Industry Voices: Dan Wooler

Dan Wooler of TC, founder of the STAR scheme, shares how ACES training is reshaping workplace culture by fostering compassion, resilience and supportive leadership

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared in Dealer Support

This month’s Industry Voices features Dan Wooler of TC, founder of the STAR scheme and its mission to foster compassionate, trauma-informed workplaces. Dan reflects on the power of leadership, the importance of acknowledging adversity and how ACES (Adverse Childhood Experiences) training can transform the way businesses support their teams, customers and suppliers.

“When I started STAR scheme, I spoke with the TC board about what I wanted to do. I said if I step back, you guys are going to have to step up and they did. Every chance I get, I make it a point to acknowledge that if it weren’t for their efforts, the hundreds – and hopefully thousands – of children and families would not be able to benefit from the STAR scheme.

Building a Supportive Industry

With the STAR scheme, we offer ACES (adverse childhood experiences) training, focusing on its impact on the brain and behaviour. Almost all people have been touched by some form of trauma, and that goes for the people we work with.

People discuss mental health in business, but we’re focusing on understanding its root causes and compassion and understanding. Of course, that’s going to make you a more effective manager and a better colleague. It’s about creating safe environments in which people feel nurtured and loved. You’re going to be a better supplier, because when you meet an angry customer, you stop and think hang on a minute – what’s going on for them I don’t know about?

The insights I’ve gained over the past year have definitely influenced how I approach business. When I think about business, I think about waypoints. Just as we set waypoints to reach while rowing, we have goals and milestones in business. But there might be external factors and currents pulling us off course. The key is to stay focused and continue pushing forward – that way the waypoints become indicators of whether we’re generally on the right path.”

ACES Training

If your business could gain from ACES training, STAR offers corporate training services. Christian Lang, MD, along with academic Nicholas Garrick and trustee Siobhan Collingwood, a world-renowned ACES expert has developed a comprehensive training package designed to make a positive impact on your staff. https://www.starscheme.co.uk/