Dianne Myles, a board member of the Leadership Foundation and an alumna of the Leadership Denver Class of 2021, recently reflected on her leadership journey and experiences with the Denver Metro Chamber Leadership Foundation.
Myles identified a pivotal moment in her development as a leader when she chose to embrace her full identity and life experiences. She stated, “A defining moment for me was when I decided to stop hiding all parts of me. My story, my light, the very things that make me, me. Becoming a mother at a young age, and realizing my experiences were actually my superpower. Founding Dope Mom Life (now Human Focused Media) was a turning point. I embraced the fact that my lived experience gives me a unique perspective, and that helped me lead with authenticity, empathy, and a fierce commitment to elevating the humanity in our stories. That shift taught me that leadership isn’t about fitting a mold; it’s about showing up fully as who you are, and in turn, giving others the space to show up as their whole selves.”
Discussing how her time with the Chamber Foundation influenced her outlook on leadership, Myles noted its impact on her sense of responsibility and inclusivity. She said, “My leadership development journey with the Chamber Foundation helped me recognize the responsibility that comes with influence. It broadened my understanding of how civic and business leadership intersect, and it challenged me to think about who is, and isn’t, at the table. I walked away with a deeper commitment to accountability, collaboration, and ensuring that leadership has a positive impact on the entire community, not just a select few.”
Myles also highlighted authenticity as an under-discussed but vital quality for leaders: “I wish more leaders talked openly about the power of authenticity. We spend so much time trying to show up as who we think others want us to be. But when we lead from our truth, we build trust and inspire others to do the same. Vulnerability isn’t a weakness. I truly believe it’s a superpower and one of the strongest tools a leader has.”
On changes in Denver’s civic and business landscape that give her hope for inclusive growth she observed: “Denver is changing and has been changing for some time. What gives me hope is the conversations and relationships I have that honor equity in a real way, not a performative way. These relationships give me a real sense that we can move toward a city that understands the power of our differences and how they can make Denver a leader in inclusive business building that economically advances all Coloradans.”
Reflecting on advice she would offer her younger self or other emerging leaders facing self-doubt or challenges early in their careers or personal lives Myles offered: “Your story matters. The things you think disqualify you are the very things that will set you apart. Keep going, trust your voice, and don’t shrink to make others comfortable. One day, you’ll look back and realize that everything you’ve experienced has become the foundation of your purpose and how you move and show up in the world.”
