Lead like it matters.
Because it does, now more than ever.
Let’s be honest. Most leadership development doesn’t work.
It’s too polished, too theoretical, and too disconnected from what leadership actually demands today.
I’m not here to sell inspiration. I’m here to help you lead with courage, clarity, and the skills to thrive in a world that’s shifting fast.
I’m Laura Darrell. With over 25 years at world-class brands like Starbucks, Apple, and Boston Pizza, and a doctoral degree focused on the future of leadership in progress, I help franchise, hospitality, and retail leaders stop reacting and start building something that lasts.
Because here’s the truth:
As AI reshapes how we work, human-first leadership is no longer a soft skill; it’s a competitive advantage. The future belongs to leaders who can think critically, adapt quickly, and connect deeply.
That’s why I created the Lead Like It Matters Methodology, a practical, future-focused framework built for the realities of today and tomorrow:
Surface the Truth – name what’s really going on
Prepare for Action – align people through adaptive, emotionally intelligent leadership
Execute with Flexibility – drive results without burning out your team
Revisit and Reinforce – make reflection part of the system, not an afterthought
Whether I’m leading an executive retreat, facilitating a high-stakes team session, or coaching your frontline leaders, I help organizations close the gap between where they are and what the future will demand.
Because culture isn’t built in a boardroom. It’s built by how your leaders show up every day.
Real leadership isn’t polished. It’s present.
ABOUT LAURA
I partner with franchise, hospitality, and retail leaders who recognize that surface-level training alone won’t address deeper cultural challenges.
With two decades of senior leadership experience and a doctorate in progress, I’ve learned what actually works: leaders who are self-aware, adaptable, and committed to doing the real work of transformation.
That’s why I created the Lead Like It Matters Methodology, a four-part framework that helps leaders get honest about where they are, build buy-in across teams, lead change with intention, and revisit what’s working before it breaks.
This isn’t theory. It’s battle-tested. And it’s built for the complexity of today’s workforce, especially for leaders navigating Gen Z, Gen Alpha, and the growing trust gap in work culture.
If your team’s ready to lead with more clarity and less spin, let’s talk.
MY SERVICES
You can’t transform what you’re unwilling to face.
I work with franchise, hospitality, and retail leaders who want more than motivation. They want movement. Together, we transform leadership into a practice that cultivates culture, fosters trust, and drives sustainable results.
My Lead Like It Matters Methodology is woven through every offering, a four-stage framework that surfaces the truth, aligns action, drives change, and builds lasting momentum.
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Keynotes and event talks that challenge assumptions, unlock insight, and equip leaders with tools they can use the moment they leave their seat.
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Immersive experiences that combine strategy, culture work, and practical leadership development—tailored for executive teams, multi-unit leaders, and culture builders.
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Hands-on, highly relevant training for franchise, restaurant, and retail leaders focused on adaptability, collaboration, and the leadership skills today's teams actually need.
Built on Truth. Powered by Action. Trusted by Top Brands.
Trusted by Top Brands to Shape the Future of Franchise and Hospitality Leadership
Read Laura's work in these industry-leading publications
I know the franchise world because I’ve lived it. From fry cook to executive, I’ve led teams for multi-unit franchisees and sat at the corporate table as an operations and training executive, helping shape systems and develop brands.
That journey, from the back of house to the boardroom, gives me a unique lens on what franchise leaders truly need:
practical tools, adaptable systems, and leadership that actually works in the real world.
I speak the language of franchisees and franchisors, and my work bridges the space between the two, building cultures of trust, accountability, and long-term success.
My insights and strategies, featured in the industry's top publications, help brands lead with clarity and grow with purpose.
THE GREAT RESIGNATION
Lead in a Way That No One Wants to Leave
Quiet quitting. Disengagement. Churn. The Great Resignation shows leaders exactly how to turn it around.
Coaching and appreciation are essential for retention and performance.
Leadership behavior decides whether talent stays, joins, or leaves.
Human connection, trust, and meaning now drive workplace success.
Book Laura Darrell — speaker, facilitator, and author with 25 years of leadership results.
SUCCESS STORIES