About

I’m Gina Danford, founder of Red Zebra Coaching, and I’m on a mission to help leaders and entrepreneurs cut through chaos and focus on what really drives results.

With over 25 years of leadership experience, I’ve partnered with organizations from Marriott and Colliers International to high-growth startups and mid-sized businesses, designing and facilitating leadership, communication, and productivity programs that help teams perform under pressure. The common thread? Helping leaders and teams replace hustle with clarity, strategy, and systems that deliver measurable results. My clients have scaled operations, streamlined processes, and increased revenue — sometimes by as much as 30–40%.

As a two-time cancer survivor, I know firsthand how to tackle challenges with grit, perspective, and humor. That same mix of resilience and strategy shows up in every workshop, coaching session, and program I lead.

When I’m not helping businesses grow, you’ll find me hiking, biking, or camping in the California sunshine with my husband, teenage daughter, and our two rescue dogs.

LET'S DO THIS!

Proven Results

Scaling & Exits: Successfully scaled and sold a Bay Area tech firm.
Global Consulting: Advised Colliers International, Marriott, and IBM on business strategy and growth.
Revenue Growth: Developed a $40M sales program — during a recession.
Market Repositioning: Increased client revenue by 42%.
Efficiency & Profitability: Overhauled workflows, leading to 30% revenue boost.
Executive Coaching & Leadership: Trained 65+ executives and led workshops for 250+ attendees.

Ready to scale smarter and reclaim your time? Let’s make it happen together.

a dog wearing a red bow tie and a red bow tie

My Support Staff

At Red Zebra, a love for animals is not just a part of the name – it's ingrained in the culture. My support team is comprised of specialty staff members, each a rescue with a unique story to tell. While the presence of dogs in the workspace infuses an element of play and joy, there's more to it than meets the eye.

Research conducted at Washington State University and Virginia Commonwealth University illuminate the strategic benefits of having pets around. Interacting with dogs has been shown to reduce stress and enhance cognitive functions such as thinking, planning, and concentration.

Here's a bit about my favorite four-legged team members.

Harrison Danford, "Harry"

Head of Barketing

Allow us to introduce Harry - our newest addition.

Harry is our charismatic Head of Barketing, infusing the canine outreach department with a contagious spirit of exploration and excitement. With a tail that wags in tune with his enthusiasm, Harry brings a playful and collaborative atmosphere to the workspace. His adventurous energy is a catalyst that propels the team into creative journeys, leaving behind lasting pawprints of innovation. Always ready for the next challenge, Harry ensures every project becomes a 'pawsome' tale of success, just waiting to be unleashed!

a dog sitting on a yellow background with a dog

Tuxedo Ted, "Tux"

Feline and Squirrel Patrol Officer

Meet Tux - the esteemed senior staffer.

With infectious enthusiasm, Tux extends a warm welcome to everyone he meets, his joyous tail wagging as a symbol of the positive energy he brings to the workplace. As our Patrol Officer, he takes his protection duties seriously, fearlessly standing guard against nefarious felines and wily squirrels, ensuring the safety of our Red Zebra haven. Under his vigilant patrol, the team is safe from every critter and Amazon delivery truck in the vicinity. Tux also loves to make surprise appearances on Zoom. He adds fun to interactions and ensures clients receive the 'wag-nificent' service they deserve.

Pippa

Stress Management Strategist

Say hello to Pippa - our office darling.

Pippa is our designated 'barkitect' of stress relief. She possesses an uncanny ability to sniff out stress and graciously reminds everyone to take a much-needed 'paws' during the day. Pippa effortlessly captivates visitors with her irresistible charm. She's guaranteed to steal a lap, a nap, and your heart. With her furry presence, the workspace transforms into a more balanced and happier place, thanks to the joy, comfort, and 'paws-perity' she brings to the team.

a dog is sleeping on a pillow on a pillow

The Original Red Zebra

The Namesake

When I was searching for the perfect name for the company, my daughter played an unexpected role. Three years old at the time, Samantha repeatedly handed me her cherished stuffed zebra, donning a vibrant red bow, insisting, "Mommy, you need my RED zebra!"

And so, Red Zebra was born.

While "red zebra" typically refers to a tropical fish, I draw inspiration from the majestic mammal. The zebra's stripes hold a captivating duality. On one hand, they provide a natural camouflage, protecting zebras from predators who struggle to single out an individual from the herd. Yet, these very stripes also serve as unique identifiers, allowing each zebra to be recognized within its community.

The zebra symbolizes the harmonious integration of opposites – the power to maintain individuality while contributing to something greater than ourselves. It's a powerful metaphor that resonates with the essence of my work.

Join Red Zebra and embrace the spirit of the zebra, celebrating both our distinctive individuality and our collective strength.

Ready to ditch the hustle and work smarter?

Tired of the endless grind and feeling like you're running in circles? It's time to steer your business or team toward sustainable success. Let's transform your business together!