Every retreat has a heartbeat. Sometimes it’s quiet and steady. Sometimes it’s loud and undeniable. Our recent Ladies in Leadership Retreat carried a heartbeat you could feel…in the conversations, in the breakthroughs, and in the way these 12 women walked out of the room a little taller, a little softer, and a little more connected to themselves.

Women arrived ready to grow, and they left with pages of notes, new clarity, and hearts that felt full. One participant shared that she felt seen, challenged, inspired, and connected and that something in her shifted. That kind of transformation can’t be forced. It happens when women show up with courage and leaders show up with authenticity, vulnerability, humility, and purpose.

This work matters. Research shows that nearly 60% of women report feeling burned out from balancing work, leadership, and caregiving responsibilities, and women are significantly more likely to experience anxiety tied to overextension. When women have spaces to pause, reflect, and reconnect with themselves, their mental health strengthens and their leadership deepens. This retreat was built to honor that truth.

A Space for Real Leadership

Our goal was simple: create a space where women could breathe, reflect, and reconnect with who they are as leaders; not by title, but by identity. We talked about emotional intelligence, purpose, values, and the kind of leadership that starts from the inside out. Women shared openly, listened deeply, and supported one another in ways that reminded us why belonging is one of the most powerful forms of resilience.

Several participants expressed a desire to stay connected to collaborate, volunteer, support the mission, and help spread awareness. That’s the beauty of leadership done well. It inspires movement. It invites belonging. It creates community.

The Ripple Is Growing

This retreat wasn’t just a weekend. It was a reminder that women are hungry for spaces where they can lead from a place of authenticity rather than exhaustion. It was proof that when women gather with intention, something powerful happens.

We’re stepping into a season of expansion… more retreats, deeper curriculum, and the development of a retreat house designed specifically for this kind of work.

To every woman who attended: thank you for showing up with courage, curiosity, and heart.

To our community: If you or someone you know could use a reset like this, please reach out to us!

Malan@jaefoundation.com

Kelsey@jaefoundation.com

We’re just getting started. It’s Boot-Check Time!