Leadership Fredericksburg is proud to welcome Barbara Gustavson, M.S., founder of Discover Next Step, LLC, to the Leadership Fredericksburg faculty.
For Barbara, joining the faculty marks a full-circle moment. A graduate of Leadership Fredericksburg’s Class of 2020, Barbara served as president of her class and has remained connected to the program and the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber ever since. Now, she returns to Leadership Fredericksburg in a new role, helping develop the next generation of regional leaders.
Barbara is an executive coach and brain health educator who works with leaders, healthcare professionals and community organizations to reduce stress, build resilience and lead with greater clarity. She founded Discover Next Step in 2013 and has since worked with individuals and teams locally and nationally, using neuroscience, applied psychology and real-world experience to help leaders strengthen performance, prevent burnout and lead sustainably.
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Her connection to Leadership Fredericksburg did not end at graduation. Barbara has served as a mentor in the program three times, giving her a unique perspective as an alumna, mentor and now faculty member.
Barbara also serves on the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and previously served on the Chamber’s Advisory Board. Her commitment to the community has been recognized through several honors, including the 2023 Laurie A. Wideman Award, the 2023 SWAMMY Innovation Award from the Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity, and the 2022 Stafford Women of Influence Award.
Beyond her work locally, Barbara serves as an executive coach, facilitator and instructor for Dr. Daniel Amen’s brain health certification programs, coaching clinicians and coaches around the world. She is also an ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) Interface Certified Trainer and has brought her neuro-based and trauma-informed approach into organizations and community settings, including work with high-risk youth, inmates and their families, and first responders coping with PTSD.
Barbara holds a Master of Science in psychology from Arizona State University, a Bachelor of Science in business management from Park University, and leadership and coaching certification from the Maxwell Leadership Group.
As Leadership Fredericksburg celebrates its 20th year, Barbara’s transition from Class of 2020 participant and class president to mentor and now faculty member represents what the program is all about: leaders continuing to learn, serve and invest their experience back into the community.
