About Doni Landefeld
Doni Landefeld is a seasoned leadership coach, organizational psychology consultant, and the creator of the Lead Yourself First© system—an innovative approach designed to help professionals achieve deeper mastery of their personal leadership style. With decades of experience in academia, nonprofit boards, small business ownership, and even symphonic music,...
…Doni brings a rich and diverse perspective to her coaching.
Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders
Doni is passionate about cultivating the next generation of leaders and unlocking hidden potential in senior-level executives. Known as a strategic thought partner, she is celebrated for her deep listening skills, encouraging effective communication, building mental resilience, and promoting emotional intelligence, empathy, optimism, and collaboration.
Her unique philosophy integrates her musical background—bringing a sense of harmony, mindfulness, and playfulness to leadership development. She believes that just as in music, leaders must balance emotion, timing, and tone to create impact and resonance in their roles.
A Life Rooted in Growth, Purpose, and Emotional Intelligence
Now in the prime time of her life, Doni leverages 50+ years of wisdom and life experience to inspire clients toward transformative growth. Her coaching emphasizes positive intelligence, emotional intelligence, self-actualization, and the golden rule—treating others as they wish to be treated.
She is especially committed to working with growth-minded leaders and teams who are ready to raise the bar, embrace personal development, and lead with both head and heart.
Credentials and Professional Affiliations
Doni holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Psychology, an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and Policies, and a BS in Music Education. She is a:
- Certified Advanced Personal and Executive Coach (College of Executive Coaching)
- ICF-certified coach
- Certified Emotional Intelligence assessor and coach
- Certified Positive Intelligence coach
She is also an active member of:
- International Coach Federation (ICF)
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- Society for Human Resource Managers of Southwest Florida (SHRM)
- Southwest Florida Business Network
- Above Board Chamber
Life Beyond Coaching
When not working with clients, Doni is likely on stage playing the double bass or electric bass as a classically trained musician. She also enjoys soaking up the salt life in Cape Coral, Florida, where she lives with her family and beloved dog.