Cortex Leadership Consulting is a consulting firm based out of Virginia working with businesses and individuals worldwide. Our Team. About Us. Cortex Leadership Consulting partners with leaders and their teams to solve their toughest people problems. Our interactive and customized approach is based on proven methods and practices to guide leaders to more effectively and efficiently reach their business objectives and desired outcomes. Our team of expert coaches is dedicated to providing high-quality executive coaching services that are tailored to meet your unique needs. We believe that every client deserves individual attention and personalized coaching that is designed to help them achieve their goals. Lynda McNutt Foster CEO & Founder Named a Business Icon by Valley Business Front magazine, Lynda McNutt Foster, is a recognized leader in executive coaching and organizational transformation, specializing in guiding leaders and their teams through successful digital transformations. As the CEO of Cortex Leadership Consulting, Lynda combines years of research, training, and over 10,000 coaching sessions that provide leaders with practical strategies and tools for achieving impactful results. Lynda's strategic expertise and that of her expert team, extends beyond coaching, as she actively facilitates leaders in their digital transformation journeys through proven change management, talent acquisition, and training techniques. Her approach has been instrumental in transforming outcomes for numerous clients, ensuring that their organizations are equipped to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. In addition to her role at Cortex, Lynda has contributed to Forbes and served as an expert commentator on WFXR's Coffee with a Coach series for more than four years. She has written over 400 articles, blending her own insights with the latest research in building culture, conversational and relationship intelligence, time mastery, team alignment, peak performance, engagement, and conflict resolution. Lynda is a certified coach in Emotional and Conversational Intelligence® and a Certified Trainer for The 3 Vital Questions®. She is an expert in integrating the sciences of DISC, Motivators (Driving Forces), and Cortex Team Strength assessments, providing predictive people analytics essential for organizational growth and role alignment. As the co-founder of goMonti, a technology company dedicated to personalized coaching and team engagement, she continues to push the boundaries of leadership development. Her work is further highlighted by her co-authorship of the whitepaper A Leader’s Guide to More Fresh, High Quality Ideas from Their Teams, published by the Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council. She is also the author of 4 Keys to More Effective Leadership and Time Mastery: 7 Simple Steps to Richer Outcomes, and the creator of the EPIC program for high performers, Leading a Winning Team, and Coaching for Peak Performance. Lynda’s clients have included: Metis, PenAir Credit Union, Carilion Clinic, City of Roanoke, County of Roanoke, The Glebe, ValleyStar Credit Union, Real Chemistry, Snow Peak, Orvis, Warm Hearth Village, Harmony Senior Services, Home Instead Senior Care, Kissito/Pace Health Care (now Innovage), Delta Dental VA/Corvesta, Excel Truck Group (VA, NC, SC), CMG Leasing, Federal-Mogul, Roanoke College, Roanoke Rescue Mission, MB Contractors, Better Building Works, Quick Fix Real Estate, HH Hunt, and many others. Lynda's international clients have included: The Haskell Company, Yokohama. Originally from Miami, FL, Lynda now calls Roanoke, VA home, where she balances her professional life with being a mother to an empowered daughter and wife to an incredibly supportive husband. She enjoys weekend gardening, day hiking, and bird watching. Lynda’s unique blend of strategic acumen and practical experience makes her an invaluable resource for leaders looking to drive successful digital transformations. Her insights into change management, talent acquisition, and leadership coaching have consistently delivered measurable results, making her a must-listen speaker at conferences. Allen Foster Vice President & Co-Founder Allen Foster is Vice President and co-founder of Cortex Leadership Consulting, a leading firm dedicated to executive coaching, talent acquisition, and organizational training. Allen’s extensive experience includes customized 1-on-1 coaching, strategic consulting, talent acquisition specializing in benchmark and search, and the facilitation of over 1,000 leadership training/facilitation sessions. As Cortex’s lead trainer and facilitator, Allen is a Certified Trainer in DISC (CPBA), Driving Forces (CPDFA), and The Empowerment Dynamic, 3 Vital Questions. His expertise further extends into customized workshops focused on DISC, Team Alignment, Conflict Resolution, Team Values Creation, Team Building, Time Mastery, and Problem-Solving strategies. Before co-founding Cortex, Allen launched his professional career in retail management, quickly distinguishing himself by leading successful multimillion-dollar store openings and renovations, eventually becoming one of the youngest store managers at a major national big-box retailer. Driven by a passion for marketing, Allen later joined his wife, Lynda, in her advertising agency. Over 15 years, he guided numerous businesses on their marketing and advertising strategies, eventually leading the agency to significant growth. He continues to support select long-standing clients in their advertising efforts today. Allen holds a Bachelor's degree in Marketing from Virginia Tech. He is married to Cortex CEO and co-founder, Lynda McNutt Foster, and is the proud father of Melody Kappler. A passionate Virginia Tech football and wrestling fan, Allen is also an avid reader with particular interests in history and science. In his leisure time, Allen enjoys hiking and can regularly be found exploring the Roanoke Greenway or Mill Mountain trails with Lynda. Allen’s wealth of hands-on experience, combined with his deep knowledge of behavioral assessments and training methodologies, makes him a trusted resource for organizations looking to enhance leadership capabilities, optimize team performance, and drive sustainable growth. Contact: allen@cortexleadership.com Jeanne (Jackson) Newby Principal Consultant Jeanne is a dynamic HR leader with over 20 years of business and HR operations with fortune 500 companies. Jeanne provides insight into how to structure and maximize the effectiveness of the HR function to develop talent and align to the company vision and goals. Jeanne is passionate about coaching top talent, helping managers foster a highly engaged, motivated workforce, and developing employees to achieve their full potential. Jeanne is highly proficient in using tools and technology to assess leaders and their teams, providing feedback and coaching to increase communication and teamwork that drive desired business outcomes. Jeanne is facilitator of the EPIC Leadership Program. This contemporary, fast-paced, interactive experience provides a launching pad for leadership learning for the highest engaged team members in an organization looking to lead in the future. Provided in small group coaching experiences, Jeanne facilitates a virtual experience that can propel ambitious professional careers forward. Contact: jeanne@cortexleadership.com Kim Levings Coach & Master Facilitator Kim Levings is an experienced leadership development professional with over 35 years of expertise in people and leadership development. With career experience in both corporate and nonprofit sectors in the USA and South Africa, Kim provides training facilitation, leadership development, and coaching services. She has held executive leadership roles in Human Resources, Manpower Development, Training, and Operations and has partnered with leadership teams and consulting firms to help scale development teams and programs. As a Master Trainer and certified partner in Everything DiSC® and 5 Behaviors® of Effective Teams, Kim equips individuals to bring their best selves to life, building healthier teams and cultures. Offering services globally and remotely, Kim spends part of each year in South Africa, continuing her work with leaders and teams around the world. Originally from South Africa, Kim has always been passionate about helping individuals and teams reach their full potential. Through her years of leadership in Human Resources and Operations, she saw firsthand the challenges leaders face. These experiences inspired her to focus on leadership development, training, and coaching to create lasting impact. With a candid, transparent approach, Kim aims to connect with people in meaningful ways, building trust quickly. Whether working with organizations like River Ranch Foods, Nex-gen Pharma, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, or facilitating programs like Thinking into Results and Serving Leadership, her goal remains the same: to support leaders and teams in creating healthier, more effective workplaces. As a “nomad,” Kim splits her time between the USA and South Africa, providing leadership development services to clients across the globe. Contact: kimlevings@cortexleadership.com Darryl Agee Principal, Cortex PMO Division Darryl Agee is a certified Project Management and Agile Certified Practitioner, currently serving as a Solutions Architect for Perficient, a global AI-first digital consultancy that helps leading brands transform how they connect with customers and drive business growth. In this role, he partners with product, technology, and business stakeholders to deliver strategic digital solutions at enterprise scale. With over 25 years of experience, Darryl has led software development, system modernization, and digital transformation initiatives across industries including retail, healthcare, supply chain, and high-tech. His recent work includes serving as a senior consultant embedded within the digital product organization of a Fortune-ranked retail client, helping to modernize operations, enable agile delivery, and elevate enterprise digital capabilities. Previously, Darryl served as PMO Practice Lead for More Better Technology (MBT), a Roanoke-based technology startup where he established a Strategic Realization Office and led enterprise clients through Agile and DevOps transformations. In addition to his consulting work, Darryl is an experienced educator with over 20 years of teaching experience in project management. He is a professor at Virginia Tech and teaches PMP® and PMI-ACP® prep courses at Virginia Western Community College and other institutions. He is a frequent speaker and active board member for the Southwest Virginia PMI Chapter. Darryl holds an MBA from Auburn University at Montgomery, an MS in Computer Information Systems from the University of Phoenix, and a BA in English from the Virginia Military Institute. He earned his PMP® in 2006 and PMI-ACP® in 2017. In recent years, Darryl has embraced the rapidly evolving field of Artificial Intelligence and Automation, integrating AI literacy and innovation themes into his client work and course instruction. His curiosity and adaptability continue to drive his passion for continuous learning and professional growth. Contact: darryl@cortexleadership.com Kimberly Kolb Eakin Professional Mentor/Coach Kimberly Kolb Eakin is a seasoned leadership consultant and founding leader at Cortex Leadership Consulting, where she has over 12 years of experience guiding organizations in leadership development, strategic growth, and organizational effectiveness. A retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class, Kimberly has an extensive background as an instructor in the military, training soldiers, cadets, and peers in marksmanship, tactical operations, and leadership skills. Her military career instilled a commitment to resilience and precision, which she now channels into helping global clients cultivate strong, cohesive teams and foster collaborative cultures. Beyond her work with Cortex, Kimberly was instrumental in the creation and direction of The Gauntlet, Virginia’s largest business program and competition, showcasing her commitment to supporting small businesses and innovation. Known for her strategic insight, creativity, and ability to inspire growth, Kimberly’s experience spans from empowering emerging entrepreneurs to coaching established leaders on a global scale. Through a blend of DISC assessments, mindfulness techniques, and tailored consulting practices, she equips her clients with the tools to navigate complex challenges while building trust and driving impact within their organizations. Contact: kimberly@cortexleadership.com Jenna Miilu Client & Operations Coordinator Jenna is a strategic thinker who brings a unique blend of operational excellence, team dynamics, and customer satisfaction to every project. With a deep commitment to lifelong learning, her passions span emotional intelligence, AI, and musicology—each enriching her ability to approach challenges with creativity and insight. Jenna thrives on fostering trust and collaboration, valuing direct communication and empathy as the foundation for solving complex problems. She is driven by opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals and continuously grow through shared experiences and innovative projects. Jenna supports the CEO and coaches/consultants through personalized service to the clients we serve. She is extraordinary at driving projects to deadlines with excellent results like our EPIC Leadership Program, Leading a Winning Team, and workshops. Jenna has worked alongside our CEO to develop innovative solutions that help support our coaching clients to get what they want, faster. Contact: jenna@cortexleadership.com

Discover Your AI Traveler Type Discover Your AI Traveler Type Discover Your AI Traveler Type Discover Your AI Traveler Type A Cortex-Exclusive Assessment Trio designed to unlock how you think, lead, and grow with AI — no matter your role. What is the AI Traveler Assessment? What is the AI Traveler Assessment? What is the AI Traveler Assessment? What is the AI Traveler Assessment? In a world where AI is reshaping how we work, the AI Traveler Assessment is your compass. Whether you're a team member, manager, or senior leader, this simple self-assessment reveals how you're currently engaging with AI—your mindset, your habits, and your growth edge. It’s not a test. It’s a reflection. And it gives you a custom profile designed to help you adapt faster, lead smarter, and navigate the future with clarity. Your AI Traveler type highlights where you are now — and offers practical next steps to grow your impact with the help of tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. Ready to discover your AI Traveler type? Ready to discover your AI Traveler type? Ready to discover your AI Traveler type? Ready to discover your AI Traveler type? Choose the version of the assessment that best fits your role. It only takes about 5–7 minutes to complete, and your scorecard will be emailed to you automatically. If you're not sure which to pick, go with the one that aligns closest to your day-to-day responsibilities. AI Traveler for Team Members AI Traveler for Managers AI Traveler for Leaders What happens after you submit your assessment? You'll receive an AI Traveler Scorecard based on your responses - sent directly to your email. This scorecard includes a detailed profile of your AI mindset, coaching questions, and growth strategies. Most people finish the assessment in under 7 minutes. Didn't get your scorecard? Check your spam/Junk folder or email us directly at info@cortexleadership.com Having trouble choosing or accessing your assessment? No problem. Contact your lead or contact us and we'll help guide you to the right fit. Frequently Asked Questions Frequently Asked Questions Frequently Asked Questions Frequently Asked Questions What is the AI Traveler assessment all about? The AI Traveler assessment is a self-reflection tool that helps you understand your current relationship with artificial intelligence (AI) in your work. It’s not a test, and there are no wrong answers. It’s designed to show how you're thinking about, using, or avoiding AI—so you can grow from where you are, not where someone else thinks you should be. Your results offer: a n AI Traveler profile, coaching-style reflection questions, skill-building challenges, and suggested AI prompts to try immediately. What does the assessment measure? The assessment evaluates how you engage with AI across four dimensions: Awareness – Do you see the relevance of AI for your work? Willingness – Are you open to experimenting and learning? Capacity – Do you have the tools, time, and support to succeed? Application – Are you already using AI in meaningful ways? Each profile reflects a unique combination of these dimensions. I took the assessment but don’t feel like the type I scored as. Did it get it wrong? Not at all. That feeling usually means you're on the edge of a transition—you’re evolving. Your score reflects your current patterns, not your potential. The Traveler Type is a mirror, not a label. Use it as a starting point for conversation and growth, not a definition of your identity. Will my AI Traveler type change over time? Yes—and that’s the goal. As you try new things, build confidence, and reflect on how AI fits into your workflow, your type may shift. Retaking the assessment every few months is a great way to measure progress and spark fresh insight. What should I do after I get my type? Every scorecard includes: Reflection questions to guide journaling or coaching, Suggestions for small, safe AI experiments, Prompts you can use in ChatGPT or Copilot today. You can also: Share your type with a peer, team, or leader, Upload your profile to an LLM and ask for a 90-day growth plan, Talk to your Cortex contact about next steps Can I be more than one type? Absolutely. Most people show traits from multiple types. Your profile is about what’s most dominant right now, not an all-or-nothing label. What happens if I don’t engage with AI at all? Here’s the thing: it’s not just about using AI. It’s about understanding how it’s changing your industry, your role, and your team’s expectations. Leaders who ignore AI risk: Falling behind in strategic conversations, Missing opportunities to improve clarity, speed, and creativity, Being seen as reactive instead of forward-thinking. And if you’re only using AI for basic tasks (emails, lists), you might be limiting its potential to help you coach better, think deeper, and lead smarter. How does the assessment support personal growth? It’s built to meet you where you are. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or confident with AI, your type offers: A mirror for your habits, A push toward growth, A way to make AI more human and helpful. And it’s backed by Cortex’s leadership philosophy: practical tools, deep reflection, and courageous clarity. How does it support team or organizational growth? AI Traveler profiles are conversation starters. They create a shared language across teams and roles so people can: Normalize learning together, Coach each other forward, Build trust in a changing workplace. The real power isn’t just in the score. It’s in what you do with it together.

The High-Potential Leader's Fast Track to Self-Mastery The path to effective leadership is no longer a slow climb—it's a sprint. Today's rising managers, supervisors, and high-potential employees, and existing leaders must understand themselves, raise their emotional intelligence, and increase their discernment faster than ever to succeed in an AI-accelerated environment. EPIC 2.0 in the Age of AI program transforms generic training into precision talent development. Key Program Deliverables This program is specifically designed to provide your organization with an immediate return on investment by focusing time and energy on high-leverage skills: Mastery of Self-Awareness Scientifically validated assessments (DISC, 12 Driving Forces, AI Traveler, and others) ensure customized materials, fast-tracking self-awareness for intentional leadership. Time Mastery 2.0 with AI Adopt the Time Mastery 2.0 framework for your exact role to optimize schedules, focus on high-value outcomes, and leverage AI for task delegation and efficiency. Trust as the Engine of Change Learn practical techniques for building and maintaining trust across three levels of Conversational Intelligence, reducing internal and organizational drama. Strategic Communication and Problem Solving Gain immediate practical communication and application skills using the updated VIPEi Framework (Vision, Ideation, Planning, Execution, Iteration) to restore team adaptability and accelerate insights and use it for your, specific, problem or project. Learning How to Learn in the Age of AI Develop a co-thinking mindset, using AI not just for speed, but for clarity and strategic partnership, mastering high-impact prompts. Utilize tools and frameworks to understand and communicate with others more effectively and collaborate with better outcomes. Self-Mastery Leadership Challenge chosen by each participant that ensures application of the EPIC 2.0 learning experiences. Participation during sessions in 3-4 person Thinking Pods to practice what they are learning and ways to apply it immediately. EPIC 2.0 Why This Program, Why Now The path to effective leadership is no longer a slow climb—it's a sprint. Today's rising managers, supervisors, and high-potential employees, and existing leaders must understand themselves, raise their emotional intelligence, and increase their discernment faster than ever to succeed in an AI-accelerated environment. EPIC 2.0 Age of AI program transforms generic training into precision talent development. Leaders are currently wrestling with the twin burdens of low-value interactions and "work-slop" (ineffective work product resulting from poor AI integration and unclear self-management skills) and "drama" (resulting from a lack of self-awareness and self-regulation). Cortex, which is now training hundreds of leaders in both human-centered skills and AI essentials, designed EPIC 2.0 to solve this gap. EPIC 2.0 is a dynamic 2-day experience that transforms leaders from overwhelmed responders to more agile Co-Creators who seamlessly integrate human judgment with AI-enabled insights. Contact Us! Read More What you can't get anywhere else 1. High-Performance Acceleration: Experience a two-day transformation that fast-tracks self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and strategic execution—skills leaders usually take years to master. 2. Human + AI Integration: EPIC 2.0 bridges leadership science and AI capability, showing leaders exactly how to reduce “work-slop,” eliminate drama, and lead with clarity in an AI-driven world. 3. Exclusive Leadership Frameworks: Access the Time Mastery 2.0 system, the VIPEi Strategic Problem-Solving Model, and the AI Traveler Assessment—frameworks used by hundreds of high-performing leaders to optimize their teams and decision-making. Frequently Asked Questions What is the primary purpose of the EPIC 2.0 program? EPIC 2.0 is a dynamic 2-day experience designed to transform leaders from overwhelmed responders into more agile Co-Creators who seamlessly integrate human judgment with AI-enabled insights. The program aims to transform generic training into precision talent development. Who is the target audience for the EPIC 2.0 program? The program is designed for rising managers, supervisors, high-potential employees, and existing leaders. What specific challenges does EPIC 2.0 address? The program is designed to solve the gap resulting from leaders dealing with the "twin burdens" of low-value interactions and "work-slop" (ineffective work product due to unclear self-management skills and poor AI integration). It also addresses "drama" that results from a lack of self-awareness and self-regulation. What are the key deliverables of the program? The program focuses time and energy on high-leverage skills to provide an immediate return on investment (ROI). Key deliverables include: Mastery of Self-Awareness using scientifically validated assessments. Time Mastery 2.0 with AI to optimize schedules, focus on high-value outcomes, and leverage AI for task delegation and efficiency. Gaining skills in Strategic Communication and Problem Solving. Learning How to Learn in the Age of AI, including developing a co-thinking mindset and mastering high-impact prompts for strategic partnership. What frameworks and assessments are utilized in the program? Scientifically validated assessments are used to ensure customized materials, including DISC, 12 Driving Forces, and AI Traveler. The program also teaches the Time Mastery 2.0 framework. How is the learning applied and practiced? Application is ensured through a Self-Mastery Leadership Challenge chosen by each participant. Participants also engage in 3-4 person Thinking Pods during sessions to practice what they are learning and identify ways to apply it immediately. What is the format and duration of EPIC 2.0? The program is a dynamic 2-day experience delivered through in-person, live instruction. What is the cohort size? The cohort size is limited to 14-18 spaces to ensure maximum personalization and high-touch facilitation. When does the program start? Each cohort will collectively pick the best date for Day 1 and Day 2 based on availability to ensure high-level participation. The upcoming Cohort kicks off in January of 2026. What are the associated investment costs? As a Special Partnership Offering, the investment varies by membership status: SRCC Member Rate: $1,100 per participant. SRCC Member Rate (2+ participants from the same organization): $950 per participant. Non-Member Rate: $1,250 per participant. Who are the partners offering this program? This Special Partnership Offering is provided by the Salem-Roanoke Chamber of Commerce, Cortex Leadership Consulting, and Metis. Contact Us! First Name* Last Name* Email* Company* Position* I am interested in the following (select one or more). Additional Information Reserving an EPIC 2.0 seat for myself Sending one of my employees to EPIC 2.0 Sending two of my employees to EPIC 2.0 Sending three or more of my employees to EPIC 2.0 Submit

Intentional Communication with DISC Cortex DISC Training is an interactive workshop designed to equip leaders with a deeper understanding of their strengths, challenges, and communication styles. Using personalized DISC reports, this session will explore behavioral preferences—both yours and those of others—while providing actionable strategies to enhance leadership effectiveness and team dynamics. After taking the DISC and Driving Forces Assessment, please print your report and bring it with you to the session. What Is The DISC and Motivators Assessment, and Why Am I Taking It? Your DISC and Driving Forces Assessment: DISC Assessment Your DISC Guide: DISC Guide DISC Training Agenda: Agenda

Mastering AI Collaboration AI Guide Book: A comprehensive playbook designed to help leaders develop Conversational Intelligence for collaborating effectively with AI. Including frameworks, real-world prompt evolution examples, and step-by-step instructions for transforming basic AI prompts into strategic, emotionally intelligent dialogues. Guide Book SuperHuman AI Newsletter: Get the latest AI news, learn must-know AI tools, and keep up with tech news in just 3 minutes a day. Join 1 million+ readers growing their skillsets with this newsletter. SuperHuman AI Newsletter Corcast Episode: Your personal guide to Conversational Intelligence with AI

From Reactivity to Resilience Unlocking Your Leadership Potential You already know that great leadership isn't about reacting - it's about responding with clarity and confidence. But how often do you find yourself caught in stress, frustration, or self-doubt? This session will help you recognize when you're triggered, understand your DISC-driven stress responses, and apply proven techniques to shift from reactive to resilient. Step One - Self-Assessment: Take the Cortex Resilient Leader Index: Measuring Your Response Agility Assessment Assessment Step Two - Read the Scorecard: Empowered Response Scorecard: Recognizing and Elevating Your Mindset to better understand your score Scorecard Step Three - Read the Article: Read how your DISC style influences reactivity and resilience Article Step Four - Prep-Podcast: Listen to a short episode on reactivity vs. intentional leadership

Measure your AI confidence. Measure your AI confidence. Measure your AI confidence. Measure your AI confidence. Expand your impact. Expand your impact. Expand your impact. Expand your impact. As part of your VAFCC Annual Conference registration, you have complimentary access to the AI Confidence Snapshot - a quick, 7-minute reflection designed to help you see where you are with AI and how to lead smarter with it. Click HERE to Take Your Complimentary AI Confidence Snapshot Why Take the Snapshot? Leaders everywhere — including nonprofits — are being asked to do more with less. AI is rewriting how we plan, communicate, and lead. This quick snapshot helps you: Gauge your readiness and confidence with AI. Spot fast wins to save time and sharpen communication. Learn simple, safe ways to use tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. Turn what you learn at the conference into real impact back home. About This Collaboration About This Collaboration About This Collaboration About This Collaboration The AI Confidence Snapshot was developed through a partnership between VAFCC and Cortex Leadership Consulting, a national firm specializing in leadership research, coaching, and applied AI for organizations. Together, we're helping Virginia's nonprofit leaders turn learning into lasting impact - one insight at a time. This complimentary assessment is available only to registered VFACC Annual Conference attendees. All data collected is used solely to personalize your experience and provide aggregate insights that help VFACC design future programs that serve you better. Your data of information will not be sold or provided for any other purposes. scorecard

Welcome to Cortex Coaching Cortex coaching is deeply rooted in neuroscience and behavioral science, integrating tools and methods that help leaders understand why they react the way they do under stress, how habits are formed, and how to rewire behavior for sustainable change. This approach leads to real, measurable transformation, not just temporary motivation. Step One: Fill out the Cortex Coaching Intake Form Intake Form Step Two: Take the Cortex Team Strengths Assessment Assessment Step Three: Review the Cortex Team Strengths Scorecard Scorecard Step Four: Read A Leader's Guide Article Article Step Five: Listen to The Idea Advantage Corcast Episode

Meet Your Coach Allen Foster Allen Foster is Vice President and co-founder of Cortex Leadership Consulting, a leading firm dedicated to executive coaching, talent acquisition, and organizational training. Allen’s extensive experience includes customized 1-on-1 coaching, strategic consulting, talent acquisition specializing in benchmark and search, and the facilitation of over 1,000 leadership training/facilitation sessions. As Cortex’s lead trainer and facilitator, Allen is a Certified Trainer in DISC (CPBA), Driving Forces (CPDFA), and The Empowerment Dynamic, 3 Vital Questions. His expertise further extends into customized workshops focused on DISC, Team Alignment, Conflict Resolution, Team Values Creation, Team Building, Time Mastery, and Problem-Solving strategies. Before co-founding Cortex, Allen launched his professional career in retail management, quickly distinguishing himself by leading successful multimillion-dollar store openings and renovations, eventually becoming one of the youngest store managers at a major national big-box retailer. Driven by a passion for marketing, Allen later joined his wife, Lynda, in her advertising agency. Over 15 years, he guided numerous businesses on their marketing and advertising strategies, eventually leading the agency to significant growth. He continues to support select long-standing clients in their advertising efforts today. Allen holds a Bachelor's degree in Marketing from Virginia Tech. He is married to Cortex CEO and co-founder, Lynda McNutt Foster, and is the proud father of Melody Kappler. A passionate Virginia Tech football and wrestling fan, Allen is also an avid reader with particular interests in history and science. In his leisure time, Allen enjoys hiking and can regularly be found exploring the Roanoke Greenway or Mill Mountain trails with Lynda. Allen’s wealth of hands-on experience, combined with his deep knowledge of behavioral assessments and training methodologies, makes him a trusted resource for organizations looking to enhance leadership capabilities, optimize team performance, and drive sustainable growth. Contact Let's connect.

Intentional Communication with DISC Cortex DISC Training is an interactive workshop designed to equip leaders with a deeper understanding of their strengths, challenges, and communication styles. Using personalized DISC reports, this session will explore behavioral preferences—both yours and those of others—while providing actionable strategies to enhance leadership effectiveness and team dynamics. What Is The DISC and Motivators Assessment, and Why Am I Taking It? Your DISC and Driving Forces Assessment: DISC Assessment Your DISC Guide: DISC Guide

De-Escalation & Conflict Mastery Mastering Conflict for Stronger Leadership These resources were created to address your teams Conflict Mastery by Lynda McNutt Foster Effective leadership requires the ability to navigate conflict with confidence and clarity. Your upcoming Conflict Mastery Workshop provides your leadership team with the tools to assess their conflict tolerance. Step 1: Read the Agenda - Gain an overview of the key themes and objectives covered in the workshop to set the foundation for learning. Agenda Step 2: Take the Cortex Conflict Mastery Assessment Assessment Step 3: Read the Cortex Conflict Mastery Scorecard Scorecard Step 4: Read the Cortex Conflict Mastery De-Escalation Article Article Step 5: Listen to the Cortex Conflict Mastery Prep Corecast Episode: