Lana Hailemariam
• Lana's BIO
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!
• What brings Lana JOY
- Being spiritually grounded and connected
- My daughter
- Babies (It’s impossible not to smile and believe in humanity around chubby baby cheeks!)
Eric Golden
• Eric's BIO
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.
• What brings Eric JOY
- My family
- Earth’s magical moments
- Human kindness
Shannon Shockey
• Shannon's BIO
With a career that spans the non-profit, philanthropy, and finance sectors, I bring a wealth of experience and perspective to every new challenge. Specializing in operational excellence, leadership development, and coaching, I am committed to using my unique skill set to bring about both personal transformation and systemic change in our world. I am an Enneagram 1 who seeks continual growth, values deep friendships and every opportunity to laugh. As a facilitator, I am most adept at creating spaces for reflection, inspiring productive conversations, and empowering participants toward self-discovery and action.
When not working you will find me exploring the mountains with my husband, traveling internationally, and reading great books.
• What brings Shannon JOY
- Travel to new places
- Deep conversations
- Dessert w/ Coffee
Abby Samson
• Abby's BIO
I'm the kind of person who keeps the trains running on time—and makes sure everyone on board feels seen and supported along the way. As an Executive Assistant and Operations Assistant, I thrive in the space between details and people. Whether it’s managing schedules, coordinating internal systems, connecting with clients, or digging into research, I love making complexity feel effortless for the people I work with.
I bring a background in interpersonal communication, years of experience in recruiting, and a decade of raising and teaching my two sons—which taught me more about leadership, patience, and multitasking than any job ever could. Now, I’m stepping into a new chapter, pursuing my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy to deepen the work I care about most: helping people grow, connect, and thrive.
Around here, I’m the calm in the storm and the one who remembers the thing you forgot. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.
• What brings Abby JOY
- Hiking or playing boardgames with friends
- Cooking for people I love
- Reading a good book
Amy Brady
• Amy's BIO
I founded StandUP in July of 2013 because above all, I believe in building strong, authentic connections. Whether working with youth, teams, leaders, or organizations, I emphasize vulnerability and connection, knowing that when we break down barriers and connect from the heart, we can achieve extraordinary things. This daily experience of meaningful connection fills me with gratitude and drives my work forward.
My journey has been shaped by diverse experiences, from 11 years teaching middle and high school science, math, and health to working with parents of teenagers navigating life’s challenges. Transitioning to youth development with Colorado State University Extension deepened my understanding of community and my role within it. In 2013, I founded StandUP, turning my passion for people, authenticity, and creating a thriving future into a meaningful career.
Outside of work, I cherish time with my partner and children, enjoying deep discussions, sunshine-filled porch moments with neighbors, and hearty laughter with family and friends. My professional path, which spans industries and roles, has gifted me a wealth of wisdom, all of which I channel into helping others unlock their inner greatness.
• What brings Amy JOY
- Being surrounded by the love, laughter and closeness of my children and husband
- Deep breaths of fresh air
- Yellow tulips