🎙️ Leading with Kindness, Creating Access, and Learning Without Shame featuring Dr. Deena Kara Shaffer, CEO & Founder of Awakened Learning
In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode of What Are You Driven By, Diondra sits down with Dr. Deena Kara Shaffer—educator, learning strategist, best-selling author, and founder of Awakened Learning. Together, they explore what it means to lead with empathy, trust, and relational care in a world often driven by hustle and hierarchy.
Deena shares how her work is rooted in creating access, reducing harm, and centring the human experience—whether she’s supporting students, families, educators, or her own team. From reimagining leadership to championing learning without shame, this episode is a masterclass in values-driven work and the power of deep listening.
✨ Topics include:
Why leadership should feel like a clearing, not a barrier
How learning strategies begin with relationship first
What it means to create ethical, accessible, and people-first businesses
The radical act of saying “yes” when people need support
Deena’s personal reflections on finding ease and unlearning perfection
Whether you're an educator, leader, or lifelong learner, this episode will leave you feeling seen—and inspired to lead differently.
