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Women Taking the Lead

The Women Taking the Lead podcast is a resource for women leaders, allies, and organizations looking to promote more women into senior leadership. Episode formats include specific leadership challenges, "on-air" coaching with women leaders, and interviews with internal talent and organizational development leaders. Women Taking the Lead inspires women to overcome self-doubt and lead with confidence, integrity and a sense of humor.
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Now displaying: Page 14
Oct 5, 2016

Luke Iorio is President of the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC). He is a dad, spouse, entrepreneur, conscious growth strategist, coach, blogger, podcaster, wide-angled observer, and enthusiastic participant in the game of life who seeks to ask and answer the question, “What’s truly possible?”

In fact, Luke has made a career out of disrupting life’s “good enough” status quo. A digital mastermind behind the Live Lead Play network (iPEC’s publishing arm), Luke has built a high conscious, multi-media publishing platform rivaling today’s lifestyle verticals. As a Certified Professional Coach, Luke became the youngest CEO in iPEC’s history and was soon recognized as one of New Jersey’s elite Forty Under 40 prodigies. All while helping to position iPEC as a Best Place to Work, and nabbing a top 10 spot amid Leadership Excellence Magazine’s Leadership 500 list.

Currently presiding as iPEC’s President, Luke and his team have graduated over 11,000 coaches and Coach Centric™ leaders traversing 44 countries via in-person training, immersion programs, and targeted education sweeping the virtual marketplace.

A Woman Who Has Influenced Your Life

Luke has had many women influence his life. His mother expanded his mind through art and creative thinking. His wife believed in him when his life was at a crux. And, his grandmother was the business leader and matriarch of a chain of music schools. All three women got him to be greater than even he thought he would be. 

What He Sees That Hold Women Back

Luke recognizes that when a woman takes over a traditional leadership position, they are normally walking into a role a man previously held. He seems them struggle to get their bearings in the beginning.

What He Has Learned From Women

Luke has learned a great deal about courage and a lesson in vulnerability from a client who lost her husband to cancer. She turned her tragic circumstance into her mission.

The Necessary Changes

Luke says if women were to lean into their feminine values, leadership styles and essence of who they really are, they would discover their extraordinary powers of influence.

What Are You Excited About

Luke is excited about working on his new book, A Meaningful Way, right now and he has recently re-launched his podcast to compliment the book.

Inspirational Quote

“People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing — that’s why we recommend it daily.” ~ Zig Ziglar

“The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure that you seek.” ~ Joseph Campbell

Links

Website: http://lukeiorio.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/luke.iorio

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lukeiorio

Live Lead Play Network: https://twitter.com/liveleadplay

Live Lead Play on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liveleadplay

 

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Jewel's Custom BooksEvery child wants to be the hero of their own story! With a Jewel’s Custom Book your child plays the central role in every book, bringing joy and delight when they hear their name and those of their family and friends. Visit jewelscustombooks.com to make your child the STAR of the show!

Zebralove Web SolutionsYour website tells a story about your business! At Zebralove Web Solutions, Milly and her team are going to make sure your website tells the story you want your customers to hear. Connect with Milly at zebralovewebsolutions.com to create the impression you want to make!

Private Facebook Community

https://www.facebook.com/groups/womentl/

For more resources
https://womentakingthelead.com

Oct 2, 2016

Honorée Corder is the author of 20 books, including Vision to Reality, pRosperity for Writers, Business Dating, the Successful Single Mom Book Series, If Divorce Is a Game, and the Divorced Phoenix. She is also Hal Elrod’s business partner in the Miracle Morning book series. Honorée coaches business professionals, writers, and aspiring nonfiction authors who want to publish their books to bestseller status, create a platform, and develop multiple streams of income. She also does all sorts of other magical things, and her badassery is legendary.

Key Takeaways:

[5:51] Honorée used her business partner as her avatar for inspiration while writing her latest book. 

[9:54] How Honorée addressed the main hurdles of starting the book writing process.

[12:50] Having a book lets clients know you are the expert they need to seek out.

[14:57] Get your first draft out and then work with an editing team to polish it up.

[19:14] The fever sets in when you start thinking about your second book while in the middle of your first book.

[23:32] Start by building your list to get people excited to get your book as soon as it available on Amazon.

[27:00] The title is what the book is about and the subtitle is the premise for the reader.

[30:18] How The Wheel of Fortune is re-purposing your book’s content.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Women Taking the Lead Episode 58 with Honorée Corder

@Honorée is sharing her story to inspire you on Women Taking the Lead #inspiration (https://womentakingthelead.com/163)

Website: HonoréeCorder.com

Twitter: @Honorée

Facebook: Facebook.com/Honorée

A Free Sample of Honoree’s Book: HonoréeCorder.com/youmustsample

Email for scheduling or information about coaching for writers:

Christina@HonoréeCorder.com

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Jewel's Custom BooksEvery child wants to be the hero of their own story! With a Jewel’s Custom Book your child plays the central role in every book, bringing joy and delight when they hear their name and those of their family and friends. Visit jewelscustombooks.com to make your child the STAR of the show!

Zebralove Web SolutionsYour website tells a story about your business! At Zebralove Web Solutions, Milly and her team are going to make sure your website tells the story you want your customers to hear. Connect with Milly at zebralovewebsolutions.com to create the impression you want

 

Find more resources at http://womentakingthelead.com

Sep 28, 2016

Meredith Bell has been an entrepreneur since 1982, and she’s an expert in helping companies develop the people side of their business. Meredith is co-founder and President of Performance Support Systems, a global software company based in Virginia. Meredith heads up marketing and sales for the company. Over the years, she’s served as an informal mentor and coach to the coaches, consultants, business owners and human resource professionals who use their products. One of her strengths is creating strong, long-term relationships. Meredith and her business partners have worked together for 25 years, and many of their clients and resellers have done business with them for 20 years. She understands what’s required to build the loyalty and commitment that lead to repeat business and referrals.

Playing Small Moment

Meredith’s playing small moment happened when she was bullied by a possible client to lower her price, and because she wanted the client’s business she gave in and lowered her price. She says she would not handle the incident the same way today.

The Wake Up Call

Meredith had a wake up call when she found herself ignoring her inner critic, telling her she wasn’t important enough to take a certain action. She acted quickly before there was time to second guess herself. She realized there was nothing wrong with being bold. 

Style of Leadership

People sense that Meredith cares for them. She pays attention to what people are saying and not saying. She lets them know she is there to serve them.   

What Are You Excited About?

Meredith is excited about her new online coaching system, Strong for Performance. It applies to those who are developing leaders. It excites her every day to see people motivated and inspired.

Current Business Challenge

Meredith finds it challenging to get the word out about her new product as quickly and as grand as possible. 

What Does Your Business Support System Look Like?

Meredith’s business partners have supporting skill sets that help make everything work. She also benefits from outsourcing and automation tools.     

Leadership Practice 

Listening deeply to people when they are talking is Meredith’s effective leadership practice.

Book to Develop Leadership

Straight Line Leadership by Dusan Djukich 

Advice For Younger Self

“Have more fun. Be less serious and lighten up.” And, “Make more bold requests.” 

Inspirational Quote

How can I serve this person so powerfully that they never forget this conversation for the rest of their life?” ~ Rich Litvin

Links

Website: http://www.strongforperformance.com/

Email: meredith@prostarcoach.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/meredithmbell

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredithmbell

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MeredithMBell

Free Gift:

Support Coaching videos and ebook: http://prostarcoach.com/coachingebookandvideos.asp

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Jewel's Custom BooksEvery child wants to be the hero of their own story! With a Jewel’s Custom Book your child plays the central role in every book, bringing joy and delight when they hear their name and those of their family and friends. Visit jewelscustombooks.com to make your child the STAR of the show!

Zebralove Web SolutionsYour website tells a story about your business! At Zebralove Web Solutions, Milly and her team are going to make sure your website tells the story you want your customers to hear. Connect with Milly at zebralovewebsolutions.com to create the impression you want

 

Find more resources at http://womentakingthelead.com

Sep 25, 2016

Dr. Michele Summers Colon is the author of Body Wisdom: 10 Weeks to Transformation So You Can Get and Feel Healthy Again. She is also a physician, entrepreneur, yoga instructor, and a motivational speaker offering workshops and online courses based on her book. Dr. Colon hopes to inspire women to live happier, healthier lives that honor their own bodies, wants, and desires. She is a holistic podiatrist in Southern California and lives with her daughter in a suburb east of Los Angeles, California where she hikes and practices yoga.

Playing Small Moment 

Michele was bullied during her formative years and she let that stop her from doing the things she loved. When she opened her shoe business she had thoughts about not being good enough and was worried about what people would think. But she worked really hard to get through it. 

The Wake Up Call

Michele’s wake up call came when she paid off all of her student loans. She realized she didn’t have to be in debt forever and she could accomplish big goals.

Style of Leadership

Michele leads by example. She finds the way that works for her and then teaches it to others. 

What Are You Excited About?

Michele is excited about her new podcast, Body Wisdom with Dr. Michele.

Current Business Challenge

Michele finds it challenging to build her team. She is figuring out how many team members she needs and how to best utilize the specific talents each team member has.

What Does Your Business Support System Look Like?

Michele has a business coach that provides support and consistently takes her to the next level. She also feels supported by her mastermind groups, her friends and her family.   

Leadership Practice

Michele has developed the important practice of deep listening.

Book to Develop Leadership

Tribes by Seth Godin  

Advice For Younger Self

“Just go for it. Don’t worry about what other people think.”   

Inspirational Quote

The secret of leadership is simple. Do what you believe in. Paint a picture of the future. Go there. People will follow.” ~ Seth Godin

Links

Website: http://www.drmichele.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/yogawithdrmichele

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/doctormichele

Linked In: http://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichelecolon

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/drmichele

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Jewel’s Custom BooksEvery child wants to be the hero of their own story! With a Jewel’s Custom Book your child plays the central role in every book, bringing joy and delight when they hear their name and those of their family and friends. Visit jewelscustombooks.com to make your child the STAR of the show!

Zebralove Web SolutionsYour website tells a story about your business! At Zebralove Web Solutions, Milly and her team are going to make sure your website tells the story you want your customers to hear. Connect with Milly at zebralovewebsolutions.com to create the impression you want to make!

Private Facebook Community

https://www.facebook.com/groups/womentl/

More Resources

https://womentakingthelead.com 

Sep 23, 2016

Over the last several bonus episodes we’ve been talking about all the things that get in the way of you being and showing up as who you really are: that unique, powerful, capable person who is going full-steam after their biggest goals with passion and enthusiasm.

Now that you know who you don't want to be, and who you are not, let's get to who you really are.

"Find out who you are and be that person. That's what your soul was put on this Earth to be. Find that truth, live that truth and everything else will come." ~ Ellen DeGeneres

As we discussed in the previous bonus episodes you may have been at the mercy of your stress reactions for so long that you are not really sure who you are anymore, though you may see glimpses of that person, but there are ways to get there.

A good place to start is your values. Your values are at the core of who you are.

Without thought your values guide you through your day-to-day life. You know you, or anyone else for that matter, has honored your values when you feel really great about them or something you did or a decision you made.

We are often attracted to those who share our values. We have thoughts like, “They get me” or “they get it.” We pick up on the shared values and feel like we’ve found another member of our tribe.

And guess what? You will also know when you or someone else has dishonored one of your values. You will immediately become upset.

Whenever something bothers me I quickly do what I call a "Values Scan" to see which value or values have been infringed upon. Once I have that awareness I do what's in my power to put it right.

You do not want to achieve success while dishonoring your values. Those who try usually sacrifice their health or relationships to do so.

Think of people who go to work every day to a job they hate. They know something is wrong but they convince themselves they don't have a choice in the matter. So they start overeating or drinking, or gambling or...you fill in the blank.

They go from Cocooning to The Amazon Warrior to tolerating…exhausting!

Chronic disease is also prevalent among those that know their life is not on track.

Do you have any idea how many clients who started working with me who had arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia‎ or some other debilitating condition?

Their body had been screaming at them for years but the good news is they made a decision and are doing something about it now. Uncovering what their values are and honoring those values as a priority alleviates some if not all of their suffering.

Living a life in accordance with your values will strengthen you. You will feel more confident, peaceful and fulfilled in the work and activities you engage in.

Are you ready to get at your core values?

I have a worksheet that you can use to identify your top values.

Once you know what your values are, and who you are at your core, you can use them to guide you in any decision you need to make.

Whenever you are faced with a new decision ask yourself, “What choice will honor my highest values?”

Thank you so much for listening and if you need help working through the values exercise or figuring out how to apply it to your life, business or current situation don’t hesitate to reach out to me at Jodi@womentakingthelead.com or through any social platform.

Have an amazing day and here’s to your success!

Find more resources at https://womentakingthelead.com

Leave a comment and let me know what you think! I love feedback.

Want to continue the conversation? Go here to join the Women Taking the Lead private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womentl/

Sep 21, 2016

Jessica Philippe is the founder of Uptrovert, a blog dedicated to helping introverts succeed without losing out on the magic of actually being an introvert. She’s currently focused on helping introverted entrepreneurs who thought they could start a successful business alone, to get over that fantasy and instead build a network they can rely on. When she isn’t helping other introverts kick ass at being themselves, Jessica is also a mom, scientist, gardener, and adventurer living in Vermont.

Playing Small Moment 

After attending a conference and feeling confident about her performance, people back at the office inferred Jessica should never have been invited―her invitation was only because no one else could go. Jessica started to believe what her colleagues were saying and it took her many years to move past it.

The Wake Up Call

When Jessica realized her sense of place was important to her, she took the necessary steps to continue living in Vermont. She started looking for inspiration outside of her traditional career and found opportunities everywhere.

Style of Leadership

Jessica leads by doing, and by setting an example that it is OK to try new things. That is what makes people follow her.

What Are You Excited About?

Jessica is excited about putting together a portfolio of tools for introverts. She wants to take fears and weaknesses and turn them into something positive. She would like to facilitate meaningful conversations.     

Current Business Challenge

Jessica’s business challenge is finding balance in her life. She is so excited about Uptrovert that she wants to work on it all day, every day; but Jessica knows she needs to take her time because she is in for the long haul.

Your Business Support System

Jessica’s husband has been amazing at picking up the slack when she gets excited about a new class or her new business. Also, she now has a coach she can trust.

Leadership Practice

Jessica always does basic background research on people she is going to meet with, in order to give her a sense of who they are. 

Book to Develop Leadership

Start with Why by Simon Sinek  

Advice For Younger Self

“Don’t listen to the people who are trying to get you to slow down!” and “Listen to your mother when she tells you that you can do anything you put your mind to.”      

Inspirational Quote

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people will not feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone and as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” ~ Marianne Williamson

Links

Web: http://uptrovert.com/

Email: jessica@uptrovert.com

Find more resources at http://womentakingthelead.com

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Jewel's Custom BooksEvery child wants to be the hero of their own story! With a Jewel’s Custom Book your child plays the central role in every book, bringing joy and delight when they hear their name and those of their family and friends. Visit jewelscustombooks.com to make your child the STAR of the show!

Zebralove Web SolutionsYour website tells a story about your business! At Zebralove Web Solutions, Milly and her team are going to make sure your website tells the story you want your customers to hear. Connect with Milly at zebralovewebsolutions.com to create the impression you want to make!

Sep 18, 2016

Stacy Tuschl is an Entrepreneur and Business Performance Strategist. She started her first business in her parents’ backyard at the age of 18, and turned that company into a 7 figure business. She is the author of the book, Is Your Business Worth Saving?, where she reveals proven strategies for pulling entrepreneurs out of a rut and launching them toward business success, and the host of the top-rated podcast Business Rescue Road Map.

Playing Small Moment

Stacy realized she had been playing small by only looking within the dance industry for inspiration for her business. It wasn’t until she started branching out that she realized how much more was available to her. 

The Wake Up Call

Stacy reached a level of success with her dance studio that she never thought was possible. She was nervous to extend her business reach even further. It wasn’t until a contractor told her she needed her Facebook page up and running that she overcame her fear of branching out to reach even more success. 

Style of Leadership

Stacy understands she is leading leaders. She encourages her team to work on personal development so the entire group can take the company to the next level of success.

What Are You Excited About?

Stacy is excited about her Level Up Facebook community and group coaching program.    

Current Business Challenge

Stacy always focuses on marketing and building her brand, so as her business grows she needs to add employees. She says it’s challenging to hire new team members while she is in the rushed mode of needing someone quickly.

What Does Your Business Support System Look Like?

Stacy has 40 members in her team. They allow her to work on the business and not in the business. She is able to work on things that matter the most to her business and delegate everything else. 

Leadership Practice

Stacy reaches out to every employee, every month using her popsicle stick method.

Book to Develop Leadership

Good Leaders Ask Good Questions by John Maxwell  

Advice For Younger Self

“You are the average of the 5 people you surround yourself with.”     

Inspirational Quote

“Don’t be the smartest person in the room.”

Links

Web: http://www.stacytuschl.com

Facebook: http://www.leveluptribe.com

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/StacyTuschl

Business Rescue Road Map Podcast: http://businessrescueroadmap.com/

Text: Levelup to 24587

Find more resources at https://womentakingthelead.com

Sep 14, 2016

Jen Hemphill helps busy ambitious women transform their finances from being overwhelming to bringing joy, simplicity, and confidence. She is a Motivational Money Coach, an AFC® (Accredited Financial Counselor) and the host of Her Money Matters Podcast. When she's not talking money, she enjoys photography, coffee, chocolate, traveling, working out and spending time with her husband and two boys.

Playing Small Moment

At the beginning of her journey, Jen didn’t listen to her own intuition. She allowed the opinions and coaching of others to influence her initial business practices, because she didn’t feel confident enough to follow her own instincts.   

The Wake Up Call

A few years ago, Jen found herself  down in the dumps about many things in her life. Her husband’s pep talk taught her to celebrate the things that were successes, and so she didn’t have time to focus on what didn’t happen.

Style of Leadership

Jen strives to step into other people’s shoes to see things from their perspective. Empathy helps her to lead. 

What Are You Excited About?

Jen is super-excited about her Fearless Money Sisterhood Program. It is a new, affordable program that is a go-to source for women seeking money guidance.    

Current Business Challenge

Jen is in the process of building a team and is finding some challenges in taking it to the next level. Her business will be morphing from being centered around direct coaching to a membership-based model.

Business Support System

Jen’s family has been really supportive and her business friends offer business support, because they have been where she is and understand.

Leadership Practice

Jen takes one day a week to make sure she practices self-care. It helps her to disconnect and quiet the clutter in her head.

Book to Develop Leadership

How to Win Friends and Influence People, by Dale Carnegie  

What Got You Here Won’t Get You There, by Marshall Goldsmith 

Advice For Younger Self

Believe in yourself, being positive is not enough.    

Inspirational Quote

“If you are not willing to risk the unusual you will have to settle for the ordinary.” ~Jim Rohn

Links

Web: http://jenhemphill.com/community

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JenHemphill

For more resources go to https//womentakingthelead.com

Sep 12, 2016

I am excited and honored to do a couple sponsor introductions to the newest (and first!) sponsors of Women Taking the lead, Zebralove Web Solutions and Jewel's Custom Books!

Meet Milly Welsh

Milly Welsh is mom to 3 young daughters. When she's not helping businesses create websites and make them easily found she's getting dirty in her garden or making pottery.

Zebralove Web Solutions
http://zebralovewebsolutions.com/
https://www.facebook.com/zebraloveweb

Meet Robin Bates

Robin and her husband Marc are foster-to-adopt parents. They have adopted 2 of their 3 children - all under the age of 5. She is busy but she loves every minute of it!

Jewel's Custom Books
http://www.jewelscustombooks.com/
robin@jewelscustombooks.com/
https://www.facebook.com/jewelscustombooks
207-221-6973

Find more resources at https://womentakingthelead.com

Sep 11, 2016

Caroline Greene is a recovering lawyer, chronic overachiever, and two-time Amazon best-selling author of MATTER: How to Find Meaningful Work That’s Right for You and Your Family and NEXT: How to Start a Successful Business That’s Right for You and Your Family. As a life and business coach, Caroline helps determined moms build businesses –and whole lives– that truly matter to them.

Playing Small Moment

Caroline’s playing small moment happened when she realized she didn’t value herself enough to allow other people to love her. Caroline didn’t have the tools to see her own shortcomings.

The Wake Up Call

While pregnant with her second child, Caroline experienced a hormone shift―which she calls a deep darkness. Her aha moment came when she caught herself in the mirror and saw an exhausted, resentful, sad person. It was this vision that caused her dark cloud to start lifting.

Style of Leadership

Caroline leads through honesty and compassion.

Current Business Challenge

Caroline has had amazing results in helping women to launch their businesses. Her challenge is making sure that her ideal client is ready to make a holistic shift and to get them to realize their business is part of their divine journey.    

What Are You Excited About?

Caroline’s idea to help women connect to their business and connect it to their faith is what has her really excited right now.

Business Support System

Caroline is not afraid to outsource chores and jobs she doesn't enjoy or have time for, so that she can show up completely for her clients.

Leadership Practice

“Live it to give it” is the leadership practice she uses to keep her integrity in check.

Book to Develop Leadership

Steering by Starlight by Martha Beck  

Advice For Younger Self

“Trust yourself.”    

Inspirational Quote

“Anything worth doing is worth doing badly.” ~ G.K. Chesterton

Links

Web: http://carolinegreenecoaching.com/

Email: Caroline@carolinegreenecoaching.com use NEXT in the subject line for a free copy of the book.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolinegreenecoaching

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DeterminedMoms

Instagram: http://instagram.com/determined_moms

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/carolinekgreene/

 

Find more resources at https://womentakingthelead.com

Sep 9, 2016

This episode represents the last of three bonus episodes that I have dedicated to talking about who we are not. Namely, out alter-ego that has a tendency to appear when we are under stress.

I introduced the concept of the alter-ego in Bonus Episode 18, Defining Who You Are Starts With Who You Are Not, and dove into two of the most common stress reactions in Bonus Episode 19, Common Stress Reactions That Derail You [Part 1].

In this episode I’m going to give an overview of two other common stress reactions and what you can do if you choose not to utilize these reactions in any given moment. I say choose because I want to underline that there is no right or wrong in how you respond to stress it’s just that some reactions will move you toward your goals while others will move you away from your goals.

Tolerating/coping: The Chameleon 

While this stress reaction is much more agreeable and feels better than shutting down or over-reacting, if you constantly choose this method of dealing with stress you will never be truly happy. This is the stress reaction of choosing your battles but you must choose wisely.

While tolerating and coping are great short-term strategies they are debilitating long-term strategies.

For example, if you had guests coming for the weekend you're not likely to bring up and address every little thing they do that doesn't follow house rules or just plain gets on your nerves. They are there for a short time and the goal is to make your guests comfortable and for everyone to have a good time.

So, you tell yourself they just don't know better, you put it aside and move on.

However, if these guests are building a new home and out of the graciousness of your heart you offered to have them live with you for 3-6 months it would be a different story. In this instance you would be better off using a different strategy:  having a conversation up front about house rules, expectations and strategies of dealing with conflict.

But many of us don't think to set expectations in advance. You see, we have been raised to be The Chameleon.

Listen in to identify where The Chameleon is showing up in your life and if you're interested in identifying all the areas of toleration in your life I’ve got a worksheet that can help you with that.  

Focusing on Others: The Superhero Syndrome

Oh, how I love to help others. It makes me feel so good to solve other people's problems, give them a helping hand, and take some of the stress off their shoulders.

I especially love it when I don't want to deal with my own projects and problems. 

Being able to focus on someone else for a while takes the attention off what's causing me stress in my own life. This is a sure-fire way for me to feel better for a little while.

The problem is while I'm off saving the day for someone else my own stuff gets neglected: my business, my home, my finances, my health, etc.

All you current and recovering people-pleasers, are you with me?!

Tell me if this sounds familiar. It starts as you giving out of the generosity of your own heart. You see a need that you know you can take care of and your instinct is to take care of it. Because that's you, your a giving person. It's part of your identity. 

So you swoop in and contribute your time, energy and/or resources and it is so appreciated and makes a difference that you light up on the inside. It's like a drug. You get a jolt of the feel-goods so you do it again. And it starts to become a regular thing. So regular that other people stop relating to it as a gift that you generously, and with sacrifice to your own needs, give - and they start taking it for granted.

Now it's no longer a gift, it's an obligation and obligations don't make you feel good they make you feel burdened. But if you stopped giving people would wonder what's wrong with you, what made you so upset. And that's not you. You're not the type of person that takes things away just because you’re upset. That's childish and you’re not childish.

This is now a crisis to your identity. Continue to give resentfully or take it away and risk your reputation as a helpful, giving, generous person. So now you are on the hunt for any semi-valid excuse for why you can no longer give what's expected of you.

I mean, you can't possible just come out and say it no longer works for you to give or heaven forbid...ask to be recognized and appreciated for what you give. Heavens to Betsy, who the hell does that?!

All the while your own needs, your projects and your mission in life take a back seat - only to be given attention when there are deadlines, emergencies or wake-up calls.

And the saga continues. Cue the music.

Or maybe this is your wake-up call.

Listen in to hear more about The Superhero Syndrome and how you can prevent it from taking over your life.

Managing Your Alter-Ego

If it helps you to name your alter-ego, draw it, journal about it, or write a song about it. The more aware you are of this part of you the more power you will have over it.

When you know the thoughts, feelings and behaviors you have when your alter-ego has taken over - and what triggers those reactions - the better you will be at catching your alter-ego before it has done too much damage and you can handle the situation from there.

Trust me, knowing is half the battle. You are going to feel like a whole new woman as you start working through this process.

If you want help identifying your stress reactions I have an assessment I use with my clients that gets to the heart of the stress reactions that are running the show and keeping them from hitting their goals.

Just go to https://womentakingthelead.com/assessment/ to get more information and buy it if it’s the right next step for you.

Let me know what you thought of this episode and if you see your chameleon or superhero coming out in response to stress.

 

For more resources go to https://womentakingthelead.com

Sep 7, 2016

PJ Jonas is a business owner, goat-wrangler, entrepreneur, and mother. After getting goats to provide healthy milk for her eight children, she decided to put some excess milk into a batch of handmade soap. That decision was the beginning of Goat Milk Stuff, a growing goat milk products business that has been featured on The Today Show, The Doctors, The Huckabee Show, and in “O”, the Oprah Magazine. What started with an initial small batch of soap, has expanded into a host of goat milk items such as goat milk soaps, cheeses, candies, fudge, gelato and more. It’s a team effort to keep the farm running, make and ship all the products, and welcome visitors to the farm. PJ’s husband, eight children (aged 9 to 19), and six full-time employees, all work hard to promote the goodness of goat milk.

Playing Small Moment

In 2008, PJ realized she had some momentum going in the business, but it was not enough income to allow her husband to leave his job―unless, the family made some cutbacks and sacrifices. The entire family voted to pitch in and give up small pleasures to help invest in the family business. 

The Wake Up Call

PJ’s wake up call came when she realized the family’s existing 3 acre farm was not going to be big enough to support their growing business. When the family bought a 36 acre farm with a lot of traffic, they decided to open up their farm to visitors.

Style of Leadership

PJ wants her employees and family to know it’s okay to make mistakes, and to strive to be better through continuous improvement. 

Current Business Challenge

PJ is finding it difficult to identify good employees. Her challenge is to make better hiring decisions.   

What Are You Excited About?

A new kitchen building and a machine milking parlor are the latest projects for Goat Milk Stuff. PJ is excited to be increasing her company’s product line with food products, in addition to soaps and body products. 

What Does Your Business Support System Look Like?

PJ’s business support system is her family at the moment. She is interested in getting an outside perspective from other entrepreneurs, but doesn’t want to sacrifice her lifestyle. 

Leadership Practice 

Continuous learning is something PJ does in order to be the best leader she can be. 

Book to Develop Leadership

Lady on the Hill by Howard E. Covington 

Advice For Younger Self

“Don’t be in such a rush.”   

Inspirational Quote

“I’m a great believer in luck, and I find the more I work, the more I have of it.” ~Thomas Jefferson

Links

Free Gift: http://www.goatmilkstuff.com/womensoap.html

Web: http://goatmilkstuff.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goatmilkstuff

Twitter: https://twitter.com/goatmilkstuff

 

For more resources go to https://womentakingthelead.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goatmilkstuff/

Sep 4, 2016

While working in the television industry, Marie Sola excelled at new business development and relationship building. Her entrepreneurial spirit inspired her to start her own company (Crocker Marketing, Inc.), which led to her creating the –

New England Emmy nominated television show The Maine Dish and The Maine Kids Show.

Following her work in the television industry, Marie worked internationally for the premiere networking group, of more than 20,000 CEOs around the world, Young Presidents’ Organization.

Deciding that she is the best boss she has ever had, Marie took the leap to go back and work for herself, founding Shasta Concepts LLC and Daughters of Change™. Combining her love of developing grassroots projects with her passion for social entrepreneurship, Marie’s work focuses on businesses with a conscience.

Playing Small Moment 

When Marie watched the planes hit the twin towers on 9/11, she felt compelled to take action. She organized the United Maine Lobster Feed and along with many Maine breweries, she was able to organize food for the emergency workers at “the pile”. To this day, it is one of the most significant days in her life, with a clear message to make her time on this earth count.

 

The Wake Up Call

Marie had always worked for other people’s passions and pocketbooks, which she knew didn’t mesh with her core themes. Marie had a wake up call when her teenage son admitted to not sharing something with her, “because she was working”, to make her take the leap and to start off on her own.       

Style of Leadership

Marie believes you must inspire and empower the people you lead by stripping down your ego and giving them a voice.

Current Leadership Challenge

Marie’s biggest challenge has been creating a business model for an abstract idea. She grapples with defining and focusing on what she needs to do first. 

What Are You Excited About?

Marie is currently working on what will be Maine’s largest public awareness and education campaign on domestic violence —Take Action Maine. 

What Does Your Business Support System Look Like?

A supportive partner can make all the difference when taking the big leap to do what you love.   

Leadership Practice

Meditation is essential to Marie. The time she takes to slow down and gather herself keeps her from being scattered.

Book to Develop Leadership

Conscious Capitalism by John Mackey  

Advice For Younger Self

“Do it sooner, don’t agonize over the small stuff and take the leap.” 

Inspirational Quote

“If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough” ~

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President of Liberia

Links

Web: http://www.daughtersofchange.com

Email: msola@daughtersofchange.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/daughtersofchange

 

Find more resources at https://womentakingthelead.com

Aug 31, 2016

At 53, Anne Stephany faced a life threatening illness. Her biggest fear was dying without fulfilling her purpose.  Her work has always been service. Now she brings skills and wisdom from two careers and extensive life experience to serve women. Anne empowers women to shine, joyfully living their purpose and proudly creating their legacy. They break through limiting beliefs, effects of trauma and of aging (Anne is going to be 60 next month!) to be free. When not working you can find her at the beach, swimming with whales, and traveling.

Playing Small Moment

Anne found herself making excuses and covering up incidents for an abusive partner. It took her some time before she realized what she was doing, and that she needed to leave. She had to later forgive herself for staying as long as she did.    

The Wake Up Call

Anne’s wake up call came when her doctor told her how close she was to death. She realized she might actually die before she did all the things she was put on earth to do. Life became very precious because there was no time to waste.      

Style of Leadership

Anne is a free spirited leader who leads with her “why”.

Current Leadership Challenge

Anne’s vision and leadership challenge are one in the same. She would like to create a worldwide network of luminescence from women shining, while coming into their power.

What Are You Excited About?

Anne is excited that she is able to share her message by hosting her own podcast. She also is a member of an online learning platform so she shares her message in the best possible way.  

What Does Your Business Support System Look Like?

Anne receives support in many different ways. She has a coach,  mentor and a fitness coach plus she is part of Women’s Groups on Facebook.

Leadership Practice

Meditation is Anne’s secret weapon. It creates a space for her, and in that space answers become clear and she knows what her next steps are.

Book to Develop Leadership

Start With Your Why by Simon Sinek

Advice For Younger Self

“You are enough. You can have and do and be whatever you can dream.”  

Inspirational Quote

"If today were the last day of my life would I want to do what I am about to do today?” ~ Steve Jobs

Links

Web: http://www.annestephany.com

Podcast: http://www.annestephany.com/podcast

Facebook Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/theannestephany

 

Find more resources at https://womentakingthelead.com

Aug 28, 2016

Abbie McGilvery is a Social Media Magician (okay, a Social Media Strategist, but that’s close enough!) She serves as an adviser, guide, and mentor for the business owners she works with. Abbie has been called a Marketing Maven and a Networking Expert, but prefers to think of herself as a creative "social media scrapbooker" with a focus on helping business owners build brand visibility and tell their stories on social media channels. Abbie helps business owners, creatives, and leaders get clear on what they do, who they are, and how to share their gifts with the world.

Playing Small Moment

Abbie dimmed her light for many years because she was afraid someone else would dim it for her. She thought people wouldn’t be ready for her energy. So, when she found herself in a moment of panic after being let go from a job, she went into an interview carrying her doubt and uncertainty on her sleeve. She forgot to interview the company to see if the position they were offering was even a good fit for her. The experience taught her some hard lessons and crushed her spirit. 

The Wake Up Call

Abbie was rudely confronted about a photo she used in a company publication. Instead of having a conversation with her, the manager aggressively accused and bullied her. The situation ended with her separation from the organization. She vowed never to allow herself to be treated in that way again and she would make sure the next job she took would be something she wanted.      

Style of Leadership

Abbie says there are three things a leader should be or do. They are: 1) Leaders should understand that they do not have to be perfect. 2) Leaders should sit within the circle of their team. 3) Leaders should be authentic and show people what it’s like to be the culture of their organization.

Current Leadership Challenge

Abbie’s current leadership challenge is her plan to scale up. Her service based business will be adding people and they need to have the same values and beliefs she has. 

What Are You Excited About?

Abbie is excited about the possibility of helping people pinpoint their dreams and to figure out how they can focus more energy in that direction.

What Does Your Business Support System Look Like?

Abbie figured out that humans were meant to be surviving in tribes by working together and sharing talents. Her best friend and co-worker Angie, along with her parents are always there for her.

Leadership Practice

Abbie’s practice of showing up and listening to other leaders she aspires to be like make her a more effective leader. 

Book to Develop Leadership

Rising Strong by Brene Brown

 

Advice For Younger Self

“Be big, be bold and don’t ever let anyone dim your light.” 

Inspirational Quote

"In a gentle way, you can shake the world." ~ Mahatma Gandhi

“The woman who does not require validation from anyone is the most feared individual on the planet.” ~ Mohadesa Najumi

 

Links

Web: http://www.fromthenestsocial.com/

Facebook Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/fromthenestsocial/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FunkyFabAb

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/funkyfabab/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbiemcgilvery

 

Find more resources at https://womentakingthelead.com

Aug 26, 2016

To get us caught up, in the last Bonus episode I talked about using your powers of deduction to get at who you want to be as a leader and that you are not your stress reactions. I promised I would go into some of the common stress reactions so that, with an awareness of what they look like, you could choose a new reaction.

Well, as promised here are two of the most common stress reactions

Shutting down: Cocooning

Imagine you are going about your day when suddenly, something happens.

No matter what it is, it occurs to you as bad news. In the moment it feels like the worst news. The last thing you needed right now. The straw that broke the camel's back. It could be a change to your carefully laid out plans, an unpleasant conversation, a flat tire, burnt toast...whatever.

It really doesn't matter what it is. What matters is it's something you don't like and you feel like it's out of your control.

And then you feel the energy drain out of your body. You're tired, defeated and you start to wonder why you try so hard. It's already X o'clock in the morning and you feel like you need a nap.

But you can't take a nap so instead you either go in your office and close the door, or you go to your phone to see what's happening on facebook, or you get in your car to go to Starbucks to get a jolt of caffeine. If you're at home you might sit on the couch and do a Netflix marathon.

You. Are. Shut. Down.

You're batteries became depleted and you are now doing anything you can to recharge.

You may also be in a mindset where you can't stand to be around yourself and nothing makes you happy. You may feel ashamed of yourself and worthless.

You can't stand to have people see you like this so you hide out and go into your cocoon. You isolate yourself from others and keep them at a distance.

This is not YOU.

This is your alter-ego in survival mode. It will help you to recover but it's not the most effective way to hit your goals or to achieve the life you want to live.

While you are recovering, and if you find yourself here do what you can to recover… But while you are recovering you are falling a little further behind on your goals and you are ineffective at anything you try to do.

The real you is effective, capable and resourceful but the real you has taken a back seat and given the power over to the alter-ego.

Don't give your alter-ego decision making power.

Here’s a little warning: do not make decisions when the alter-ego is in charge. They will be decisions made from the perspective of an 8-year-old. What does an 8-year-old know about what you are capable of? Exactly.

The key here is to be aware that the alter-ego has taken over. When you are aware, the power is in your court. You can make a different decision if you like. You can choose to see the situation differently and see where you do have power and control - where the woman of your experience and skill level can make a difference.

In the last episode I mentioned how I become a micro-manager when I get stressed out and feel out of control.

Well, there are times when I let that controlling part of myself off the leash so I can dive into the details and research the daylights out of a certain topic. But I'm doing it by choice and not because I feel out of control. I use my default stress reaction to serve me and not the other way around.

Life is duality. You are both in control and powerless. The key is to be in control when you are in control and to let things unfold when you are not in control...and dare I say, enjoy the ride?

Over-reacting: The Amazon Warrior

Similar to the previous situation something happens but in this instance your alter-ego's faulty radar picks up something different. Rather than sensing a situation where there is nothing you can do you're alter-ego picks up a threat. 

That change to your carefully laid out plans, the unpleasant conversation, the flat tire, the burnt toast - they are now perceived as putting something at risk, something important. This creates conflict.

The alter-ego is now charged up and ready to do battle! Rather than turning into the Incredible Hulk (we're women, after all) you become The Amazon Warrior.

Being an Amazon Warrior might sound eccentric and sexy. But no one likes to be around this woman and this woman has to fight for everything that she wants. She's so unpleasant people only help her if they have to.

The battle that you create in this stress reaction can come in the following forms:

  • Aggression: verbal and/or physical (though likely at your age you redirect physical aggression into some sort of workout)
  • Passive-aggression 
  • Fuming silently
  • Perfectionism
  • Jealousy (the more they get the less I get)
  • Second-guessing yourself (yup, this battle is with you)

There is more energy in this stress reaction so you're not likely to find yourself lying on the couch, at least on right away. But this burst of energy is on credit and you pay it back in interest. Once the adrenaline rush has passed you will likely find yourself in need of some recovery time and you slip into cocooning.

Also, when your alter-ego is in charge of this stress reaction the actions you take will like be misdirected. It will get you a result that is only temporary and land you with consequences that may be worse than the original perceived threat.

This stress reaction causes us to say things we don't mean (to ourselves and others), take our fear and anger out on an innocent bystander, and make snap-decisions in the heat of the moment. 

Even if you are somewhat aware of your internal conflict your attempts to hide it are futile. You'll find yourself being critical of yourself and others, you'll involuntarily focus on the negative (threats!) and your tone of voice/word choice/body language will give you away.

A coach of mine called this leaking. It's gross but accurate.

You are trying to hide your volatile mood but it leaks out and as a consequence you occur to other people as "not quite right."

This is not YOU either.

This is your alter-ego on high alert, looking for threats, and trying to protect you. It is defensive, augmentative and just waiting for someone to say or do that "thing" and it will lash out.

Again, to gain control over your alter-ego awareness is key. Be aware of what is pushing your buttons; what feels threatened and what is causing the threat.

Realize that a large percentage of the threats you perceive are just that, perceived threats. They are not real and if you can stay in current reality you can keep yourself from turning into The Amazon Warrior.

If you know one or both of these stress reactions are holding you back in your business or professional life reach out to me. This is how I serve my clients best and when they are able to manage their alter-egos and choose their response consciously they are able to keep stress away and stay focused on their goals.

For more resources go to https://womentakingthelead.com

Aug 24, 2016

Cloris Kylie, Marketing MBA, is the founder of Lead Generation Academy and Client Attraction Bootcamp. She helps coaches, authors, speakers, consultants, and skilled practitioners command attention, attract the right clients, build a captive audience of subscribers, and skyrocket their impact and revenue! A sought-after speaker, trainer, and author, Cloris has been featured on various television and radio shows, including the #1 podcast for entrepreneurs, "Entrepreneur On Fire." Cloris’ articles have been published on websites with millions of followers, such as TinyBuddha and Addicted2Success.

Key Takeaways:

[2:40] Produce something new, partner with those around you and promote your own message to reveal your magnificence every single day.

[6:55] Start with step #1 - Get clear on who your right client is.

[11:20] Create an offer that meets the needs of your ideal client.

[16:23] Learn the fundamentals before you try to change the rules.

[24:19] Leverage the audience of large platforms to build authority at a faster rate.

[30:32] What is a current business challenge Cloris is facing right now?

[32:45] What does Cloris’ support system look like? 

[35:12] How to get in contact with Cloris and how to get her new ebook for free. 

 

Mentioned in This Episode:

Women Taking the Lead Episode 97 with Cloris Kylie 

Cloris Kylie

8 Proven Ways to Build Authority and Grow Your Audience

 

Find more resources at https://womentakingthelead.com

Aug 21, 2016

Jan Molino is the CEO of Aspire Ascend. She has a passion for empowering women and a keen perspective on the challenges and opportunities of the modern workplace. Her specialty has always been to help executive women maneuver leadership obstacles and help organizations define cultures that are open to gender balance and diversity. Her strength in bringing smart, influential women and professionals together is complemented by a powerful network she utilizes in pursuit of leadership excellence for women.

Playing Small Moment

Jan realized she lacked confidence after turning down an opportunity to relocate and lead her own team. Her boss at the time told her to advise him of her next opportunity because he thought she was ready to ascend.

The Wake Up Call

Jan’s wake up call came when she found herself alone after her business partner decided she wanted out of their new venture. She thought that she had needed a partner, but realized she could handle all the risks necessary.   

Style of Leadership

Jan is a connector, a leader who influences people and brings them together. She uses her networks to help people to help other people.

Current Leadership Challenge 

Jan has to remind herself that she needs to work on the business and not in the business. She is currently challenged by her tendency to over-extend herself. 

What Are You Excited About?

Aspire Ascend’s new membership service for executive women leaders is what presently excites Jan. 

What Does Your Business Support System Look Like?

Jan’s husband has always been her biggest supporter.

Leadership Practice

Jan’s ability to connect with people is her most treasured leadership practice.

Book to Develop Leadership

Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges by Amy Cuddy

BRAG!: Tooting Your Own Horn Without Blowing It by Peggy Klaus

Advice For Younger Self

“Get a mentor earlier. Someone who is a superior and not a friend!”   

Inspirational Quote

I am a thought leader.” - Jan Molino

Links

Website: www.aspire-ascend.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmolino

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AspireAscend

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aspire.ascend/

Google +: https://plus.google.com/107950323524449969251

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aspireascend/

Email: Jan@aspire-ascend.com

 

Find more resources at https://womentakingthelead.com

Aug 17, 2016

Alexis Robin is the Co-Founder of pLink Coaching Center for Excellence, an executive coaching firm specializing in leadership and organizational development at the individual and collective level. She is a published author of Leap of Faith, Cultivating Your Brave Heart, and radio host of The Bright Side, A Life Coaching Radio Show.

When she’s not working, you can find Alexis at her home in Lake Tahoe, California, snowboarding, stand-up paddling, and enjoying the great outdoors with her French husband and 11-year-old twins.

Playing Small Moment 

Bravery is one of Alexis’s highest values, so to be called out for shrinking away on stage was an eye opener for her. She suddenly realized that she used to shrink away a lot. She wasn’t considering just how much she really brought to the table.

The Wake Up Call

While working with her clients, Alexis realized how many talented people still carried the burden of self-doubt. This prompted her to examine her own self-doubt and to realize that it wasn’t about her. She needed to be present for her clients and not worried about herself.

Style of Leadership

Alexis says her style of leadership is about setting clear direction and intention. She focuses on what she wants to create instead of what she wants to stop from happening. She adds that sharing ‘why’ you are asking something of someone can make all the difference.

Current Leadership Challenge

Getting the word out about what her organization is doing and how it is different than other coaching companies is Alexis’ biggest business opportunity. 

What Are You Excited About?

Alexis and her partners are excited about a new, visually stunning webinar series she is developing for her Positive Leader Journey program called Think pLink webinars.

What Does Your Business Support System Look Like?

Alexis has a great support system within her organization as well as at home. She says everyone around her shares her same vision and values. 

Leadership Practice

Sharing her intention when she asks for something is Alexis’s best leadership practice.

Book to Develop Leadership

Rising Strong by Brené Brown

Advice For Younger Self

“Don’t spend time trying to prove yourself to people. The most valuable mentors and friends don’t need convincing.” 

Inspirational Quote

Trust the process of life. Sometimes life goes wrong in your favor.” ~ Alexis Robin

Links

http://plinkcoachingcenter.com

Find more resources at https://womentakingthelead.com

Aug 14, 2016

Dr. Jamie Orr is a successful entrepreneur, physicist, and educator with expertise across a wide range of technical fields. She is passionate about helping young companies and students alike to thrive and discover their potential. She is a co-founder of Mountain Lab, Lake Tahoe's first co-working space and innovation hub. Jamie also teaches courses in physics, mathematics, chemistry, and green sustainable education, and consults in the areas of economic development, entrepreneurship, and education.

Playing Small Moment

Jamie was crushed when an advisor in her department didn’t show up for the faculty meeting, which would have helped her along in becoming a Ph.D. candidate. After the initial sting wore off, she decided she would move away from Physics and into the study of law. She was accepted into six different law schools before being persuaded back into the Physics program.

The Wake Up Call

Jamie’s wake up call came almost a year after her daughter was born. Jamie and her husband were going through photos and realized most of their happiness came from their visits to Lake Tahoenot from Silicon Valley. So, they just packed up and moved to Lake Tahoe.

Style of Leadership

Jamie likes to lead by teaching people and by working in collaboration with them. She wants the people around her to reach their potential and to accomplish things. 

Current Leadership Challenge 

Jamie needs to give herself permission to say no, because she realizes she may experience burnout if she doesn’t take time for herself.

What Are You Excited About?

Jamie is excited to be integrating the concepts of physics into her community projects. 

What Does Your Business Support System Look Like?

Jamie has a balanced team of business partners and family who inspire her and amaze her every single day.    

 

Leadership Practice 

Jamie is a teacher by nature and she believes in elevating those around her.

Book to Develop Leadership

Brain Rules by John Medina

Advice For Younger Self

“Failure is an opportunity to try a different direction. So, don’t be so hard on yourself.” 

Inspirational Quote

Be kinder than is necessary because you never know what someone else is going through.” ~ Jamie Orr

Links

http://tahoemountainlab.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamieforr

 

Find more resources at https://womentakingthelead.com

Aug 12, 2016

I am a logical person and one of the most useful tools when applying logic is deduction - the process of ruling out.

Deduction is very effective. So effective we call the ability to use this process as one's "powers of deduction."

In the workshops I do with young leaders I ask them, "Who do you want to be as a leader?" 

They are often stumped by this question and often times respond with, "I'm not sure who I want to be but I know who I don't want to be as a leader - my [current/former] bad boss."

That is the power of deduction and without realizing it shapes who you are as a leader, as a partner, as a coworker, as a friend and as a parent. We remember how we felt when we had to deal with another person and those who upset us tend to make a lasting impression and that experience shapes who we become – hopefully for the good.

In my early experience as a leader I put more thought into avoiding being perceived as a "bad boss" than I did being perceived as a good boss. It's all part of the process and it then lead me to consider what experience I did want to create for my team.

Here I'm telling my own bad boss story...and it's a good one.

Starting from a place of who I was not as a leader I came to an identity of who I am as a leader.

Here is another area we are going to look into to determine who you are not…

You Are Not Your Stress Reactions

Have you ever been in a negative relationship or a situation and over time you notice there are some changes in your personality and how you respond to things. Changes and responses that you are not proud of.

Rather than saying the sweet words we hear in dramas, "they make me a better person" or "they make me want to be a better person" you find yourself uttering, "I don't like who I am when I'm around them." Or, "when I'm there I'm like a different person."

This is who you are not!

You say those things, you do those things but they feel wrong and you don't like it. That's the sign that it's not THE REAL YOU.

Whenever you feel at odds with how you are showing up and how you are behaving you are sure to find your default stress reaction at play.  This is your alter-ego, the persona you become under stress to try to protect you from any perceived threat.

When I get stressed I become very controlling. I micromanage and get lost in details and research. If you know me you would know details and research are not where I choose to hang out on a day-to-day basis. 

Likely, when your alter-ego is a play you'll find yourself doing things that are the opposite of what you would normally do if things weren't so tense.

The issue with the alter-ego is it started to develop when you were very young, when you didn't know as much as you do now. Think 6-8 years old.

Since the alter-ego came into existence you have become more experienced, skilled, wise and resourceful. But your alter-ego isn't aware of that and so it jumps in to save the day thinking you are not capable to handle the situation, that you are still 8-years-old, and as a result your alter-ego makes you feel small, incapable and out-of-control.

In the next several bonus episodes I’m going to cover some common stress reactions. I'm hoping you will gain an awareness of your own alter-ego so you'll be able to see it in action when something stressful occurs.

With this awareness you'll be able to make a different choice; you'll be able to respond to stress as you really are: powerful, capable, resourceful and committed.

Find more resources at https://womentakingthelead.com

 

Aug 10, 2016

Everything Chloë Thomas does is focused on eCommerce strategy and marketing.

She is the author of four books, speaker, and host of the eCommerce MasterPlan Podcast. Her latest bestselling book is, Customer Manipulation: How to Influence your Customers to Buy More and Why an Ethical Approach will Always Win.

Key Takeaways:

[2:45] Manipulation encourages people to do things. We are all manipulators.

[7:33] The Customer Manipulation Model is applicable to both eCommerce and retail type businesses.

[9:31] Breaking down the Customer Manipulation Model. 

[18:13] How to transition an inquirer to a first-time buyer.

[25:49] Chloë’s current business challenge is getting her sales funnel full of repeat buyers.   

[28:24] Chloë’s support system is mostly outsourced and optimized to give her more bandwidth for her business.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Women Taking the Lead Episode 45 with Chloë Thomas (https://womentakingthelead.com/chloe-thomas/)

eCommerce Masterplan (https://ecommercemasterplan.com)

@chloe_ecmp on Twitter

Customer Manipulation: How to Influence Your Customers to Buy More and Why and Ethical Approach will Always Win (http://customermanipulation.com/)

Find more resources at http://womentakingthelead.com

 

Aug 7, 2016

Lauren Copeland is an empowering Life and Clarity Coach for amazing women who feel the call to be more, do more and live more! By working together, we discover what your 'mores' really are in life and business, how you can make them happen, and pursue the life you love without sacrificing your unique self.

Playing Small Moment

Lauren knew the 9-5 was not for her and she was excited to get the opportunity to be a stay at home mom. But, people close to her didn’t seem to understand her decision. She says her playing small moment was when she let the opinions of others color how she viewed herself. 

The Wake Up Call

Lauren truly had an A-ha moment, when her husband asked her if she could really overcome her shyness to become a life and clarity coach. It lit a fire under her to do what she felt compelled to do and that would bring her joy.

Style of Leadership

Lauren is a listener, an analyzer and very optimistic. All traits that contribute to her nurturing leadership style.   

Current Leadership Challenge

Lauren is finding it challenging to dodge her insecurities while launching her business.   

What Does Your Business Support System Look Like?

Lauren is part of an online community of female entrepreneurs that, she says, gets her through when she has questions or when she needs support.

What Are You Excited About?

Lauren is excited to be launching a 5-day challenge to help people prioritize their tasks, make the most of their time and find balance in their lives. 

Leadership Practice

Consistently working towards her own personal development is one practice which makes Lauren a better leader. She is able to learn new ideas that she can share with others.

Book to Develop Leadership

Make it Happen by Lara Casey

Advice For Younger Self

“Value is not determined by anything on this earth. It is determined by Christ.” 

Inspirational Quote

To live is to choose. But to live well, you must know who you are, what you stand for, where you want to go and why you want to get there.” - Kofi Annan

Links

http://www.laurenecopeland.com/

https://www.facebook.com/lecopeland/

 

Find more resources at: http://womentakingthelead.com 

 

Aug 3, 2016

Suzanna McGee is a former Ms. Natural Olympia bodybuilding champion, now a competitive tennis player, author, speaker, raw vegan athlete, and performance and injury prevention specialist with over 25 years of experience. She is certified by the National

Academy of Sports Medicine and holds a Certificate in Plant Based Nutrition from Cornell University. She is also the author of Tennis Fitness for the Love of it and The Athlete’s Simple Guide to a Plant-Based Lifestyle.

Playing Small Moment

Suzanna had never thought about being an entrepreneur until she arrived in Venice Beach, California. A client, who later became her mentor, helped her to realize that she could make a career in the fitness industry. He kept telling her that she needed to get certifications, but she was hard-headed. While she was aware that she knew a lot of things, she didn’t realize the certifications would give her credibility, as she was still adapting to the culture in the US.

The Wake Up Call

Suzanna knew she wanted to spread her knowledge, with the world, by writing a book and speaking. But she feared that her level of the English language would get in the way. Her wake up call came when she decided to start a blog, and people accepted her and along with her accent.

Style of Leadership

Suzanna leads by example. If there is a new way of eating or a new exercise, she always tries it first before telling other people to try it. She also leads by sharing her story. If people see that she can do it, then maybe they think “I can do it too”.

Current Leadership Challenge

Suzanna struggles, because she believes she needs to get her message out to more people, but she really doesn’t like to travel. Speaking through media, like podcasts, may be her way forward to achieving her goals.

What Are You Excited About?

Suzanna has decided she is going to start learning pole fitness. She feels she needs to master this skill and is excited about taking on the challenge.

Leadership Practice

Suzanna says that by being grateful, every day in every way, influences people around her. 

Book to Develop Leadership

Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod

Advice For Younger Self

“Cherish what makes you different.”

Inspirational Quote

Take small actions daily. Small actions will compound and become bigger every day.” - Suzanna McGee

Links

www.tennisfitnesslove.com

https://www.facebook.com/SuzannaMcGeeAuthor/

 

Find more resources at https://womentakingthelead.com

Jul 31, 2016

Jessica Williams is a career and leadership coach for women and founder of The Superwoman Project where she is dedicated to helping women declare ownership over their professional lives to achieve more money, success and joy. Jessica holds a Master’s

Degree in Strategic Communications from The University of Oregon, is a Certified Martha Beck Life Coach and a 200-hour Certified Yoga Instructor. She is also the host of The Superwoman Chronicles, a podcast highlighting the work of extraordinary women around the globe.

Playing Small Moment

When Jessica started her own business she found herself trying to understand her audience, figuring out what she was actually doing and looking for a “magic bullet” in the form of someone to tell her what to do.  She decided to invest in a business coach but after a very short period of time, she had feelings of misalignment and anxiety. She had to come to terms with losing her investment and start doing it all on her own. But, as soon as she started trusting herself and owning her expertise her business exploded.

The Wake Up Call

Jessica’s wake up call came when she left the best job in town. Even though through this position she was held in high esteem and influential in her community, she just couldn’t stay. She realized there is no need to wait until something gets really bad before we come into alignment with our calling.

Style of Leadership

Jessica goes inward when it comes to leadership. She tries to figure out where she is holding back and how she can remove the obstacles others are having on their way to success.

Current Leadership Challenge

Jessica is interested in the challenge of empowering women. She wants to create a movement so women can take care of themselves without becoming more masculine.

What Are You Excited About?

The Superwoman Chronicles podcast is what has Jessica really excited right now. She loves highlighting the work of amazing women all around the world.

Leadership Practice

Meditation is the practice that allows Jessica to know herself better which leads to her being a better leader. 

Book to Develop Leadership

The Leadership Challenge by Kouzes and Posner

Advice For Younger Self

“Stop worrying about everybody else and learn to take care of yourself.”

Inspirational Quote

Do not now seek the answers which cannot be given to you, because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now.” - Jessica Williams

“Be the mystery at the crossroads of your senses, the meaning discovered there.” - Rilke

Links

www.thesuperwomanproject.com 

www.thesuperwomanproject.com/free-stuff

Find more resources at: https://womentakingthelead.com

 

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