Molto Crescendo

12/29/2025

We spend a lot of time in leadership talking about strategy, influence, communication, ex*****on.

All of that matters.

But the longer I do this work, the clearer it becomes:

Leadership doesn’t start with skill.
Leadership starts within.

It starts in the quiet moments when you notice what’s happening inside your own system — the tension in your chest before a hard conversation, the tightness that shows up with conflict, the voice that says “don’t be too much” or “don’t get this wrong.”

Those signals aren’t inconveniences to power through.
They’re information.

They point to stories we’ve carried, roles we learned to play, and parts of us that have been working hard to keep us safe in rooms that didn’t always feel safe.

When leaders turn toward their inner world with curiosity rather than judgment, something shifts:

Reactivity gives way to responsiveness.
Defensiveness softens into clarity.
Control relaxes into grounded presence.

From the outside, it looks like better leadership.
From the inside, it feels like coming home.

The next evolution of leadership isn’t just about what we know.
It’s about how we relate to what lives within us.

12/02/2025

As I find myself well into the 15th year of Molto Crescendo, I’m pausing in a way I didn’t used to. Not to analyze metrics—but to actually feel the distance I’ve traveled.

Fifteen years ago, I stepped out of corporate life armed with degrees in business and I/O psychology, along with certifications in personal, business, and systems coaching. I had the credentials and the ambition. What I didn’t yet understand was how much of leadership is shaped not just by what we know, but by what lives quietly inside us.

Two forces shaped those early years most: learning how to truly build a business and win clients (with deep gratitude to Angelique Rewers for helping me break through there), and the colleagues—both entrepreneurs and corporate leaders—who trusted my expertise and judgment before I had much of an external track record to stand on.

Alongside all that external growth, something quieter was unfolding.

With every new level came excitement… and also fear, anxiety, and confusion. That was the doorway into my own inner work, where I was introduced to Internal Family Systems and met the parts of me still holding old stories of not being enough. Healing didn’t happen quickly. Much of it happened quietly. But over time, those parts were able to release stories that were never truly mine.

What’s been humbling is how clearly this mirrors what I’ve seen in leaders throughout my career—growth followed by snap-backs into old patterns, not from lack of insight, but from unseen internal systems still organized around survival.

Over the past five years, I’ve trained as a Level 2 IFS practitioner, a certified trauma-informed coach, and a certified breathwork practitioner. And across all of it, IFS has made the most profound and lasting difference in our clients—not just in insight, but in sustained change.

I now look at leadership development, HR, and coaching through a trauma-informed lens—not just for leaders at the top, but for the humans at every level of the organization. Because whenever we ask for behavioral change, we are asking a nervous system to do something different than what once kept it safe.

Today, I feel more grounded. More settled. Grateful for the version of me who took the risk to begin—and for the inner work that allowed me to stay.

I’m struck by how often the next level of growth doesn’t ask us to add more—
but to make room for what has been waiting a long time to be felt.

11/26/2024

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗹 𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗗𝗘𝗜, 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝘂𝘁

In recent months, we’ve seen a troubling trend: companies rolling back or dismantling their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. This isn’t just disappointing—it’s telling. It reveals that many executive leaders and boards of directors never truly believed in these initiatives. DEI was nothing more than “window dressing” for them—a shallow performance, not a genuine commitment to equity and inclusion.

What’s worse, these rollbacks play into a harmful narrative claiming DEI programs are discriminatory. Let’s set the record straight:

𝗗𝗘𝗜 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝗿.
DEI programs ensure that individuals from diverse backgrounds are considered. The job still goes to the best candidate—it’s about making sure the pool of candidates is inclusive.

𝗗𝗘𝗜 𝗶𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗶𝘁𝘆, 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻.
These initiatives work to dismantle systemic barriers that have historically excluded qualified individuals from opportunities.

Rolling back these programs doesn’t just show a lack of commitment—it demonstrates a profound ignorance about how DEI actually works and its benefits. Research consistently shows that diverse teams are more innovative, productive, and successful. Eliminating DEI is a step backward for progress, equity, and business excellence.

As employees and customers, we now have a choice. We can decide whether to work for or support companies that openly reject equality and inclusion. Are these the organizations we want to build our careers in? Are these the brands we want to invest our dollars in?

To the companies who remain steadfast in their DEI commitments: thank you for understanding that equity is not a trend but a cornerstone of ethical and effective leadership.

To those rolling back: your actions speak volumes.

𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗼 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱:
If your organization desires to better understand DEI and build more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplaces, we’re here to help. Our executive coaches and consultants specialize in working with brave leaders who are ready to transform their teams and their culture. Let’s create a workplace that aligns with the values of equality and inclusion. Reach out to start the conversation.

The masks are off. The choice is yours.

07/17/2024

𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝟏𝟑 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐨𝐥𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐨, 𝐈𝐧𝐜.!

Thirteen years ago, I embarked on a journey of learning, bravery, and transformation with the founding of Molto Crescendo, Inc. It has been an honor and a privilege to collaborate with an incredible team of executive coaches and facilitators whom I have carefully selected over the years. You're rock stars! Thank you for trusting me. Together, we have had the pleasure of working with wonderful clients who have entrusted us with their leaders and teams; I am deeply grateful for that.

As we celebrate this milestone, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the individuals who have provided unwavering support along the way. I recognize and honor all the mentors and teachers who have guided me, sharing their wisdom and helping to build the business into what it is today. I am also grateful for my husband's support, and I thank him for believing in me when I doubted my decision to embark on this entrepreneurship journey.

I also offer a special thank you to the clients who have been with us over these 13 years, believing and trusting in us and continuing to utilize us as an extension of their talent teams and organizations.

This journey hasn’t been solely about building a business and providing services to corporations to help their leaders and teams be more effective. It has also been a profoundly personal journey that has led me to many places within and significantly impacted my healing journey as a human being. I am grateful for the moments that have led me to deeper authenticity and clarity in many areas of my life, relationships, and business.

In celebration of our 13th year, I am thrilled to introduce Inner Healing Alchemy. This extension of Molto Crescendo allows individuals (private clients) to work with me personally. Through Inner Healing Alchemy, I provide:

𝑰𝑭𝑺 (𝑰𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑭𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒚 𝑺𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒎𝒔) 𝑪𝒐𝒂𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈: Trauma-informed coaching that helps you connect with your inner parts and bring harmony to your internal system.

𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒄𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝑩𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌: A powerful practice to support emotional release, clarity, and deep healing.

𝑷𝒔𝒚𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒅𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒄 𝑰𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑪𝒐𝒂𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈: Ensuring harm reduction and holistic support for those choosing to undergo psychedelic journeys.

The corporate services we already provide to corporations—such as assessment services, behavioral-focused workshops, executive coaching, and team coaching—aren't going anywhere. This new offering is my way of giving back and sharing my passion and more of my gifts with those seeking a non-business-focused intervention to become their best version.

Join me in celebrating 13 years of growth and transformation. Here’s to many more years of helping individuals and organizations unlock their full potential.

Thank you for being a part of the journey.

Thom Qafzezi
President & CEO

05/07/2024

This Nurses Week, we pause to reflect on nurses' profound impact on our lives and communities. Their tireless dedication, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment not only restore our health but also bring balance and humanity to every interaction.

Join us in honoring these everyday heroes who, day in and day out, make our world a better place.

01/04/2024

Why do resolutions often seem like an uphill battle, a tug of war within ourselves? Well, it's because, within our internal system, there's usually one part that eagerly shouts, "Let's make a change!" But here's the catch - other parts of our internal family may hold differing views on whether that change is a good idea or not. Often, they're looking at the change through the lens of whether it is safe or not.

This internal tug of war can persist until the original change-seeking part either gives up in frustration or is silenced by the collective parts within us. It's a dynamic we all know too well.

So, how can we break free from this cycle of resolution frustration? No! It's not about choosing a "word" or "theme of the year." Parts still rally or fight those as well. It all starts with understanding and embracing all the perspectives within our inner system. The magic happens when we let our "Self" take the wheel and mediate between these internal parts to negotiate a degree of alignment and agreement.

Why do most resolutions falter? It's often because we skip this crucial step of internal negotiation. A part of us tries to impose change without addressing the concerns of the other members of the inner team.

That's where an Internal Family Systems practitioner comes into play. We can help guide you on a journey to explore your inner system, meet your various parts, and gradually restore your "Self" to the driver's seat (Self-led).

So, this year, before diving headfirst into resolutions, take a moment to connect with your internal family. Understand their perspectives, let "Self" facilitate the conversation, and watch as your resolutions transform into meaningful, sustainable changes. And if you need help getting there, I am here to help.

What do you think about this approach to resolutions? Have you ever experienced the inner tug of war when setting or achieving goals? Share your insights below!

Image Creator: ChatGPT 4

01/04/2024

In reflecting upon a recent Harvard Business Review article by two of my coaching colleagues, Deborah Riegel and Priya Nalkur, Ed.D. Nalkur, "What It Really Takes to Become an Executive Coach," I'm reminded of my own journey since 2005 in executive coaching. This insightful piece resonates deeply with me, highlighting the dedication, continuous learning, entrepreneurial grit, and nuanced understanding necessary in our field.

Executive coaching is more than sharing advice; it's about facilitating self-discovery and growth. Over the past 12 years, our team has grown from a single voice to over 30 dedicated coaches and facilitators, each bringing unique insights and humanity to our work. We see our clients not just as business entities (the role they hold) but as multi-dimensional individuals striving for balance, growth, and success.

For those aspiring to become an executive coach, it's a path of unwavering commitment and personal evolution. And for organizations seeking to harness the power of executive coaching for their leaders and teams, the right coaching partnership can be transformative.

As we continue to learn and grow in this journey together, I am grateful for the profound impact we, as executive coaches, have both in the workplace and beyond. Thank you to Deborah and Priya and the additional authors for sharing their combined thoughts and experiences.

Being an executive coach can be rewarding. But, many people misunderstand what coaching actually is, underestimate the process to become a credentialed coach, and don’t anticipate the ongoing effort required to generate and develop business to make a living doing this work. How many clients should...

10/11/2023

Great blog post by Wiley regarding Everything DiSC and creating psychological safety at work. We love working with teams to help them learn about team members individual needs that lead to a more psychooogically safe team environment.

Psychological safety is the key to healthy work environments. Wiley Workplace Intelligence investigates the state of psychological safety in organizations today, what it means, and how you can create a culture of safety in your organization.

02/23/2023

Mindful leadership describes a leadership approach grounded in mindfulness practice. Mindfulness is a state of being present and aware of one's thoughts, emotions, and surroundings. It is an intentional way of paying attention to the present moment with a non-judgmental attitude.

In the context of leadership, mindfulness can help leaders make better decisions, improve communication, and create a positive workplace culture. Here are some fundamental principles of mindful leadership:

SELF-AWARENESS: Mindful leaders are aware of their own emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. They take time to reflect on their actions and are willing to acknowledge their mistakes.

EMPATHY: Mindful leaders can put themselves in their employees' shoes and understand their perspectives. Doing so helps them create a more supportive and inclusive workplace.

FOCUS: Mindful leaders are able to concentrate on the task at hand and avoid distractions. They can prioritize their time and delegate tasks effectively.

COMPASSION: Mindful leaders are compassionate towards themselves and others. They understand that everyone has strengths and weaknesses and are willing to offer support and encouragement.

RESILIENCE: Mindful leaders can bounce back from setbacks and challenges. They understand that failure is part of the learning process and can use their experiences to grow and develop.

Mindful leadership is not just a buzzword but a way of being that can benefit both leaders and employees. By practicing mindfulness, leaders can create a more positive and productive workplace culture, leading to improved business outcomes.

Want to get a quick pulse check on how mindful you are as a leader? Rate yourself on a scale from 1 to 5 on the five areas outlined above (1 = "not at all" while 5 = "frequent to always.").

Like some help being a more mindful leader? Reach out to us to discuss implementing a mindfulness program for your leaders or hiring a mindfulness coach for yourself.

09/23/2022

To our Everything DiSC® on Catalyst™ clients:

Groups is now available!!! Your Groups on Catalyst will allow you and your learners to:

- create and save groups that reflect their workday
- plot each member of their team on the group map
- get to know members of their team with customized style insights
- shed light on the group dynamics with "the big picture" insights

Everything DiSC on Catalyst will add to your team's tools to create a more engaged, high-performing team culture.

To start, log in to your Catalyst account and scroll down to Your Groups. The system will guide you through the setup of your first group.

For more information, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].

07/11/2022

Last day to register!

Don’t miss the State of Hiring 2022 webinar July 12, 2022, 10-11am Chicago | 4-5 London. You will walk away with three actionable steps you can take now to help your organization reduce the impact of unconscious bias and more. Register today.

https://mailchi.mp/moltocrescendo.com/stateofhiring

07/08/2022

Register for our upcoming State of Hiring webinar July 12, 2022, 10-11am Chicago | 4-5 London to learn how to mitigate the effects of unconscious bias in hiring and selection. Register today and also download a copy of our latest research.

https://mailchi.mp/moltocrescendo.com/stateofhiring