Dr. Danny G.
The Leadership Alchemist™
The systems integrator for the human soul —
attuned to rhythm on campuses and across all modalities.
Photo by Alec Cheravitch
[The Teacher’s Desk, Columbus, Ohio] Quick Facts: Dr. Danny G.
20+ years in education, leadership, and student affairs
Former AVP & Dean of Students at Ohio State and San Francisco State
Creator of The Leadership Alchemist™, HeartWired™, and belonging-centered frameworks — including Rhythm-Based Leadership™ and Spirit-Fueled Leadership™ models.
Early background in computer science; committed to ethical AI
National speaker, consultant, and systems strategist
Known for helping teams move from burnout → breakthrough
Dissertation (2012): queer identity, virtual space, and belonging
Based in Columbus, OH; working nationally + virtually
Actions & Resources
Clarity. Care. Courage. Connection.
I’ve spent over two decades helping people navigate the chaos of broken systems, burnout, and bureaucracy—from residence halls to national platforms.
Here’s the truth: we don’t need more perfectionism, pressure, or performative productivity. We need to lead with soul.
That’s why I created The Leadership Alchemist™—a name, a calling, and a way of working that treats leadership as a human craft: curious, brave, relational, and transformational.
I partner with leaders, teams, and institutions to move from:
Disconnection → Belonging
Burnout → Clarity
Control → Care
Fear → Purpose
My Philosophy
Leadership isn’t a title; it’s a relationship — with ourselves, with others, and with the systems we inherit (and dare to change).
My practice is grounded in:
Soulful leadership: reclaiming inner wisdom and values-aligned action.
Systemic awareness: seeing how culture, technology, and trauma shape our choices.
Compassionate disruption: challenging what’s broken with care, not shame.
I coach and consult across all levels — from campus-based practitioners to executive teams — using frameworks such as:
Rhythm-Based Leadership™, aligning leadership practice with natural cadences of energy, seasons, and renewal.
Spirit-Fueled Leadership™, reconnecting leaders to inner wisdom as a source of resilience.
Vitamin G™ and The 6 G’s of Brave Belonging, practical tools for weaving courage and care into leadership cultures.
My frameworks have evolved, but the thread is the same: leadership is not about speed or control, but about resonance, pacing, and belonging.
Meet Mr. Cooper (the Pug), Chief Belonging Officer™
(Resident Therapist, Greatest Listener, Professional Napper)
Photo by Alec Cheravitch
[Autumn 2025, Schiller Park, Columbus, Ohio]Every great leader needs a trusted co-pilot. For The Leadership Alchemist™, that’s Mr. Cooper — a 13-year-old pug with a big heart, a steady snore, and an even steadier presence.
From surviving early health challenges to accompanying Danny through career shifts, pandemic isolation, and life’s most vulnerable seasons, Cooper has been more than a pet — he’s been a grounding force and a gentle teacher.
As Chief Belonging Officer™, Cooper models what it means to show up with unconditional presence. His “job description” includes:
Keeping watch beside the desk chair during long workdays
Reminding leaders that belonging is about proximity, not perfection
Offering therapy snuggles during strategy sessions
Snoring loudly enough to remind us that rest matters, too
Cooper represents the spirit of belonging that runs through all of HeartWired™ and The Leadership Alchemist™. When we say “we,” we mean it — this work is powered not just by intellect and strategy, but by the companionship, presence, and joy he embodies every day.
The HeartWired™ Movement
HeartWired™ is my systems-level methodology for reimagining student engagement and belonging in a world shaped by modality shifts, AI, and cultural burnout. It integrates human-centered design, ethical tech, and practical change tools so staff and students can thrive—together.
Curious? → Explore HeartWired™ →
Why 'The Leadership Alchemist'?
I’m not here to fix you. I’m here to help you remember who you are—to honor your wisdom, challenge your edges, and walk with you as you lead more bravely and more whole.
If you’re tired of soul‑numbing meetings, disconnected systems, or performing leadership instead of living it… welcome.
You’re in the right place.
Let’s rewire how we lead—with heart, with light, and with each other.
— Dr. Danny G. (he/him/his)
The Leadership Alchemist™
Founder, Wired for Belonging™
Let’s Connect
Whether you’re curious about coaching, exploring consulting, or just want to start a conversation — I’d love to hear from you.
Complete the form and I’ll be in touch personally within 2–3 business days.
Thanks for being here.
— Dr. Danny G. (he/him/his)
The Leadership Alchemist™
Founder, Wired for Belonging™ LLC