Hi there,

Most of us spend years trying to figure out who we want to become.

But what if that's the wrong question?

Starting With Who isn't about building a better version of yourself. It's about uncovering what was already there before the expectations, the roles, or the outcomes that started shaping you.

This month, we're exploring what that process actually looks like — and what becomes possible when you discover language for, and start living from who you are.

From The Field:

 When Jeremy DeBenedictis became President of Alterra, he was navigating a drought in funding, NGO opposition, and a leadership mismatch he hadn't anticipated. By most measures, he was holding it together. But something was missing.

Walking through the Personal Compass process with Rick Newton, Jeremy stopped focusing on trying to manage the chaos and started getting clear on his unique design.

"The process was affirming and motivating. It gave me clarity on who I am as a leader and why I lead the way I do."

That clarity changed his relationship with uncertainty in a way strategy never had.

"Knowing my design reduces anxiety. It lets me focus on purpose and let the outcomes take care of themselves."

And it didn't stop at work- Jeremy and his wife Stacie began seeing their differences — his drive to achieve, her orientation toward learning — not as friction, but as complementary strengths. Two people with distinct wirings, building something together.

"It's not just about Alterra — it's about preparing for a future where I can bring purpose into people's lives through work."

FAQ:

"What actually changes after you define your DNA markers?"

Clarity helps at the awareness phase, but we often see three distinct themes flow from understanding and naming your DNA.

Conviction — you make decisions from a clearer place, and have an understanding about where you stand. Confidence — you stop second-guessing the way you're wired, and start living from a place of knowing who you are. Contentment — you spend less energy trying to be someone else's version of a great leader and more energy being a great version of yourself.

Getting clarity is the first step, using your DNA markers is what changes how you live.

Stay Connected:

We'd love to hear what's resonating — hit reply and tell us what question you're sitting with! We want to help answer your questions.