Meet the Serving Team
Dr. John Stahl-Wert
John founded the Center for Serving Leadership which was established in 2011 and recently renamed World Serving Leaders. With over 40 years in executive leadership, he has dedicated his career to empowering leaders around the world.
Mark Peterson
Mark is an accomplished executive leader possessing extensive experience designing and implementing successful strategic plans that drive organizational growth, solidity, and community visibility.
Mark is an accomplished executive leader possessing extensive experience designing and implementing successful strategic plans that drive organizational growth, solidity, and community visibility.
Until 2020 Mark served as President & CEO of Intersect Illinois, a privately funded, not-for-profit, acting as the lead business recruitment and marketing organization for the State of Illinois. Prior to joining Intersect, Mark served as President & CEO for the Greater Rochester Enterprise (GRE), in Rochester, New York.
Believing firmly in staff empowerment, Mark’s ability to establish high-function teams has been consistent throughout his career. His motivational management style leads to fierce loyalty, constant collaboration, and accountability for the attainment of desired results.
Mark holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from St. John Fisher University and a master’s degree in business administration from the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship at Kent State University. Dedicated to giving back to his community, Mark has served on many community boards including as a member of the Board of Trustees for his alma mater St. John Fisher University.
Our Staff Team
Core Team
Julie Walsh lives in Haines City, Florida, USA, where she and her husband, John, have enjoyed more than 30 years of marriage. They have two adult children, Kayleigh and Daniel, a daughter-in-law, Kathryn, and recently relocated to Central Florida to be closer to family and, of course, the Disney parks.
Julie serves as the Executive Assistant to Dr. John Stahl-Wert, Founder and Chairman of World Serving Leaders. Serving Leadership has been a meaningful part of her life for more than 20 years, beginning with an organization that implemented the Serving Leader model. Today, she is grateful to help advance that same mission as part of the World Serving Leaders team.
Having completed the Train the Trainer program, Julie is excited to use her knowledge to better serve WSL partners and clients while helping others grow through the Serving Leader model. In her spare time, she enjoys radio voiceover work, singing with her hometown Pittsburgh band, Troubled Saints, and making memories with her family at Disney.
Brian manages World Serving Leaders’s digital marketing, social media, and logistics. Certified by ServeSafe and Global Priority Solutions, he is also a World Serving Leaders Trainer. The oldest of eight siblings, Brian is a devoted husband and father. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, photography, prayer, and meditation.
Mike Weber is a senior executive devoted to servant leadership, shaping organizations through trust, empowerment, and care for people. Throughout his career, he has championed long-term relationships and meaningful definitions of success. Mike’s approach aligns individual strengths with business goals, creating value for employees, customers, and communities. He describes himself simply: “I am a servant.”
Helmwise, founded in 2023 by Scott Medieiros, brings over a century of combined experience to guiding leaders of enterprises large and small. Alongside Helmwise Fellows, we partner with seasoned “Captains” to reduce dysfunction, scale operations, and preserve culture so organizations can serve others. Passionate about helping leaders navigate an ever-changing seascape, we provide wisdom, proven principles, and a community of peers to bring clarity, confidence, and peace of mind on the journey of growth.
Sagamore believes society is transformed by a network of partners who join forces for the greater good.
The Sagamore Network is an overlapping collection of policy experts, advisors, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and impact investors who form strategic alliances to solve big problems. This network of friends forms loose ties and dense networks. The loose ties are comprised of those who are joined by a common set of values—to admire solutions, not problems, to use their platforms for the greater good, and to value the inherent dignity of all others. The dense networks are senior leaders who join forces to go after some of the biggest challenges in the world, such as the wealth gap, rising mental health challenges, and international development
SOS Adventure, founded in 1996 by Johannes Amritzer and his wife Maria, is a non-profit evangelistic missions ministry. The organization organizes massive festivals across the African continent and equips teams to serve alongside its mission. With the Holy Spirit as Director and Jesus as the center, SOS Adventure journeys through Africa’s frontiers with a singular purpose: to proclaim the Gospel to the lost.
Leonel Alaniz, born in 1999 in Nicaragua, began serving as a worship pastor in 2017 and now works as an associate pastor with a team of leaders in his hometown church. He has trained pastors in rural areas through the church’s Bible Institute. Recently married to Daniella, they share a passion for leadership development. After completing the Serving Leader Cohort with the World Serving Leaders, Leonel is eager to share the model with leaders across Nicaragua.
Dr. Sydney Barcus, with a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, specializes in organizational transformation across Fortune 500 companies in healthcare, hospitality, and more. A consultant, coach, and speaker, she blends analytical insight with a heart for service, empowering clients to drive measurable impact. A passionate advocate for Servant Leadership, Sydney mentors graduate students and executives. Based near Dallas, she enjoys life with her husband Jimmy and daughter Sophia, along with reading, weaving, hiking, and puzzles.
Lisa has 30+ years of leadership, coaching, and program management experience across nonprofit, government, and faith-based sectors. A Gallup-certified Strengths Coach with an MBA in Strategic Leadership, she specializes in crisis management and team development. Inspired by The Serving Leader, Lisa is a certified facilitator of the Serving Leader Model and partners with Dr. John Stahl-Wert. She balances leadership with family life as a mother and grandmother and serves on her church’s leadership team.
Dan Cawley is a seasoned business leader, real estate entrepreneur, and faith-driven mentor whose life journey reflects the power of transformation through the grace of forgiveness, perseverance, and the discovery of purpose. With decades of experience navigating the highs and lows of professional and personal life, he brings a unique blend of vulnerability, wisdom, and leadership insight to every story he tells.
The eldest son, overshadowed by his late father’s small-town real estate company and younger brother’s successes, Dan overcame addiction and rebuilt relationships to found a values-based boutique commercial real estate company in the suburbs of Chicago.
Dan was the Founder (1998), former President and CEO of Cawley Commercial CRE until selling the company in January 2023. Today, that firm has three locations, 25-plus brokers, and a full-service property management platform. Dan is a 30-year member of the Society of Industrial and Office Realtors, the premier brokers’ association in the world. He has also served as President of Northern Illinois Association of Commercial Realtors, Association of Industrial Real Estate Brokers and President of the LaSalle Rotary Club.
His life is a testament to the redemptive power of faith and the importance of living with intention. He now dedicates his time to business and property owners while mentoring brokers of all levels on the ins and outs of commercial real estate. Dan is also a certified trainer for World Serving Leaders, helping individuals grow their spirituality and discover their God-given purpose in life.
Ian is a Master Human Capital Strategist with Canadian, Irish, and U.S. citizenship. A Queen’s University graduate in Human Resources, Finance, and Labor Law, he has led people functions at Fortune 200 and 500 companies, aligning culture with purpose. A teacher, speaker, and executive coach, Ian has shared insights globally on human capital strategy and Serving Leadership. Partnered with the World Serving Leaders for over a decade, he lives with his wife Toni and their three children.
Donnette, Nurse Manager at the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System’s Community Living Center, specializes in care for residents with complex respiratory needs. An Air Force veteran and medic, she also teaches LPN students at North Coast Institute. Living in Hiram, Ohio with her husband Shawn and two children, Donnette’s experience with the World Serving Leaders strengthened her focus on staff engagement, teamwork, and trust. She is committed to developing future leaders and fostering servant leadership in her organization.
Tad Douce is an educator, leader, and author with experience as a teacher, instructional coach, and school administrator since 1996. He leads EduEverything, Inc., overseeing national STEM programs like the National Robotics Challenge and Drones in School. A passionate advocate for purpose-driven leadership, Tad has shared the Serving Leader model across schools and organizations in the Midwest since 2016. He lives in Ohio with his wife Lori and enjoys building gadgets, traveling, and motorcycle adventures.
Ron Embleton has national and international experience in sales, marketing, leadership development, and teaching. Passionate about helping others serve with excellence, he has built businesses abroad and serves as a local pastor mentoring leaders and church planters in Northeast Ohio. Holding degrees in Evangelism, Language and Literature, and Leadership, along with TEFL certification, Ron became a Certified Training Partner through Serving Leadership in 2019. He lives with his wife and enjoys family life with their five adult children and grandchildren.
Rick retired from Honda of America Manufacturing after 30 years, holding roles from assembly line work to training and development. With an MBA in Organizational Leadership and Registered Corporate Coach certification, he is now Director of Business & Leadership at Rosedale Bible College, focusing on discipleship, curriculum, and community engagement. Rick’s experience with the World Serving Leaders deepened his passion for guiding others toward authentic leadership. He lives in Ohio with his wife Candy.
Ruth Hatchuel is the Veteran Experience Program Manager for Employee and Patient Experience at the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System. A Master’s-prepared Registered Nurse with 45+ years of clinical and leadership experience, she is certified in peri-operative nursing and as a Registered Nurse First Assistant. Ruth leads initiatives to enhance patient and employee experience through program development, data analysis, and conflict resolution. She is also a certified Trainer for the World Serving Leaders.
Dr. Andrea Hazim is a transformational speaker, author, trainer, and educator with 20+ years in personal development and social-emotional well-being. Founder of the Elev8Life educational foundation, she creates curricula and leadership programs to empower future leaders. Influenced by the World Serving Leaders, Andrea equips individuals and organizations for Biblical health of spirit, soul, and body. She lives with her husband, Dr. Jeff, and their three sons, and holds credentials in nutrition, chiropractic, broadcasting, and relationship education.
Dr. Jeff Hazim is a chiropractor, nutritionist, author, speaker, and holistic life coach committed to Christian family values and biblical leadership. Alongside his wife, Dr. Andrea, he shepherds their three sons and co-founded Full Stature Consulting. He pastors Kingdom Embassy Ministries and co-founded Nourish the Nations. Valuing the transformative impact of the World Serving Leaders, Dr. Jeff integrates integrity, biblical truth, and servant leadership into his coaching, ministry, and life philosophy.
Todd Johns is Founder and CEO of Revive Ministries, Inc. in Nicholasville, Kentucky, leading initiatives like Revive Life House for long-term recovery. A Valley Forge University graduate with a BA in Pastoral Ministry and Theology, he brings experience from business and ministry, including Whirlpool’s global supply chain and church planting. Passionate about helping others discover their purpose, Todd, married to Casey with three children, enjoys family, hiking, and fostering community, and is committed to leading future Serving Leadership cohorts.
Toni Kellar, ACC, is a transformational educator, certified coach, and organizational consultant, founder of Newsight Life, LLC. Specializing in ontological coaching and facilitation, she helps individuals and teams move from breakdowns to breakthroughs. A Newfield Certified Coach and ICF-accredited professional, Toni advances flourishing systems through her work with the World Serving Leaders, including developing World Serving Leaders’s online training program. Based in Southeast Ohio, she enjoys kayaking, hiking, photography, percussion, and lifelong learning with her husband.
Ted Kerr is Founder/CEO of Touchstone Capital, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser managing $160M for 300 households across 24 states and abroad. He also leads Touchstone Cares, a nonprofit supporting global charities, including Transformada Vidas in Brazil. A Certified Financial Planner® and Westminster College alumnus, Ted is a recognized industry expert and speaker. Passionate about serving others, he resides in Cranberry Township, PA, with his two children.
Stanley is a coach, trainer, and speaker who has inspired thousands across the U.S., Africa, and the Caribbean. Holding degrees from Nyack College, Fairleigh Dickinson University, and Fuller Seminary, plus an Honorary Doctorate in racial reconciliation, he combines academic and practical leadership expertise. Based in Northern California with his wife Ruby, Stanley enjoys travel, tech, and mystery films. As a World Serving Leaders training partner, he is passionate about helping leaders and teams grow, succeed, and lead with purpose.
Gabriel Madrazo, based in Mexico, is a husband and father of three with expertise in marketing, music, business development, and consumer behavior consulting. Passionate about developing effective teams, he applies the World Serving Leaders’s tools to foster high-performance cultures. Having witnessed the impact of poor organizational culture, Gabriel is committed to guiding organizations to thrive and grow through the Serving Leader Model.
Merv is an experienced business and nonprofit leader who embraces growth through hands-on learning and reflection. Since discovering the World Serving Leaders in 2020, he became certified in World Serving Leaders training and the 6 Working Genius Assessment Model. Living in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, near his Amish roots, Merv treasures his family of six children and is passionate about helping others grow in the Kingdom of God. He lives by the motto, “Start serving where you are today.”
Dr. Jeri Muoio, President and CEO of Great Cities for All, helps organizations build strong cultures, develop leaders, and create thriving workplaces. A former Mayor/CEO of West Palm Beach, Florida, she brings expertise in public education, senior leadership, and coaching. Trained in the Serving Leadership model with John Stahl-Wert, Jeri is a certified facilitator and Master Executive Cohort alumna. She lives in West Palm Beach with her husband Charles and enjoys time with her family, including three grandchildren.
Contact for more information about her cohort opportunities.
Jon Porter, from Central Indiana, is a musician, educator, coach, and spiritual leader with decades of experience empowering individuals and organizations. Holding a degree in Music Education from Ball State University, he has led in schools, churches, and performance venues. A devoted husband and father, Jon’s leadership is grounded in faith and relational integrity. Trained by the World Serving Leaders, he equips leaders in ministry, education, and nonprofits to lead with humility, vision, and lasting impact.
Jay Schindler, President and CEO of Miami Valley Leadership Foundation and founder of G2 Potential LLC, provides executive coaching and leadership development across the Midwest. A former CEO of Eskco Corporation and senior consultant with the Oliver Group, he brings deep experience in leadership strategy and talent development. Based in Dayton, Ohio with his wife, five children, and two grandchildren, Jay is inspired by the Serving Leader Model and partners with World Serving Leaders to help leaders grow with purpose.
Kim Tice brings more than 40 years of experience as an educator and executive leader across for-profit, nonprofit, Head Start, public, and family child care settings. A former Executive Director of Ohio AEYC and now Founder and CEO of the Serving Leader Center, she is a certified facilitator of the Serving Leader Model and has partnered with World Serving Leaders since 2017. Kim is known for her thoughtful, down-to-earth style that blends practical strategy with honest reflection. She creates trusted spaces where leaders feel seen and supported, asking insightful questions that help professionals gain clarity, strengthen relationships, and navigate complex challenges with purpose and confidence.
Merle has 25+ years of experience leading businesses and organizations, focusing on developing himself and others as serving leaders. Inspired by Dr. Stahl-Wert’s teachings, he integrates serving leadership principles into his work, driven to raise leaders who further the Kingdom of Christ. Residing in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, with his wife Beth, he balances leadership development with family life, raising twelve children, volunteering in public safety, and serving as an overseer in his local church.
Training experience:
• Certified Trainer of Serving Leader through Center for Serving Leadership. Conducted seven-week cohorts as well as three-session short courses with leaders across Ohio, Michigan and Indiana.
• Certified train-the-trainer through Wyndham Hotels and Resorts.
• Certified 360-feedback coach through LRI (Leadership Research Institute.)
• Designed and delivered in-house and packaged training programs at all levels of the organization, meeting training goals in a timely manner.
• (Examples include Performance Management, Coach/Mentoring, Leadership Development, Talent Development Training for Managers, Crucial Conversations, Emotional Intelligence.
CERTIFICATIONS, PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & EDUCATION
Advanced Certificate in Conducting Workplace Investigations Former SPHR & GPHR Certified
Finance for HR Professionals, Michigan State University Numerous Seminars to Remain Current
BBA, emphasis in HR/LMR Cleveland State University
AA, Pre-Professional Business Lorain County Community College
TECHNICAL BACKGROUND
Teams, Webex, Cisco, Adobe Connect, Zoom, USAJobs, VISTA, eCMS, PeopleSoft, Recruitmax, ADP HRB & Recruiting, SAP HRIS, Microsoft Office.
ASSOCIATIONS/ORGANIZATIONS
• Local SHRM Chapters including Cleveland, Akron, Lorain (President-elect), CSU.
• Volunteer for HR Games (Judge), NOHRC Committee and Mock Interview Program in Cleveland Public Schools.
• Developed Model Internship Program for HR students providing relevant work opportunities to prepare for employment upon graduation.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
• Hitchcock Center for Women. Healing Practitioner.
• Ohio Benefits Bank. Benefits Counselor.
• Cuyahoga Valley Career Center. Mock Interviewer.
• Dress for Success.
Julie Walsh lives in Haines City, Florida, USA, where she and her husband, John, have enjoyed more than 30 years of marriage. They have two adult children, Kayleigh and Daniel, a daughter-in-law, Kathryn, and recently relocated to Central Florida to be closer to family and, of course, the Disney parks.
Julie serves as the Executive Assistant to Dr. John Stahl-Wert, Founder and Chairman of World Serving Leaders. Serving Leadership has been a meaningful part of her life for more than 20 years, beginning with an organization that implemented the Serving Leader model. Today, she is grateful to help advance that same mission as part of the World Serving Leaders team.
Having completed the Train the Trainer program, Julie is excited to use her knowledge to better serve WSL partners and clients while helping others grow through the Serving Leader model. In her spare time, she enjoys radio voiceover work, singing with her hometown Pittsburgh band, Troubled Saints, and making memories with her family at Disney.
Rev. Greg Krowitz is the COO for PA Connecting Communities serving Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities & Autism in Southwestern PA. Ordained with the Assemblies of God, he pastored most every area of the church including Lead Pastor & Church Planter. Greg served as the Lead Assessor for a national church planting network and as an Assessor for the SOCAL Ministry Network. Prior to ministry, Greg was an internal investigator with a retail company with locations in PA, OH and WVA. He received Certification in Behavioral Interviewing & Interrogation from the Reid Institute in Chicago, IL. Married to Francie for 42 years, they have 2 adult children & 3 Grandchildren. Aligned over the last year with World Serving Leaders Vision, Mission & Values, Greg’s passion is identifying, mentoring, equipping, empowering & releasing leaders through the World Serving Leaders Model.
Lance lives in Warsaw, Ohio, with his fiancée, Rochelle. He enjoys the outdoors, including kayaking, mushroom hunting, gardening, and spending time with family. Lance earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, with concentrations in organizational behavior and personality assessment, from Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware, Ohio. Professionally, he serves as the Human Resources and Health & Safety Manager at Walnut Creek Planing in Millersburg, Ohio. Passionate about people, Lance specializes in safety, onboarding, training, and coaching, with a strong focus on supporting the well-being and growth of employees both inside and outside the workplace. He finds fulfillment in helping others grow into stronger employees, leaders, and community members.
Charles Kratzer is a leader of a manufacturing company in the United States with experience in operations, continuous improvement, leadership development, and team building. Throughout his career, he has been passionate about helping organizations improve performance while building strong cultures rooted in accountability, respect, and servant leadership.
Outside of work, Charles enjoys spending time with his wife and three children. He serves on the leadership team of his church and is committed to serving both his church and community while investing in the growth and development of others. Over the years, he has had the privilege of learning from and engaging with world-serving leaders, gaining valuable insights into leadership, service, and personal growth that continue to shape his approach to both business and life.
Charles strives to lead with integrity, humility, and generosity while helping people and organizations reach their full potential.