MEET OUR TEAM

At Golden Leadership Institute, we are strategic growth partners dedicated to helping organizations expand with purpose, efficiency, and sustainability. Our team of seasoned consultants brings a deep bench of expertise in organizational development, strategic planning, and systems optimization, empowering nonprofits, educational institutions, and for-profit companies to scale, replicate, and thrive. We take a holistic, data-driven approach, conducting in-depth analyses, identifying opportunities for innovation, and crafting customized strategies that align with your vision. Whether you're navigating rapid growth, expanding into new markets, or refining your operational model, we provide the insight, structure, and coaching necessary to transform complexity into clarity and strategy into action. At Golden Leadership Institute, we don’t just advise—we partner with you to build scalable solutions that drive lasting impact.

At Golden Leadership Institute, we are strategic growth partners and innovators dedicated to transforming small-midsize businesses, nonprofits, educational institutions, into high-performing, scalable organizations. Our deep bench of consultants brings expertise in organizational development, strategic planning, and systems optimization, leveraging AI and automation to drive efficiency, streamline operations, and create sustainable growth. We take a holistic, data-driven approach, conducting in-depth analyses to identify opportunities for expansion, replication, and innovation. Beyond growing and optimizing businesses, we also provide specialized expertise in building wealth preservation—ensuring that both the organization and its founders build lasting financial stability. Whether you're navigating rapid growth, entering new markets, or safeguarding long-term wealth, we provide the strategies, structure, and expert coaching to help you scale smarter, operate efficiently, and secure your legacy. At Golden Leadership Institute, we don’t just develop strategies—we create future-ready organizations and financially empowered leaders.

AMBER GOLDEN

CEO, Entrepreneur, Coach

Amber Golden is a visionary CEO, serial entrepreneur, and systems strategist with a proven track record of scaling businesses and organizations with purpose and precision. As the founder of iLEAD Schools and Maker Learning Network, she grew a single school into a multi-state network of innovative, student-centered learning environments, scaling from zero to 10 schools and 700 employees. Her expertise lies in creating replicable, scalable systems that preserve innovation while ensuring efficiency—a skill she now brings to leaders and businesses looking to grow without losing their unique identity.

What sets Amber apart is her ability to develop systems that are built around people—ensuring that structures and processes serve the individuals using them, rather than forcing people to fit into rigid frameworks. She understands that the key to sustainable growth isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about creating cultures and workflows that empower teams, fuel creativity, and drive results. Her approach combines strategic vision with a deep respect for human behavior, designing systems that enhance collaboration, autonomy, and long-term success.

Amber is also known for her resourcefulness and ability to connect the right people at the right time. With an extensive network spanning multiple industries—including education, business consulting, investment, and leadership—she has a rare ability to bring together top-tier talent, ideas, and opportunities to drive transformation. Whether building schools, businesses, or leadership ecosystems, Amber’s strength lies in seeing the big picture while crafting the precise systems and relationships that turn vision into reality. Now, through Golden Leadership Institute, she helps entrepreneurs and business owners build scalable models that align with their mission, ensuring they thrive as they expand.

Deborah Smith

Chief Financial Officer

Deborah Smith achieved financial independence through strategic real estate investments, reaching her goal of retiring by 40. With over 20years of experience, she now explores alternative investments, focusing on diversification and growth. A CPA with expertise in corporate financial management, she has served as CFO in multiple startups, overseeing over a billion in real estate assets. Passionate about empowering others, Deborah excels in breaking down complex financial strategies into clear, actionable insights. An entrepreneur at heart, she is committed to helping others create passive income and achieve financial freedom.

LYNN BOOP

Client Onboarding

With 39 years in education, Lynn Boop is a seasoned leader in project-based learning, school leadership, and system replication. As the Director of iLEAD Lancaster and Executive Director of Leadership and Project Integration for Maker Learning Network and iLEAD Schools, she played a key role in launching and scaling innovative educational models. Passionate about early literacy and empowering leaders, Lynn specializes in creating systems that support sustainable growth in education. As Client Onboarding Specialist for Golden Leadership Institute, she ensures a seamless transition for clients, helping them implement scalable solutions that drive lasting impact.

Shaira Mae Guinto

Marketing and Analytics

Shaira Mae Guinto is a versatile marketing and administrative professional with expertise in social media management, virtual assistance, and executive support. With a strong background in content creation, branding, and digital marketing, she specializes in helping businesses enhance their online presence and engagement. As a Social Media Marketing Specialist, she leverages platforms like Canva to design compelling visuals and execute strategic campaigns. Her experience as an Executive and Administrative Assistant has honed her organizational skills, making her a reliable all-rounder in both creative and operational tasks. Shaira is passionate about streamlining processes and driving impactful digital marketing initiatives.

Shaira Mae Guinto

Marketing and Analytics

Shaira Mae Guinto is a versatile marketing and administrative professional with expertise in social media management, virtual assistance, and executive support. With a strong background in content creation, branding, and digital marketing, she specializes in helping businesses enhance their online presence and engagement. As a Social Media Marketing Specialist, she leverages platforms like Canva to design compelling visuals and execute strategic campaigns. Her experience as an Executive and Administrative Assistant has honed her organizational skills, making her a reliable all-rounder in both creative and operational tasks. Shaira is passionate about streamlining processes and driving impactful digital marketing initiatives.

Debbie Ulanday

Project Manger

Debbie Ulanday is a seasoned real estate investor and entrepreneur with a rich background in raising capital and managing multifamily commercial real estate projects. As a driving force behind GoldBar Partners, Debbie Ulanday has developed a comprehensive skill set in business development, client liaison, and strategic problem-solving, consistently delivering successful outcomes for her ventures.

With over two decades of experience spanning various industries, Debbie has demonstrated a remarkable aptitude for taking on new challenges and adapting to evolving market dynamics. Her work in quality consulting and regulatory compliance showcases her ability to create efficient systems and processes, ensuring high standards of performance and compliance.

Previously, Debbie Ulanday has held key roles in financial services and sales, where she was recognized for her exceptional production and leadership. As Field Vice President at Appreciation Financial, she consistently achieved over $10,000 in monthly sales production and excelled in public speaking, training, and team leadership. Her time at Roche as a Scientist-Engineer further highlights her expertise in cross-functional team management, regulatory requirements, and quality assurance.

Debbie's entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her founding of several companies and her continuous pursuit of knowledge and improvement. She thrives in dynamic environments, where her innovative thinking and readiness to embrace new challenges drive success.

Dedicated to empowering others, Debbie leverages her extensive experience to guide individuals on their journey to financial independence. She believes in the power of nurturing talent and fostering environments where ideas and people flourish. Her commitment to continuous improvement and her strategic mindset make her a dynamic leader and a valuable asset to any endeavor.