I Used to Lead Like the “Iron Maiden”: Victoria Pelletier on Reinventing Her Leadership Style for Good

What happens when leadership stops being about authority and starts being about humanity?In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Jennifer talk with executive leader, bestselling author, and keynote speaker Victoria Pelletier about the mindset shifts that shaped her unconventional career path.Nicknamed the “Turnaround Queen” and the “CEO Whisperer,” Victoria built a career helping organizations navigate change, rebuild culture, and drive growth. But her leadership philosophy didn’t start that way. Early in her career, she led with a command-and-control style she jokingly calls the “Iron Maiden” phase, before realizing that real leadership comes from empathy, trust, and authenticity.Whether you’re facing burnout, workplace culture challenges, or navigating a squiggly career path, this episode offers practical insights into building trust, leading through change, and finding alignment in your professional journey.Connect with VictoriaWebsite: https://victoria-pelletier.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriapelletier/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoria_pelletier_unstoppableYouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@VictoriaPelletierUnstoppable📚 Join the ETS Book Club — we're reading Atomic Habits! Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/3EK-BGfBRHehD2jW2bApHQ#/🎯 Need accountability on your goals? Join the Squiggle Huddle with Colleen. Learn more and register here: https://www.maxady.com/workshops/p/the-squiggle-huddle-monthly-accountability-for-2026-goalsStay in Touch with Your Hosts:Colleen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/Connect with Jen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-pasquale/Work with Jen: https://www.leadwithcuriosity.co/Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts for more conversations that transform career complexity into your competitive advantage!