We envision a world of thriving young people and believe that the most impactful way to get there is to ensure that the adults who work with those young people have the opportunity to thrive themselves.
The Flourish Lab is spearheaded by visionary coaches Amy Brady and Lana Hailemariam who know that coaching is for bringing out the best that is already within us, and that strong leaders, teams, and communities start (but don’t end) with self-awareness.
Get to know usFounder, Facilitator, Coach, & Content Creator
I have been working with youth and with youth organizations for over 30 years. Following 11 years in the classroom teaching middle and high school, I shifted focus and became a Youth Development Specialist with Colorado State University where I fell in love with everything afterschool. For the past 12 years I have been coaching and training the adults who work in youth organizations using emotional intelligence and relationship-building as the foundational approach.
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 I’m working with young people, teams, leaders or organizations, vulnerability and connection take center stage. I believe that if we let down our barriers and connect from the heart, that together we can move mountains.
Outside of my work with The Flourish Lab, I love a good book, hiking in the beautiful Colorado mountains and spending as much time with my husband and three children as possible.
What brings me joy
The love and laughter of family and friends
Sunrise hikes
Deep breaths of fresh air
Yellow tulips
Co-Creator, Facilitator, Coach, & Speaker
The path I traveled to The Flourish Lab hardly resembles a straight line. Some of my many adventures include sales, event management, ministry, education, cheerleading and entrepreneurship. I have lived abroad and speak three languages. I was born and raised in The DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) and brought my East Coast flair to Colorado in 2017. My varied experiences help me challenge those I work with to see new perspectives.
Empowering and equipping youth-serving adults and the organizations who serve them is one of my greatest passions. I believe that when adults who work with young people feel seen, heard and valued, the young people themselves will receive the ripple effect of that impact.
In addition to my work with The Flourish Lab, I am also the CEO of StandUP. When I’m not impacting teams and organizations, you will likely find me curled up with a good book, binge watching Netflix or enjoying the beautiful outdoors. My favorite moments are spent hanging out with my teenage daughter.
What brings me joy
Cooking for people I love
The ocean
My daughter (most days…lol!)
Lead Facilitator, Coach, & Content Creator
I am grateful for the wisdom and perspectives that come from my broad work experience. I have worked in wide variety of industries and environments, ranging from warehouse worker to business owner. I found my way to youth organizations as an accountant for Denver Public Schools and never looked back. I gave up the numbers and now get to spend my time connecting with all the amazing humans that work to impact kids every day.
I am fueled by an undying love for life, finding joy in the little things. I believe that sharing stories is one of the best parts of life and that we all have an opportunity every day to grow from our own experiences and perspectives. 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 love listening to podcasts and books, deep discussions, and spending time with my fiancé and three daughters.
What brings me joy
My family
Earth’s magical moments
Human kindness
Learning about myself and the world
Team & Client Success Specialist, Facilitator
For the past 28 years I have worked in the field of youth development in a “potpourri” of different roles. My love for the field started when I began working with young people in afterschool and outdoor summer programs. Over the years I have worked directly with youth as program staff, as a site director, and as a camp director. As an administrator I have managed organizational operations for a national youth development organization, and served as a city, state, and national youth development systems builder.
I love being part of anything that brings out the best in people. I love being in spaces that help us to be fully human, enable collaboration, and encourage connection across both our similarities and differences. It is in these spaces that I know people are able to be their best and, therefore, do their best.
In addition to my work with The Flourish Lab, I also work with The Forum for Youth Investment David P. Weikart Center where I am a facilitator, consultant and coach for school and out-of-school time professionals throughout the world. In addition to loving my work, I love being with family and friends, enjoying the outdoors, and being in the kitchen baking up some goodies to share with others.
What brings me joy
Sharing space with my family
Traveling anywhere and everywhere
Fresh flowers in my home
The love of an animal
Facilitator, Coach, & Content Creator
I bring a rich background in education, coaching, and facilitation to The Flourish Lab. I began my professional adventures as a classroom teacher, utilizing my Master’s in Teaching from the University of Washington and a K-8 teaching certification. I then shifted my focus to social and emotional learning in out-of-school time programs. Presently, I am a coach and facilitator. My journey is focused on supporting adults in being more heart-centered in their work.
I’m passionate about helping people navigate inner challenges and build authentic connections. I love empowering teams to connect more deeply to themselves and each other. Through thoughtful questioning, I help clients shift perspectives and grow into their best selves. I’m known for being curious, energetic, and deeply present.
In addition to my professional roles, I contribute to my community as a volunteer for Reading Partners. When I’m not working or volunteering, you’ll find me at the park with my dog Murphy, exploring my creative side with acrylic paints, or challenging my mind with puzzles and book nooks.
What brings me joy
My dog Murphy
New plant buds
The smell of roses
Team Assistant
I genuinely love helping people thrive. I’ve found that I am happiest when my work is focused on people - making their experiences smoother, more meaningful, and more human. For me, leadership is about kindness, empathy, and lifting others up, and I feel lucky to play a part in that.
Outside of work, I have always had a soft spot for young people. I’ve spent years working and volunteering with youth programs and know how important it is to help young people find their voice and build confidence.
When I’m not working, I enjoy hiking in the beautiful landscape of Colorado, reading a good fiction book, and writing music on my 12-string guitar. Whether it’s through my work, my volunteer efforts, or just my everyday life, I am all about spreading kindness, finding joy, and making the world a little bit brighter.
What brings me joy
Laughing with friends and family
Live music that tells a story
Reading books about mythology and magic
Long walks in beautiful places
Marketing & Communications Specialist
I found my way into marketing almost by accident, but it’s where I’ve happily spent my entire career. Starting out in the finance industry, I quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit for me. Since then, I’ve dedicated my efforts to helping organizations that make a meaningful, positive impact on the world, using my skills to drive growth and connection. I was born and raised in Ireland before moving to the US in 2016, and I find that my diverse upbringing helps me connect with individuals from a variety of backgrounds.
I’m passionate about helping organizations craft the right messaging and build the infrastructure they need to thrive. I believe that with a strong foundation in marketing, an organization can flourish and achieve its goals on an accelerated timeline.
When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me exploring new destinations, playing a round of golf, or perfecting my pizza-making skills to share with friends and family.
What brings me joy
My first sip of Guinness when I visit home
Petting a dog
Taking a pizza out of the oven