--- title: Recommendations description: Check out what Centered's customers are saying. image: https://centered.work/hubfs/Logos/LogoCenteredTitled.png --- [![LogoCenteredTitledLandscape](https://centered.work/hs-fs/hubfs/LogoCenteredTitledLandscape.png?width=200&height=80&name=LogoCenteredTitledLandscape.png)](https://centered.work/old?hsLang=en) - About ## Centered We empower your organization to innovate boldly. By fostering a culture of experimentation, inspiring leadership, and building high-performing teams, we ensure your business continually adapts and thrives in a changing world. ### About Us Meet the team at Centered ### [Testimonials See what our customers have to say.](https://centered.work/recommendations) - What We Do ## Working with Centered At Centered, we help your business make innovation fast, powerful, and cost-effective.  Our proven methods cut down on wasted effort and bring bold ideas to life—fast and more effectively than ever. ### [Breakthrough Lab A 3–6 month innovation accelerator that helps leaders align, test bold solutions, and launch teams to deliver results that last.](https://centered.work/breakthrough-lab-old?hsLang=en) ### [AI Ready Teams AI isn’t just a tool—it’s a force multiplier. But without the right team structure, AI won’t make your business faster or smarter. It will only amplify inefficiencies.](https://centered.work/ai-ready-teams?hsLang=en) ### Design Sprints Our Design Sprints skip the guesswork, revealing what works in just five days. ### Innovation Coaching Our tailored innovation coaching helps executives, leaders, and teams develop the mindset, skills, and strategies needed to drive innovation across all levels of your organization. ### [Assessments Our Innovation Assessments provide a comprehensive evaluation of your organization’s innovation capabilities, culture, and processes.](https://centered.work/innovation-assessments?hsLang=en) - Resources ## Browse Our Resources Centered has a large library of articles, podcasts, and other resources to help you boost your innovation. ### [Articles Our articles cover a variety of topics from leadership, organizational design and structure, and much more.](https://centered.work/articles?hsLang=en) ### [Breakthrough Innovation Podcast Breakthrough Innovations dives into the stories and strategies of leaders and innovators driving change. Each episode uncovers insights on leadership, overcoming challenges, and creating transformative impact across industries.](https://centered.work/breakthrough-innovation-podcast-old?hsLang=en) ### [Book - Breakthrough Innovation The Definitive Guide for Senior Leaders Driving Transformation.](https://centered.work/download-breakthrough-innovation?hsLang=en) ### [Book - The Agile Code Provides concrete case studies, base-line lean/agile approaches, and quantifiable benefits to help leaders work in more agile ways.](https://centered.work/the-agile-code?hsLang=en) ### [Case Studies Recent work and case studies where we've brought innovation to life!](https://centered.work/articles/tag/case-study?hsLang=en) [Schedule a Strategy Call](https://centered.work/innovation-strategy-call?hsLang=en)   # Coaching/Consulting Testimonials What I've always appreciated about Centered is that they understand agile transformation isn't about process or methodology — it's about people. It's about trusting teams, empowering them, and getting out of their way. When we began our transformation at IMRE, we looked at a range of partners. Many offered standardized, off-the-shelf solutions, which were appealing at first. But we ultimately chose Centered because they lean into the harder, more important work — coaching people to understand the principles and apply them in a way that works for them. That's what makes the change real, and more importantly, what makes it stick. ![Nadine Lafond - CEO - IMRE](https://centered.work/hubfs/Nadine%20Lafond%20-%20CEO%20-%20IMRE.png) CEO, Imre Nadine Lafond When we decided to bring lean and agile training to our entire organization at IMRE, I wanted to make sure it wasn't just another initiative that faded after a few workshops. The training Centered delivered gave our teams a practical framework they could actually use — and the follow-up coaching has been key to making it stick. I was so bought in that I got agile certified myself to better support what we were building. If you're looking for someone who can help your organization adopt new ways of working in a real, lasting way, I'd highly recommend Centered. ![Rob Naddelman - COO - Imre](https://centered.work/hubfs/Rob%20Naddelman%20-%20COO%20-%20Imre.png) COO, Imre Rob Naddelman The lean/agile training Centered delivered at IMRE gave our project management team a shared framework that we could immediately put into practice. What I appreciated most was how actionable it was — we were able to take what we learned and build real solutions using tools like AI and Monday.com to support our new agile workflows. The ongoing coaching has helped us keep the momentum going. It's been a genuinely useful engagement, not just training for training's sake. ![Taylor Stands - Director of Project Management, Imre](https://centered.work/hubfs/Taylor%20Stands%20-%20Director%20of%20Project%20Management%2c%20Imre.jpg) Director of Project Management, Imre Taylor Stands Centered masterfully facilitated our HP design sprint in Houston, engaging and bringing the best out of everyone. Before the week-long event they worked with our teams to define scenarios to focus on, and while there enabled creativity to emerge naturally rather than forcing outcomes. I deeply enjoyed working with Centered, and look forward to doing it again. Their approach has significantly influenced the team's problem-solving approach long after the sprint concluded. ![MarcMaset](https://centered.work/hubfs/MarcMaset.jpg) Head of AI Strategy, HP Marc Maset I participated in a design sprint with Centered and found it to be a highly efficient use of time. The process cut through ambiguity quickly and got us to testable ideas fast. It's well-structured without being over-engineered, and the facilitation kept things focused on outcomes rather than discussion for its own sake. I'd recommend it to any product team that needs to validate direction quickly. ![Nathan Kofahl](https://centered.work/hubfs/Nathan%20Kofahl.jpg) Senior Director Software Product Management, HP Nathan Kofahl I've served as an executive champion for several design sprints facilitated by Centered, and I've seen firsthand the impact they have. The format is fast and focused — teams go from a complex challenge to validated solutions in days, not months. What I value most is how the process gets cross-functional teams aligned and moving with real momentum. The facilitation is sharp, the energy in the room is high, and the outcomes are tangible. It's one of the most efficient ways I've seen to drive innovation forward. ![Cory McElroy](https://centered.work/hubfs/Cory%20McElroy.jpg) Vice President, Commercial Product Management, HP Cory McElroy Centered has been an invaluable partner to launch an operational and culture change program to drive innovation. They’ve transformed the way we think and collaborate, helping us to unlock the full potential of our deep but siloed expertise. Thanks to their facilitation and coaching, we are now on a clear path of organizational transformation. ![LaraBowen](https://centered.work/hubfs/LaraBowen.jpeg) Chief Innovation Officer, Univet Lara Bowen Working with Centered has been an absolute pleasure, and I have been consistently impressed by their professionalism, expertise, and dedication. Centered's leadership skills are truly remarkable. They have a natural ability to inspire and guide their team, resulting in exceptional performance and successful outcomes. Their innovative approach and unwavering commitment to excellence have been key factors in the success of the Insights-to-Innovation (i2i) Program, making them an invaluable asset to our program. What stands out the most about Centered is their exceptional communication skills. They have a unique talent for conveying complex ideas clearly and effectively, ensuring that everyone is on the same page. Their approachable demeanor and active listening skills have created a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and heard. I wholeheartedly recommend Centered for any future endeavors. I am confident that they will continue to excel and make meaningful contributions wherever they go. It has been an honor to work with them, and I look forward to seeing all the great things they will achieve in the future. ![SandraDAmbrosio](https://centered.work/hubfs/SandraDAmbrosio.jpg) Executive Program Manager, HP Sandra D'Ambrosio Without a doubt, Centered my go-to partner whenever the need arises to catalyze change, align teams with a vision, and achieve swift results. They have an exceptional ability to drive business transformation is an asset to any organization fortunate enough to collaborate with them. I wholeheartedly recommend Centered to anyone seeking a seasoned partner who can turn challenges into opportunities and drive transformational success. ![Abby](https://centered.work/hubfs/Headshots/Abby.jpeg) Head of Strategy & Communications, Marzano Research Abby (Javurek) Andres JL is an incredible coach and great partner helping me expand and broaden my perspectives on leadership especially during the last year of our group’s transformation. JL has been an incredible resource and advisor in helping me expand my perspectives, and adding in toolkits on ways to communicate, manage conflict, and most importantly bring the best out of individuals across the organization. He is a great listener, knows where to push, and has the amazing ability to help me pinpoint areas I would not have considered. JL is the perfect coach between pushing you to break your current habits, to giving you tactical resources & thought starters to get there. JL has been a great knowledge source of books, articles, and reading material that he often recommends after each coaching session. ![ClaraLuo](https://centered.work/hubfs/Headshots/ClaraLuo.jpeg) Sr. Manager, Deloitte Clara Luo Attending a Design Sprint project facilitated by Centered was a great experience. Not only did they provide us with excellent methods and guidance to get the best out of our multi-functional team, but also learned about our business-specific matters so much that they almost became a subject expert themselves. That's impressive. ![Antti Ulvio](https://centered.work/hubfs/Antti%20Ulvio.jpeg) Co-Owner, Univet Loupes Antti Ulvio Centered has fantastic coaches who help individuals and organizations drive impact in unique ways. Centered provided expert guidance on agile ways of working for our team. Their coaching helped ensure our agency partner evolved their thinking and approach. Through their guidance, the team saw positive shifts in mindset and skillset and went from agile novices to agile experts driving creation of high impact marketing materials. ![LeighAnnBradley](https://centered.work/hubfs/LeighAnnBradley.jpeg) Group Product Director - Oncology, Johnson & Johnson Leigh Ann Bradley I would strongly recommend JL as a leadership coach. He is knowledgeable, empathetic, patient, and an excellent listener. Starting from a place of deep empathy, JL provides practical frameworks to approach challenging situations. He actively listens and offers perspective and coaching that has made me a stronger manager and leader. What's important is you trust him when discussing sensitive topics, and because he's so passionate about what he does, it definitely shows. ![ChristinaLu](https://centered.work/hubfs/Headshots/ChristinaLu.jpeg) Sr. Vice President, Carat Christina Lu  JL is an outstanding coach! He has coached me for over 6 months and I have had a transformational journey with him.   JL has a unique style and demeanor which helped me introspect and think of how my values and aspirations align with my professional life. He also provided really useful tools that enabled me reflect on how to lead with authenticity. Every coaching conversation has been very insightful and enlightening.   I deeply value my experience with JL and highly recommend him if you are looking for an extraordinary coach!  ![ChineduOkafor](https://centered.work/hubfs/Headshots/ChineduOkafor.jpeg) HR Leader, Operating Functions - International (LATAM, APAC, EMEA), GE HealthCare Chinedu Okafor Centered's expertise was absolutely crucial for my team and I, as we were struggling to conform to the new agile work-stream put in place by our clients. Right away he identified the problems and began working with us on solutions. By regularly meeting with our "pod" as well as our clients, Centered was able to act as a bridge between the two teams, helping us to embrace the agile way of working while connecting with our clients on a completely new level. Not only was Centered an enormous help to the team as a whole, they helped us all on a personal level as well. Centered met with us individually on a regular basis, coaching us through our careers in whatever capacity we found valuable. Their is understanding, empathetic, charismatic, and incredibly intelligent. I liked to refer to them as the "team therapist," as their advice on interpersonal relations and career advancement was just as valuable as their work getting us up to speed with agile methodology. As Centered's contract with my company comes to an end, I'm left wondering why his position is not one present among every team, in every agency, permanently. The value of this presence cannot be overstated, and I look forward to working with them again in the future. Thanks Centered! ![LoganCiappa](https://centered.work/hubfs/LoganCiappa.jpeg) Group Art Supervisor, 21GRAMS Logan Ciappa When is comes to understanding and implementing Agile practices, Centered is the most knowledgeable and capable partner I've ever worked with. They understand the human complexities involved with building a great practice of communication and collaboration. Centered is able to diagnose the friction involved within organizations and create clear, actionable guidelines for people to work from. Following their instructions would improve your ability to successfully deliver positive outcomes. It would benefit many people to bring them in and allow them to help guide Agile human systems. ![Tom](https://centered.work/hubfs/Headshots/Tom.jpeg) Lead Cloud Engineer, American Century Tom Cudd Centered has provided valuable insights and thought-provoking perspectives in our coaching sessions. In our time together we covered a wide range of topics, but most specifically focused on how I built myself as a leader within my agency. Centered did a fantastic job not only supporting me as I worked through personal and professional losses, but also pushing me to show up as my best self. I valued Centered’s coaching so much that I would send my high potential team members to him for assistance with their own career journeys. Anyone who is looking to grow in their path as a leader would gain significant value working with Centered. ![GabbySpurling](https://centered.work/hubfs/Headshots/GabbySpurling.jpeg) Managing Director Technology, VML Gabby Spurling I have been working with Centered as a coach since the spring of 2022. When I started, I was struggling with crucial conversations and delegation of work. Through the next six months, Centered focused on enabling a different perspective on each conversation I had. They also worked with me on challenging work scenarios so I could focus on the end result, not the singular moment. Since starting our coaching relationship I have made strides in defining my own goals and making changes to achieve them. I am happier and continue daily to make advancements in my professional development. ![KarenResco2](https://centered.work/hubfs/KarenResco2.jpeg) Associate Director of Product, Nagarro Karen Resco JL was brought on to my project team at VML for a client project we were engaged in together. As an expert in building sustainable, effective design processes, JL led our clients through numerous workshops to co-create better ways of working, and stayed engaged as a core part of the team. I am so grateful for JL's contributions, and for the opportunity to learn from him. I've met few people who are as clear-thinking, intelligent, and thoughtful in their approach to design education and leadership as he is. JL cares deeply about creating high-quality work, and it shows. For anyone working on wicked problems, I can't recommend JL enough. ![RohitSharma](https://centered.work/hubfs/RohitSharma.jpeg) Group Director - Experience Design, VML Rohit Sharma Over several months, I had the pleasure of working with Centered, and their Agile consultant on one of our pharma marketing agency partners. My Agile team includes members of that agency. During our weekly meetings, they regularly had valuable insights and recommendations to help shape team dynamics. Our exchanges were productive, and the partnership was valuable in helping us become an example of a high-performing Agile pod. I highly recommend Centered for Agile consultants, especially to agencies working through the challenges of adjusting to Agile ways of working. ![JeanneFitzPatrick](https://centered.work/hubfs/JeanneFitzPatrick.jpeg) Scrum Master - Digital Marketing, Johnson & Johnson Jeanne FitzPatrick Over the past year, JL has trained me to become a squad leader, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without his help. I am always looking forward to my coaching sessions with JL because his perspective is eye opening. JL has this ability to quickly understand group dynamics and his advice, while grounded in theoretical principles, is always practical. Every time I meet with JL, he helps me sort out complex issues. I feel more equipped and empowered to be a great squad leader. ![Sandrine Martin](https://centered.work/hubfs/Headshots/Sandrine%20Martin.webp) Sr. Analytical Brand Strategist, BAV Sandrine Martin JL is a rare Leadership Coach. He began coaching me at a low point in my career. I was in a massive midlife career crisis. JL helped me isolate and identify my core values in the mess that was my depressed state and then put those values into action. Supporting me every step of the way. He is able to help you identify your core goals and what brings your work life meaning. Then he helps you take steps to realize those goals and hold yourself accountable. Even when you have momentarily “lost yourself” in depression and discouragement. JL begins with empathy and active listening to help you find the patterns and themes that consistently appear as you chat with him. He can see qualities and opportunities that I can’t always see. Because of JL’s coaching, I’ve been able to get back to a career that I value and that brings me joy and meaning. Thanks JL! ![TracyMoore](https://centered.work/hubfs/Headshots/TracyMoore.webp) VP, Group Director, Integrated Production, Eversana Intouch Tracy Moore Having met JL over 15yrs ago when we both worked together in IT and re-connected again to work on leadership coaching. JL offered his services and I knew I was in for a treat. We have now covered a lot of ground to review and develop my leadership skills. JL has been very passionate, knowledgeable and encouraging in his approach to deliver a methodical and analytical coaching experience. We developed foundations to better understand and prioritize my own values and goals and how to better understand others. I can genuinely recommend JL for Leadership Coaching. ![DanielSchimpfossl](https://centered.work/hubfs/Headshots/DanielSchimpfossl.webp) Lt. Principle Specialist Solutions Architect, Red Hat Daniel Schimpfoessl I’ll admit it—I’m a tough one to impress when it comes to workshops. I’ve been through many over the years, and my standards are high. But working with the Centered team during our HP design sprint was genuinely one of the most inspiring and energizing experiences I’ve had.What stood out was how seamlessly they became part of the team. They never felt like outsiders—just thoughtful partners who kept us honest, focused, and moving in the right direction. Every time we started to drift off course, they successfully pulled us back toward the goal—without killing the mood or the creativity.Their ability to create structure while still making space for bold ideas and real collaboration was incredible. The energy in the room stayed high, the engagement was real, and the outcomes were powerful. Highly recommend them to any team looking to spark innovation, move fast, and actually enjoy the process. ![NilayDinc](https://centered.work/hubfs/NilayDinc.jpg) Sr. Innovation Program Manager, HP Nilay Dinc, PhD  From the moment we engaged Centered's services, it was clear that they were passionate about their work and committed to helping us achieve our goals. Their thoughtful and well-planned approach to the workshops ensured that we were able to make the most of our time together and that everyone had a chance to contribute their ideas and insights.  Throughout the process, they demonstrated a deep understanding of our business and industry, which allowed them to ask the right questions and challenge our assumptions in a way that was constructive and insightful. Their ability to bring different perspectives together and guide us towards a shared vision for our products was truly impressive. Thanks to their facilitation, we were able to generate a wealth of new ideas and strategies for our eCommerce business, as well as identify some key areas for improvement. The collaborative and inclusive nature of the workshops made everyone feel heard and valued, and we all came away feeling energized and excited about the future. I would highly recommend your services to anyone looking to help their teams add structure and engagement to their strategic planning cycles. ![Chadwick Andrews_Bushnell_eComm Digital Marketing_Headshot](https://centered.work/hubfs/Chadwick%20Andrews_Bushnell_eComm%20Digital%20Marketing_Headshot.webp) Sr. Director, eCommerce & Digital Marketing, Bushnell Outdoor Products Chadwick Andrews Centered was brought in to consult with our team as part of work with a valued client's agile pod. The pod was very intense and more long-running than others we had been part of before and the pod team needed a refocus. Centered brought their operational expertise and interpersonal talents to the team and made an immediate impact. Their observations and suggestions helped the pod team come together and rebuild as a stronger body, ultimately delivering work that all could be proud of. JL is a wonderful coach and mentor. I learned quite a bit in the time I spent working with him and would welcome the opportunity to work with him again. ![Annmarie Lockhart21GRAMS](https://centered.work/hubfs/Annmarie%20Lockhart21GRAMS.jpeg) VP, Editorial, 21GRAMS Annmarie Lockhart JL is an exceptional coach. After becoming a team leader, I was unsure how I would navigate leadership in the high-pressure agency world while staying true to myself and my values. JL helped me to examine my own personal values and translate them into actionable leadership strategies. By providing invaluable perspective and equipping me with the necessary tools, JL has empowered me to lead in a manner that not only exceeds client expectations but also nurtures a culture of growth and support within my team. ![FrankFleschner](https://centered.work/hubfs/Headshots/FrankFleschner.jpeg) Group Director Technology, VML Frank Fleschner I had the pleasure of working with Centered during my time at Bushnell, where they were instrumental in leading workshops with our e-commerce, marketing, and sales teams. When our company moved locations, I started working with Centered on a more personal level, and their coaching has been a game-changer for me. During a tough transition period, Centered’s ability to tackle both professional and personal development with empathy and insight was incredible. Their support not only helped me through a challenging time but also played a huge role in landing my next position. Centered has a knack for helping me manage my anxieties. After each coaching session, I leave feeling confident and with a clear plan of action. There’s always at least one “lightbulb” moment that makes a big difference. Their use of the Saboteur's Assessment has been particularly useful in pinpointing why I get stuck and how to overcome those obstacles, all while maintaining a supportive and respectful environment. We’ve covered a range of topics, from crafting 30/60/90 day plans to managing up in a fast-paced marketing setting where I report directly to the CMO and interact with the CEO regularly. Centered’s ability to foresee and discuss potential situations in advance has been invaluable in reducing my anxiety and preparing me to face each day with confidence. One standout benefit has been Centered’s male perspective on workplace dynamics. It’s empowered me to view situations differently, be bolder, and make decisions with greater confidence. I highly recommend Centered if you’re ready to level up both at work and in life! ![DeniseTietgen](https://centered.work/hubfs/DeniseTietgen.jpeg) Ecommerce Manager, Midland Radio Corporation Denise Tietgen # Speaking Testimonials I hosted JL Heather as a speaker at our SHRMJC event and would highly recommend him! JL delivered high-quality content that was practical and kept the audience fully engaged throughout. He has a genuine ability to connect with a room and make ideas stick. I'd recommend him to any SHRM chapter or event organizer looking for a speaker who brings both substance and energy. President, SHRMJC Lucas Fender JL Heather led a session on From Can't to Choice for our leadership team at the Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence. JL challenged our team to rethink the language and mindset around limitations, turning 'can't' into a choice they could own. The session was engaging, practical, and energizing — and the shift in thinking has stuck with our team since. I'd recommend JL to any organization looking for a speaker who delivers meaningful content and genuinely connects with the audience. Director, Boys & Girls Club - Lawrence KS Chris Jones JL Heather facilitated a lunch-and-learn at the KU Innovation Park on The Innovator's Mindset. JL brought practical, engaging content that sparked real conversation in the room. He's the kind of speaker who makes ideas stick — our attendees were energized and the discussion carried on long after the session wrapped. I'd recommend him to any innovation-focused organization or event looking for a speaker who brings both substance and audience connection. Vice President of Business Services, KU Innovation Park Chris Rehkamp JL Heather has spoken at HP's Insights 2 Innovation (i2i) events multiple times, and his sessions consistently stand out. His presentation on The Innovator's Mindset was particularly impactful — he made complex innovation concepts practical and engaging, and the audience was energized throughout. JL is the kind of speaker who commands a room without losing the conversational quality that makes his content resonate. I'd recommend him to any event or conference looking for a speaker who delivers real substance and genuine audience engagement. Executive Program Manager, HP Sandra D'Ambrosio TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD ### Get notified of new insights Be the first to know about new insights into the world of innovation.  We send out monthly updates on what it takes to integrate innovation into your organization. [![LogoCenteredTitledLandscape](https://centered.work/hs-fs/hubfs/LogoCenteredTitledLandscape.png?width=500&height=200&name=LogoCenteredTitledLandscape.png "LogoCenteredTitledLandscape")](https://centered.work?hsLang=en) Connect with us on    © 2024 Centered LLC All rights reserved Privacy Policy