Betsy Roach

Senior Consultant

“I’ve been a horrible boss! How could anyone want to work with me, much less for me? This is not how I want to live my life.” Those were my exact words to a colleague at the moment I realized the impact the Skilled Facilitator Intensive Workshop had on my life. It was, to say the least, a pivotal moment in my life and in my career. From that moment on I made a conscious decision to study mutual learning in hopes of becoming a better person.

Prior to joining RSA, I worked for a worldwide designer, manufacturer, and integrator of precision motion control products and systems. My career included positions in Materials Management, Information Technology, Process Improvement and finally, Human Resources. Along the way, I helped introduce the organization to Roger Schwarz and mutual learning. As a result, the company committed to transforming their 50-year old leadership style from command-and-control to mutual learning. They decided to educate thousands of their leaders and employees across the globe on the approach. Our workshops spanned ages, functions, jobs and most importantly cultures. Roger, his associates, and I trained people from Germany, China, the Philippines, England, Japan, and India, often in the same workshop! I found that no matter who, or where, we trained, the issues were still the same. People struggled to have tough conversations with their employees, their colleagues, and their bosses. Mutual learning helped them to understand that while the conversations might not be easy, they could still hold folks accountable while being transparent, genuinely curious, and compassionate. The transformation was amazing to watch! As managers began to change their mindsets – their behaviors changed, too. As a result, employees sought out positions and opportunities to work for the managers who lived by these values.

I remember my mom saying to me, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” Truer words were never spoken. Now, as part of the RSA team, I’m able to fulfill my passion for mutual learning by working with clients who are just starting their journeys. I also used my skills to help church-based organizations, such as Parish Councils, clarify their needs and strategic plans. I’m grateful to have the chance to do this work and walk this walk because I learn something new about myself almost every day.

I hold a Bachelor’s in Liberal Studies and a MBA from Medaille College. I spend my down time with my husband cycling around Western New York, cheering for the Buffalo Bills (well, somebody has to!), and sharing meals with our family and friends.

See the full team