Core Essenceby Teri Barnett
Transformational leadership
begins within.
Core Essence helps leaders transform how they think, respond, and lead — strengthening trust, communication, and culture.
Our approach
Pause, Process,
Lead™
A practical leadership framework that helps leaders interrupt reactive patterns, assess what the moment requires, and respond with greater clarity and intention.
Pause
Step one
Interrupt the reactive pattern before it sets the tone for the room.
Process
Step two
Assess what the moment actually requires — of you, and of the team.
Lead
Step three
Respond with clarity and intention, so the decision holds after the meeting ends.
Communication, decision-making, trust, and how leaders show up under pressure.
Where we serve
Core Essence partners with
leaders and teams across:
Each experience is thoughtfully shaped around the needs, goals, and culture of the organization.
Education
Schools, Districts & Higher Education
Corporate & Nonprofit Organizations
Leaders, Teams & Organizations
Leadership Conferences
Keynotes, Breakouts & Workshops
Retreats
Leadership & Team Retreats
Services
Leadership experiences
designed with intention
Professional Development
Interactive workshops and team experiences focused on leadership, communication, emotional intelligence, team building, and organizational climate.
Facilitation
Thoughtfully facilitated meetings and conversations that strengthen communication, collaboration, alignment, and shared direction.
Conferences & Retreats
Engaging sessions that bring leadership insight, reflection, and practical strategies to conferences and organizational events.
Core Essence by Teri Barnett
Meet the founder
Four decades of
leading, teaching,
and facilitating.
Teri Barnett is a leadership strategist, facilitator, and founder of Core Essence, bringing more than four decades of experience in education, leadership, and organizational development.
Her work helps leaders and teams strengthen how they communicate, respond under pressure, build trust, and create healthier workplace cultures.
Grounded in reflective and intentional leadership, Teri brings both practical experience and a human-centered approach to every engagement.
Testimonials
What clients say
“Core Essence provided powerful leadership development for our team during our retreat. Guiding us through meaningful team-building and grounding activities that strengthened our connection and clarity.”
Adaarema S. Kelly, Ed.D.Principal
“After one afternoon, I walked away knowing a bit more about myself and feeling empowered in that knowledge. I highly recommend Core Essence by Teri Barnett for a well-curated approach to self-discovery and wellness.”
Carol JoynerFamily Values@Work Action
“Teri was very knowledgeable, articulate, and engaging, and she shared many tools with us. I left the workshop feeling revived and ready to tackle whatever challenge comes my way. I highly recommend the Core Essence workshops and will definitely attend again.”
Rahel FikreExisting Store Development Manager, Chick-fil-A
“Core Essence’s work focuses on leadership and team building to strengthen a culture of collaboration, energize innovation, and create a sense of community. This helps participants relax and connect to catalyze team effectiveness.”
Dr. Anthony SimsExecutive Director of School Improvement
Let’s connect
Tell us about
your team.
Interested in working with Core Essence? Share a few details and we’ll be in touch soon to learn more about your needs.