Calibrate the System. Forge the Leader.
Solidify Your Culture. Secure Your Advantage.
Many organizations struggle with the friction between ambitious strategies and daily execution. Outside Force provides the objective perspective and operational intelligence required to bridge that gap. We partner with organizations to calibrate the current state, then strategically design high-trust cultures that drive sustainable growth.
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We do not just offer advice; we deliver the strategic acumen and lean leadership principles necessary to transform your leadership team into a competitive advantage.
Why Choose Outside Force?
​The gap between a visionary strategy and realized growth is rarely a lack of ideas. It is almost always a failure of organizational alignment.
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Shawn is the Founder and Principal of Outside Force, a firm built on the principle that sustainable business growth requires a surgical focus on both operational excellence and human performance. One of Shawn’s core beliefs is that we don’t get the work done through people; we develop people through the work. He does not just advise from the sidelines; he speaks the language of the C-Suite because he has occupied the seat, yet he remains deeply rooted in the reality of the front line.
By prioritizing high-trust communication, psychological safety, and a hands-on commitment to his people, Shawn bridges the gap between executive strategy and boots-on-the-ground execution. Whether navigating complex operations or mentoring middle management, he leads with a rare blend of accountability, vulnerability, and empathetic precision, enabling him to drive business growth and achieve strategic outcomes. This masterful integration of practical industry experience and executive leadership allows Shawn to provide expert coaching, strategic business advising, and impactful leadership development programs that cultivate workplace cultures rooted in trust.
A Partnership Built on Precision:
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Forging Resilient Leaders: Utilizing a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership and certifications in Emotional Intelligence (EQ-i 2.0) to develop executives who lead with clarity.
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Solidifying High-Trust Cultures: Leveraging Forte Communication systems and the FourSight Mindset to build teams that default to trust and continuous improvement.
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Calibrating for Operational Intelligence: Applying Lean Leadership principles to eliminate waste and accelerate strategic outcomes.
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Securing Strategic Advantage: Providing the "outside force" needed to refine the entrepreneurial mindset and sharpen decision-making at the highest levels.
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As a TEDx speaker and Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Shawn stays at the intersection of emerging leadership theory and practical application. When you engage Shawn, you gain a partner who possesses the highest levels of education and the tread-marks of real-world executive leadership.​
Our Services
Business
Coaching
Collaborate with an experienced business and executive coach for transformative growth that translates to performance. Maximize leadership and confidence to achieve goals and drive success.
Operations
Strategy
Unlock unparalleled business optimization with an Operations Strategist. Elevate leadership, drive results, streamline processes, and enhance organizational performance.
Leadership & Team Development
Partner with a Leadership and Team Development expert. Our tailored training programs foster impactful growth and cultivate effective leaders, ensuring cohesive teamwork for lasting excellence.
Client Testimonials
“I engaged Shawn seven years ago when I was hired as the new President & CEO. I knew I needed an experienced, independent coach to help me navigate the multitude of challenges and opportunities facing me. He helped me prioritize and think through virtually every aspect of my management and leadership role. The first area of focus was to create a culture to build our future on. Shawn has provided thoughtful and direct counsel that has contributed significantly to our success. Shawn’s professional experience in both for-profit and academic executive roles, along with his educational credentials, provides a unique perspective and depth. His approach has always been tailored to my needs, coupled with a focus on improving my executive effectiveness.”
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Steve H., CEO, Woodsboro Bank
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“Outside Force was instrumental in the owner’s creating a working transition plan for our 80-year family firm. With Outside Force’s help, the firm successfully assisted one generation in transitioning its executive management to the next family, the Chief Executive Officer. This transition was augmented by an Outside Force experiential learning program designed for the company’s senior management. Positive results were achieved in their professional growth. Outside Force’s counsel and programs of the company’s key management have led to significant financial and personal results.”
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Gary R., Chairman, Total Biz Fulfillment
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"Before partnering with Shawn as my business coach, I faced challenges in leading my team of 10 employees. Since working with Shawn, not only has our team grown to 34 members, but our annual revenue has tripled! Shawn’s expertise in strategy and business operations helped me streamline business operations and improve our efficiency. Shawn's approach involved a deep dive into understanding my personal leadership style and the business objectives I had in mind. He didn't stop there; he also took the time to recognize the unique strengths within our team, enhancing our overall performance. His experience as a CEO combined with his academic credentials make Shawn an incredibly valuable resource, and my ROI on the time spent with him has been immense."
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Luke M., Owner, ShieldCo
"Shawn provides immediate value and impacts sustainable business growth with his unique ability to translate theory into actionable plans. You can read books and watch YouTube, but those aren’t tailored to where you or your business is and what’s required to reach your next level. Shawn’s coaching has provided me with clarity on both the destination (goals) and the journey (strategy) for personal development and professional advancement. I highly recommend him!"
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Jean R., Owner, OpEx Process Consulting
“Shawn's extraordinary insight and wisdom on a range of topics seems to know no bounds. He is able to bring his considerable experience and leadership skills to bear on an amazing variety of business opportunities and challenges. My time working with him has helped bring clarity and an action plan for achieving goals.”
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Michelle L., Esq., Leveque IP
“I appreciate Shawn’s servant leadership, his passion for and commitment to the success of the engagement.”
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Chad G., President, Furmano's