What makes Lea Wildly Capable?

Lea embodies everything Hundred Magazine celebrates. Her impact in the OKC community is vast, yet she remains one of the most kind-hearted and humble people I’ve ever known. Her character speaks volumes, independent of her accomplishments. For me, she has been a source of wisdom, a trusted confidant, and an exceptional mentor, always encouraging growth without expectation. To know Lea is to be inspired, uplifted, and truly blessed by her presence in your life. – CHELSI LEBARRE

What does your typical day look like?

My typical day starts with walking our dog Archie, drinking coffee, and reading newspapers. The family Wordle competition happens in the morning. My office is on the first floor of our home, so while Archie lays under my desk, I do contract work for local nonprofits. I incorporate a Pilates class into most weekdays. I also often have a volunteer committee or board meeting.

What makes you feel proud?

I’m proud of my work ethic and that numerous organizations find value in my contributions and my ability. On the personal level, I’m proud of my long marriage to my best friend, Michael.

Who is the biggest influence in your life? Why?

My parents were my biggest influencers. They showed me how to contribute to and be involved in building community.

What’s been the biggest obstacle in your life so far?

Self-doubt and fear. Once I let go of those, the sky’s the limit. My self-doubt seems to have started mostly from workplace disappointments. Although I had a teaching degree, I have never worked professionally as a teacher. I fell into business management and administration. My current business (with my partner, April Tippens-Mays) was born because we think the administration work we do can sometimes be labeled as “less important” work. I’ve been in situations where my abilities were overlooked or questioned. In two of my work positions, I was honored one year for producing at the highest level of job performance and then the company would change the metrics and I’m at the bottom. Why do companies do this to employees? These situations definitely contributed to my self-doubt and fear. I know I’m not alone. Self-doubt is a universal experience, like losing your keys or forgetting why you walked into a room. I’m learning to recognize when my inner critic grabs the megaphone, and I try to counter with a little positive self-talk. Sharing these thoughts is part of my journey to becoming my own biggest fan, or at least an enthusiastic supporter.

What’s the single biggest problem you’d like to solve in your community?

I’d like to help my community believe and trust in the power of communication. If we talk to each other and learn from each other, we can solve things together.

What advice do you wish you could give your younger self? How might it have changed your course?

Be more aggressive. Stand up for your beliefs. I feel that if I had done this in a few situations, I could have influenced them.

buy the magazine