In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Melissa Dotson, leader, author, and champion of conscious leadership, to explore what it truly means to lead from the inside out.

After nearly three decades rising through the ranks at Rieke Interiors, Melissa purchased the company and began shaping a culture rooted in personal growth, open communication, and authentic leadership. Her 8-month training program based on The 15 Commitments to Conscious Leadership has transformed her team, eliminated workplace gossip, strengthened accountability, and helped employees grow not just professionally, but personally.

Melissa shares:

- How her own journey with coaching and self-development inspired her to teach conscious leadership

- Why eliminating gossip changed her team dynamic from frustration to collaboration

- A heartfelt story from an employee whose life was changed by the program

- What motivated her to write her book and the lessons she hopes readers carry forward

- How she models vulnerability and psychological safety to help others speak up and be seen

- Her practical, grounded approach to beginning AI adoption across departments

- Why waiting for perfection holds us back and how small steps create lasting change

Melissa reminds us that leadership isn’t about hierarchy, it’s about presence, compassion, curiosity, and the willingness to keep learning. Her message is powerful: “The time is now. Start before you’re ready, take the small steps, and don’t be afraid to fail.”

If you’re looking to elevate your own leadership, cultivate healthier teams, or deepen your personal fulfillment, this conversation will inspire you to lead more consciously starting today.

Contact Melissa at: md@rieke.com

To learn more about Melissa’s work, speaking, and upcoming book, visit melissaadotson.com.