Armor is defined as the self-protection measures we use when we are feeling “less than” — and armor kills courage according to Brené Brown, the researcher and author who has spent two decades studying courage, vulnerability, shame and empathy.

Women school leaders who want to learn how to lead without armor will want to attend Dare to Lead, ACSA’s popular professional development workshop based on Brown’s bestselling book. This three-day, in-person workshop in Santa Barbara will explore Brené Brown’s blueprint for creating lives and leadership practices that are daring. Each session is highly interactive with multiple opportunities for female school leaders to network and learn together.

Participants will leave with a renewed confidence in who they are and actionable steps they can take to become more daring leaders.

What you’ll learn An exploration of the Dare to Lead content will leave participants with both an intellectual and practical framework for how to become more courageous leaders in life and work. All of the content will be viewed through the lens of how it applies to the lives and leadership of women. During special video segments, Brené Brown will share the concepts of the curriculum. No prior knowledge of the “Dare to Lead” book is required.

Participants will cover concepts including:

Rumbling with Vulnerability — That feeling of uncertainty, risk and emotional exposure. Living into Our Values — Which can help avoid mis-steps in leadership. BRAVING Trust — Seven very observable elements for developing trust. Learning to Rise — A skill daring leaders must practice because they will fall.

What you’ll get Participants will receive an official 70-page Dare to Lead™ workbook that contains reflections and activities for participants. Those who complete the series will also receive an official Dare to Lead LinkedIn badge to add to their profile and a Certificate of Completion.

What they’re saying Previous attendees say the content is eye-opening and the interactive format is engaging. “This was a transformative experience,” said one attendee from last year’s workshop. “I came away with a tangible understanding of the components of daring leadership. The space for self-awareness and reflection gave the work depth and validity. ... This is the good stuff we all need.”

Live, in-person training After being in Santa Rosa last year, this year’s workshop is heading south to Santa Barbara. Sessions will be held at the Cabrillo Pavilion, an expansive, open-plan event space mere steps from the Pacific Ocean. For lodging, attendees can find beachside accommodations available within walking distance. When they aren’t taking part in this intensive training, attendees can relax and enjoy the art, culture, recreation and world-class food Santa Barbara has to offer.

About the presenter Since 2022, ACSA’s Dare to Lead workshops have been taught by Mickey Porter, a Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator and ACSA member with 30 years of experience leading California schools. To receive her certification, Porter traveled to Texas to participate in a three-day training led by Brown herself.

“Being in a room with 100 other soon-to-be certified trainers listening to Brené teach us how to facilitate her content for three days was a highlight of my professional life for sure,” Porter said. Porter is also the founder of PlusONE Leadership, where she focuses on coaching, especially for women in leadership.