Today we’d like to introduce you to Leili Sadaghiani
Hi Leili, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started my career in operations at a financial firm, believing I was on the right path. On the surface, everything looked perfect— I had a corner office, lived in San Francisco, and appeared successful to the outside world. But deep down, I was unfulfilled, trapped in a cycle of people-pleasing both professionally and personally. I ignored the signals my body and mind were sending me, pushing forward in a role that didn’t align with my purpose.
Then, COVID changed everything. It became a time of deep reflection, forcing me to confront the reality that I was not only in a career that drained me but also in a marriage and work environment that were emotionally damaging. Facing emotional abuse from colleagues and struggling with anxiety, weight gain, and overwhelming stress, I finally realized that I had to make a change.
What followed was a transformative journey. I finalized my divorce, earned my Doctorate in Organizational Leadership, and transitioned from running a sole proprietorship to building an LLC. More importantly, I reconnected with myself—learning to listen to my needs, set boundaries, and step into my purpose. Today, through InVivo Leadership Strategies, I help leaders do the same—tune into themselves, find their true purpose, and lead with authenticity.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not at all. In fact, there were days when I questioned everything—what this journey meant, where it was leading, and if I was making the right choices. But that’s the beauty of growth and becoming who you are—you learn from the journey itself. The results don’t define us; it’s what we make of ourselves along the way that truly matters. Once I embraced failure as a stepping stone rather than a roadblock, I realized that every challenge was guiding me toward alignment. Even the setbacks became valuable because they weren’t detours; they were simply redirections to the right path.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about InVivo Leadership Strategies?
InVivo Leadership Strategies is more than just a coaching and consulting business—it’s a movement toward intentional, purpose-driven leadership. It’s about action rather than theories that “may” work. We specialize in change consulting, leadership coaching, and leadership training, helping individuals and organizations navigate transformation with clarity and confidence. Whether it’s guiding executives through strategic change, empowering leaders to step into their full potential, or designing customized training programs, our work is rooted in personal and organizational growth.
What sets us apart is our deeply human-centered approach. Leadership isn’t just about strategy and execution—it’s about self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and aligning with one’s purpose. We don’t just focus on results; we focus on the leader behind the results. Our methodology blends organizational expertise with personal development, helping leaders tune into themselves, break past limitations, and cultivate lasting impact.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the authenticity behind InVivo. It’s a brand built on resilience, transformation, and empowerment. The name itself signifies being “in life,” fully present in who we are and who we are becoming. Every offering—from one-on-one coaching to corporate leadership programs—is designed to help individuals lead with authenticity, embrace change, and grow with intention.
For readers looking to elevate their leadership, whether personally or within their organization, InVivo Leadership Strategies provides the tools, guidance, and partnership to help you get there. Leadership is not just a title—it’s a way of being. It’s an EVERYDAY practice. And yes, everyone is a leader. We’re here to help you step into it fully.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Finding the right mentor and building a strong network is all about alignment, authenticity, and intentionality. The best mentorships and professional relationships aren’t forced—they evolve naturally through shared values, curiosity, and mutual respect. My biggest advice is to get out there, connect with people you admire, and go from there. Another piece that I want to share is that you can indeed outgrow a mentor based on the next stage of life. So, constantly reflect and evaluate yourself in your journey. Keep the past mentors as friends and continue the relationship.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.invivoleadershipstrategies.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invivoleadershipstrategies/
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h1mMmpqd9TDOJfapD9cxd?si=e53cd2a6843e4a3e
Image Credits
https://rgallagherphoto.com
https://www.instagram.com/ryangallagherphotography/
