Ep 4: Balance Action & Intention: Leadership Lessons for the Workplace & Career Growth w/Laura Leach

In this engaging episode of the HEARTset Leadership Podcast, host Lisa Virtue is joined by Laura Leach, CEO and professional development career coach at Meredith Consulting. Together, they dive deep into the realities and challenges of modern leadership, professional development, and intentional action in today's ever-evolving workplaces.Laura Leach shares her dual experience as a private coach for mature women in technology and a graduate program leader in International Affairs and Public Policy. Drawing on her own journey (and that of her clients), she discusses the importance of self-driven professional growth, especially when workplace systems and support structures fall short.Key themes include:- "Leadership is caught, not taught"—the value of observing and modeling impactful leaders inside and outside your organization.- Why many leaders opt out of leadership roles mid-career, and the structural workplace issues fueling those decisions.- The importance of acting intentionally as a leader, navigating the spectrum between overthinking and acting too quickly, and understanding how your own leadership cadence impacts your team.- Strategies for clear communication, including how to ensure alignment and avoid costly assumptions—whether you're in a brainstorming session or delivering marching orders.- Using technology (like AI tools), coaching, and internal mentors to support decision-making, but not relying solely on them for long-term success.- The critical role of feedback, mentorship, and networking in uncovering skill gaps and preparing for your next career step, with actionable advice for approaching your leaders and mentors with clarity and purpose.- How to delegate effectively while empowering and developing your team, and why acting with intention means prioritizing the right work—not just keeping people busy.- Why continuous curiosity, seeking clarity, and not "going it alone" are foundational to effective leadership and sustainable career progression.Whether you're navigating promotion, inheriting a new team, or seeking to evolve your leadership style, this episode offers practical frameworks, candid stories, and a roadmap for showing up with HEARTset—leading with intention, empathy, and a clear sense of direction.🎁 Special Offer: Laura Leach is offering podcast listeners 25% off her coaching services. Book a discovery call (details in the show notes at: http://heartsetstudio.com/podcast) and mention the podcast for the exclusive discount.Tune in for an honest look at the complexities of leadership—and the tools and mindset needed to shape your own journey and uplift those around you.