Our Team

Community. Connection.

Collaboration.

The Lir Cultural Coaching team consists of consultants and community practitioners immersed in their communities and in their practice. This allows us to ensure our trainings and sessions are led by facilitators across lines of identity that can incorporate tools and techniques applicable in every day life. We pride ourselves on being relational and building impactful relationships with those we work with. Project teams generally consist of at least two facilitators who are selected depending on the scope, sector and needs of the work at hand.

Meet Our Founder

Ryan Virden

  • Ryan's written contributions can be found on prominent platforms such as Teaching Tolerance, The Good Men Project, and Twin Cities Daily Planet, among others. His academic journey is underpinned by a bachelor’s degree in Social Studies, along with MLS and M.Ed degrees specializing in critical studies, equity, and inclusion.

    Driven by a passion for positive change, Ryan Virden remains dedicated to reshaping perceptions, fostering dialogue, and empowering individuals and organizations to navigate conflicts constructively

Ryan Virden is an accomplished educator, author, and cultural advocate based in Minneapolis. With a keen focus on nurturing inclusive environments, Ryan collaborates with individuals and organizations to cultivate mindsets and skills for effectively building relationships and communities across diverse contexts.

Ryan's extensive experience includes working with organizations nationwide, guiding them towards establishing restorative cultures within their environments. Notably, he held the role of Restorative Justice Coordinator for Minneapolis Public Schools and currently serves as a professor in the peace and justice department at St. Thomas University.

The Coaches

  • Beatriz Alcazar Alvarez

  • Anika Nailah

  • Shanene Herbert