Disruptive Leadership by Design

The DLxD Framework: Disruptive Leadership by Design
Disruptive Leadership by Design (DLxD) is a transformative 7-step, two-phase process that equips education leaders to move from deep reflection to intentional action—creating workplace cultures rooted in belonging, compassion, and asset-based leadership.

Phase one focuses on the internal work of the leader: examining identity, questioning assumptions, and committing to change. Phase two shifts toward action, guiding leaders to engage with others, synthesize insights, and plan and implement meaningful transformation.

The steps—Examine, Question, Commit, Engage & Empathize, Synthesize, Plan, and Do—are designed to disrupt harmful patterns and build systems that affirm dignity and equity.

At its core, the DLxD framework invites leaders to reflect on how they show up in their roles: Are they perpetuating harmful practices, or are they disrupting them? Through self-interrogation, empathy, and a willingness to lean into discomfort, DLxD helps leaders embrace a new leadership paradigm—one grounded in shared humanity and sustainable change.

At the heart of DLxD is a powerful belief: we can dream bigger and we can do better.

As leaders, we carry the responsibility to create cultures where everyone—not just a few—can thrive. By embracing discomfort, leading with empathy, and building systems that center belonging, we lay the foundation for lasting, liberatory change. 

Together, we can be courageous, relentless advocates for equity who challenge the status quo to dismantle harmful workplace norms.