16. Co-creation with Shane Feldman | Lead with courage and break through societal limitations

What does it take to lead with courage, empower communities, and break through societal limitations?

In this episode of Humans of Authenticity, Vy Le sits down with Shane Feldman, CEO of Innivee Strategies, to explore the power of co-creation, his impact-driven work and stepping outside of your comfort zone.

Shane opens up about his journey as a Deaf leader, breaking through perceptions that tried to pinhole him into serving only one community. He shares how his defining moment of self-acceptance allowed him to challenge the status quo, advocate for broader representation, and create transformative impact through co-creation.

One defining moment: stepping out of the pinhole

For years, Shane confined himself to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, often defined by both his own perceptions and others’ expectations. He was seen solely as a leader within that space. However, a pivotal moment came when he realized that he could redefine his own narrative. By stepping outside of that box, Shane became an advocate for inclusion and representation and empowered others to lead with courage.

"It's time to think about being uncomfortable and stepping out of that zone. And if you're in a situation where you feel unsure and doubtful about what to do, use your courage, use your bravery. And take that risk on and say, what can really happen, right?" - Shane Feldman

3 leadership lessons from Shane Feldman:

1. Co-creation builds sustainable change – True leadership happens when organizations design solutions with their communities, not for them.
2. Impact isn't just measured by the final result but by how inclusive and collaborative the journey is. The best outcomes happen when those affected by the work are part of shaping it.
3. Courage drives growth – Stepping outside your comfort zone is where authentic connections and new opportunities are found.

This episode is brought to you by McKinley Advisors.

McKinley Advisors helps mission-driven organizations deliver positive change for our planet and its people. McKinley works in partnership with association executives and volunteer leaders to identify and address their most significant challenges and opportunities.

McKinley's team of expert advisors provides research-based guidance to strengthen organizational performance across strategy, governance, and operations—empowering associations to accelerate their impact and achieve lasting success.

To learn more about how McKinley can support your organization, visit mckinley-advisors.com.