Meet our newest WOL Coach: Barb Dunn-Swanson
In preparing this announcement I found an early email exchange between Barb and me. It was after our first call, and I was struck by how positive and supportive she was.
“Keep doing the good work you do encouraging people to make a difference in our WORLD!!!”
Over the years I learned that’s how Barb is, and not just with me. She is one of those rare human beings who makes you feel seen, heard, and cared for in all of her interactions. It’s extraordinary.
I replied:
“I feel we're going to do some good work together this year.”
That turned out to be true. Our first email exchange led to a collaboration that has continued to evolve and expand.
Most recently, Barb is partnering with Karie Foster, Lyndi Buckingham-Schutt, and others at Iowa State University to offer the WOL Resilience method. Their aim is to help communities across Iowa experience personal growth and a feeling of connection. What a mission!
I am so inspired by their persistence and creativity. I can’t wait to see what Barb and the Iowa State team do with WOL!
Note: For each new WOL Coach, I ask three questions so you can get to know them and what drives them. You can also visit Barb’s WOL Coach profile on workingoutloud.com. Or connect with her on LinkedIn or at bdswanso@iastate.edu.
1. Please share 5 facts about you so people get to know you.
I was born and raised in the first city settled in the state of Iowa. Dubuque is recognized as the first permanent European settlement in Iowa. Founded in 1788 by French-Canadian trader Julien Dubuque.
I was hired as an Extension professional right out of college, and it is the only job I have had since graduation.
I have worked in two State Extension Systems: Iowa State University and North Carolina State University.
My husband and I have four Labrador retrievers in four different colors, black, silver, chocolate, and white.
My three sisters and my WORLD! Having the love of family has been a blessing to me!
2. What positive difference do you aspire to make?
I hope to share the wonder of WOL with others by promoting personal discovery, hope, and encouragement. Through the Circle experience, I see the potential to support teachers, caregivers, employees, and those in our daily lives. By fostering connection, empowerment, and mutual support, we can inspire positive change in individuals and communities, helping everyone unlock their abilities and thrive together.
3. Why WOL?
Working Out Loud is an investment in my personal and professional growth. To work effectively with others, understanding the “self” is a crucial skill. The WOL Circle provides a great opportunity to explore the layers of who we are, helping us uncover what drives our ambitions and core values. It also serves as a space for us to contribute our knowledge and abilities to assist others in achieving their goals. Through this process, I’m reminded of the key elements of human development. WOL enables participants to engage with each of these elements: belonging through the circle experience; independence through goal setting; mastery of our own knowledge; and generosity in what we offer to others.
