MASTERCLASS
Succession Planning Strategy for 2026: Storytelling, Influence & Inspired Action
Great organizations don’t wait for talent — they build it.
February 10th at 11AM Arizona Time
We only offer 2 masterclasses per year.
In 2026, effective leaders need to master succession planning to create then next batch of competent leaders.
To “grow our own,” organizations must excel at the art of influence & inspiration to create effective players.
In this interactive 75-minute remote workshop, you’ll learn:
- How to transform your everyday experiences into authentic stories that connect, inspire, and drive action by activating 31 leadership competencies
Whether you tend to ramble or avoid storytelling altogether, you’ll practice using the REST Method to create stories that resonate and lead with impact. Designed for the “everyday” leader—not professional storytellers—this session is led by Julie Lancaster, leadership expert and author of Beyond Words: How Our Stories and Strategies Inspire Leadership Action (2025).
Registration includes a copy of Julie’s new book Beyond Words How Our Stories & Strategies Inspire Leadership Action.
You will also receive a link to the recording of the Masterclass.
Previous Masterclass Topics Include:
- Leading During Times of Uncertainty
- Leadership & Organizational Priorities for the New Year
- Creating Thriving Team Accountability
- Design Thinking
- Neurodiversity in the Workplace
- Influence, Motivation & Change
- The Two Essentials in Challenging Times: Energy & Purpose
- Strategic Planning for Your Life
- Healthy Risk Taking
Julie’s energy is palpable and contagious; just being in her proximity makes you want to be a better person. There’s a reason why Lancaster Leadership has such a successful track record, She is approachable, trustworthy, and emotes an even temperament that calms and helps one center their thought processes. Julie also manages to intuitively sense when the right amount of levity is required to break the ice and galvanize a team or audience. I consider each moment I spend learning from her priceless.
Diana White
Chief Executive Officer, Chandler Innovations Incubator
Julie Lancaster has this rare and wonderful ability to cross cultural, political, and individual boundaries to help people get to the heart of a matter. What matters to her is people using their hearts and minds in balance to make their work and personal lives better. How does she do this? She is not intimidating. She is also curious, genuine, funny, smart, and always listening for ways to help all involved. She is the consummate professional who gets to clarity quickly. Julie Lancaster is a gem.
Cathleen Garrison
Learning and Development Manager, North Country Health Care
Julie is a dynamic, inspiring facilitator who brings in her own personal experience as a way to foster participants’ ability to be vulnerable, honest and curious, yet draws out attainable plans, actions, and results.
Erin Widman
Studio Owner, The Yoga Experience1
Julie’s presentation style and passion to help others is beyond amazing. Not only is she passionate, funny, and professional but she also engages every individual in meaningful ways.
Tess Fife
Owner, Camp Beyond Camp
I’ve had the opportunity to participate in several of Julie’s workshops, both in-person, and remotely over the last few years. Julie’s ability to educate and inspire through her research and shared life and career experience is congruent in all formats. Whether a small or large group, a departmental team, or a mix of professionals from different industries – Julie delivers engaging and relevant content that mixes in activities, discussion, and real-time application of skills. Our most recent Zoom session for the Northern Arizona University Leadership Program was a great success in program continuity. Julie’s authentic style and growth mindset leaves a positive impact every time. Thanks Julie!