We envision a world where all people and communities thrive.
Our Core Values
Humanity
People first.
Always.
Partnership
We are in this
together.
Openness
Open minds grow.
Growth is everything.
Innovation
Creativity guides our thinking. There is no box.
Integrity
We do what we say
we will do. We are who
we say we are.
Our Team
Lana Hailemariam
CEO, Facilitator and Coach
What brings me JOY:
Being spiritually grounded and connected
My daughter
Babies (It’s impossible not to smile and believe in humanity around chubby baby cheeks!)
One thing I love about my story is the diversity of my background and experience. With more than 20 years of experience in both for-profit and nonprofit sectors, my clients benefit from insight from many vantage points. My work experience includes sales, marketing, event management, health & wellness, ministry, education and teen mentoring. I have also been an entrepreneur, owning four locations of personal training company, a Gold’s Gym franchise and an indoor football team.
The path I traveled to StandUP hardly resembles a straight line, but the wisdom I gained through life’s challenges has laid the foundation for authentic, meaningful conversations that have the power to create positive action and impact. Not everyone’s story is the same. Nor should they be. I help people feel empowered in their unique story or path; a journey that is often necessary for each of us to achieve greatness.
As a Certified StrengthsFinder Coach and an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, I get to companion people, teams and organizations as they move from where they are to where they want to be. I am committed to contributing to the world, leaving it better than I found it.
My favorite quote represents my coaching philosophy:
“Everybody is a Genius. But If You Judge a Fish by Its Ability to Climb a Tree, It Will Live Its Whole Life Believing that It is Stupid.” -Albert Einstein
I brought my East Coast flair to the mountains when I moved to Denver from The DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia). When I am not coaching, I am likely curled up with a good self-help or leadership book, binge watching Netflix or enjoying nature outdoors somewhere beautiful. Preferably two out of three at the same time whenever possible!
Eric Golden
Facilitator and Coach
What brings me JOY:
My family
Earth’s magical moments
Human kindness
My drive is fueled by an undying love for life and all that comes with it. I believe that we have an opportunity everyday to grow from our own experiences and perspectives; as well as those of others. Sharing my story has been the best part of my journey. It allows me to connect authentically with people and has allowed me to discover parts of myself I never knew there. I get to do this every day as a part of the StandUP team.
I received my BA in Finance from Metropolitan State University of Denver. I have a combined 15 years of experience in a wide variety of industries and environments. During this time, I have worked in positions ranging from dock worker to business owner. I am grateful for the wisdom and perspectives that came with this broad experience. I find the most joy working directly with people to unlock the greatness that is already within.
When I am not connecting with people in my work, I find joy in listening to podcasts and books, deep discussions, and spending time with my partner and three daughters.
Amy Brady
Founder, Facilitator and Coach
What brings me JOY:
Being surrounded by the love, laughter and closeness of my children and husband
Deep breaths of fresh air
Yellow tulips
Above all else, I believe in building strong connections. Whether in my work or in my personal life, the greatest fulfillment I experience is through open, vulnerable and honest relationships. Whether working with youth, teams, leaders or organizations, we talk about vulnerability and connection; I believe that if we let down our barriers and connect from the heart, that together we can move mountains. The experience of connecting on this level with people every day through my work fills me with a deep sense of gratitude.
My professional background includes 11 years working as a middle and high school science, math and health teacher. I also had the opportunity to work the parents of 9th graders as they navigated the ups and downs of raising teenagers. I often reflect on this experience as I am now raising three children of my own; it’s a lot different on this side! I followed my teaching career with a transition into youth development through Colorado State University Extension, working to provide impactful out-of-school-time programs for Denver’s youth. It was through this experience that I developed a deeper understanding of and love for my greater community and my place within that community.
In 2013 StandUP was formed as I realized my long-time dream of becoming an entrepreneur. It’s rarely easy. And it’s always worth it. My work is my passion. It is in my heart. At the core of this conviction is my love for people, my devotion to living authentically, and a commitment to creating a thriving future.
When I am not engaging with others through StandUP, what I love more than anything is enjoying the sunshine on the front porch with my neighbors and laughing often and heartily with family and friends.
StandUP facilitators don’t pride themselves on being the fix all, be all. Instead, they are a thought partner in the process. They work alongside you rather than for you. They get to know you on a personal level to help you grow professionally.
Sara Ulricksen
Program Supervisor
Denver Public Schools Extended Learning
and Community Schools