It’s Choice, not Chance,
that Changes Everything.

Be Bold. Be Intentional.
Be Unstoppable.

Inspirational Speaker & Leadership Strategist

Empowering leaders through self-leadership, courage, and intentional action.

In life and leadership, there are Moments that Matter—the ones that define our path, shift our perspective, and demand action. They don’t wait for us to be ready.

I’ve led in some of the world’s most demanding arenas—from the streets of Oakland to the sidelines of the NFL to Fortune 500 boardrooms. And I’ve learned one powerful truth: empowered people empower others. When leaders embrace courage and authenticity, teams thrive—and results follow.

On every stage, I share real-world strategies to help executives lead with purpose, unlock potential, and inspire self-leadership at every level. Because when we choose courage over comfort, intention over instinct, and purpose over pressure—that’s when transformation begins.

I’m a former C-suite executive who helps

Women Executives

thrive at work and at life.

I help women recognize the three Moments that Matter—the moments that determine whether you stall…or SOAR

Miss them, and progress stalls. Crush them, and you rise.

Learn how to spot those moments—and lead through them with courage and intention.

One of the 10 Most Admired Women Leaders in Business

I was honored to be featured in Entrepreneurial Outlook’s 2025 list of the most admired women in business—highlighting my work transforming organizational culture with resilience and authenticity.

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Courage Doesn’t Wait.
It’s Choice, Not Chance, That Changes Everything.

“This talk changed how I lead my team—and myself.”
– Workshop participant, Fortune 100 company

Learn About the SOAR Framework

“Coming from Charlene, who has the professional and personal experience to back it up, this talk was motivating and empowering.”

— Symposium Attendee, National Character & Leadership Symposium, U.S. Air Force Academy
Charlene Wheeless

Why Charlene?

Charlene has empowered 100,000+ people around the world with courageous leadership, real-world wisdom, and unstoppable authenticity.

Meet Charlene

“Charlene delivers with the rare mix of real-world grit and heart-led wisdom. One of the best we’ve ever had.”

Building Better Teams One Choice at a Time

Cohesive leadership teams drive results, but building that cohesion isn’t a quick fix—it’s a journey. 🚀 In my new article, I talk about how intentional choices, ongoing learning, and a little bravery can transform any team. And speaking of bravery, I’m spotlighting a friend’s new book too! 📖 Dive in!

The Power of Shared Narratives

“You can’t truly see the world clearly until you see it through everyone’s eyes.”  When this sentiment brushed across my ears recently, it lingered, gently nudging at a wisdom that feels both timeless and urgently contemporary. Our vision, often, is singular – shaped by our experiences, our prejudices, and our blind spots. 

Is Feedback Really a Gift?

In the professional world, feedback is often heralded as a quintessential personal and organizational growth tool.  "Feedback is a gift," they say.  But let's be honest, how many of us have unwrapped this so-called "gift" to find something less than pleasant inside?

Leadership by Choice: Choose Your Destiny

You've likely heard the phrase, “Every champion has a coach.” Look at any elite athlete - Serena Williams, LeBron James, or Lionel Messi - and you'll quickly realize they didn't achieve greatness solely on their own. So, if athletes at the pinnacle of their sport seek coaching, why should leaders be any different?

Rethinking the American Dream and The Decline of Hustle Culture

Once upon a time, in a land fueled by caffeine and ambition, the American Dream looked a lot like steady jobs, suburban houses, the pursuit of material prosperity, and maybe even a golden retriever named Buddy. Today? Not so much. 

Overcoming “Traditional” Structures

Navigating traditional environments as an individual that is considered anything but “traditional” is the everyday reality for many. Finding personal value during this process is an added complication.