"If we aren't having fun, we are doing something wrong!"
dARLENE r cROSS, DTM
- COACH
- mentor
- ADVISOR
Darlene applies her inspirational coaching style to diverse business endeavors, from construction projects to investment groups and to a multiple generations of youth leadership development and sports. Darlene is a firm believer in empowering others to unlock their potential and chase their dreams.
She emphasizes the importance of competent communication as a vital tool in this journey. By fostering a comfortable and supportive environment, she helps individuals recognize their strengths and articulate their visions, enabling them to pursue their goals with confidence and clarity. Through her guidance, she inspires a sense of self-belief that encourages others to take bold steps toward their aspirations.
Darlene brings her intuition and insight along with a variety of personal and professional experiences to enhance your communication skills for any occasion. From leader roles to special occasion speeches, Darlene can help you organize your thoughts, streamline your presentation and deliver with confidence.
Darlene has held several leadership and advisory roles in the Austin area Toastmasters program in which she has guided the launch of new clubs, the continued development of existing clubs, and presented leadership development strategies to Toastmasters across central Texas. In addition, she has achieved the pinnacle of the Toastmasters International™ program, the designation of Distinguished Toastmaster.
Darlene loves living in central Austin with ready access to the abundant water, nature and athletic opportunities.
"The winners in life think constantly in terms of 'I can', 'I will', and 'I am'" - Denis Waitley
To say Darlene is enthusiastic is an understatement. She won the "Most Enthusiastic" award two years in a row at the annual awards banquet. As a member of one of the largest clubs in Texas, Darlene was voted "Toastmaster of the Year" twice by her peers and was the "2023 Leader of the Year". Darlene has also achieved the Distinguished Toastmaster designation. The Distinguished Toastmaster award is the highest award Toastmasters International bestows. This designation recognizes a superior level of achievement in both communication and leadership.
With a strong athletic background, she has earned numerous awards throughout her career. She spent six years coaching boys youth basketball, guiding her teams to first-place victories twice. Darlene proudly holds State Champion trophies in both softball and soccer. Her latest accomplishment is winning first place at the "Battle of the Bay" Pickleball Tournament, a testament to her continuous drive and dedication.
Beyond her impressive accomplishments in Toastmasters and athletics, Darlene believes in the power of perseverance and positivity—values she brings into every coaching session to inspire and uplift those she works with.
