Lead Through It with Kim and Jada

In this episode, Jada and Kim sit down with Jace Woodrum, a South Carolina native, longtime advocate, and the first transgender executive director in the 100-year history of the nationwide American Civil Liberties Union. Jace has spent his career fighting for LGBTQ rights, healthcare access, and civil liberties, and now leads the ACLU of South Carolina at a time when many South Carolinians feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and unsure if progress is possible.Together, they talk about what it means to lead when the wins are hard to see, how to keep people motivated after setbacks, and why building connection and community matters so much in difficult seasons. Jace also opens up about leading as a transgender man in a politically charged environment, carrying the weight of advocacy work, and helping people hold onto hope even when change feels slow.This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership is not always about immediate victories. Sometimes it is about helping people keep going, keep believing, and keep showing up.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

What do you do when your team feels off, culture feels heavy, and “fixing it” feels overwhelming?In this episode, we’re coming off a powerful conversation about what great culture looks like and bringing it back down to reality. Because most leaders aren’t starting from scratch… they’re stepping into something messy, unclear, or already strained.So where do you begin?We break it down into simple, actionable steps. Not a full culture overhaul. Not a 12-month plan. Just the next right move.We talk about: Why trying to fix everything at once will backfire  How to identify one change that actually moves the needle  The power of honest, low-pressure conversations with your team  How to get a real read on your culture without overcomplicating it  What 1% better actually looks like in practice If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to start, this episode will help you take that first step and build momentum from there.Because getting your team back on track doesn’t start with a big move. It starts with a small one done well.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

What does it actually take to build a culture people don’t want to leave?In this episode, we sit down with Cheryl Holland, Founder of Abacus Planning Group, to unpack what exceptional culture looks like in practice, not theory.This is not about perks or pizza parties. It is about the intentional, daily work of valuing people, building trust, and creating systems that support both performance and humanity.Cheryl shares how her team built a culture so strong that it shows up without prompting, why praise is a leadership skill most people get wrong, and how culture must be embedded into hiring, onboarding, feedback, and decision-making.We also go deeper into the hard side of leadership. Cheryl opens up about a defining moment when multiple team members exited at once, including a breach of trust, and what that revealed about leadership, accountability, and strengthening culture under pressure.If you are a leader trying to “fix culture,” this conversation will challenge how you think about it entirely.Key takeaways: Why people cannot care for others if they do not feel cared for first  How to use specific praise to build stronger, more effective teams  What it really means to build culture into the DNA of an organization  How to lead through trust-breaking moments and come out stronger  Why attention, not time, may be your most valuable leadership tool This episode is a masterclass in leading with intention, even when it is hard.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

Most leaders treat LinkedIn like an afterthought. Something they’ll “get to eventually.” But the truth is, whether you’re active or not, you already have a presence there. And it’s either working for you or against you.In this episode, we break down why LinkedIn is no longer optional for leaders. It’s one of the most powerful tools you have to build credibility, attract opportunities, and communicate what you actually stand for.We talk about the real reason leaders avoid showing up, what people are actually looking for when they find your profile, and how to use LinkedIn in a way that feels authentic, not forced or performative.If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t need LinkedIn” or “I don’t know what to post,” this conversation will challenge that and give you a practical way forward.Because leadership doesn’t just happen in rooms anymore. It happens online too.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

What are you really promising the people you serve?In this quick-fire debrief, we unpack a powerful idea from our conversation with Melanie Huggins: your brand promise means nothing if it is not reflected in your everyday behaviors.It is easy to talk about culture at a high level. Most organizations have values on the wall, in the handbook, or in a strategic plan. But what actually matters is how those values show up in real moments, in real decisions, and in how people are treated day to day.We explore what it looks like to move culture from a buzzword to something operational. From defining non-negotiables to making hard decisions that truly reflect your values, even when it costs you. Because if you are not willing to uphold your values when it is uncomfortable, they are not really your values.You will also hear why culture is built in the small, everyday interactions, not the big initiatives, and how aligning internal behaviors with external promises is what builds real trust with your customers, clients, and communities.Because at the end of the day, your promise is not what you say. It is what people consistently experience.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking, “Why won’t my team just take initiative?” you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common frustrations leaders face.In this episode of Lead Through IT, Jada and Kim tackle the leadership question that sits underneath that frustration. Why do capable, smart people sometimes wait to be told what to do? And what can leaders do to create an environment where initiative actually happens?They explore the hidden dynamics that often hold teams back. From unclear expectations to fear of making the wrong decision, many organizations unintentionally train people to wait instead of act. Jada and Kim break down how leadership habits, organizational culture, and communication patterns can quietly shape whether employees step up or stay silent.Throughout the conversation, they share practical ways leaders can build trust, clarify ownership, and create the kind of culture where people feel confident taking action without being asked.If you’ve ever wondered why initiative seems to disappear inside otherwise talented teams, this episode will help you rethink the leadership patterns that might be driving it.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this powerful episode of Lead Through It, Jada and Kim are joined by Lyndsay Dowd, a top-tier sales leader, coach, and the author of Top-Down Culture. With 23 years of experience at IBM and a family legacy in the corporate world, Lyndsay shares the raw, transformative story of an unexpected career turning point at age 50 and how that moment became the push that led her to build a thriving coaching business. This conversation is a masterclass in modern leadership and emotional resilience, covering:The Myth of Perfection: Why Lyndsay is proud to admit she was fired and how "naming the shame" became her greatest source of power and authenticity.Irresistible Culture vs. Micromanagement: A deep dive into why micromanagement is rooted in insecurity and how the best leaders lead with trust and psychological safety.The "Maverick and Hustler" Approach: How to foster a team environment that celebrates "weirdness," unconventional ideas, and human connection through storytelling.The Personal Board of Advisors: Why every leader needs a "kitchen cabinet" of people who remind them who they are when their confidence is shaken.The One Question Every Leader Should Ask: Lyndsay shares the most humbling and effective question you can ask your team: "How can I be the best leader for you?"Whether you're navigating a career setback or looking to evolve your leadership style for the modern workforce, Lyndsay’s high-energy wisdom and practical tactics will leave you inspired to lead from the heart.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this episode of Lead Through It, hosts Jada and Kim sit down with Caroline Pennington, a powerhouse in the world of executive recruitment and personal branding. Caroline shares her journey from placing entry-level temporary employees to working with Fortune 500 boards and C-suite executives.Throughout the conversation, the trio explores:The LinkedIn "Secret Sauce": How Caroline grew her following from zero to over 13,000 in two years and the specific strategies she uses to grab the attention of high-level decision-makers.The Art of the "Un-Salesy" DM: Why simple, sincere outreach is more effective than automated pitches.Navigating the Side-Hustle Transition: Tips for starting a business while working a corporate job, including how to communicate with your current employer and managing "moonlighting" policies.Embracing the "Suck": A candid discussion on why you must be okay with being imperfect when you first start out.Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a senior leader, or looking to supercharge your professional presence, this episode offers actionable wisdom on building a brand that resonates.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

What if the key to building a strong culture isn’t about you at all?In this episode, Kim and Jada sit down with Melanie Huggins, CEO of Girl Scouts of South Carolina Mountains to Midlands and former CEO of Richland Library, for a candid conversation about leadership, burnout, reinvention, and what it really takes to build a culture that lasts.With more than thirty years of leadership experience, Melanie shares hard-earned lessons from transforming a large public institution, navigating COVID-era exhaustion, and stepping into a new CEO role where culture change is still unfolding in real time.Together, they explore:Why culture is built in the details no one seesWhat it means to “operationalize equity”How brand promises must match internal behaviorsWhy culture change takes longer than you thinkThe tension between honoring legacy and leading transformationRecognizing burnout before it reshapes who you areCreating space to pause, reflect, and make brave decisionsMelanie offers a powerful reframe: culture is not about what leaders prefer or how they want to operate. It is about the people you serve. The customer. The member. The girl at camp. The parent who must trust you.If your organization is in a hard culture moment, if you are leading through change, or if you are quietly wondering whether it’s time for your own next chapter, this conversation will meet you there.Because building culture is not about ego.It is about alignment. It is about trust. And sometimes, it is about knowing when something is over so something new can begin.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

What does it look like to step into the CEO seat…and refuse to do it the traditional way?In this episode, Kim and Jada sit down with Danielle Pickens, a two-time CEO who is redefining what executive leadership can look like. After fifteen years as an independent consultant building her own company on flexibility and boundaries, Danielle stepped into the CEO role at Urban Schools Human Capital Academy. But she did not leave her independent work behind. Instead, she is pioneering something different: a fractional CEO model rooted in sustainability, clarity, and intentional leadership.Danielle shares what it really feels like to move from doer to strategist, from contractor to accountable executive, and from setting clean scope boundaries to holding ultimate responsibility for everything. She opens up about the mental shift of carrying organizational weight, the sleep-stealing pressure of “everything is in scope,” and the systems she has had to build both professionally and personally to make this new season work.You will hear:• What a fractional CEO actually does and how it challenges traditional leadership expectations• The four grounding questions Danielle returns to when urgency starts to take over• How to clarify a true North Star and eliminate work that does not align• Why not everything deserves an A effort and how a C+ can sometimes be exactly right• The reality of renegotiating roles at home and at work when your leadership season changes• How to lead former peers when you step into the top role• The danger of overfunctioning and how to design systems that prevent it• Why creating twenty minutes of reflective space each week can change your trajectoryThis is a conversation about boundaries, identity, sustainability, and courage. It is about leading in a way that feels aligned with who you are, not just what the role has historically required. Danielle reminds us that leadership does not have to mean burnout, and that pioneering new models is uncomfortable but necessary.If you are stepping into a bigger role, rethinking how you work, or trying to build something that lasts, this episode will challenge and encourage you.Press play and ask yourself:What kind of leader do I actually want to be?If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

When life feels heavy, the news feels overwhelming, and everything seems just a little unsteady, leadership doesn’t get easier. It gets more human.In this episode, Kim and Jada get real about what it looks like to lead when both personal life and the world around us feel messy. From flat tires and pantry tears to national events that leave people emotionally drained, they unpack how leaders can show up with steadiness, care, and authenticity without pretending to have all the answers.They talk through practical ways to support teams during uncertain and emotionally charged times, why avoiding hard moments can erode trust, and how simple check-ins can make a meaningful difference. The conversation also dives into self-leadership, emotional regulation, and why leaders must take their own mental and emotional health seriously if they want to lead others well.This episode is a reminder that leadership right now isn’t about fixing everything. It’s about creating space, staying grounded, and showing up as a whole human for other whole humans.If you’ve been wondering how to lead with compassion, clarity, and stability when everything feels like a lot, this one’s for you.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

What if leadership growth doesn’t start with being right, but with being a little less certain?In this episode, Kim and Jada reflect on their recent conversation with Monty Robertson and dig deeper into the idea of perspective, ego, and self-leadership. They explore what it really means to lead people when you don’t have all the answers, how resilience is built through lived experience, and why letting go of control can sometimes be the strongest move a leader makes.From quiet strength and humility to understanding that people are acting from contexts we can’t always see, this conversation challenges leaders to pause and ask a deceptively simple question: What if I’m 2% wrong? That small shift can open the door to better communication, stronger relationships, and more effective leadership both at work and at home.If you lead people, work with people, or live alongside people, this episode is an invitation to soften your stance, expand your perspective, and lead through it with intention. If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this episode of Lead Through IT, Jada and Kim sit down with Monty Robertson, Executive Director of the Alliance for Healthiest South Carolina, for an honest conversation about leadership, ego, and what it really takes to bring people together when the stakes are high.Monty shares his unconventional leadership journey, from growing up in a small South Carolina town to leading statewide coalitions and navigating moments that demanded humility, adaptability, and resilience. Together, they explore why managing your ego isn’t about shrinking yourself, but about knowing when to step back, listen differently, and reframe the path forward so real progress can happen.This episode dives into:Why lowering your ego can actually strengthen your leadershipHow reframing language and approach can unite people across dividesThe tension between having strong ideas and making space for othersLeading through uncertainty, rapid change, and moments you’ve never been trained forHow perspective, planning, and resilience carry leaders through their hardest seasonsMonty’s Lead Through It moment is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about staying grounded, building trust, and continuing to move forward even when the path is unclear.If you’re leading teams, organizations, or communities and finding yourself stuck between conviction and collaboration, this conversation will challenge and encourage you in all the right ways.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this laser-focused episode of Lead Through It, Jada and Kim reflect on what it truly means to lead with both humility and credibility. Using insights from their conversation with Maia Molina-Schaefer, they explore how effective leaders balance listening and learning with confidently sharing perspective and direction. The discussion dives into values-driven decision making, building strong relationships, creating a trusted “kitchen cabinet” of advisors, and asking better questions of your team. This episode is a practical, honest look at how leaders can earn trust, stay grounded, and lead with impact without losing who they are. If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

What do you do when the system was never designed for you to win?In this powerful episode, we sit down with Maia Molina-Schaefer to talk about grit, identity, and leadership forged in the toughest environments imaginable. From growing up in a low-income immigrant household to becoming a Marine Corps and Army intelligence officer, military diplomat, and trailblazer for women in leadership, Maia’s story is a masterclass in leading through adversity.Maia shares pivotal moments from her journey, including making history at the Naval Academy, leading in combat zones across Iraq, Afghanistan, and Africa, and navigating one of the hardest leadership pivots of her career by switching military branches mid-career. Along the way, she reflects on identity, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to step into the arena even when the odds are stacked against you.This conversation goes beyond titles and resumes. It’s about radical accountability, building trust, embracing nonlinear paths, and learning how to lead people through change by first being willing to walk through it yourself.If you’ve ever questioned your place in a room, faced a major career pivot, or felt the pressure to prove yourself again and again, this episode will resonate deeply.Check out her site: www.voiceinthearena.comIf today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In the first full week of 2026, Lead Through It opens with a message that is honest, challenging, and necessary.This week, Jada goes solo to talk about the one thing that actually changes your business, your leadership, and your life: owning it. Not the surface-level version. The real one.If you feel stuck, frustrated, or like you keep circling the same problems, this episode walks you through why that is happening and what it really takes to break the cycle. Jada unpacks radical accountability, the discomfort that comes with real growth, and why avoiding the truth only compounds the mess over time.This is not a hype-you-up, feel-good kickoff to the year. It’s a grounded, practical conversation about facing what you’ve been avoiding, naming it, and trusting yourself enough to figure it out as you go.If you’re ready to stop repeating the same year and start making real progress, this episode is for you.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this solo episode of Lead Through IT, Kim Andrews makes you an offer you might not want to refuse. It only costs you twenty minutes.This conversation is about pressing pause with intention. Kim walks listeners through a simple but powerful exercise designed to help you step out of survival mode, get honest about where your time and energy are really going, and reconnect with what you actually want your life and work to look like.No hustle talk. No complicated frameworks. Just a grounded reminder that clarity does not come from doing more. It comes from creating space to think, reflect, and choose on purpose.If the year has felt loud, rushed, or reactive, this episode is your permission slip to slow down and reset. Consider this your gentle bribe to invest twenty minutes now so future you can breathe a little easier.Referenced in this episode The 20-Minute Writing Exercise That Neuroscientists Say Can Solve Your Hardest ProblemsIf today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this episode, Jada and Kim dive into one of the most frustrating parts of leadership and business growth: setting goals that actually work. After a week full of Disney conferences, AI discoveries, sick-kid snuggles, and plenty of pivoting, they sit down to talk honestly about why traditional goal setting often fails and what to do instead.Kim introduces her fresh take on goal setting using her Four E Framework. Together, they break down how goals should be simple enough to maintain, exciting enough to spark action, visible enough to stay top of mind, and flexible enough to adapt when life inevitably shifts. They also get real about the challenges leaders face when goals feel too complex, too disconnected, or too irrelevant to the work that actually matters.Whether you lead a team, run a business, or juggle a lot at once, this conversation will help you rethink how you set goals and how you support others in doing the same. It is clear, practical, and designed to help you approach the new year with focus and confidence.If you want your goals to feel achievable, energizing, and aligned with the life you’re trying to build, this is the episode you need.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this bite-sized laser session, Jada and Kim break down one of the toughest parts of leadership: knowing what to share, how much to share, and when to share it. Inspired by their recent conversation with Sarah Kelley on leading through grief, this episode dives into the real tension leaders feel when navigating big, heavy moments like the loss of a teammate, ethical breaches, organizational uncertainty, or high-stakes personnel issues.If you have ever wondered whether your transparency is helpful, overwhelming, or not enough, this episode gives you a simple framework to guide your communication: pause and ask, What is my goal in sharing this? What do I need?Kim and Jada unpack why under-sharing can spark fear, why over-sharing can create unintended stress, and how leaders can walk that middle path with clarity and intention. They offer practical, usable questions you can take into your next conversation and encourage you to reflect for ten minutes after listening to apply this toolkit immediately.Perfect for leaders who want quick clarity, grounded support, and a nudge toward more thoughtful communication.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this episode of Lead Through It, Jada and Kim sit down with Sarah Kelly, a steady, values-driven former COO of a statewide reproductive health nonprofit, to talk about two big things leaders don’t always get real about:navigating grief in the workplace, andmaking a major career and life pivot in your mid-30s.After more than a decade at New Morning, Sarah made the kind of move many people quietly daydream about: she resigned, left the city she’d called home for 13 years, and moved closer to family with no next role locked in. She shares what actually goes into a decision like that – the planning, the money questions, the fear, and ultimately the choice to trust herself enough to create space for something new.Sarah also walks us through a defining lead through it moment: losing a well-loved teammate unexpectedly and having to lead the rest of the team through shock, grief, and an upcoming major event. She talks candidly about trying to balance people’s very different needs, honor the person they lost, keep the work moving, and eventually make room for her own emotions too.In this episode, we talk about:What it really means to “create space” for change instead of squeezing it in around the edgesHow Sarah decided it was time to step away from a long-time role and move closer to familyThe messy, human side of grief at work – and why there’s no perfect scriptPractical ways leaders can support a grieving team while still holding boundaries and expectationsHow vulnerability as a leader can deepen trust without turning into oversharingWhy it’s normal to care what people think – and the line where that starts to erode your sense of selfHow shifting from fear to curiosity can change the way you move through hard seasonsIf you’re leading people through a tough time, sitting with your own grief, or quietly wondering if it’s time to make a big change in your work or life, this conversation will give you language, perspective, and permission to not have it all figured out.Connect with Sarah:Want to share your own transition story or ask a question? You can connect with Sarah Kelly on LinkedIn or by email.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone.JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected] today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this lightning-round episode, Jada and Kim break down their biggest takeaways from their recent interview with Dr. Jim Floyd—owner of Ascent Total Performance and a standout example of what modern leadership really looks like in action.Jim’s story mirrors what so many leaders experience: you excel in your craft… and suddenly you’re leading people, running a business, and navigating challenges no certification ever prepared you for. In this fast-paced debrief, Jada and Kim unpack the real, raw truths Jim shared about:Learning as you go—even as a successful CEOBalancing “stepping back” with staying connected to your teamEmpowering people without accidentally taking overWhy high achievers struggle with wanting all the answersHow vulnerability, communication, and curiosity make stronger leadersJim’s honesty about wrestling with leadership decisions—even while running thriving locations and launching new programs—reminds all of us that growth never stops. You don’t become a great leader by knowing everything. You become one by showing up, stumbling forward, and learning in real time.Whether you’re a seasoned leader or stepping into leadership for the first time, this episode is your permission slip: you do not have to have it all figured out. What matters is your willingness to try, adjust, and try again.Tune in and let this conversation challenge how you think about leadership, vulnerability, and the lifelong practice of empowering your team.Contact Dr. Jim Floyd: https://www.achieveatp.com/If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this powerful episode, Jada and Kim sit down with one of the most inspiring leaders they know—Dr. Jim Floyd, founder of Achieve Total Performance and a heart-led visionary reshaping what healthcare should look like.Jim opens up about the evolution of his leadership journey: the early passion, the growing pains, the moment a trusted team member gave him tough feedback, and how he rebuilt his approach with intentionality and humility. He shares what happens when leaders step back too far, why clarity matters more than charisma, and the difference between delegating and abdicating.Together, they explore:How to recognize when your leadership energy is slippingWhat “gradual release of responsibility” really looks likeWhy self-awareness is a leader’s greatest toolHow to lead a team full of different “voices” and strengthsThe personal habits that fuel sustainable leadershipThe bold, holistic, patient-centered model behind Achieve Total PerformanceJim’s innovative concierge-style executive wellness program and why longevity is becoming a leadership strategyThis conversation is raw, energizing, and full of wisdom for high-achievers who want to lead with integrity and humanity.Whether you're a CEO, an emerging leader, or someone in a season of burnout, this episode will challenge you to rethink how you show up—and remind you that the best leaders never stop learning, adjusting, and growing.Tune in and get ready to take notes. Jim Floyd is the real deal.Contact Dr. Jim Floyd: https://www.achieveatp.com/If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this energizing mini-episode, Jada and Kim pull back the curtain on a lost recording, a coaching moment, and the surprisingly liberating truth they landed on: you have more than enough time left in 2025 to finish the year with intention.With only a handful of meaningful working weeks left, the pressure to “finish strong” is everywhere. But what if finishing strong simply means finishing aligned? The hosts walk through three simple but powerful questions to help you reset, refocus, and reclaim the final stretch of the year—without the chaos, guilt, or end-of-year overwhelm we all know too well.Inside the episode, they explore:Why “five weeks left” can feel scarier than it actually isWhat truly matters most (and how to figure that out without the mental noise)How you want to feel walking into January, and what it takes to actually protect that feelingThe small, intentional habits that support the version of you stepping into 2026The real reason quiet reflection feels uncomfortable, and why you should do it anywayWhether your goal is to finish energized, grounded, or simply not exhausted, this episode will help you set a clear direction for the remainder of the year. You get to define your own strong.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

What if clarity—not confidence—was the key to every breakthrough?In this episode of Lead Through It, hosts Jada Willis and Kim Andrews sit down with Michael “Boot Camp” Thomas — former Columbia Fire Chief, fitness coach, and financial educator — to explore how vision shapes every decision we make. From leading in crisis to building his own home from the ground up, Michael shares how clarity, confidence, and quiet reflection fuel meaningful progress.This episode dives deep into:Why clarity always precedes confidenceHow failure can be your greatest teacherWhat it means to be “hijacked by the vision”And why true leadership requires stillness, humility, and faith in the processWith unforgettable metaphors like “painful pondering” and “confidence deposits,” Michael reminds us that the answers we’re seeking are already in front of us — we just have to clear the mirror and see them.Whether you’re leading a team, a business, or your own life’s next chapter, this conversation is your invitation to slow down, get quiet, and let the vision make the decision.How to reach Michael - https://www.michaelbootcampthomas.com/If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this episode of Lead Through It, Jada and Kim unpack their conversation with Aaron Polkey, attorney, community leader, and candidate for Charleston City Council, whose calm confidence and authenticity left a lasting mark.They explore what it really means to show up with one voice, whether you’re on stage, in a boardroom, or talking with your neighbors. Jada shares a powerful moment of self-reflection about her own “different voices” and what it takes to lead without the mask—especially as a woman of color in leadership. Together, she and Kim dig into the tension between professionalism and authenticity, the performative side of leadership, and how real confidence comes from alignment, not performance.If you’ve ever wondered how to stay true to yourself while leading others, this episode is your reminder that the most powerful voice is the one that’s truly yours.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

Ever felt like your big ideas land with silence? You’re not alone. In this episode, Jada Willis and Kim Andrews debrief their conversation with visionary leader Kelly Jolley, exploring what happens when a leader’s enthusiasm collides with a team’s exhaustion.Together, they break down the tension between vision and overwhelm, offering three practical coaching steps any leader can use to bring their team along for the ride:Lead with curiosity instead of defensiveness.Know your people and tailor how you communicate big ideas.Ground your vision in clarity with the “Start, Stop, Continue” model.From managing resistance to modeling vulnerability, this episode will help you shift from dragging your team along to co-creating momentum together.👉 Tune in for a candid, funny, and practical conversation about what it really takes to lead through growth, change, and the occasional subpar audio.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this powerful episode of Lead Through It, Kim Andrews and Jada Willis sit down with Aaron Polkey, President and CEO of the Palmetto Project and candidate for Charleston City Council District 4.Aaron shares his journey from Charleston native to civil rights attorney to nonprofit leader, and why he felt called to return home to create lasting change. He opens up about what it means to lead through unexpected challenges, from navigating leadership transitions at Palmetto Project to rebuilding trust in community systems.Listeners will hear Aaron’s inspiring philosophy on “looking local”, focusing on practical, people-centered solutions that make government work better for everyone. He also shares a vulnerable “lead through it” moment about inheriting a struggling program and transforming crisis into resilience through hands-on leadership and humility.From civic engagement and housing equity to early bedtimes and morning discipline, Aaron’s authenticity, humor, and dedication to South Carolina shine through every word.Resources Mentioned:Palmetto ProjectAaronPolkey.comFedFam (Substack + Facebook Community)If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

Too often, leadership training is treated like a “one-and-done” event. You sit through a workshop, leave with notes, and then daily fires quickly push those lessons aside. In this episode of Lead Through IT, Jada and Kim dig into why that model doesn’t work—and how ongoing coaching creates lasting change.They break down:Why skills fade without reinforcement and real-world practiceHow to build coaching moments into the everyday flow of workSimple strategies to create consistency without overwhelming busy managersThe cultural and business impact of leaders who prioritize continuous developmentIt’s not about adding more to your plate—it’s about making coaching part of how you lead. Their conversation highlights that coaching is less about formal programs and more about steady, supportive touchpoints that drive growth over time.A recent ATD study backs this up: most managers say they don’t have time to participate in training, yet the organizations seeing the biggest results are those that use pre- and post-training activities, bite-sized learning, and ongoing coaching to reinforce new skills (read more on HR Dive).If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this episode, Jada and Kim sit down with Kelly Jolley, Managing Partner of the Jolley Law Group, to talk about her journey from starting a law firm from scratch to leading four offices across South Carolina. Kelly shares what it means to be more than a bio — an author, healthcare attorney, and nonprofit advocate who inspires trust, builds meaningful relationships, and leads with grit and authenticity.Listeners will hear behind-the-scenes stories of resilience, the importance of human connection in business, and why Kelly is described as nothing short of “an absolute badass.” If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to grow a practice, build credibility, and lead with heart, this conversation will leave you both inspired and motivated.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

Ever feel like leadership is just the same problems on repeat? In this reflective episode, Jada and Kim introduce a new format: breaking down key takeaways from their interviews and showing you how to put those lessons into practice. Building on their conversation with Nola Grant, they dive into the patterns that show up again and again in leadership, teams, and even personal life—and why they don’t always go away.From burnout to turnover, Jada and Kim normalize the “Groundhog Day” feeling leaders face and walk you through a three-step framework to break the cycle: Recognize, Reframe, Respond Differently. Along the way, they share real-world client stories, practical prompts, and their own candid struggles (yes, even passive-aggressive dishwashing).If you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels and start shifting your patterns—even in just 15 minutes—this episode gives you the tools to pause, reflect, and lead with intention.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

This week, Jada and Kim sit down with Nola Grant, Executive Vice President of Human Resources at Harvest Hope and former Chief HR Officer at Nephron Pharmaceuticals. Nola’s story is one of resilience, service, and unshakable authenticity. From her early days as a scholar-athlete and Miss South Carolina to her two decades leading HR teams across industries, she shares the pivotal lessons that shaped her leadership philosophy.Nola opens up about the defining “lead through it” moment of her career, when standing firm in her values put her at odds with a toxic environment. With candor and grace, she reflects on the power of pausing, the importance of self-leadership, and the discipline of pouring out of your overflow rather than an empty cup.Along the way, Jada and Kim explore practical strategies leaders can use when faced with adversity: connecting to your “why,” practicing self-reflection, and strengthening the muscle of calm under pressure.Whether you’re an aspiring professional or a seasoned executive, this conversation is packed with wisdom about integrity, growth, and what it truly means to lead through hard seasons.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this episode, Jada and Kim get real about what it means to lead in 2025, a year already marked by uncertainty, whiplash, and constant change. From funding cuts and political shifts to burnout and pressure on high-performers, they unpack the realities leaders are facing and why “back to basics” is the key strategy right now.Jada shares how she grew and sold her HR consulting firm by leaning into crisis moments, like the chaos of COVID, and how solving urgent, immediate problems fueled massive growth. Together, Jada and Kim offer practical tools leaders can apply today: asking the right questions, identifying the one thing that matters most, shrinking the change, and rallying your people instead of going it alone.Whether you’re a CEO, nonprofit leader, or entrepreneur, this conversation will remind you that progress, not perfection, creates resilience.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]

In this episode, leadership experts Kim Andrews and Jada Willis come together to share how a chance meeting over coffee turned into a powerful professional partnership. What began as two competitive voices in the leadership development space quickly evolved into a friendship built on shared values and complementary approaches to guiding leaders.Listeners will hear a dynamic conversation at the intersection of strategy, culture, and self-leadership. Kim and Jada unpack how balancing vision with practical steps can transform communication, strengthen teams, and drive organizational effectiveness. Their stories and insights provide reassurance to leaders who may feel isolated, offering practical tools, clarity, and confidence to face challenges head-on.Whether you’re a seasoned executive or just beginning your leadership journey, this episode delivers actionable takeaways on how to lead with impact and build a sustainable path forward.If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone. JadaWillis.com | [email protected] | [email protected]