Lead Like Her

Carter McCray takes us behind the scenes of her journey to becoming a Division I basketball player, sharing the setbacks, sacrifices, and mindset that shaped her along the way. From overcoming injuries and navigating the transfer portal and NIL to managing mental health, confidence, academics, and life beyond basketball, Carter offers an honest look at what it takes to thrive at the next level. She also shares lessons on resilience, adaptability, recovery, and quiet leadership that apply far beyond the court.

What does it really take to become a great leader?In this powerful conversation, Nan Carney-DeBord takes us through her remarkable journey from coach to athletic administrator and the first woman at Denison to lead an athletic department. Along the way, she shares hard-earned lessons about authenticity, mentorship, resilience, relationships, and building a culture where people can thrive.Nan explains her philosophy of servant leadership and introduces the five Ps that have guided her career: Pride, Passion, Purpose, Perseverance, and Process. She also reflects on the evolution of women's sports since Title IX, the challenges women have faced in athletic leadership, and why today's women can lead with their own authentic style.This episode goes beyond sports. It's a conversation about how to build resilient teams, navigate adversity, develop meaningful relationships, and lead with purpose.Whether you're an athlete, coach, administrator, student, or aspiring leader, Nan's message is simple: leadership isn't about you, but it's about the people you serve and the culture you create.

Summary: In this episode, Nicole Jeter West shares her journey from sports to business leadership, emphasizing humility, curiosity, and authenticity as key to success. Violet and Nicole discuss building confidence, creating inclusive teams, and the importance of asking great questions.Keywords: Leadership, Women in Business, Sports, Curiosity, Humility, Confidence, Diversity, Entrepreneurship, Team Building, Personal GrowthKey Topics:Leadership qualities developed in youth through sportsThe role of humility and service in effective leadershipStrategies for building confidence as a woman of colorCreating buy-in and alignment within teamsDifferentiating your business in a competitive marketThe value of curiosity and asking great questionsHandling conflict and diverse opinions in the workplaceRisk-taking and career growth storiesThe meaning of being a 'maven' and leading with expertiseAdvice for young women aspiring to leadership'TakeawaysHumility and service are some of the best qualities of a great leader.Asking great questions and listening are key to understanding and innovation.Confidence is a continuous process built through preparation and humility.Diversity of thought and background enriches teams and drives success.Taking risks can be a catalyst for career growth and new opportunities.You matter—your voice, experiences, and background are valuable.Authenticity and owning your unique perspective are powerful in leadership.Continuous learning and curiosity are essential for staying relevant.

Summary: In this episode, leadership coach Paige Robnett shares insights on authentic leadership, building trust, emotional intelligence, and the importance of self-awareness and vulnerability in leadership development.Keywords: leadership, emotional intelligence, trust, authenticity, coaching, self-awareness, vulnerability, growth mindsetKey topicsTrust as the foundation of effective leadershipThe role of emotional intelligence in leadership successThe importance of authenticity and self-awarenessLessons from sports that translate into leadershipThe challenge and opportunity of giving and receiving feedbackThe impact of leadership on organizational cultureThe process of letting go and embracing changeThe significance of kindness and empathy in leadershipTakeawaysTrust is the currency of change and high-performing teams.Authentic leadership is rooted in self-awareness and confidence.Sports teach valuable leadership lessons like conflict resolution and giving feedback.Leaders should focus on what they can control and influence.Building trust requires curiosity, empathy, and understanding individual values.Leadership development is an art, not a science, with no one right way.Letting go and grieving are essential steps in growth and change.Consistency in self-improvement and curiosity drives effective leadership.

Coach Maureen Hirt shares her journey from player to college coach, emphasizing the importance of confidence, teamwork, and adaptability in achieving success. This episode offers valuable insights for athletes and aspiring coaches alike.Content Type InterviewPrimary Goal: Inspiration and Leadership DevelopmentSummary: Coach Mo shares her journey from athlete to college coach, emphasizing the importance of confidence, teamwork, and resilience. This episode offers valuable insights for young athletes and aspiring coaches on how to succeed and find joy in their pursuits.Keywords: coaching, leadership, confidence, teamwork, athlete development, college sports, resilience, personal growthKey TopicsCoach Mo's journey from athlete to college coachThe role of confidence in athletic and coaching successBuilding a strong team culture based on unity and joyThe importance of resilience and handling adversityLessons on leadership and influence from a championship coach