The Power of Sponsorship: How a Supportive Boss at 19 Transformed Cindy Darnell’s Career Path

What if one person believing in you early could completely change your career path?In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Ashleigh sit down with Cindy Darnell, Director of Operational Excellence for the Americas at Element, to unpack the power of sponsorship, career growth, and saying yes before you feel ready.Cindy’s career journey didn’t follow a straight line. Starting as an executive assistant at just 19, she navigated career uncertainty, stepped into customer service leadership roles, and ultimately pivoted into Operational Excellence (OpEx) after volunteering as a 5S site champion—a decision that reshaped her entire trajectory.A defining moment? Early in her career, a leader pulled her into executive-level conversations, giving her visibility, confidence, and access most people at her level never get. That experience became the foundation for how Cindy leads today—and how she actively creates opportunities for others.This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating career obstacles, looking for alignment, or trying to grow within a company without a “perfect” plan.Connect with Cindy on Linkedin📚 Join the ETS Book Club — currently reading Atomic HabitsRegister here:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/3EK-BGfBRHehD2jW2bApHQ#/🎯 Need accountability on your goals? Join the Squiggle Huddle with ColleenLearn more and register:https://www.maxady.com/workshops/p/the-squiggle-huddle-monthly-accountability-for-2026-goals🤝 Stay ConnectedColleen on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/Ashleigh on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleigh-beadle/Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts for more conversations on squiggly career paths, mindset shifts, and turning career uncertainty into your competitive advantage.