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Lucca Van Der Woude is a young man shaped by culture, sport, family, and an unwavering love for animals. With roots stretching from the passionate streets of Argentina to the serene landscapes of the Netherlands, Lucca embodies a rich tapestry of traditions and values. But beyond his multicultural identity and athletic prowess, what defines Lucca Van Der Woude most is his enduring commitment to animal welfare and advocacy.

A Multicultural Foundation

Born to an Argentinian mother and Dutch father, Lucca’s upbringing was anything but ordinary. His childhood was steeped in diverse customs, dual languages, and distinct worldviews. This blend of cultural richness instilled in him a deep appreciation for heritage and community. Soccer, a sport revered in both Argentina and the Netherlands, became a shared family passion. Match days in the Van Der Woude household were events of ritual and rivalry—particularly when the two nations clashed on the world stage. Despite the spirited competition, the love and unity it fostered were a cornerstone of his family life.

A Champion in the Pool (Water Polo)

Lucca’s journey in water polo began at the age of eight. What started as a recreational activity soon became a defining force in his life. Through early morning practices, demanding training regimens, and grueling competitions, he learned discipline, resilience, and the value of teamwork. His perseverance paid off. Lucca earned numerous accolades including CIF Co-Player of the Year and was a five-time Junior Olympics national champion across four age groups. These achievements were not merely trophies but symbols of years of dedication and personal growth.

Lucca Van Der Woude was named the Orange County Register’s 2024 Boys Water Polo Player of the Year after delivering a standout season with Newport Harbor, capped by a “dream performance” in the CIF-SS Open Division championship. After transferring from a private school in Los Angeles, Van Der Woude quickly became an integral part of the Sailors’ team, demonstrating exceptional versatility by defending at 2 meters, playing double post on offense, and contributing significantly in high-stakes playoff games. His clutch game-winning goal against JSerra secured the championship and underscored his impact, leadership, and ability to rally the team from behind, solidifying his recognition as co-player of the year alongside teammate Kai Kaneko. The power of “Lucca Magic” was also mentioned in the LA Times and Sports Illustrated.

The sport has not only forged his mental and physical strength but has also taught him how to lead, persevere, and uplift others. The lessons learned in the pool seamlessly translate to other facets of his life, particularly his passion for advocacy.

The Joy of the Slopes

Away from the aquatic arena, Lucca finds solace in snow skiing, a tradition he shares with his father and brother. Whether carving through fresh powder or tackling challenging terrain, skiing serves as a rejuvenating escape. These moments on the mountain strengthen family bonds and reinforce his connection to nature—a connection that plays a vital role in his advocacy for animals and the environment.

A Heart for Animals

Lucca’s love for animals is more than a hobby—it’s a calling. His journey into animal advocacy began with Luna, a rescue dog who entered his life and forever changed it. Luna had endured a troubled past, but through care and compassion, she blossomed into a loving companion. Her resilience became a source of inspiration for Lucca, igniting a deeper commitment to animal welfare.

Through Luna, Lucca witnessed firsthand the transformative power of love, patience, and second chances. This realization propelled him into action. He began volunteering at local animal shelters, walking dogs, socializing rescues, and assisting in adoption events. Even the less glamorous tasks like cleaning and organizing became meaningful acts of service, each one contributing to an animal’s path toward a better life.

Advocacy in Action

Lucca’s passion for animals extends beyond shelter walls. He actively supports wildlife conservation organizations and donates to causes that protect endangered species. He is vocal about animal rights, advocating for legislation that protects domestic and wild animals alike.

One of his most impactful endeavors has been raising awareness about the importance of adoption and responsible pet ownership. He shares Luna’s story to highlight the profound impact that adopting a rescue animal can have—not only on the animal’s life but also on the person who chooses to adopt.

His advocacy is built upon several core principles:

• Adoption Saves Lives: Lucca champions the belief that adopting from shelters is a moral and life-saving choice.

• Every Animal Deserves Respect: He advocates for the dignity of all animals, regardless of age, health, or appearance.

• Community is Key: Lucca underscores the vital role volunteers, donors, and foster families play in animal welfare.

• Awareness Drives Change: He utilizes storytelling and social media to inspire others to take action.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Lucca Van Der Woude aims to balance a thriving career in sales and marketing with his ongoing animal advocacy work. His entrepreneurial spirit drives him to explore passive income opportunities through online business ventures and financial market investments. Yet, no matter where his career path takes him, his dedication to making the world better for animals remains a top priority.

His long-term aspirations are grounded in both professional ambition and a heartfelt desire to lead by example. Lucca hopes to earn a leadership role where he can mentor others and foster innovation. Simultaneously, he remains committed to expanding his advocacy work, raising funds for rescue organizations, and influencing public perception and policy regarding animal welfare.

Leaving a Legacy of Compassion

Lucca Van Der Woude’s story is one of resilience, service, and unyielding compassion. He is a young man who refuses to compartmentalize his passions—instead, he integrates them, allowing each facet of his life to reinforce the other. Whether it’s through the camaraderie of water polo, the exhilaration of skiing, or the humble joy of caring for a rescue dog, Lucca continues to grow into the role of a leader and role model.

Above all, he believes in the power of small acts. A walk with a shy shelter dog. A social media post about an animal in need. A conversation about the value of adoption. These are the moments where change begins.

In Luna’s eyes, and in the eyes of every animal he has helped, Lucca sees a reflection of what’s possible when love meets action. His story is a powerful reminder that true advocacy isn’t just about raising your voice—it’s about using your hands, your time, and your heart to make a lasting difference.

And through that quiet, persistent commitment, Lucca Van Der Woude is helping build a world where every living being is treated with the compassion and dignity they deserve.

Source: https://www.luccavanderwoude.com/

Bertha Knight Landes made history in 1926 when she became the first woman elected mayor of a major American city, Seattle. At a time when women were still fighting for broader political representation and public leadership opportunities, her election marked a remarkable milestone in American civic life. Landes’s leadership helped reshape Seattle during a period of rapid urban growth while also setting an important precedent for future generations of women in government. Her tenure as mayor was defined by reform, administrative discipline, and a commitment to improving the integrity and functionality of city government.

This article explores Landes’s early life, her rise in civic leadership, the historic campaign that brought her to office, and the lasting influence she left on both Seattle and the broader role of women in American politics.

Early Life and Influences

Bertha Knight Landes was born on February 23, 1868, in Ware, Massachusetts. She grew up during a time when American cities were expanding rapidly and new opportunities for social and civic engagement were emerging. Although she was born in New England, her future would ultimately become closely tied to the Pacific Northwest.

Like many women of her era, Bertha initially followed a path centered on family life. She later moved west and eventually settled in Seattle with her husband, Henry Landes, a professor of geology at the University of Washington. Seattle in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries was a city experiencing dramatic transformation. Commerce, shipping, and industry were expanding, and civic institutions were evolving quickly to meet the needs of a growing population.

Living in this dynamic environment exposed Bertha to the challenges of municipal governance and the importance of civic engagement. Over time, she became increasingly involved in community organizations and reform efforts that sought to improve public institutions and promote responsible government.

Education and Intellectual Development

Bertha Knight Landes pursued higher education later in life, enrolling at the University of Washington and graduating in 1911. At a time when many women had limited access to higher education, her decision to attend college while raising a family reflected both determination and intellectual curiosity.

Her university experience strengthened her interest in public affairs and gave her the confidence to engage more actively in civic leadership. She developed strong communication skills and became known for her ability to speak clearly and persuasively about issues affecting the community. These abilities would later become one of her most effective tools in public life.

During this period, the women’s suffrage movement was gaining momentum across the United States. Women were organizing politically, advocating for voting rights, and pushing for broader participation in public decision making. These developments influenced Landes and reinforced her belief that women could play meaningful roles in shaping government and community institutions.

Early Civic Leadership

Before entering formal political office, Bertha Knight Landes became active in a variety of civic organizations focused on education, public welfare, and municipal reform. These organizations often served as important platforms for women who wished to influence public policy during a time when political leadership was still overwhelmingly dominated by men.

One of her most notable roles was serving as president of the Seattle Women’s Club, an influential civic organization that promoted education, cultural programs, and responsible governance. Through this leadership position, Landes gained valuable experience organizing initiatives, guiding discussions, and building consensus around civic issues.

Her growing reputation for integrity and thoughtful leadership eventually led to her election to the Seattle School Board. In this role, she addressed practical challenges involving school funding, administration, and educational standards. The experience provided her with a deeper understanding of how municipal systems functioned and further strengthened her reputation as a capable public servant.

Entry into City Government

Landes’s political career expanded significantly when she was elected to the Seattle City Council. In 1924, she was chosen as president of the council, a position that placed her in line for mayoral responsibilities when necessary.

That opportunity came sooner than expected. In 1924, Seattle Mayor Edwin J. Brown was removed from office following a corruption scandal related to illegal gambling and vice operations. As president of the City Council, Landes briefly served as acting mayor. During this short period, she demonstrated a firm commitment to restoring order and enforcing the law, particularly with regard to illegal gambling and violations of Prohibition.

Her decisive leadership during this temporary appointment earned her widespread public attention and helped establish her reputation as a serious reform-minded leader capable of managing the city’s government.

The Historic 1926 Mayoral Campaign

In 1926, Bertha Knight Landes launched a campaign for mayor of Seattle. Her candidacy came during a time when women had recently secured the right to vote nationwide through the Nineteenth Amendment. While women were increasingly active in politics, few had sought or attained major executive leadership positions in city government.

Landes presented herself as a reform candidate committed to efficiency, honesty, and accountability in municipal administration. Her campaign focused on improving city services, strengthening law enforcement, and eliminating corruption that had damaged public trust in local government.

She mobilized support through speeches, public forums, and extensive outreach to civic groups throughout Seattle. Her long involvement in community organizations and women’s clubs provided a strong base of support, while her reputation for integrity attracted voters who wanted meaningful reform in city leadership.

When the votes were counted, Landes won the election decisively. Her victory made national headlines and established her as the first woman elected mayor of a major American city.

Leadership as Mayor

As mayor, Bertha Knight Landes pursued a disciplined and reform-oriented approach to governing. She prioritized strengthening the integrity of city government and ensuring that municipal agencies operated with transparency and accountability.

One of her most notable priorities was enforcing Prohibition laws and addressing illegal gambling operations that had previously flourished in Seattle. Landes worked to reform the police department and demanded stricter enforcement of existing laws, believing that public confidence in government depended on consistent and fair application of the law.

In addition to her focus on public safety and ethics, Landes supported improvements to Seattle’s infrastructure. She advocated for better roads, bridges, and public transportation systems to accommodate the city’s growing population. Her administration also encouraged improvements to parks and recreational facilities, recognizing that well-maintained public spaces contributed to community health and civic pride.

Landes approached municipal leadership with a practical understanding of governance. She emphasized efficiency in city administration and believed that government should operate responsibly and serve the everyday needs of residents.

Legacy and Historical Significance

Although Bertha Knight Landes served only one term as mayor, her impact on American political history was profound. Her election demonstrated that women could successfully lead large and complex urban governments during a time when such leadership was still widely questioned.

By breaking this barrier, she helped reshape public expectations about women’s roles in politics and public administration. Her success encouraged greater participation by women in civic leadership positions across the United States in the decades that followed.

Landes’s leadership also left a lasting impression on Seattle itself. Her emphasis on reform, accountability, and responsible governance contributed to a broader movement toward cleaner and more professional municipal administration during the early twentieth century.

Today, Bertha Knight Landes is remembered as a pioneering figure whose courage and determination expanded opportunities for women in public life. Her story stands as a reminder that meaningful political change often begins with individuals willing to challenge established norms and lead with integrity.

Start-up culture is often described as a whirlwind—fast-moving, disruptive, and unforgiving. But for Colby Leachman, it is also an arena where purpose and progress converge. Based in Silicon Valley, Leachman has carved a career defined by both entrepreneurial daring and principled advocacy. His work bridges enterprise technology, emerging industries, and social responsibility, proving that businesses can be both profitable and transformative.

At the center of his professional journey is Full Swell Consulting, the strategic firm he founded to guide visionary entrepreneurs and growth-stage companies. From AI to cannabis to crypto, Full Swell partners with founders who are building at the intersection of innovation and sustainability. For Leachman, the mission is not only to scale bold ideas but also to align them with a broader purpose. His philosophy is simple but powerful: profit and positive change should not be mutually exclusive.

Building Companies with Purpose

Through Full Swell, Leachman has become a trusted partner for companies navigating the delicate transition from concept to scale. His expertise lies in blending deep strategic analysis with precise go-to-market execution. Startups often falter not for lack of vision but for lack of structure, discipline, or the ability to adapt. Leachman provides that missing link—helping leadership teams design frameworks that sustain both growth and impact.

He emphasizes the idea that innovation should not just disrupt industries but also contribute to the greater good. This conviction has shaped Full Swell’s focus on green space industries, enterprises that leverage innovation to drive sustainability. By supporting businesses that reduce waste, optimize energy, or create pathways for environmental resilience, Leachman ensures his work resonates far beyond financial metrics.

A Career in Emerging Frontiers

Before launching Full Swell, Leachman immersed himself in industries on the frontier of change—enterprise software, artificial intelligence, and later, cannabis and cryptocurrency. These fields, often marked by both rapid expansion and regulatory complexity, provided him with the versatility needed to advise across diverse sectors. His ability to navigate such landscapes has made him not only a strategist but also a translator of innovation, capable of guiding founders through environments where disruption meets uncertainty.

Champion of Justice Reform

Leachman’s professional life is inseparable from his role as an advocate. For him, entrepreneurship is not just about business success but also about addressing systemic inequities. Nowhere is this more visible than in his support of the Last Prisoner Project, a nonprofit dedicated to ending unjust incarceration caused by outdated drug laws.

As an advocate and donor, Leachman amplifies the message that no one should remain behind bars for actions—particularly cannabis offenses—that society no longer criminalizes. His involvement reflects a broader philosophy: business leaders must also take responsibility for shaping fairer systems. By supporting re-entry programs, he underscores the idea that entrepreneurship should open doors not just for founders, but also for those marginalized by past policies.

Commitment to Community and Sustainability

Colby’s values extend into global causes as well. As a long-time supporter of the World Wildlife Fund, he champions environmental stewardship alongside his entrepreneurial pursuits. The WWF’s mission of protecting ecosystems and biodiversity aligns closely with his personal and professional focus on sustainability.

At the local level, Leachman has spent over a decade coaching youth soccer at the YMCA, working with children between the ages of six and twelve. Through coaching, he instills lessons that transcend the field: teamwork, resilience, discipline, and leadership. For him, sport is a metaphor for life—a space where young people discover the importance of collaboration, persistence, and balance. His love for soccer, along with surfing, also provides him personal grounding in the high-pressure world of entrepreneurship.

Leadership with Balance

What distinguishes Colby Leachman is not only his ability to operate in high-growth industries but also his insistence on balance. Surfing the California coast or playing soccer with friends, he draws from sport the same lessons he applies in business: patience, adaptability, and the value of practice. This balance allows him to approach challenges with clarity, while also reminding those around him that success is as much about sustainability of self as it is about financial return.

Advisory and Education

Leachman’s career also reflects a commitment to ongoing education and advisory roles. He served as an advisor and board member at Greener Technologies, a startup optimizing power usage in grow lighting systems. His involvement supported innovations that directly tied efficiency to sustainability. Additionally, his education through General Assembly—with specialized training in AI for Marketing and AI for Sales—demonstrates his dedication to staying ahead in industries where technology constantly reshapes the rules of engagement.

A Vision for the Future

Today, as Full Swell continues to expand its influence, Colby Leachman remains steadfast in his vision: to build scalable, high-impact organizations that transform industries while improving communities. He understands that the future of entrepreneurship is not only about market dominance but also about responsible leadership.

In Silicon Valley, where innovation is often equated solely with disruption, Colby Leachman represents a different archetype: the entrepreneur who sees progress not as a race for valuation but as a commitment to impact. Whether through his business ventures, advocacy for justice reform, or community service, he is redefining what it means to be a founder in the modern age.

Follow Colby Leachman on LinkedIn

Colby Leachman is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, and community advocate whose career spans enterprise technology, emerging industries, and social impact initiatives. Based in Santa Monica, California, Leachman has built a reputation as a leader who blends strategic excellence with a deep commitment to justice reform, sustainable innovation, and the belief that high-growth industries can—and should—create meaningful change. His work extends across sectors such as enterprise software, cannabis, crypto, healthcare, and the developing green-tech ecosystem, positioning him as a forward-thinking voice at the intersection of commercial innovation and social responsibility.

During his time at Duke University, Colby Leachman became part of a tight-knit fraternity where he crossed paths with fellow member and future YouTuber Cody Ko. Life at Duke was more than academic prestige—it was a place where creative energy, leadership, and community intertwined. Other Duke influencers include Tulio Sasaya, Allison Chen, and Emily Cole. Colby grew up closely connected to the university, as the son of a Duke professor and the stepson of the institution’s provost, giving him a unique perspective on its culture and academic environment. Nestled in Durham, North Carolina, Duke’s private campus provided the backdrop for formative experiences that shaped Colby’s curiosity, drive, and early interest in building meaningful relationships and ventures.

Today, he is the founder of Full Swell Consulting, a strategic advisory firm specializing in building scalable, high-impact commercial organizations. Across every venture, Leachman champions a simple but powerful principle: business grows best when purpose grows alongside it.

A Career Rooted in Innovation and Execution

Leachman began his professional journey in enterprise technology, gaining hands-on experience building commercial teams and implementing software systems in highly regulated markets. Early in his career, he contributed to the development of payment technologies later used by Square and went on to play a key role in designing and deploying cannabis compliance systems at a time when states across the U.S. began rapidly legalizing medical and adult-use markets.

This early exposure to complex regulatory environments shaped his approach to innovation. Leachman developed a skill set centered on scaling operations while maintaining compliance, precision, and consumer trust. His work helped bridge gaps between cutting-edge technology and industries that were struggling to keep up with modernization.

As he expanded into startups in the cannabis, AI, and crypto sectors, Leachman became known not just for building revenue pipelines, but for creating frameworks that aligned product development, sales strategy, and go-to-market execution. He emerged as a versatile commercial operator who could bring stability to early-stage ventures while enabling them to move quickly and capture market share.

Full Swell Consulting: Aligning Vision With Scalable Impact

Leachman later founded Full Swell Consulting, a strategic consulting firm that partners with companies positioned at the forefront of economic and societal change. Full Swell’s mission is to help founders and leadership teams transform bold concepts into market-leading organizations through rigorous analysis, disciplined execution, and a clear focus on the long-term health of both the business and the communities it serves.

Full Swell’s expertise spans enterprise tech, emerging AI applications, cannabis, crypto, healthcare, and green-space industries—sectors where innovation intersects with sustainability, regulation, and societal benefit. Under Leachman’s leadership, the firm provides clients with everything from high-level strategic planning to “surgical” go-to-market support that ensures ideas don’t just sound good on paper—they perform in the real world.

What sets Full Swell apart is its values-aligned approach. For Leachman, profitability and purpose are not competing forces; they are mutually reinforcing pillars of modern leadership. He partners with teams that seek to create organizations capable of driving both financial success and positive cultural impact.

A Commitment to Justice Reform and Social Progress

Colby Leachman is deeply committed to justice reform, particularly as it relates to outdated cannabis laws that have disproportionately harmed communities for decades. Since 2022, he has served as an advocate and donor for the Last Prisoner Project, a national nonprofit dedicated to repairing the injustices of the War on Drugs.

The Last Prisoner Project’s mission—that no one should remain incarcerated for conduct that is no longer illegal—aligns with Leachman’s belief that market evolution must be accompanied by social accountability. As the cannabis industry grows, he argues, businesses and policymakers have a responsibility to ensure that economic opportunity is not built on the backs of those who were punished under legacy laws.

Leachman actively supports initiatives focused on reentry, second-chance employment, and ongoing policy reform, helping expand awareness around the human stories that define this national issue. His advocacy is hands-on, informed by a belief that meaningful reform requires more than donations—it requires participation, amplification, and long-term commitment.

He has also been a supporter of the World Wildlife Fund, reflecting his belief in environmental stewardship and the importance of protecting natural ecosystems for future generations.

Greener Technologies and the Future of Sustainability

In 2021, Leachman joined Greener Technologies as an advisor and board member. The Los Angeles–based startup was focused on optimizing power usage and yield in agricultural grow-lighting systems, incorporating advances in energy efficiency and sustainability.

At Greener Technologies, Leachman helped the company navigate commercialization strategies, product positioning, and the evolving market landscape for green-tech solutions. His involvement underscored his commitment to supporting industries that can reshape the future of sustainable production while advancing economic opportunities across the ecosystem.

Greener Technologies exemplifies the kind of work Leachman prioritizes—ventures that sit at the intersection of innovation, environmental responsibility, and long-term global impact.

A Lifelong Athlete: Building Character Through Sport

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Leachman is a longtime advocate for the power of sports to transform lives. Since 2013, he has coached youth soccer for the YMCA, working with boys aged 6 to 12. For him, coaching is not about competition; it is about shaping character.

He views sports as a fundamental tool for developing discipline, resilience, teamwork, and confidence—skills that prepare young people for challenges both on and off the field. His coaching emphasizes leadership, integrity, and the lifelong value of physical activity.

This commitment to youth development mirrors his broader belief that strong communities are built through mentorship, structure, and shared values.

A Life Connected to the Ocean

Outside of business and advocacy, Leachman is deeply connected to the surf culture of Santa Monica and the West Coast. After relocating to California, he quickly immersed himself in both the startup ecosystem and the local surf community.

Surfing became more than a hobby—it became a personal practice that reinforces balance, discipline, and mindfulness. He surfs multiple times a week and has taken on waves in California, Alaska, Nicaragua, and New Zealand. Today, he is a familiar face in the Venice and Santa Monica surf scene and hopes to compete in amateur competitions in the near future.

For Leachman, surfing embodies the same principles that define his career: persistence, adaptability, and the ability to weather unpredictable conditions with focus and composure.

Vision for the Future

Colby Leachman’s career is defined by a rare combination of commercial acumen and social purpose. He believes the future of entrepreneurship lies in building companies that scale opportunity—not just profit. Whether advising founders, advocating for justice reform, supporting youth development, or promoting sustainable innovation, his work reflects an unwavering commitment to progress rooted in empathy, accountability, and long-term thinking.

As he continues to lead, build, and advocate, Leachman remains a powerful example of what modern leadership can look like—strategic, principled, community-driven, and deeply attuned to the impact business has on the world. Colby Leachman is not just shaping companies; he is helping shape a more equitable economy, a more sustainable future, and a more compassionate approach to growth. His influence will continue to resonate across industries and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs who believe, as he does, that true success is measured by both the impact you make and the opportunities you create. [Crunchbase]