Melinda Rodriguez is a Facilitator at Drum Cafe West Coast. She possess expertise in wellness, personal development, public speaking, leadership development, healing and 22 more skills. Colleagues describe her as "Melinda Rodriguez has zeal toward helping others as well as a talent for leading with dignity and resolve. This combination allows Melinda to strike a balance within her leadership style so she can be as effective as a teacher/coach/facilitator as possible. I have had the pleasure of working alongside Melinda for several projects and can attest to her expertise within teaching/coaching. Her foremost concern is for her students/clients to feel self-empowered; following the advice of the adage “teaching to fish” instead of just “giving a fish.” She creates curriculum that is interactive and adaptable for each student’s needs. This aids in the comprehension of the material as well as increasing the likelihood of successful completion of the coursework. Whether guiding a large group through a single drumming event or instructing a small mentoring certification class over the course of several months, Melinda’s leadership style focuses on inclusion. Individuals walk away from Melinda’s events feeling encouraged at their participation and excited about what they just learned/experienced. As much as Melinda’s leadership style is inclusionary, it is also evolutionary. Melinda seeks to be a catalyst in a person’s development so she creates opportunities for her students/clients to challenge themselves, and create goals that work to enhance/develop identified strengths. Therefore, she engages in a partnership with the student/client so they feel supported as they push out of their comfort zone. As someone who also has experience within program planning/development, workshop facilitation, and mentorship, I value Melinda’s style. She is not only a peer, but a mentor who shares a similar philosophy- “you can never stop learning.” The best teachers are those that acknowledge they too are students and find “teachable moments” every day; this belief is at the core of Melinda’s leadership. It is the reason why I continue to work with her on my professional development, and can whole-heartedly recommend her for any position that gives her the opportunity to lead/teach." and "Since 2007, Melinda was my Mentor and Instructor for several courses. These courses ranged in length from one year to a weekend seminar. Because of Melinda, I am now a Certified Shamanic Therapy Practitioner, Certified Spiritual Healing Practitioner and a Reiki Level I Practitioner. I have found Melinda to be very compassionate and understanding. She has a great deal of knowledge that she applies to her courses and consultation services. I have received healing sessions from Melinda and regular interactions during my mentorship program with her. Not only does she take the time to develop deep and meaningful interactions with her clients, she communicates well and gives supreme customer service. Melinda has a great deal of passion and experience with her drumming services. She can uplift a room with high energy and positivity during her sessions. She makes others feel comfortable and welcome. I will always be grateful and have a special relationship with her as my Spiritual Mentor and would highly recommend her services to others."