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DEFINING MOMENTS

The Life and Leadership of Quiet Revolutionary Frances Hesselbein

What People Are Saying About Defining Moments​

"I think people always respond well to “quality”…… things they know to be true and good. I salute you for producing such a wonderful tribute to an amazing leader."

 

Harry Rhoads, Co-founder, Washington Speakers Bureau

 

 

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“As Sarah's masterful storytelling unfolded on screen, I felt the physical and emotional weight of those Girl Scout badges on my shoulder. I hope every leader has the opportunity to experience this film. Sarah's work ensures that Frances Hesselbein's extraordinary leadership principles will continue to inspire generations to come.”

 

Connie Dieken, Founder and CEO, The Influence Lab

 

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“This was incredible - it gave me the chills - inspiring.”

 

“This [documentary] was really beautiful. I am so inspired by her story and life.”

 

“Great job on telling her story. I hope this becomes another way her amazing story and life will live on.”

 

“No words for this - it was inspiring, thoughtful, and brought back so many memories. She was an incredible leader and a very special human.”

 

Attendees of the 2024 Girl Scouts of the USA Board Chair/CEO Conference

 

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“Why do you lead from character and values? What role does respect, civility, and character play in your leadership? Why do leaders care about inclusion? Each of us needs to see this film and think through these questions for ourselves. We need to share Frances’ story more than any time in the last 50 years—our democracy depends on the messages and lessons from her life.”

 

Matt Clark, Colonel, U.S. Army

 

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“I have seen [Defining Moments] twice now, and I am inspired more and more each time!”

 

Brenda Episcopo, MS, CEO Girl Scouts of Northeastern NY

 

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“Defining Moments captures Frances Hesselbein’s warmth, intelligence, and leadership wisdom, emphasizing that a leader’s character is central to their effectiveness. In a time when character is too often overlooked in those with power, her mission-driven, values-based approach—rooted in humility, love, and service—remains a powerful model for leaders today.”

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Read the full review here.

 

Michael Lee Stallard, Author of Connection Culture and Cofounder/President of Connection Culture Group

 

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“Defining Moments offers an inspiring glimpse into Girl Scout history and the life and leadership of a truly transformational Girl Scout leader.”

 

Girl Scouts of the USA

 

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​"I think this was one of the best documentaries I've seen. I'm ashamed to admit that I did not know about Mrs. Frances until today, but to know that she created a circular form of leadership, redefined the Girl Scouts, and her authenticity was amazing to see. She is a true inspiration to follow and I'm grateful I was able to learn her story."

 

“This is one of the most inspiring films I have ever seen. It redefined my definition of leadership.”

 

“Being selected for the FHSLP means so much to me and even more now I know how extraordinary of a woman she was. She makes me feel empowered to be a woman.”

 

“Beautiful documentary! She was an amazing leader and trailblazer who is a huge inspiration for me.”

 

“Her care for others is felt deeply. As an Asian-American, her story of the vases brings me to tears. I have faced hate for who I am so her mindset of respect for others sits heavy on my heart.”

 

Cadets, United States Military Academy at West Point

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“Defining Moments is a powerful and beautifully crafted film. Frances Hesselbein's story is deeply moving, and the way her friendship with Peter Drucker is brought to life on screen is truly inspiring. It was such an honor to host the screening and share Frances's inspiring story with our community. It was an evening we won’t forget!”

 

Drucker School of Management

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“Frances Hesselbein's story is the epitome of purpose-driven leadership and lifelong impact. Her legacy is a beacon of hope and inspiration, showing us that one person's love and service can truly transform the world. From Girl Scouts to the military, her influence knew no bounds.

 

Thank you for sharing her incredible journey, Sarah McArthur, it’s a reminder that greatness is found in unwavering commitment to making a difference.”

 

Rhett Power, CEO and Co-Founder, Accountability Inc.

 

 

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“What an honor to team together with our world-class leadership school, St. Ursula Academy Toledo, Ohio and world-class leadership expert Sarah McArthur, Executive Producer of "Defining Moments: The Life and Leadership of Quiet Revolutionary Frances Hesselbein" to honor the legacy and leadership of this world-class leader, Frances Hesselbein.

 

SUA joins the prestigious list of institutions, including the United States Military Academy at West Point, The New York Public Library, Tufts University and the University of Pittsburgh Frances Hesselbein Leadership Forum, who were selected to do a private screening of this remarkable film.

 

I am deeply grateful to friend and "battle buddy" (as Frances would say), Sarah McArthur for choosing SUA for this remarkable opportunity and hosting this amazing event for 500 high school students and young women leaders. Most of all, thank you Sarah for your courage, commitment, leadership, faith and vision that is sharing Frances' legacy and leadership with the world! It is an honor to create bright futures together!”

 

Julie Carrier, Global Authority, Speaker and Author on Leadership Development for Youth, and Founder, The Leadership Development Institute for Young Women

 

 

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“It was an honor to showcase the incredible leadership of Frances Hesselbein to our students at St. Ursula Academy in Toledo, Ohio.

 

Defining Moments captures an inspiring story of servant leadership in action. Learning about Frances Hesselbein put a face on the character based Leadership Program that she inspired and that we are proud to offer to all of our high school students.”

 

Mary Werner, President at St. Ursula Academy and Junior Academy

 

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“Thank you for showing me a different perspective on leadership… [it] has shown me that I can be myself through any obstacle life throws at me. I realize that the more you put into something, the more you get out of it.”

 

“The documentary helped me understand women in leadership in a way I have never experienced before.”

 

“I loved hearing you talk about Frances Hesselbein. It was so impactful and helped me understand not only her accomplishments, but also her character… hearing her story is unbelievably empowering for girls.”

 

“You influenced me to be more like Frances H. You shared an amazing film that showed all of Frances’s strengths. I feel so lucky to have been able to watch the film.”

 

High School Students, St. Ursula Academy, Toledo Ohio

© 2025 Sarah McArthur. All rights reserved.

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