The Leadership Story Podcast

The ground genuinely got less stable, and noticing it isn’t anxiety—it’s an accurate working instinct. In this solo episode, Lisa Jones brings two decades of business continuity expertise to the exact question women leaders are privately wrestling with right now: how do you build career security and survive corporate layoffs when the old corporate promises have quietly expired?Reframing career instability not as a personal failure but as a system design problem you can solve, Lisa shares how to apply real operational resilience tools directly to your life. Learn how to spot your career’s single point of failure, deliberately build income redundancy, and execute the one career transition planning exercise most professionals avoid.If you have been over-performing for a deal that no longer exists, this episode provides a strategic, clear-eyed roadmap to stop living in fear and start building a backup plan for your future.Key Topics We Explored* The Broken Corporate Promise: Why the Sunday-night hum isn’t fragility—it’s perception.* Your Single Point of Failure: The systemic risk of running your income, healthcare, identity, and network through one employer.* Building Career Redundancy: Lessons from Gen Z on managing single-paycheck panic and engineering portable skills.* The Career Tabletop Exercise: How to walk through a 90-day income disruption on paper so you are never deciding in a free fall.* The Carer’s Gap: Navigating the predictable, plannable financial exposure that impacts women leaders during peak earning years.Chapters00:00 The Broken Promise02:55 The Feeling You’ve Been Carrying05:05 Single Point of Failure07:54 Redundancy12:18 The Tabletop18:40 What this Looks Like as a Practice21:00 Planning for TomorrowJoin the Community!Subscribe on Substack for exclusive content:Subscribe to Substack: leadershipstory.substack.comFollow on Instagram: @theleadershipstoryReal Women. Real Leadership. Real Resilience!™Shop the collection: Tools for The Story is live: black-girl-co.printify.me/Connect with LisaFollow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jonesResources & sourcesGen Z and multiple income streams:* Block / Cash App: ~54 million Americans now hold more than one income stream, up from 41 million two years prior; Gen Z drives the growth at roughly five times the rate of Baby Boomers (Bloomberg / Staffing Industry Review, June 2026).* Deputy “Big Shift” report: Gen Z makes up 55% of all workers holding multiple jobs simultaneously — the highest poly-employment rate in over a decade.* Fiverr “Next Gen of Work” report: 67% of Gen Z say multiple income streams are essential for financial security; 56% believe traditional employment will eventually become obsolete. Origin of the “single-paycheck panic” framing (Oct 2025).* Context / nuance: Gen Z switchers’ wage gains have fallen roughly 20 percentage points since 2022 — the old job-hopping playbook returns less now (Fortune, June 2026).The Carer’s Gap and women’s financial exposure:* PensionBee: a one-year pause in retirement contributions can compound to nearly $79,000 in lost savings; a five-year break, about $346,000 less at retirement (Oct 2025).* Women’s earnings track close to men’s early, then diverge during prime career years before narrowing after 55 — meaning women often enter peak earning years with lower lifetime earnings (Carry / BLS, Feb 2026).* Women’s longer life expectancy leaves fewer resources to stretch over more years (National Partnership for Women & Families). This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Stop overthinking and start leading! Most women leaders aren’t missing the answer; they’re missing the move. In this solo episode, Lisa Jones breaks down the leadership strategy to move from analysis paralysis to decisive action.Learn the decision-making framework Lisa uses to break the overthinking loop with three core questions:* What’s the smallest version I can test?* What if it fails? So what?* What can I control to lower the risk?If you’ve ever confused more thinking with more progress, this episode provides the tools to get unstuck, improve your leadership mindset, and start moving.Key Topics We Explored* Why overthinking feels like diligence but functions as a stall* What the research says: the 99.5% finding and why women ruminate more* The belief that quietly feeds overthinking instead of solving it* The three-question framework for moving from analysis to actionChapters00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery01:23 Overcoming Overthinking05:25 Taking Action: The Small Steps09:29 Moving Forward with CourageJoin the Community!Subscribe on Substack for exclusive content:Subscribe to Substack: leadershipstory.substack.comFollow on Instagram: @theleadershipstory Connect with LisaFollow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jonesShop the Collection: 🚨“Tools for The Story” is live! Black Girl Co Store Real Women. Real Leadership. Real Resilience!™ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Are you struggling with a career transition or wondering why your experience isn’t translating in today’s job market? In this episode of The Leadership Story, host Lisa Jones sits down with two-time bestselling author Irene Chukwuma to break down the job search system.In this insightful interview, Irene shares her journey from West Africa to the US, navigating the job market as an immigrant, and overcoming challenges in career re-entry. She discusses strategic job search techniques, the importance of networking, and her inspiring approach to career resilience, including her books on job searching and career restarting.Key Topics We Explored:* ATS Optimization: Why alignment with the job description matters more than application volume.* Strategic Networking: How to find advocates to speak for you in rooms you haven’t entered yet.* The “Restart” Mindset: Leveraging your experience and international credentials in a new market.* Resilience as Leadership: Staying consistent through market ambiguity and rejection.Chapters:00:00 The Reality of the Invisible Job Search02:15 Navigating the U.S. Job Market as an Immigrant05:55 The Importance of Networking09:45 Writing and Publishing Books13:14 The Concept of Restarting vs. Starting Over15:07 Advice for Job Seekers in a Tough Market16:11 Defining Leadership: ReliabilityJoin the Community!Subscribe on Substack for exclusive content:Subscribe on Substack: leadershipstory.substack.comFollow on Instagram: @theleadershipstoryReal Women. Real Leadership. Real Resilience! ™Connect with IreneLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/irenechukwuma-riskmanagementIrene’s Books101 Job Search Tips for Immigrants and New GradsShe Didn’t Start Over, She RestartedConnect with LisaFollow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Lisa Jones reframes AI as a leadership opportunity, sharing strategies for women to leverage emotional intelligence and adaptability to lead in the age of AI.Key Topics We ExploreWhy women feel behind on AI (it has nothing to do with capability)AI as a leadership issue, not a technology problemThe three strengths women bring to AI adoption: emotional intelligence, collaboration, ethical reasoningFour practical strategies: identify what’s draining you, start small, check for bias, bring your team inMindset essentials: be a learner, normalize discomfort, invest in adaptabilityChapters0:00 Introduction to Leadership in AI01:50 The Pressure of AI on Women in the Workforce01:30 Why This is a Leadership Conversation07:13 Practical Strategies for AI Integration12:39 The Resilient Leader's Mindset15:25 Final Thoughts on LeadershipResources MentionedI Let AI Do My Busy Work. Now I Actually Have Time to LeadI Let AI Do My Busy Work. Now I Actually Have Time to LeadConnect with the Leadership Story📖 Subscribe on Substack: leadershipstory.substack.com💼 Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones-mbcp-mbci-57872823📱 Follow on Instagram: @theleadershipstory Real Women. Real Leadership. Real Resilience!™ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Lisa Jones shares a strategic blueprint for navigating a Reduction in Force (RIF) and re-centering your leadership identity when a job title ends.With nearly 90,000 jobs eliminated from just three major companies in early 2026, and a job market that’s harder for older workers and women specifically, Lisa shares data, strategy, and honest reflection on navigating layoff, ageism, faith, and what it actually means to build resilience.This isn’t a ‘blessing in disguise’ conversation. It’s the real version. And it’s for anyone who’s been laid off, is watching others go through it, or is wondering how to move through uncertainty with both grace and strategy.Key Topics We ExploreUnexpected job loss and the disorientation that comes with itThe pressure to perform positivity after layoffAgeism & gendered ageism in hiring and career advancementThe job market reality in early 2026Long-term unemployment rates for older workersFaith and grief existing togetherSix practical strategies for navigating job lossHow to support someone who has lost their jobThe resilience you did not know you already hadChapters00:00 Facing Unexpected Job Loss08:32 Navigating the Job Market Challenges16:42 The Emotional Impact of Job Loss24:48 Strategic Job Searching and Networking32:37 Moving Forward with ResilienceJoin the Community!Subscribe on Substack: leadershipstory.substack.comFollow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones-mbcp-mbci-57872823Follow on Instagram: @leadershipstory Real Women. Real Leadership. Real Resilience!™Companion article on Substack:“Congratulations! You’ve Been Restructured!” This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Amy Palmer and Lisa Jones explore “pre-tirement” and the strategic decision to leave corporate life to find a more authentic professional identity.A former senior executive, award-winning actress, and lifetime content creator, Amy walked away from corporate life without a backup plan and discovered something unexpected on the other side.Key Topics ExploredThe decision to leave corporate without a backup planWhat “pre-tirement” means and why it’s resonating with so many womenHow corporate conditioning shaped who we thought we needed to beGen X vs. Gen Z: What each generation is getting right and what they can learn from each otherRedefining productivity and ambition outside of corporate metricsThe role of rest, spirituality, and listening to your bodyHow to redesign your life when you can’t leave your jobThe moment Amy turned down the “ideal” corporate roleChapters00:00 Introduction03:54 Leaving the Corporate World: The Decision to Transition06:30 Navigating Mental and Physical Health Challenges09:05 The Importance of Rest and Reflection11:43 Preparing for Change: Taking Breaks and Seeking Support14:22 Embracing Vulnerability and Asking for Help17:17 Shifting Focus: From Destination to Journey19:44 Creating a New Identity Beyond Corporate Expectations22:15 The Concept of Pre-Tirement: Redefining Retirement24:49 Finding Joy and Fulfillment Before Retirement27:18 Navigating Ageism and the Concept of Pre-tirement30:13 Generational Perspectives on Work and Life35:08 Creating Content and Finding Purpose38:46 Listening to Our Bodies and Redefining Success45:38 Expansive Leadership: Redefining AmbitionJoin the Community!Subscribe on Substack for exclusive content: Subscribe on Substack: leadershipstory.substack.comFollow on Instagram: @theleadershipstoryReal Women. Real Leadership. Real Resilience!™Connect with AmyFollow on Instagram: @amypalmer.todayWebsite: amypalmer.bioYouTube: Amy Palmer | Blueprint BreakersConnect with LisaFollow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Jenna Muniz and Lisa Jones discuss how personal history and trauma can be transformed into a source of empathetic and effective leadership.Jenna shares her journey from a challenging childhood marked by trauma to becoming a licensed professional counselor and business owner. She discusses the impact of her upbringing on her understanding of leadership, the importance of vulnerability in both her personal and professional life, and how her experiences shape her parenting. Jenna emphasizes the significance of empathy, resilience, and the transformative power of acknowledging one’s own vulnerabilities in the healing process.Key Topics We ExploreJenna’s childhood experiences shaped her understanding of leadership.She found purpose in her pain and used it to help others.Empathy is a crucial skill developed through her experiences.Parenting is a reflection of one’s own vulnerabilities.Vulnerability is essential for effective leadership.Chapters00:00 Childhood and Early Leadership Experiences05:49 Finding Purpose in Pain08:55 Becoming a Therapist and Specializing in Trauma11:56 Lessons from Mentorship and Leadership14:33 Starting a New Practice17:25 Parenting Through a Lens of Trauma21:21 Vulnerability in Leadership24:58 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsJoin the Community!Subscribe on Substack for exclusive content:Subscribe on Substack: leadershipstory.substack.comFollow on Instagram: @theleadershipstoryConnect with Jenna🌐Check the website: Echoes and Embers TherapyConnect with the LisaFollow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jonesReferences📺Becky Kennedy: The Most Important Parenting Strategy🌐Brene Brown Parenting Manifesto: The Wholehearted Parenting Manifesto - Brené Brown This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Kiersten M. Talbert details the persistence required to overcome industry barriers and the strategic mindset needed to launch a successful business.She shares her journey from struggling through 12 years of licensing attempts to becoming one of the youngest first-generation funeral home owners in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. She opens up about learning the business in heels and a pocketbook, the personal losses that fueled her determination, and the divine guidance that led her to build her own chapel instead of someone else’s brand.This is a story about faith, persistence, and the courage to bring your authentic self—rhinestones and all—to an industry that doesn’t always expect it. When asked for one word to describe her leadership story, Kiersten’s answer says it all: Consistent.Key Topics We ExploreThe 12-year journey to passing the national funeral director boards and what finally made the differenceLearning funeral service from a female director who insisted on doing it all, in heelsHow personal loss and a colleague’s question became the catalyst for finally getting licensedThe moment Kiersten decided to build her own business instead of someone else’s brandStarting a funeral home from scratch with no loans, the real obstacles of entrepreneurshipBreaking barriers as a young, first-generation funeral home owner in Montgomery County, PAHow prayer, fasting, and faith guide business decisions in a practical, difficult industryCreating comfort for families through authentic presence and signature styleWhy consistency, not perfection, is the real key to leadershipChapters00:00 Introduction01:28 Educational Journey and Career Start05:48 Apprenticeship Experience10:31 Overcoming Personal and Professional Challenges17:38 Starting Her Own Funeral Home21:31 Business Challenges and Vision25:40 Incorporating Personal Style and Faith27:04 Legacy and LeadershipJoin the Community!Subscribe on Substack for exclusive content: Subscribe on Substack: leadershipstory.substack.comFollow on Instagram: @theleadershipstoryConnect with Kiersten:🌐Check the website: Kiersten M. Talbert Funeral Chapel📱Follow on Instagram: @kmtalbertfuneralchapel📔Follow on Facebook: Kiersten M Talbert Funeral Chapel, Inc☑️Follow on TikTok: KMTalbert Funeral ChapelConnect with LisaFollow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jonesSubscribe, rate, and review The Leadership Story wherever you listen to podcasts. Your reviews help other women find these conversations. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Emily Vizcano and Lisa Jones discuss the “planner mindset” used to manage a global career at Google while navigating a family health crisis.The discussion highlights the significance of resilience in navigating both professional and personal challenges, emphasizing that while one may not always see the entire path ahead, taking small steps can lead to meaningful progress.Key Topics We Explore:How Emily accidentally “fell into” business continuityThe 2015 call to quit and the call back that changed everythingSix years of part-time flexibility: making it work with three boysApril 2021: Her son’s leukemia diagnosis and going to zero hoursHow business continuity planning mode kicked in during the most unpredictable timeWorking hard 9-5, then leaving at 5 (no guilt, no apologies!)Why she hated an organization’s leadership principles and appreciates them nowChapters00:00 Introduction to Emily Vizcaino04:14 Emily’s Journey into Business Continuity06:55 Transitioning from Public to Private Sector09:53 Consulting Experience and Industry Exposure12:44 The Challenges of Client Education15:26 Balancing Career and Family Life18:07 Supportive Work Environment and Flexibility20:54 Mentorship and Growth in Consulting25:47 Building a Supportive Team Environment27:07 Navigating Family Challenges During COVID29:15 Coping with a Child’s Illness33:00 The Journey of Resilience35:55 Leadership Lessons from Personal Experience42:25 Defining Leadership Through ResilienceJoin the Community! Subscribe on Substack for exclusive content:Subscribe on Substack: leadershipstory.substack.comFollow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jonesFollow on Instagram: @theleadershipstoryContact with EmilyLinkedIn: Emily VizcainoSubscribe to The Leadership Story wherever you get your podcasts and join our Substack community for early access to episodes, exclusive content, and resources for your leadership journey. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Melissa Muniz and Annalicia Russell join Lisa Jones to discuss generational shifts in career boundaries and the evolving definition of professional worth.This is an honest conversation about career, identity, and what happens when one generation clears a path for the next. From negotiating salaries without apology to redefining what work means in your life, this special episode explores how daughters learned from watching mothers do it scared and decided to do it differently.Key Topics We ExploreWhy Gen Z negotiate salaries from day one while Gen X waited decades to find that confidenceHow career became identity for one generation while the next keeps work as just one part of lifeThe “yes woman” syndrome and learning when saying no is actually saying yes to yourselfWhat happened when COVID forced everyone to question if their career sacrifices were worth itWhy representation matters: How watching strong women shapes the next generation’s confidenceThe database project moment: Knowing your strengths vs proving you can do everythingDoing it scared so your daughters can do it confidentChapters00:00 Introduction to Generational Perspectives02:40 Negotiating Salary: A Generational Shift06:17 Understanding Self-Worth in Careers11:33 The Influence of Strong Female Role Models18:36 Defining Career vs. Identity26:17 Impact of COVID-19 on Career Perspectives33:29 The Pressure to Say Yes in the Workplace34:27 The Struggle for Self-Advocacy36:07 Knowing Your Strengths37:27 The Importance of Self-Awareness41:44 Finding the Balance: Yes vs. No47:53 Lessons from Our Mothers51:45 Hopes for the Next Generation58:23 Defining Leadership: Energetic vs. Beginning01:02:32 Embracing Fear in LeadershipJoin the Community!Subscribe on Substack for exclusive content:Subscribe on Substack: leadershipstory.substack.comFollow on Instagram: @theleadershipstoryConnect with Our GuestsMelissa MuñizLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melissamuñiz-resilienceAnnalicia RussellLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annaliciacarlsonConnect with Lisa JonesFollow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jonesFollow on Instagram: @theleadershipstory This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Elethia S. Gay explains why self-care is a core strategic decision for high performance, focusing on setting boundaries and converting fear into courage.We explore why “being in love with yourself” is strategic not selfish, why rest is a leadership superpower, and how to pick ONE thing to start with instead of seven resolutions you’ll abandon by February.If you’re burnt out, exhausted, and wondering why you can’t seem to reach the next level, this conversation is for you.Key Topics We ExploreThe Wellness Journey BeginsElethia’s shares how watching her mom exercise during cancer remission planted a seed that would transform her life. From laughing at the energetic instructor to joining her mom on the living room floor, this early experience showed her that health and wellness were connected to survival and thriving, not just fitness.From Personal Transformation to Hiking for HopeThe founding of Hiking for Hope came from tragedy. The devastating loss of a woman due to domestic abuse sparked Elethia’s mission to create a space to raise awareness while building community through nature. What started as one hike has grown into a movement that combines outdoor wellness purpose.The Problem with Two ListsWe’ve been conditioned to separate our professional goals from our health goals, creating two distinct lists for our lives. Elethia challenges this approach, explaining that “your body is one member”; you can’t compartmentalize yourself into “work you” and “personal you.” The work-life balance concept creates a false dichotomy that leads us to skip self-care in pursuit of professional development, only to reach our goals feeling burnt out and empty.Self-Care as StrategySelf-care isn’t just about massages and bubble baths, t’s about caring for yourself in ways that help you thrive. Elethia reframes self-care as a strategic decision, not a luxury. When you’re in love with yourself and thriving in your personal life, that energy naturally flows into your professional success. The key is understanding that setting realistic goals for your wellness is just as important as the goals you set for your career.The Practical ApproachInstead of setting seven resolutions that you’ll abandon, Elethia recommends starting with ONE thing. Identify what’s creating a roadblock or deficiency in your life and address that first. Whether it’s rest, movement, or dealing with something you’ve been avoiding, pick the one thing that’s holding you back from being your best self.Rest as Leadership StrategyRest isn’t optional, it’s strategic. Elethia shares her own journey of working with a sleep doctor to optimize her rest and learning to include sleep in her daily planning the same way she schedules meetings. She challenges the “I could do it in college” mentality, reminding us that our bodies change and what worked at 20 doesn’t work at 40.Spirituality and SurrenderGrowing up with adult responsibilities from a young age taught Elethia to try to control outcomes, but spirituality has shown her the power of letting go. When you surrender what you can’t control and focus on what you can, clarity follows. This practice of surrendering creates space for God to speak and for answers to emerge.The Courage to LeadWhen asked for the one word that describes her leadership story, Elethia chose COURAGE. Her journey has been about converting fear into faith and stepping into who she is without worrying about what others think. From the courage to try that first spin class to the courage to found a nonprofit, every step has required her to ask, “why not me?” and then act on the answer.Chapters00:00 - Introduction: The Two Lists Problem02:11 - Meet Elethia: From Birthday Party to Leadership Conversations03:31 - The Wellness Journey: Mom’s Cancer Battle & Tony Little08:16 - The Spin Class Moment: “Why Not You?”11:01 - Roots to Wellness: Creating Space for Self-Expression14:18 - Hiking for Hope: From Tragedy to Healing Mission19:12 - Your Body Is One Member: Why Self-Care Gets Skipped24:05 - Practical Integration: Start With ONE Thing29:01 - Rest, Spirituality & Surrender: The Foundation of Leadership34:00 - The Signature Question: COURAGE34:51 - Connect With Elethia & ClosingJoin the Community!Website: leadershipstory.substack.comEmail: [email protected] with ElethiaInstagram: @elethiagayWebsite: elethiagay.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elethiagaycoachBook a Wellness Discovery Call: elethiagay.comElethia offers wellness coaching, personal training, and transformative programs that help you integrate self-care with professional success.Roots to Wellness Journal: https://a.co/d/2zQoXENConnect with Lisa:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Lee Anna Will and Lisa Jones discuss how the creative process of distilling complexity in art mirrors the high-level strategy required for C-suite leadership.Lee Anna started as a high school art teacher in Baltimore and today advises C-suite executives on large-scale transformation initiatives. But here’s what makes her journey so compelling, she never left the art behind. She brought it with her into every boardroom, every strategy session, every leadership moment.Lee Anna shares how the same process she uses to create a painting is exactly what she uses to lead transformation projects. She reveals what teaching 38 teenagers taught her about executive leadership, the story behind her painting “Follow Your Heart Home,” and why she gave herself permission to bring her whole self to work.If you’ve ever felt like you had to choose between different parts of yourself to be an effective leader, this conversation will change how you think about your leadership journey.Key Topics We Explore:The Art of TranslationHow distilling complex ideas into clear form connects artistic creation and strategic business transformation and why this matters for your leadership.From Classroom to C-SuiteWhat teaching 38 teenagers in Baltimore taught Lee Anna about leading executives, building credibility, and showing up authentically in high-stakes situations.Permission to Be WholeWhy bringing your entire self to work - the creative AND the analytical, the personal AND the professional - isn’t just okay, it’s your competitive advantage.Redefining Creativity in LeadershipHow analytics can be just as creative as art, why curiosity drives both innovation and strategy, and what creative skills you’re not giving yourself credit for.The Anchor and Compass PhilosophyThe story behind Lee Anna’s painting “Follow Your Heart Home” and how the people who ground us and the direction that guides us are both necessary for the leadership journey.Chapters00:00 Bridging Art and Strategy11:53 The Journey from Teaching to Business22:10 Fostering Creativity in Leadership31:16 - Authenticity and Collaboration in LeadershipJoin the Community!Website: leadershipstory.substack.comEmail: [email protected] with Lee Anna:Instagram: @WillPowerDesignsEtsy: WillPowerDesigns - Check out “Follow Your Heart Home” and more of Lee Anna’s artworkLinkedIn: Lee Anna Will - Transformation PMPConnect with Lisa JonesLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Tara Jones and Lisa Jones explore how soft skills, mentorship, and professional instincts can turn unexpected luck into a sustainable leadership strategy.Tara emphasizes the value of authenticity in leadership and the necessity of trusting one’s instincts when considering career changes. Her insights provide a roadmap for those looking to pivot in their careers, highlighting the interplay between preparation, opportunity, and the support of others.Key Topics We Explore:Tara’s journey illustrates the importance of mentorship in career development.Soft skills are crucial for success in any field, especially consulting.Trusting your instincts can lead to significant career changes.Authenticity in leadership fosters trust and productivity among team members.Career pivots can be driven by personal circumstances and opportunities.Networking and community support are vital for professional growth.Preparation and opportunity are key to achieving success.Leadership is about supporting and trusting your team, not micromanaging.Embracing change can lead to unexpected and rewarding career paths.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tara Jones and Her Journey04:28 From Pre-Med to PhD: A Shift in Career Path08:53 Transitioning to Business Continuity14:58 Navigating the Early Days in Consulting18:58 The Importance of Mentorship and Soft Skills19:47 The Journey of Mentorship and Learning21:04 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship23:35 Exploring Different Sectors25:45 Building a Consulting Business27:30 The Importance of Trust in Leadership30:05 Authenticity in Leadership34:05 Navigating Career Changes36:47 Defining Leadership Through LuckJoin the Community!Subscribe on Substack for exclusive contentleadershipstory.substack.comConnect with Tara Jones:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tara-jones-329b138QS Consulting: QS Consulting | Quodammodo Solutions, LLCACP Hampton Roads Association of Continuity Professionals - VA: Hampton Roads (Virginia)Connect with Lisa JonesEmail: [email protected]: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

April Renner and Lisa Jones discuss the shift from the “work-life balance” myth to sustainable, authentic work-life integration for high-performing women.April gets real about navigating the shift from financial services to construction, finding her voice in rooms where she’s often the only woman, and leading through personal challenges including divorce and single parenthood. Through candid conversation, she shares how those difficult seasons didn’t derail her career - they shaped her into a more authentic, empathetic, and effective leader.Key topics We Explore:Finding your authentic voice across different industries and culturesWorking your way up without a traditional path (and going back to school as an adult)Navigating personal challenges while advancing your careerThe resilience required to keep moving forward when everything feels overwhelmingHow personal struggles become leadership strengthsChapters00:00 Navigating Authenticity in Career Transitions02:37 Mentorship and Leadership in Male-Dominated Fields05:16 Embracing Change: From Finance to Construction07:59 Curiosity and Compassion in Leadership11:01 Work-Life Integration in the Resilience Industry13:56 Balancing Education and Career17:07 Finding Your Voice Through Education24:30 Navigating Leadership and Education28:04 Personal Challenges and Professional Growth37:21 Vulnerability in Leadership39:43 The Essence of ResilienceJoin the Community!Subscribe on Substack for exclusive content:leadershipstory.substack.com Connect with April Renner:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aprilrennerConnect with Lisa:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Lisa Jones explores the defining moments of a leadership journey, focusing on how to reclaim your personal narrative and find your authentic voice.She reflects on her own journey from being an administrative assistant to a leader in the resilience industry, highlighting the lessons learned along the way. The conversation touches on themes of imposter syndrome, the value of personal experiences, and the need for women to recognize their leadership potential. Lisa encourages listeners to embrace their unique stories and prepare for future episodes featuring diverse voices in leadership.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership Stories02:48 The Journey to Leadership05:25 Overcoming Adversity in Leadership08:06 Building Resilience in Leadership11:13 Imposter Syndrome and Leadership13:52 Embracing Your Leadership Potential16:42 Looking Ahead: Future Conversations on LeadershipJoin the CommunitySubscribe on Substack for exclusive content: leadershipstory.substack.comConnect: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

resource for women’s career advancement, focusing on authentic leadership and real resilience.Episode Length: 90 secondsHost: Lisa Jones, MBCP, MBCIKey Pillars:Personal story meets professional leadershipResilience as a measurable capabilityConnect with Lisa:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones-cbcp-mbci-57872823Website: leadershipstory.substack.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com