There’s more to you than the world sees.
You dream about doing more at work —
taking the lead on a project, stepping into a new role, or applying for that promotion.
But then the questions start:
What would that even look like? Could I really do it?
So you stay where you are — steady, reliable, and doing more than your job description requires:
Solving problems. Supporting others. Holding things together when no one else can.
But because you make it look effortless —
and never complain or ask for more —
your managers assume you’re content.
They don’t realize you want more.
Or that you’re ready for it.
You already have the potential.
What you need is confidence — and the courage to let it show.
What you need is a mentor.
That's where I come in.
I’m Donna Gilbert.
Leadership mentor and founder of the Quiet Leader Incubator.
I KNOW that when you start showing up differently — especially in small, unexpected ways — people begin to see you differently.
That’s when self-confidence stops feeling like a myth and starts feeling like truth.
I work with people who’ve spent years keeping things running behind the scenes, while they secretly want so much more.
Maybe it’s a lateral move or a promotion in your company.
Maybe it’s changing career fields entirely.
Or maybe it’s finally starting your own business.
Most of us were never taught how to share our ideas with confidence, relate comfortably with coworkers, or test-drive our leadership potential.
Most workplaces expect you to figure it out on your own.
That’s why I help you develop these skills outside the workplace—because sometimes, growth occurs more naturally when performance reviews and expectations don’t box you in.
My own turning point began with Toastmasters, where I learned to speak clearly, give feedback with compassion, and lead with quiet authority.
Even before earning the Distinguished Toastmaster designation, I was already helping others make the shift from reliable contributor to recognized leader.
Today, I recommend Legacy Builders, because it's a modern learning space where you can develop those same communication skills using today’s tools: video, email, and social media.
When you join Legacy Builders — or work with me 1:1 — we’ll focus on one goal:
Strengthening the way you communicate so your contributions are visible, valuable, and can be tailored to fit any situation or opportunity.”
You'll start to...
Speak with clarity and confidence — even when your voice shakes.
Express your value without sounding self-promotional.
Reframe how others perceive your quiet nature so it works for you, not against you.
Create your own opportunities for growth instead of waiting for someone else to hand them to you.
Confidence is a by-product of good communication skills.
And with those skills, people stop underestimating you — and start seeing you as a leader.
You know you’re capable of more than the world sees for you.
You may not know exactly what it is yet, but it feels big… important… life-changing.
Your confidence will grow each time you take imperfect action.
And every time you take a small, awkward, unexpected step forward, others start to see you differently.
More importantly, so do you.
The best part? You don’t have to tell anyone what you’re working on, because they’ll notice the difference in how you show up.
Are you ready to let your quiet nature work for you — instead of against you?
The potential you feel inside is real (even if others don’t see it yet).
Meet My YouTube Mentors (Free)
Ever thought about sharing your ideas on YouTube, then convinced yourself it would be too uncomfortable — too not you?
These five creators reminded me that confidence grows with every small, awkward, unexpected, and imperfect step forward.
Master the Marketing Side of Success
Toying with the idea of starting your own online coaching business — but the thought of marketing yourself feels uncomfortable or just not your style?
This free guide introduces a different approach — one that helps you build confidence in your new skills and earn while you learn.
The step no one expects you to take...
could redirect your path toward the experiences and opportunities you're secretly dreaming of.
Explore two ways to take your next quiet, bold step — one to practice your skills, and one to deepen your confidence.
Take a BOLD first step with
Legacy Builders 2.0
A ready-made online business that helps you practice the communication and leadership skills most workplaces never teach — think of it as a learning lab or playground to activate your potential.
Take a quieter approach with the Quiet Leader Incubator
A private "frientoring" (friend & mentoring) experience for quiet achievers ready to grow beyond self-doubt and live as the leaders they already are. Learn to stop hiding in plain sight and let your quiet confidence lead the way.
Donna Gilbert
Founder of the Quiet Leaders Incubator