Leadership Isn’t About Having the Right Answers—It’s About Asking the Right Questions.
MEET DEANNA JONES
With over 30 years of corporate experience, I’ve realized people don’t leave jobs—they leave environments where they don’t feel seen, heard, or valued.
Now, I help leaders build workplaces where people want to stay and grow.
With over 30 years in the corporate world—including 25 years at Cisco Systems—I’ve spent my career navigating leadership, operations, and workplace culture from the inside out. I know what makes employees feel engaged, what drives them away, and how organizations can build workplaces where people actually want to stay and grow.
In 2019, I made one of the biggest transitions of my life—both personally and professionally—when I embraced my authentic self while working at Cisco. That experience gave me firsthand insight into what true workplace inclusion looks like—not as a corporate initiative, but as a fundamental part of leadership. It also deepened my passion for helping companies create environments where every employee feels valued, respected, and supported.
Now, as a keynote speaker, consultant, and workplace strategist, I work with organizations to bridge generational divides, attract and retain top talent, and foster cultures that thrive. I bring my expertise to companies, conferences, and leadership teams, delivering story-driven keynotes and hands-on training designed to help leaders build stronger, more connected teams.
When people feel seen, heard, and valued, they show up differently.
And when leaders get that right, businesses thrive.
I empower organizations and employees to thrive. Here’s how:
Speaking
Dynamic keynotes that inspire leaders to engage, retain, and empower their teams through storytelling, inclusion, and real-world leadership strategies.
Interactive workshops that equip leaders and teams with the skills to communicate effectively, build inclusive cultures, and retain top talent.
Consulting
Personalized consulting to help organizations bridge generational gaps, foster inclusion, and create workplaces where employees feel valued and engaged.
Training
Lenora Billings-Harris
“Deanna, your message is so powerful and very needed! I had a ’lifequake’ December of last year, and I am doing all the things you suggest. I feel affirmed by your presentation.”
Ashley Osteen
“Hi Deanna! I just want to say that I really enjoyed listening to you speak at the event last week. I have never actually heard anyone speak up like you did. You did a really great job! You are beautiful! I hope you have a great day.”
Kisha Payton (she/her)
“Deanna, thank you so very much for sharing your story with us and for the tools you’re sharing that will empower us to be better allies and advocates.”
Sof Mehlitz