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About

About Honu Leadership

How Honu Was Created

Amy’s “Why”

You don’t need another leadership model.
You need a way to grow that actually works.

I started Honu because I saw too many talented people burning out, checking out, or questioning themselves—not because they lacked potential, but because no one had ever given them the tools, support, or clarity to lead with confidence.

For more than two decades, including 10 years at Apple, I’ve led teams, coached leaders, and partnered with high-growth startups and Fortune 100 companies to help them grow strategically and sustainably. My work focuses on elevating performance, building trust, and creating cultures where people thrive.

Here’s what I believe: leadership isn’t about having all the answers.
It’s about creating the conditions for others to succeed.
That’s where I come in.

When leaders grow, teams thrive.
When teams thrive, companies succeed.

Get your Leaders Ready
Leaders

Six Mindset Shifts That Define Stronger Leadership

Leadership today is different. The pace is faster. The pressure is higher. The work is more complex. Skills matter—but mindset is what keeps leaders steady, clear, and effective in the moments that count.

These six mindset shifts are at the core of my approach.
They’re simple enough to remember, practical enough to use every day, and powerful enough to change how leaders think, act, and support their teams.

Each shift helps leaders cut through noise, communicate with intention, make better decisions, and create the conditions for others to thrive. Together, they form a shared language and a flexible framework that strengthens teams, builds trust, and elevates performance across your organization.

This is modern leadership: clear thinking, intentional action, and mindsets that move people forward.

MINDSET #1

Cultivate a Learner’s Mindset

Cultivate a Learner’s Mindset

Shift the way you approach challenges and ask questions to improve problem-solving, build trust, and spark positive change. Leadership growth starts with curiosity.

MINDSET #2

Define a Clear View of Success

Define a Clear View of Success

Leading effectively starts with defining what success looks like for yourself and for your team. A lack of clarity can slow progress, create confusion, and cost valuable time and energy. Learn how to drive alignment and momentum by setting goals that are specific, measurable, and time-bound, giving teams a clear path to success.

MINDSET #3

Be the Guide

Be the Guide

Great leaders empower their teams instead of trying to solve every problem themselves. This shift fosters collaboration, growth, and shared ownership.

MINDSET #4

Be Relentlessly Reliable

Be Relentlessly Reliable

Consistent follow-through builds trust. We teach leaders how to meet expectations, exceed them when possible, and become the dependable foundation their teams rely on.

MINDSET #5

Negotiate with Purpose

Negotiate with Purpose

Negotiation isn’t about winning—it’s about alignment. We help leaders develop skills to communicate clearly, resolve conflicts, and build stronger relationships.

MINDSET #6

Create Progress Over Perfection

Create Progress Over Perfection

Perfection is the enemy of progress. We encourage leaders to embrace continuous improvement, stay adaptable, and inspire their teams to do the same.

Cultivate a Learner’s Mindset

By changing the way you approach and ask questions, leaders can quickly shift their mindset, improve their problem-solving abilities, build trust, and create positive change in all aspects of their lives. Learn how to cultivate a learner mindset and how to ask better questions.

Where our leaders work

"Amy’s coaching helped me gain clarity, think more strategically, and feel empowered to lead authentically. Her guidance fueled a season of tremendous professional growth, leading to 3 promotions in 3 years. The skills and confidence I gained will serve me for life. I highly recommend working with her!"
James S.Customer Success Manager, Enterprise
"Amy Smith of Honu Leadership is an outstanding trainer and facilitator with incredible energy that keeps participants engaged from start to finish. Her sessions are interactive, fun, and packed with practical content that’s easy to absorb and apply. She creates an environment where learning feels effortless and impactful."
Michele C.Former Global CHRO & Executive Coach
Amy Smith of Honu Leadership is an incredible mentor and leader who has taught me more leadership skills than I can count. Her charisma, energy, and genuine care make every interaction feel inspiring and transformative. She has encouraged and equipped me to take my career to the next level while empowering me to lead those around me with confidence. I always walk away from our conversations better than I entered. If you have the chance to learn from Amy, take it—you won’t regret it!
Sydney C.Director of Operations
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Join Us in
Leading On Purpose

Leadership isn’t about luck—it’s about intention. If you’re ready to invest in your growth and lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose, we’re here to help.

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