2026 Business Roundtable: Critique Without Catastrophe

Feedback is essential for growth -- yet even well-intended input can trigger defensiveness, self-doubt, and misunderstanding. This session introduces a practical framework for understanding and responding in ways that support learning, resilience, and stronger relationships.

Participants will learn:

• Common feedback triggers
• How to find value critique, even when it's messy
• Practical tools for staying steady, confident, and curious

Doors will open at 8AM, with the program beginning at 8:30AM. Coffee and light breakfast will be available. Economic development updates will be provided from the Town of Bedford and Bedford County

About Our Speaker
Amanda Stanley is the founder of The Artisan Leader, established in 2022 to help organizations build and sustain thriving workplace cultures. Prior to that, she served for a decade as CEO of DePaul Community Resources, a nonprofit human services organization headquartered in Roanoke, VA.

An artist at heart with two decades of experience—from front-line social work to the C-suite—Amanda brings a deep commitment to people-centered care shaped by her career in local public service and the social work profession.

She approaches her consulting practice with a designer’s mindset: asking thoughtful questions, uncovering insights, and reimagining what’s possible. Whether facilitating a strategic planning process, teaching leadership to middle managers, or coaching an executive through major transition, Amanda serves as a creative partner who helps clients move beyond current constraints toward transformative change.

Amanda holds a Bachelor's degree in Sociology and Studio Art from the University of Richmond and a Master’s in Sociology from Virginia Tech. She has earned certificates in Leadership (Hollins University), Design Thinking (Darden School of Business at UVA), Political Leadership (Sorensen Institute at UVA), and is an ICF-credentialed coach through the Academy of Creative Coaching.

She lives at the foot of the Peaks of Otter in Bedford, VA with her husband and two sons.

About Business Roundtables
In order to bring awareness to the Bedford business community regarding important resources and issues, the Bedford County Economic Development, Town of Bedford Economic Development, and the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce co-host Business Roundtables three times a year. These events feature an expert speaker, economic development updates, light breakfast, and built-in time for networking and questions. Best of all, Business Roundtables are free and open to the public, although RSVP on BedfordAreaChamber.com is requested.