Leadership isn’t just about climbing a corporate ladder – it’s about becoming more of who you are while doing it. That’s the philosophy that Dominic George, a Leadership Coach for Black men, brings to his work as he helps them move from mid-level to senior leadership roles.
In this episode of The C-Suite Mentor, I sat down with Dominic to talk about the heart behind his coaching, the mindset shifts leaders need to make, and how showing up authentically is the key to long-term success in leadership.
Meet Dominic George
Dominic George is a dedicated leadership coach with a passion for empowering Black men to ascend from mid-level leadership roles to senior leadership positions. With a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by Black professionals, Dominic brings a tailored approach to his coaching, providing targeted guidance and strategies for career advancement.
As a seasoned leadership coach, Dominic is committed to fostering confidence, strategic thinking, and resilience in his clients. His coaching style is characterized by a blend of mentorship and empowerment, creating a supportive space where Black men can harness their strengths, navigate obstacles, and propel themselves to senior leadership levels.
Dominic’s mission is not just about career progression; it’s about breaking barriers and reshaping the narrative for Black men in leadership. Through personalized coaching sessions, he equips his clients with the tools and insights needed to navigate the complexities of the corporate landscape and emerge as influential leaders.
With a track record of success in guiding individuals to achieve their leadership goals, Dominic George is a catalyst for change, committed to ushering in a new era of empowered Black male leaders in the corporate world.
From Athlete to Coach: Dominic’s Journey
Dominic didn’t start out as a corporate coach. He began as a competitive swimmer and later became a mentor to kids at the very recreation center where he learned to swim. That early experience of helping others unlock their potential sparked a passion that carried into his professional life.
As he moved into leadership positions across multiple industries, Dominic noticed something: while he had mentors and guides along the way, many Black professionals didn’t. He saw too many talented people fall into avoidable traps simply because no one had shown them the path forward.
That’s when he decided to step in and create change.
Finding Your Version of Authenticity
One of the most transformative insights Dominic shares is this: trying to mimic someone else’s path to success won’t get you where you want to go. Instead, your authenticity – your values, your lived experiences, your mindset – is what qualifies you to lead.
The truth is, in today’s world, it can feel both incredibly risky and liberating to be fully authentic. But Dominic’s approach helps leaders reconnect with who they are, so they can move forward with clarity and confidence.
The Real Barriers Black Men Face in Leadership
Dominic doesn’t shy away from the realities his clients face. “The number one thing I come up against is the pressure to perform,” he explains. That pressure, especially in environments that weren’t built with them in mind, can cause many leaders to question who they are or feel they have to shift their identity to succeed.
That identity struggle often pairs with something even more insidious: imposter syndrome. Dominic works with men who’ve been high achievers their whole lives, yet still wonder, Do I belong here? Am I worthy of this seat?
By focusing heavily on mindset – a foundational pillar of his three-part coaching method (Mindset, Mastery, Motivate) – Dominic helps leaders reclaim their confidence and rediscover their authentic selves.
What Makes a Great Leader?
When asked what makes a great leader, Dominic confidently says: “Someone who listens first.” It’s not about charging into a room with answers. It’s about creating space to hear people and then lead from a place of clarity, empathy, and alignment.
Dominic believes leadership isn’t just about managing teams or hitting KPIs. It’s about mobilizing communities, aligning values, and building a vision that includes everyone at the table.
Creating a New Era of Leadership
If you know me, you know I always say it’s time to throw out the old leadership playbook – and Dominic agrees. In a world that’s navigating deep divisions, uncertainty, and change, we need leaders who are connected, value-driven, and willing to break the mold.
“I always work with my clients on legacy,” Dominic shares. “What is the impact you want to leave behind? What are your non-negotiables?” For Dominic, legacy is about making life easier for the people who come next. It’s about creating a roadmap others can follow. And it’s about building communities where people feel safe, supported, and seen.
Tune Into the Secret Podcast
Looking to improve employee engagement, build connections with your customers and get the freedom to finally take a vacation? Get access to my special, secret podcast Lead with Soul where I dive deep into what you can do to avoid the most common pitfalls in leadership while building a high performing team and a business that thrives no matter what the economy is doing. Head on over to https://theresacantley.com/lead-with-soul/ to join the movement!
Resources Mentioned
👋 Connect with Dominic George on LinkedIn
☕️ Schedule a Virtual Coffee with Theresa
🎙️ Get access to my secret podcast Lead with Soul
💻 Join me every Friday at 10 am on LinkedIn for my free workshop
📝 Uncover Your Biggest Blindspots with the Entrepreneur Quiz
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