach—one that reflects a necessary and long-overdue shift in how leadership is practiced.
Individuals in positions of leadership must embody the role of a facilitator rather than aiming to fix everything. This necessary change can be a cumbersome responsibility for long-time managers accustomed to the more customary working environments.
Instead of promoting people based solely on technical expertise, organizations should prioritize leadership ability—focusing on those who can foster engagement, build trust, and create supportive, high-performing teams. To Laurie Maddalena, an author, professional speaker, and consultant, those sitting within high positions across various industries and business sectors “need a leadership revolution.”
Introducing Laurie Maddalena, The Elevated Leader
Maddalena began her career as an executive leading teams in the credit union industry. Today, she is the CEO of a leadership consulting firm, where she provides executive coaching, keynote speaking, leadership development programs, and assessments.
Having spent years in various leadership positions, Maddalena presents The Elevated Leader—a practical, insight-driven book that offers a clear model for effective leadership. Paired with her signature seven-session leadership mastery program, it’s designed to help managers build the skills to lead with confidence and create thriving, people-centered cultures.
Maddalena’s passion for leadership didn’t appear overnight—it grew from experience. In her first leadership role, she became deeply interested in the people side of business. She saw early on how effective leadership could improve not just results, but the day-to-day experience of work. That realization sparked her mission: to help eliminate bad management practices and raise the standard for leadership in today’s workplaces.
With her book in hand, Maddalena continues to help organizations develop a corporate culture where employees consistently demonstrate enthusiasm for their work each day.
Maddalena’s Mastery of Modern Management with Distinction
As a seasoned leader herself, Maddalena understands the real-world challenges of balancing people, performance, and the constant demands of leadership. She brings together firsthand experience, research-based strategies, and a relatable approach that meets leaders where they are—supporting their growth in a way that’s both practical and personal.
Throughout her career, Maddalena has helped leaders strengthen their skills while aligning leadership strategies with the realities of day-to-day management. She understands that many managers are also balancing family responsibilities, and she is committed to empowering leaders to succeed both at work and at home without feeling like one has to come at the expense of the other.
As a mother of three, Maddalena knows firsthand how challenging it can be to lead effectively while also raising a family. She believes that leaders can thrive in both spaces, and the practical, human centered strategies she teaches are designed to make that possible.
The Challenges and Triumphs of Contemporary Coaching
Like most leaders, Maddalena encountered several hurdles on her path to leadership modernization. In 2008, she left her executive role to start a business independently, unaware of the financial crisis that would soon unfold. After pondering a return to her previous position, she remained resilient as she strived to build something meaningful.
The 2020 pandemic would exude a similar sentiment of uncertainty. However, Maddalena found that this event would open doors to the digital formats of management training and development.
As a result of her efforts, Maddalena earned her CSP (Certified Speaking Professional) credentials. This is the highest designation from the NSA (National Speakers Association), received by less than 17% of speakers globally. She would additionally gain recognition with the 2023 ‘Cuse 50 Award for her company being one of the fastest-growing alumni businesses from Syracuse University.
Laurie Maddalena: Redefining Leadership Growth
Looking ahead, Laurie Maddalena envisions her brand as a go-to resource for both current and emerging leaders who want to elevate their leadership. She aims for her online leadership experience to reach thousands each year, earning recognition as a trusted voice and thought leader in the field.
Through her own experience, Maddalena has seen that direct managers have the greatest influence on the employee experience. With her program, The Elevated Leader, she is on a mission to transform the way managers lead—creating stronger teams and more intentional, thriving workplace cultures.
Not everyone is meant to lead. Laurie Maddalena’s work is about elevating those who are—and setting a higher standard for what great leadership looks like.
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