02. Leading as a Woman of Color at the Director Level

What happens after you get the promotion?Stepping into a Director-level role as a woman of color isn’t just a title change—it’s an identity shift. Suddenly, you’re not just managing work, you’re leading people. You’re navigating power, visibility, and expectations—often as the only woman of color in the room.In this conversation with Elvy Garcia, certified life and leadership coach, we talk about what no one prepares you for at senior levels: how imposter syndrome changes, leading without shrinking yourself, and setting boundaries as a leader without guilt.This episode is for you if you’re aiming for leadership, newly promoted into a Director-level role, or already there navigating the challenges beyond the job description.In This Episode:The biggest identity shift: moving from managing work to leading peopleWhy leadership feels harder at senior levels—even when you’re qualifiedHow being a woman of color adds complexity to leadershipWhy imposter syndrome doesn’t disappear—it shows up differentlyNavigating being the only woman of color in senior leadershipSetting boundaries with your team and your boss without guiltShowing up authentically vs. code-switchingBuilding self-trust in leadership decisionsWhat they don’t teach you about Director-level leadershipEmotional capacity required to lead, not just technical skillsPractical strategies for women preparing for or navigating leadershipKey Takeaways:Imposter syndrome at senior levels isn’t about competence—it’s about environments that don’t reflect youThe shift from doing the work to leading people is a major identity changeYou can be authentic and professional—you don’t have to code-switchSetting boundaries as a leader isn’t selfish—it’s strategicThe higher you go, the more intentional you must be about self-awarenessLeadership requires emotional capacity, not just skillsYou don’t have to prove you belong—you already doConnect with Elvy Garcia:Elvy is a certified life and leadership coach helping women of color rise in their careers without losing themselves.Instagram: @coachingwithelvyBook Private 1:1 Coaching Call: https://calendly.com/coachingwithelvy/1-1-private-coaching-sales-callWork With Jessica:If this conversation resonated, I work 1:1 with ambitious women of color navigating promotions, pivots, and raises—combining strategy and inner work so you can grow your career and life.✨ Book a consult call: https://www.jessicalynn-wellness.com/scheduling✨ DM me on Instagram: @jessicalynnrojas✨ Join my Email Community: https://www.jessicalynn-wellness.com/email-listSubscribe & Review:Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss future episodes. If you loved the conversation, leaving a 5-star review helps other women find this podcast.