One of my favorite summer traditions is attending performances at the iconic Hollywood Bowl. The natural beauty of the setting, combined with the palpable excitement in the air, always makes for an unforgettable experience. My recent visit was particularly special, thanks to an outstanding performance by Trombone Shorty and an unforgettable opening act by rising star Danielle Ponder.
Danielle’s entrance was modest, but the moment she began to sing, the entire Bowl was captivated by the sheer power and emotion of her voice. After a few songs, she paused to share her personal story with the audience. Originally from Rochester, New York, Danielle had made a bold and inspiring decision just before her 40th birthday: she left her successful career as a public defender to pursue her true passion—music. Now, at 42, she graces the stage of the Hollywood Bowl, opening for Trombone Shorty.
Leadership Lessons from Danielle Ponder
Follow Your Passion
Danielle’s story struck a chord with me. Despite having spent years studying law and building a career as a public defender, she realized her true calling was elsewhere.
For women in leadership, her journey serves as a powerful reminder: pursuing your passion is essential to a fulfilling life. Take risks to avoid the lifelong "what if?" moments. Sometimes, you must take a leap of faith to discover your purpose.
Embrace Gratitude
During her performance, Danielle expressed heartfelt gratitude to Trombone Shorty for giving her the opportunity to perform at the Bowl.
As leaders, showing appreciation to those who give us opportunities and those who work with us can foster a positive environment. Acknowledging others helps build a culture of appreciation and stronger relationships within your team.
Engage and Inspire
Watching Danielle actively engage the audience—drawing us into her performance—was a masterclass in engagement.
As leaders, it’s vital to create an environment where every voice feels heard and valued. This inspires teams, motivates them, and ultimately unites them toward a common goal.
A Personal Reflection
Danielle’s journey resonated deeply with me, especially as a leadership coach. Leading others starts with leading oneself. Her decision to align her career with her passion reinforces the importance of self-leadership. It takes immense courage to pursue a dream that may seem unattainable, but when we take that bold step, we open ourselves up to true fulfillment.
Thank you, Danielle, for taking us on your remarkable journey. Through your courage, gratitude, and ability to engage, you’ve shown us that women in leadership can not only lead but thrive when they align their work with their true passions.