Leading Forward: Anne Hed Shows How Courage Shapes Leadership

For 16 years the Good Leadership Breakfast has been a place where leaders speak honestly about how goodness shapes their lives and their work. More than 115 leaders have graced the stage to share stories of accountability, optimism, and the belief that goodness pays. The speakers come from large corporations, community-serving nonprofits, and owner-operator entrepreneurs who build something from nothing.

Anne Hed is one of those entrepreneurs. She is the featured guest and speaker at the Good Leadership Breakfast on Friday, April 10.

She and her husband Steve founded HED Cycling Products in 1984. They started in their garage with a mix of curiosity, discipline, and a shared passion for cycling. Since then, HED Cycling has grown into a world class company that continues to shape the future of championship racing.

Overcoming the ultimate U-turn.

In 2014, Anne lost her husband Steve suddenly. She was left with a company that still had ambition, customers who counted on the brand, and a legacy she wanted to honor. Anne stepped forward with courage and resolve in ways that align with the goodness pays message. The company continues to grow under her leadership.

What inspires me most is how Anne talks about the future. Her son is active in the business, which changes how she thinks and how she leads. She is thinking about other industries where the innovative materials used in HED Products could create efficiencies. Anne holds deep appreciation and respect for the past, and looks ahead with the same enthusiasm and grit that she and Steve had 40+ years ago.

How does goodness pay?

The question I always ask speakers is simple: How do you know for sure that goodness pays for you and your leadership? Hear Anne’s response to that simple question on April 10.

If you don’t have a ticket for the Good Leadership Breakfast on Friday, April 10 yet, you can get one by following this link. If you are unable to attend the Breakfast in person, we’ll circle back with a blog and a podcast to reflect on the morning and share her answer.

Why not ask yourself that question now: Where in your leadership do you see clear evidence that goodness pays for you?