Others Over Self® is a leadership mindset that lifts up the value of selfless service. Here are three solid reasons why you should care about our team:
- We believe that people have intrinsic value
- We are obsessed with excellence
- We want you to join us
Welcome to the inner circle of Others Over Self®. Keep reading for pictures and bios of our key leadership.
Reason #1: People Have Intrinsic Value
We believe that people have intrinsic value, which means that our actions do not determine our worth.
This viewpoint can be hard to embrace, especially for those of us who are hardwired towards excellence, including many with a background in public service.
In present times, the police force is seeing a massive exodus, and military personnel are leaving in droves. Empirical data shows that our national rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide are at all time highs.
It seems like everyone – even the public servants – is asking the question:
“What is it all for, anyway?”
Which brings us to Reason #2 of why you should care about our team:
Reason #2: We Are Obsessed With Excellence
Others Over Self® certified coaches are proof that transformative change is real.
Outside of administration, all of our instructors and contributors have served in the public capacity.
Whether it was military boot camp, police/fire academy, or some other major training event, we’ve hit the reset button in life many times, which makes us perfectly positioned to walk alongside you as you do the same.
You may not be headed to boot camp, but everyone deserves a qualified guide to make it through the war of life.
Here is your answer to the question above:
Time spent serving another is never wasted.
Below you’ll find both a company overview, and a Meet The Team section, with pictures and bios of a few of the souls that make up our collective of professional development experts.
About the Company
Others Over Self® is a registered trademark of Mission Ambition, LLC | All rights reserved. This leadership mindset is a collection of proprietary educational modules developed through the collaboration of licensed professionals and other qualified experts in their respective fields.
Mission Ambition, LLC (MA) is a Primary, Woman-Owned and Veteran-Owned Small Business. Based in Macomb, Michigan, U.S., we supply, coach, train and educate government, military and civilian personnel on leadership development and performance. We operate globally both virtually and in-person.
MA provides innovative personal and professional development solutions to advance communities in wellness, leadership, education and collaboration. Through specialized teams of experts, unique teaching capabilities and access to a consortium of more than 100 vetted organizations, MA serves as an outreach arm that works with federal, state, local and commercial customers to advance national priorities and serve the public interest. A for-profit corporation and federal contractor, MA manages various projects that are both privately- and publicly-funded. Learn more about MA at www.missionambition.org.
Meet the Others Over Self® Team
Chaplain Shelly Rood – Co-Founder & Performance Strategist
Shelly Rood is a visionary leader, published author, and creator of Others Over Self®, a philosophy that inspires individuals to prioritize servant leadership for extraordinary results. As host of Hardcore and At Ease™, Shelly shares real-world insights and practical wisdom with global audiences.
A former United States Army Reserves Intelligence Officer, Shelly attained the rank of Captain while serving as S2, Company Commander, and Briefing Officer. Her military career was marked by excellence in security programs and leadership, earning honors such as the Shield of Sparta and St. Joan D’Arc.
Shelly’s journey combines discipline and compassion. A Distinguished Military Graduate from Western Michigan University and former Captain of the Bronco Rifle Team, she holds a Master of Arts in Ministry Studies from Moody Theological Seminary. She is now a civilian Chaplain, small business owner, and educator specializing in domestic and intimate partner violence.
When not coaching, Shelly is a proud wife and mother of two boys and a girl. Her ability to balance leadership with authenticity and grace makes her a powerful force for change.
At our coaching agency, Shelly’s mission is to guide leaders and organizations to live life on the edge without going over it, fostering accountability, delivering tailored training, and equipping clients for transformative success.
Christian Drew Reed – Co-Founder & Performance Strategist
With over 15 years of experience in customer service and quality assurance, Christian brings a unique blend of professionalism, adaptability, and leadership to our team. Known for his ability to excel under pressure as a First Responder, Christian has managed high-stakes situations in restricted federal buildings, schools, and various commercial and industrial facilities, earning the trust of both clients and colleagues.
Christian’s calm and composed demeanor makes him an invaluable asset in transforming high-stress environments into opportunities for growth and success. A graduate of the Charles F. Chapman School of Seamanship, he has also pursued advanced studies at Manthano Christian College, Schoolcraft College, and Oakland Community College—demonstrating his lifelong commitment to professional development and personal growth.
Outside of coaching, Christian channels his passion for excellence into pursuits like Formula 1®, shooting sports, and tactical training. As a dedicated husband to a woman Veteran and father of three, he exemplifies patience, strength, and integrity both in his personal life and his professional endeavors.
Christian’s mission is to inspire transformative change and empower individuals to reach their full potential, making him a vital part of our leadership and performance coaching team.
Nancy Dakin – Fractional Chief Operating Officer & Coach
Nancy Dakin retired from the USAF at the rank of Colonel after serving over 30 years as both a non-commissioned and commissioned officer in non-traditional career fields. She is an experienced leader who has held a variety of leadership roles including three command tours, as well as senior leadership positions at the state and national levels within the Air National Guard. Nancy is also an accomplished bomber, fighter, and ISR pilot with over 3,000 flight hours in three very distinct weapons systems.
Nancy embraces the philosophy of “leaving it better than you found it”, focusing on improving the units where she served while mentoring those around her to do the same. Even in retirement this has not changed as she volunteers her time and talents to improve efficiency and effectiveness within various for profit and not-for-profit organizations.
One of her favorite quotes is from Sir Winston Churchill: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.” Meaning we should not rest on past achievements but continue striving for growth and success, while learning from difficult challenges and experiences. Her belief in the power of perseverance and continual growth is deeply rooted in her commitment to fostering success and achievement for others. Nancy’s leadership approach is based on the core values of personal accountability and responsibility.
Doug Slocum – Leadership Coach
Brigadier General (Retired) Doug “Odie” Slocum served as the Commanding General of Selfridge Air National Guard Base, where he led the top Air National Guard Wing and the top fighter aircraft organization. A career fighter pilot with over 4,100 flight hours in the F-4, F-16, and A-10, Doug has authored more than 250 lessons, textbooks, and professional publications.
Doug Slocum’s book and his discussions emphasize the significant and positive impact that a people-centric leadership style can have on organizations. He has championed nationwide programs on suicide prevention, fatigue management, and more, which led to his induction into the Air Force Safety Hall of Fame.
A renowned educator and motivational speaker, Doug has delivered over 750 presentations to more than 150,000 attendees. His leadership continues to inspire organizations across various sectors, making a lasting difference through his people-first approach.
Laverne Santangelo, MA, LPC – Leadership & Wellness Coach
Laverne Santangelo brings over two decades of leadership, resilience, and service to her role as a coach at our agency. A retired Major with 23 years of service in the Michigan National Guard, Laverne combines military discipline with compassionate care to empower individuals and teams through transformative change.
A Licensed Professional Counselor, published author, and certified yoga instructor, Laverne specializes in guiding clients through challenges like anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and post-abortive healing. Since retiring from the corporate world in 2020, she has dedicated her career to helping others overcome obstacles and embrace their full potential through her private practice, Laverne Santangelo, LLC.
Laverne’s passion for serving women Veterans is evident in her advocacy and leadership. She chairs the CNS Healthcare Veterans’ Affairs Committee, serves on the Governor’s Task Force for Women Veterans, and leads the Oakland Chapter of Women Veteran Strong. Her extensive experience in both military and civilian spheres uniquely positions her to connect with clients seeking accountability, tools, and strategies for growth and transformation.
Laverne resides in Shelby Township with her husband of 31 years, Jim, and is a proud mother of two adult sons. Her commitment to service, wellness, and empowerment defines her approach to leadership and performance coaching, making her an invaluable part of our team.
Michele Pascoe, BSW – Performance Coach
Michele Pascoe is a Navy Veteran, accomplished social worker, and sought-after speaker specializing in military cultural competency and motivational interviewing. With over 22 years of professional experience, she is dedicated to empowering others and fostering transformation. Currently serving as the Veteran Navigator for Calhoun County, Michele connects military personnel and their families with services and resources to enhance their quality of life.
A graduate of Western Michigan University with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Michele has made it her mission to bridge gaps in understanding and provide impactful guidance to those she serves. Her passion for supporting women Veterans shines in her role as Group Leader for Women Veteran Strong in Battle Creek, Michigan, where she fosters community and resilience among female service members.
In addition to her advocacy and coaching, Michele is a dynamic speaker known for her ability to educate organizations on military cultural competency and inspire meaningful change through motivational interviewing techniques.
Michele’s personal life reflects her deep values of family and connection. Married for 27 years to her Marine husband, she is the proud mother of three adult children and a doting grandmother to her 1-year-old granddaughter. When she isn’t working or speaking, Michele enjoys traveling and exploring new horizons.
Her blend of expertise, compassion, and dedication makes Michele an essential part of our team, guiding clients to overcome challenges, embrace transformation, and achieve lasting success.
Teena Cathey – Wellness Coach
Teena Cathey is a dynamic women’s health coach who combines military precision with a heartfelt passion for helping others thrive. As a crew chief in the Air National Guard, Teena has firsthand experience juggling demanding responsibilities and understands the desire to achieve more without sacrificing well-being. Her coaching focuses on helping busy women develop healthy habits, embrace self-care, and find balance in their lives.
A champion of community and wellness, Teena serves as Leader of Women Veteran Strong’s Macomb Group, where she inspires women Veterans to discover their strength and purpose. With extensive experience coaching moms, Teena specializes in creating customized strategies to help her clients build routines that promote lasting physical and mental health.
Outside of coaching and her military duties, Teena channels her energy and competitive spirit into roller derby—a sport that embodies her resilience and determination. She also enjoys dancing, painting, and playing tag with her young daughter, keeping her life vibrant and full of joy.
Teena’s holistic approach to health and her passion for empowering women to adopt sustainable habits make her an indispensable member of our team. She’s dedicated to guiding clients toward meaningful transformation and equipping them with the tools to lead healthier, happier lives.
Kelly Tulloch – Confidence Coach
Kelly Tulloch is a United States Air Force Veteran with a distinguished background in Military Intelligence and private military contracting. During her time in service, she was stationed in Las Vegas and later took on challenging roles in private military operations, including a contract overseas in the Middle East. These experiences shaped her resilience, adaptability, and leadership skills, which she now shares with clients seeking transformative growth.
Upon returning to the U.S., Kelly settled in Michigan to be closer to family, where she discovered a new sense of belonging and balance. She now resides on five acres of land with her partner, two dogs, two cats, twenty-three chickens, and two ducks—a testament to her appreciation for both adventure and home.
Driven by a deep passion for serving women Veterans in Southeast Michigan, Kelly serves as a Group Leader for Women Veteran Strong, where she empowers others to build confidence, community, and purpose. She believes that leadership is more than a position; it’s a mentality that begins with fostering mental wellness and a strong sense of belonging.
Kelly’s personal and professional journey inspires clients to embrace accountability, challenge their limits, and take the steps necessary to achieve lasting change. Her unique perspective as a Veteran, leader, and coach makes her an invaluable part of our team, dedicated to delivering exceptional confidence coaching.
Rachel Harden – Program Advisor
Rachel Harden’s lifelong connection to the military fuels her passion for advocating for Veterans and their families. Born at Ft. Ord, CA, as a military brat, Rachel lived in Germany, Oklahoma, and Michigan. She graduated in 1998 and earned a degree in Sports Medicine from Aquinas College, where she competed in track and field on scholarship.
Rachel began her service in 2002, contracting overseas to Iraq with Morale, Welfare, and Recreation. In 2007, she enlisted as a Combat Medic with the 172nd Infantry Brigade. Rachel helped create the Blackhawk first responders program, improved Combat Lifesaver training, and hosted the largest Red Cross blood drive in Europe. She was the first female soldier in her unit to be battlefield promoted to SGT since WWII.
Rachel deployed to Iraq in 2009 and Afghanistan in 2011, serving as NCOIC of the medical section. She was the personal medic to the Battalion CSM and Colonel, providing critical medical support.
After active duty, Rachel worked as a medical assistant at Orthopaedic Associates of Muskegon and earned her Master’s in Health Services Administration from the University of Phoenix in 2019.
In November 2023, Rachel became Veterans Navigator at Healthwest, training 50+ employees in Military Competency Training and collaborating to improve military data collection. She connects with Veterans, offering support for mental health, housing, job placement, and benefits assistance.
As Program Advisor, Rachel combines her experience and passion to guide others, ensuring they have the tools needed for success.
Rachel received the Dr. Garrison Award in 2024 for her contributions to the military and Veteran communities.
Diana Laskey, LMSW – Program Advisor
Diana Laskey, a Licensed Master Social Worker, brings a lifetime of experience in military life and social work to her role as a Program Advisor. Raised as an Air Force brat and a USAF Veteran herself, Diana is deeply connected to the military community. Her father, a Chaplain, moved the family across various military bases, and Diana continued her service in the Air Force as an AMMO troop.
While stationed in Korea, Diana met her husband, and after 24 years of marriage and raising four daughters, she transitioned from military service to focus on her education and family.
Diana has always had a passion for giving back to the military community. Over the last 15 years, she has worked with diverse populations in non-profit organizations, substance abuse treatment, emergency services, and outpatient therapy. Her previous role as the Selfridge Director of Psychological Health gave her valuable experience, and now, as the Walking With Warriors Veteran Navigator for Macomb County, Diana combines her personal military background with her extensive knowledge as a social worker and therapist.
As an Advisor, Diana is dedicated to guiding Veterans and their families through life’s challenges, providing support and insight to help them achieve lasting transformation and well-being.
Autumn Hartpence – Performance and Art Therapy Coach
Autumn Hartpence is a business leader and Air Force Veteran with over 15 years of experience in team development, operational performance, and business transformation. Known for her ability to build high-performing teams, Autumn excels in guiding individuals through complex challenges to achieve impactful solutions.
She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Strategy and Innovation at Capella University and holds an MBA in Strategic Management from Davenport University. Her strong educational foundation, combined with extensive hands-on experience, enables her to support business transformation effectively.
After transitioning from the Air Force in 2016, Autumn moved to Michigan and quickly became a well-known veteran advocate in West Michigan. She serves as a life coach and group leader for Woman Veteran Strong in Grand Rapids, leading peer groups focused on personal growth and support.
Outside of her professional work, Autumn enjoys creative projects, learning about strategic initiatives, and spending time with her daughter. She is also a “creative queen” when it comes to holiday décor.
Krystal Bronnekant, RN – Performance Coach
Krystal Bronnekant is a Navy Veteran, dedicated nurse, and advocate for mental health and wellness. With over eight years of nursing experience, Krystal has specialized in supporting Veterans with severe mental illness, providing compassionate care and expert guidance. A 2016 graduate of Grand Valley State University, she transitioned quickly into the field of mental health, where her skills and empathy make a profound impact.
Krystal’s military journey began right after high school, following in the footsteps of her family as a third-generation service member. As a Gunner’s Mate in the Navy, she served four years at Beach Master Unit Two in Virginia Beach, including two deployments to the Persian Gulf and participation in humanitarian efforts after the 2010 Haiti earthquake. Her dedication to serving others continues in her leadership role as Group Co-Leader for Women Veteran Strong in Muskegon, Michigan, where she fosters connection and empowerment among women Veterans.
Outside of her professional life, Krystal has been with her spouse, also a Veteran, for nearly 15 years, and they are raising their toddler together. They enjoy spending time with friends and family, attending concerts, and camping. Krystal is also an avid reader of crime and thriller novels.
Krystal’s unique combination of military discipline, nursing expertise, and passion for serving others positions her as an invaluable member of our coaching team. She is committed to helping clients navigate life’s challenges, prioritize mental wellness, and embrace transformative growth.
Amber Smith – Small Group Facilitator
Amber Smith is a United States Air Force Veteran with eight years of service, during which she gained valuable cultural awareness while living in South Korea and mainland Japan. Her military journey concluded at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton Roads, Virginia, where she honed her skills and developed a deep commitment to supporting others.
Amber is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in General Psychology at the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC) and plans to continue her education with a Master’s in Family Counseling. Her passion for mental wellness and her dedication to helping Veterans and their families drive her work as Co-Leader of Women Veteran Strong in Muskegon County, Michigan.
As a devoted mother to her son and a strong advocate for mental health, Amber blends empathy and understanding with a commitment to helping others achieve balance and well-being. In her downtime, she enjoys reading, creating art, and playing a variety of games, including video, mobile, and board games. When she’s not studying or working, she treasures quality time with her family and friends.
Amber’s unique blend of military experience, cultural awareness, and passion for mental wellness makes her a powerful advocate for those seeking personal growth, balance, and transformation.
Erin Dunn, JD, MS – Program Advisor
Erin K. Dunn is a Program Advisor, USAF veteran, and speaker on Post Traumatic Stress and Veterans’ issues, known for connecting with audiences through humor and real-world experiences. With over a decade of expertise in strategic and crisis communications, Erin brings a relatable and engaging approach to her work.
Currently, Erin serves as a Strategic Communications Specialist for the U.S. Army, focusing on Public and Congressional Affairs at the Program Executive Office, Ground Combat Systems in Detroit. She also works as a Public Relations Specialist for HDC Contracting, LLC, handling public affairs, congressional relations, and military communications. Erin’s past experience includes contributing to military exercises as a Joint Staff Exercise Planner for Valiant Integrated Services.
Erin holds a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Purdue Global Law School, where she was an editor for the Concord Advocate. She earned her M.S. in Communication Management from Syracuse University, with a focus on Strategic Management, Organizational Communication, and Crisis Management.
As Program Advisor, Erin uses her legal, military, and communications expertise to guide Veterans and their families. Her ability to make complex issues relatable, combined with humor and authenticity, helps ensure Veterans feel supported and informed. Erin is also a proud mother to an adult son and has been honored with the Duane Hurt Award (2014), Global War on Terrorism Civilian Service Medal (2011), and Joint Civilian Service Commendation Medal (2011).
Capeanne “Penny” Fomby – Small Group Facilitator
Capeanne “Penny” Fomby is a dedicated Army Veteran, life coach, and passionate advocate for military women. As the group leader of Woman Veteran Strong in Wayne County, Michigan, Penny uses her lived experience to support and empower fellow veterans, offering guidance and a strong sense of community to those navigating their own transitions.
In addition to her leadership role, Penny is the founder of Goddess Beads LLC, a small business dedicated to helping women feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable in their own skin. Through her entrepreneurial journey, she combines creativity with a deep desire to uplift others, particularly women in the military community.
A proud mother of two, Penny balances her advocacy work with family life and personal growth. She enjoys quality time with her children, diving into books, and exploring new experiences. Penny’s resilience and passion for supporting others are the driving forces behind her work and life’s mission to inspire strength, confidence, and personal transformation in all those she touches.
By now, you’ve learned these two things:
- We believe that people have intrinsic value, and
- Others Over Self® coaches are obsessed with excellence.
Finally, you’re reaching the capstone of why you should care about our team:
Reason #3: We Want You to Join Us
You
Others Over Self® is always looking to shine the spotlight on people embracing the value of selfless service.
Instructors: Do you have a military or First Responder background, or, have you served during times of crisis?
Collaboration: Do you- as an individual, or, as a representative of an organization- want to work together?
Reach out to the Mission Ambition, LLC, office to see how we can collaborate to further our shared mission.
