This course is for you if you’re an arts administrator, artist transitioning to management, or arts leader looking to break through career blocks, step into your leadership, and get the recognition you deserve. It’s not for you if you want passive learning or aren't ready for introspection and real career change.

I get it! Busy professionals need flexibility. Uplevel offers flexible learning with recorded sessions, live coaching, and many different small group discussion times that fit your schedule. You’ll have lifetime access to materials, so you can move at your own pace. You get to choose how you participate.

If your goal is to simply get a job right after the program, you might be missing the bigger picture. Uplevel isn’t just about landing your next role—it’s about transforming and building your entire career trajectory. Your skills as a leader, no matter where you go, is something that lasts a lifetime. Plus, with a year-long membership to the Changing The Narrative Community, you’ll continue to build your network, develop your future, and gain new opportunities—even after the course ends.

Once you register, you’ll have the option to choose from five different small group slots, each designed with recommended career experience levels in mind. This ensures you can join a group that feels like the right fit for where you are right now. That said, past participants have found incredible value in interacting with people at different stages of their careers. 

Just ask Kevin D, Director of Music Programming at CapRadio: “This was as much a networking opportunity as it was professional growth. More than anything I was excited to speak with folks who thought similarly to me about our industry, hoping that together we could become a force for good change."

Similar to the above, the diversity of thought and experience actually enhances the learning experience. You’ll find that different perspectives lead to richer discussions, and it’s all about finding solutions that work across various contexts.

Here’s what Chelsea C, Executive Director at Peninsula Symphony had to say: “I felt stuck. Having only my organization as a model for success…constrained our collective thinking. I thought there must be examples outside the org that I could pull in to refresh our thought processes and create lasting impact in our community in a real way.”

It's completely natural to feel this way. The group setting is a safe space where you’ll gain support, and sharing allows you to grow as a leader by building stronger, more authentic connections. You can share as much or as little as you want— those who participate more tend to get more out the experience.

Definitely! Especially if you are considering a career pivot, or want to learn more about administrative roles, this content will be valuable to you. Artists have participated in past cohorts and always bring so much value to the group.

Pick whichever group you feel you identify with the most. These groups are meant to be a welcoming place wherever you are on your journey.

We offer flexible payment plans to make the investment more manageable. Remember, investing in yourself and your career pays off in ways that far outweigh the initial cost. Uplevel can lead to career advancement, higher pay, and greater job satisfaction.

Allison L, Associate Director of Digital Engagement at the St. Louis Symphony told me this:

“After taking the course, I received multiple promotions at the Pittsburgh Symphony. However, I ultimately was able to identify a much better fit for me at the St. Louis Symphony. I have since been able to use my voice confidently in a way that allows people to listen, ultimately leading to strong rapport with the executive team!”

Uplevel has many small group times each week. If you can't make your regular group time one or more weeks, feel free to grow your network by joining another group date/time that week. You're always welcome to skip a week if you need, too.

It’s not about being “ready”; it’s about being committed. Waiting for external factors to change means you may never take action. This course helps you take control and create change on your own terms — no matter the circumstances. If you take fast action, I’ve got a few surprise bonuses for you

First off… you don’t have to talk about your organization if you’re not comfortable. This coaching program is focused on YOU, not your organization. 

If you do bring up your organization, our discussions are confidential and focused on constructive feedback and solutions rather than negativity. Also, discretion and leadership go hand in hand. You’ll develop the skills to handle tough situations without undermining anyone or compromising your values.

Absolutely. The CTN Community is all about gaining knowledge and staying up to date on industry research, but Uplevel takes it way further. Think of Uplevel as a bootcamp where you’ll actively work on implementing that knowledge and making changes, not just understanding it. It’s about applying the strategies directly to your specific role, navigating real-world challenges, and taking concrete steps to advance your leadership

This course is intentionally offered at a lower price than other arts professional development programs and a lower price than one-on-one coaching.

Additionally, I want to help people from historically marginalized groups be able to attend to increase representation in the arts and will offer a limited number of pay-what-you-can slots. If you come from a historically marginalized or underrepresented group(s) and feel your income sources are different than peers that are paying full price, please contact us here to be considered for a PWYC option.