In a world brimming with noise, distraction, and pressure to do more, Nell Derick Debevoise offers something different: a roadmap to leading with purpose, clarity, and grounded impact. On the latest episode of Hello Moxie, Nell joined host Nicole Donnelly for a rich, insightful conversation that unpacked her “Lead in 3D” framework and how we can all better align who we are with how we show up in the world.

What is Leading in 3D?

Nell’s approach centers on three core spheres of influence: Me, We, and World.

“Three-dimensional leadership means simultaneously keeping your eyes on all three prizes—yourself, your teams and relationships, and the broader world,” Nell explained. “It’s about alignment. And alignment unlocks impact.”

This framework is more than conceptual—it’s a lived philosophy Nell has refined through her work with hundreds of leaders, from rising MBA students to “modern elders” preparing their next chapter.

Instead of pushing for constant productivity, Leading in 3D invites leaders to do less—but more meaningfully.

“3D leaders don’t do more. They have more impact without doing more by getting really aligned,” Nell shared in the exclusive bonus segment for Hello Moxie members.

Getting Clear on Purpose (Without the Pressure)

One of the most refreshing themes from the episode is Nell’s honest take on the anxiety surrounding “finding your purpose”—especially for high-achievers.

“There’s a real thing I call purpose pressure,” she said. “That frantic feeling of ‘I should know exactly what I’m here to do!’ But the truth is, purpose doesn’t usually show up all at once. It’s emergent.”

She recommends making purpose practical: track where you spend time, energy, and attention—and how those things make you feel. What brings aliveness? What brings dread?

Alignment Over Overwhelm

In a time when global chaos can feel crushing, Nell’s guidance is to zoom in, not spin out.

“You have a circle of concern, but you also have a circle of influence. When we try to act outside our influence, we dilute our energy.”

Her solution? Make a Don’t List—and stop doing what doesn’t align. Free your capacity for what truly matters.

Equine Coaching and Nonverbal Wisdom

Perhaps the most unexpected and fascinating part of Nell’s work involves horses.

“Horses don’t talk. They sense,” she explained. “They mirror what’s happening in us before we’re even conscious of it. That feedback is powerful.”

This nonverbal, embodied learning offers breakthrough insight for leaders who are used to operating in high-performing, head-centric spaces.

Her Moxie and Her Muse

Nell’s definition of moxie?

“It’s enlightened no’s and whole embodied yeses.”

She finds inspiration in Hilma af Klint, the trailblazing Swedish artist whose visionary abstract works predated Kandinsky—but weren’t unveiled until decades after her death.

“She knew the world wasn’t ready for her art. So she made it anyway, and preserved it for the future. That’s moxie.”

Want access to exclusive bonus segments like Nell’s “Don’t List” strategy and get regular updates from the Hello Moxie team?

✨ Register for free here to become a Hello Moxie member.