Elevated Leadership with Jena Young

Jena closes out Season Two with a powerful conversation on one of the greatest tests leaders face: uncertainty. From global crises like COVID to everyday business disruptions, she explores how leaders can steady the ship when fear and confusion run high. Jena shares a clear communication framework for leading when answers are limited, highlights common traps to avoid, and offers practical strategies for staying grounded, present, and purpose-driven. This final episode celebrates the season’s theme of taking ownership of your side of the street and equips leaders with the tools to navigate chaos with clarity and calm. To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0 www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

In this episode, Jena shares her hard-earned lessons on what it really takes to build and retain a strong team. Drawing from her own experience as a business owner, she invites leaders to reflect on four key questions: Are your values clear and alive in your workplace? Are you honest about the type of roles you’re offering: starter, stepping stone, or career? Do you know what your employees truly value? And are you facing the external realities of your business head-on?With candor and humor, Jena reveals what she wishes she had known earlier, why values-based hiring matters, and how embracing the facts (instead of fighting them) helps leaders stop spinning their wheels. Whether you’re struggling with turnover, frustrated with hiring, or simply want to strengthen your leadership, this episode will help you see your team-building challenges in a whole new light.To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

In this episode Jena dives into the four essential messages every leader should communicate to their team. She explores why clear, heartfelt communication is the foundation of a thriving workplace.Discover how to build trust, empower your employees, and create a positive culture by ensuring your team hears what truly matters—from honest feedback to genuine encouragement. Whether you’re a seasoned manager or just starting your leadership journey, this episode will give you practical insights and real-world examples to help you lead with clarity, confidence, and heart.Tune in to learn how these four simple messages can transform your team’s engagement, performance, and overall happiness at work!To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

In this week’s episode, Jena shares three powerful themes that keep showing up in her own life and in the lives of the leaders she works with. These lessons are simple, but they hit hard:Rejection is Protection – why setbacks can actually steer you toward better opportunities.A Calm Mind Requires a Calm Body – how regulating your body is the key to clear, effective leadership.No One Will Care as Much About Your Business as You Do (and That's Okay!) – how to release resentment and step into true ownership.These reminders are ones leaders often need to circle back to again and again. Tune in for a short but impactful conversation that just might shift the way you’re approaching your leadership this week.To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0 www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

In this episode of Elevated Leadership with Jena Young, Jena sits down with her Director of Operations, Bo Jennings, for a candid and insightful conversation. Together they tackle three big topics every leader faces: how to let go of employees while staying grounded, how to show up for your team even when you don’t feel your best, and how they, along with Jena's business partner/husband Jeff, make decisions while honoring how different their approaches are. .Bo brings decades of experience in hospitality and a deep commitment to never stop growing. He shares hard-earned leadership lessons, honest reflections, and the mindset that keeps him evolving. This episode offers both practical tools and a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Jena and her team run their businesses.To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

Being a middle manager means living “in the middle of it all,” balancing the needs of your staff with the expectations of ownership, while keeping service and culture strong.In this punchy, insight-packed conversation, Jena sits down with Jasmine Burne, Hospitality Director for Side Street Hospitality. Over the last 10 years, Jasmine has grown with Side Street Café and its sister businesses, moving from the floor to a leadership role where she now supports teams across the organization. And yes, she can still shake up a mean cocktail! We cover real-world lessons every middle manager can relate to, including:Why organization is the foundation of strong leadershipThe responsibility of setting staff up for success every shiftHow to execute plans even when they’re not your own ideaThe importance of growing with your organization as it evolvesThe importance of letting go of staff when they no longer fit the culture. This episode is short but loaded with gems that will empower you to see the value of your role and lead with clarity and confidence.To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

In this episode, Jena shares her favorite “rules of thumb” for effective leadership.She rattles off practical leadership principles, from actionable advice on handling lingering issues, restructuring hard-to-fill roles, and navigating the tricky territory of toxic top performers. She also revisits the classic “hire slow, fire fast” mantra, emphasizing the value of thoughtful hiring and decisive action.Whether you’re a seasoned manager or just starting your leadership journey, this episode is packed with relatable stories, actionable insights, and encouragement to lead with clarity, confidence, and heart. Don’t forget to share this episode with someone who could use a leadership boost!To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0 www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

In this episode, Jena explores the Netflix docuseries America’s Sweethearts, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders’ intense audition and training process. Drawing on her background as a dancer and leadership expert, Jena examines how Director Kelli Finglass and Head Choreographer Judy Trammell navigate tough decisions, hold high standards, and lead with both empathy and accountability.Alongside reflections on her recent visit to The Lost Kitchen and the leadership insights gained from Erin French, Jena breaks down key moments from the show that highlight resilience, culture, and the realities of leading a high-pressure team.Whether you’re familiar with the show or new to it, this episode delivers practical leadership takeaways through an engaging, real-world case study.To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0 www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

In this inspiring and down-to-earth conversation, Jena sits down with Piper Rama, a Division I volleyball player for the ASU Sun Devils, to hear her perspective as a Gen Z athlete navigating high performance, pressure, and team dynamics. Piper shares powerful insights on staying connected to your why, the value of aligning around a common goal, and what it means to show up fully in the present moment whether you're winning or working through setbacks.While the conversation is unpolished in the best, most authentic way, it’s packed with wisdom for athletes, coaches, leaders, and anyone working with or mentoring Gen Z. Jena also asks Piper what older generations should know when leading or managing Gen Z and her answer is refreshingly simple and spot-on.Whether you’re a leader, a parent, or just someone curious about how the next generation is showing up in the world, this episode offers a fresh and grounded glimpse into what matters most from the perspective of someone living it right now.You can follow along with Piper's team on instagram @sundevilvolleyballTo book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0 www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

As a leader, it can feel like everyone needs something right now: a decision, a conversation, a complaint, a meeting. In this episode, Jena Young unpacks the emotional toll of being perpetually “on call” and offers a grounded, empowering guide for how to protect your time and energy without becoming cold or unavailable.Pulling from her own introverted leadership style and real-world lessons as a business owner, Jena introduces practical tactics, including John Maxwell’s 80-20-80 Principle, to help leaders prioritize what (and who) truly deserves their time. She also shares 11 ready-to-use boundary-setting scripts for common workplace interruptions from The One-Stop Shopper to The Opinionator.This episode is a must-listen for leaders who want to stay connected and compassionate while avoiding burnout. It's time to lead with intention, protect your energy, and finally let go of the guilt around saying “not right now.”To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0 www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or spinning your wheels about the same issue again and again, Jena will introduce you to a simple but powerful tool called The 5 Choices, a framework that helps leaders (and humans!) move from frustration and victim mode into clarity and intentional action.Whether you’re navigating a difficult conversation, a draining job, or a lingering personal struggle, you always have these 5 choices:Leave it. Change it. Accept it. Change your perspective. Or stay and suffer.Jena breaks down each option with real-life examples (including one from her own leadership team), shows you how to use this framework to center yourself, and explains why this tool calms the nervous system and restores your personal power.This episode is for you if:You're complaining about the same thing but don’t know what to do about it.You’re in a funk and need a mental reset.You want a clear, empowering way to lead yourself (or your team) through sticky situations.No fluff, just real leadership tools for real life.To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0 www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

In this episode, Jena dives into a raw and rarely discussed topic: growing pains. Whether you’re evolving personally or leading a growing business, the discomfort of stretching beyond who you used to be is real and normal.Jena breaks down why growth feels so disorienting and lonely at times, the energetic shifts happening under the surface, and how to recognize the signs that you're in a growth phase (even if it doesn’t look or feel like progress). You’ll hear:The difference between personal and business growth pains4 clear signs you're outgrowing your old identityWhy your success might feel fragile or unsustainableHow to move through the messy middle without giving upThis is your reminder that you're not stuck, you’re stretching. Tune in to feel seen, supported, and inspired to keep moving forward, even when it’s hard.To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0 www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

In this raw and insightful episode, Jena breaks down the deeper, often overlooked reasons why leadership can feel so challenging—even for seasoned professionals. Drawing from years of consulting and coaching experience, Jena identifies common themes that quietly derail leaders and shares the foundational mindset shifts that help turn things around.This episode isn’t about pointing fingers—it’s about holding up a mirror. With empathy and honesty, Jena explores why so many leaders struggle with managing their own energy and reacting to feedback with defensiveness.Listeners will walk away with:A powerful reframe on what it really means to "manage your energy"Practical tools to receive feedback without spiraling into shameA reminder that leadership is a skill set—not a statusTangible signs of when you're getting in your own way (and how to stop)A grounding mantra: "I don’t need the world to be calm. I am the calm."Whether you’re just stepping into leadership or feeling off-course in your current role, this episode offers a grounding reset and a strong starting point for personal growth. To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0 www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

Your mindset is either your greatest limit—or your greatest leverage. In this episode of Elevated Leadership, Jena shares five of the most powerful mindset shifts that not only shape stronger, more grounded leadership, but also transform how you live. These are not fluffy affirmations or one-size-fits-all mantras, they’re real, hard-earned shifts that bring clarity, courage, and relief. You’ll hear practical strategies, personal stories, brain science, and even a truth-bomb or two from a therapist and college professor. If leadership ever feels personal, heavy, or confusing, this episode is your reset.To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0 www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

In this episode, Jena dives into two common leadership traps that trip up even the best leaders — The Emotion Loop and The Me Myth. These inner challenges can turn tough situations into overwhelming dramas, keeping you stuck in frustration, self-doubt, or ego-driven reactions. She will share what these traps look like, why they happen, and simple, practical steps to break free and lead with clarity and calm. Perfect for anyone ready to get out of their own way and lead with more confidence and ease.To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

Do you ever feel like a camp counselor or referee, constantly caught in the middle of gossip and petty drama at work? You’re not alone. In this episode, Jena dives into why drama thrives in small teams and how leaders often get pulled in—even when they don’t want to be. She shares her own early leadership struggles with gossip and the costly hidden payoffs that keep us stuck. Most importantly, she offers clear, actionable strategies to stop gossip in its tracks, set healthy boundaries, and create a culture where real connection and respect thrive.If you’re ready to trade exhausting drama for powerful leadership that uplifts your team and your business, this episode is for you. Plus, stay tuned for a listener question about turning slow seasons into strategic opportunities!To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

(#15) In this episode, Jena explores the hidden struggles behind why leaders resist delegation—even when they know it’s necessary. Drawing from her own leadership journey and insights from a recent workshop, Jena dives deep into the identity challenges, fears, and mindset shifts that keep leaders stuck doing tasks they’ve outgrown. She unpacks common barriers like perfectionism, fear of failure, and guilt, and shares a practical “delegation recipe” for letting go with trust and clarity. Whether you’re leading a large team or a team of one, this episode offers empowering tools to help leaders shift from doers to coaches, build stronger teams, and reclaim their highest-level work. Perfect for anyone ready to loosen their grip and multiply their impact.To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

(#14) Welcome back to Elevated Leadership! In this episode, Jena explores the subtle but damaging effects of passive-aggressive leadership. She breaks down how indirect communication creates confusion, erodes trust, and saps team energy. Jena explains why passive-aggressiveness often stems from fear, insecurity, or habit, and offers practical steps to recognize and shift this behavior—whether it shows up in yourself or others. Leaders will learn how clarity, courage, and compassion can break the cycle and create healthier, more honest team dynamics.To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

We are thrilled to bring Enneagram Expert, Lisa Hancock, to Elevated Leadership. Her knowledge in all things Enneagram, coupled with conflict mediation, make her an expert in managing the inevitable tough times that come in leadership.In this episode she shares the 3 Social Stances that every one of us fit into: Assertive, Withdrawn and Responsive. Understanding your social stance allows you to create self awareness around your OWN approach to conflict and to be less reactive to how others approach it as well.Note: You do not need to know your Enneagram number to enjoy this episode. In fact, if you don't know... learning your social stance can be an excellent first step! You can reach Lisa at [email protected]. She would love to connect with you and offers Enneagram training, leadership workshops, conflict mediation and more!To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

In the final episode of Season 1, we bring all of the tools together for one massive topic and life reframe. How can we accept and even embrace the hard challenges that we face in life? It does feel impossible at times, but we will break down what these waves of struggle and uncertainty really boil down to. Uncertainty, difficulty and challenge are a guarantee in life, so why do we spend so much time and energy resisting it? Acceptance of what IS is always the key. This episode is here to help you see the leadership struggles in a new light.We thank all of our listeners for their support of this first season! Be sure to subscribe so you can be notified as soon as Season 2 arrives! Stay in touch to share your topic requests and leadership experiences. To book a coaching package or workshop with Jena, visit www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com and follow on instagram@elevated leadership.Please reach out to us directly if you are interested in sponsoring Season 2 or know of anyone who would be a great fit.

Join us as we explore the very common issue of Imposter Syndrome. This sneaky block affects nearly 70% of people, but no one wants to talk about it for fear that they will…look like an imposter.In today’s episode, Jena shares her personal experiences with imposter syndrome while also sharing:*How to tell imposter thoughts from reality thoughts*Different types of Imposter Syndrome*Who is impacted most by this issue*What you can do about it when you are feeling itAs a bonus, Jena taps into the 3 ways of navigating the world: Thinking, Feeling and Doing and shares a personal story of why knowing yourself and others can make all of the difference in your leadership style. To book Jena of Elevated Leadership for one-on-one or group coaching, reach out to [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

Today’s episode is diverse and offers something for everyone. Whether you are a new or experienced leader, the same themes and challenges exist for all of us. Jena answers the most common questions and concerns that she hears. The questions include:*How to not take “things” personally*How to react with less emotion*How to prioritize what you outsource and delegate*What to do when you need to call your boss out*And several more questions!This is information that Jena hasn’t shared in the past and is excited to share now!Resources: Kobe Bryant InterviewCommunication Tips: @jefferson_fisher on InstagramLet’s Connect!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

At its core, Elevated Leadership is about how to be a less fear based leader, and the opposite of fear is TRUST, so this episode takes a deep dive look at how to foster, gain and give trust on every level.This is a special and vast topic because trust is imperative to healthy relationships, and leadership is all about relationships. If you are not trustworthy, people will not follow. Join Jena as she outlines:*The 4 levels of trust*The roadmap toward being trusted and giving trust*Understanding where your job begins and ends in trusting relationshipsLet’s Connect!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

In today’s episode we create awareness around where we fall on the spectrum of introverted and extroverted and why that matters in the context of work and leadership. Jena tells a fun real life example of what “self awareness” looks like and how to cultivate more of it in your own life as well!In this episode we will:*Answer the age old (trick) question of who are the better leaders… introverts or extroverts?*Outline the special gifts that both introverts and extroverts have *Understand why is matters and how to use your personality type to your advantage*How to best lead as an introvert*How to lead introverted employeesCheck out @sotomethod as our “sponsor” for the episode.Let’s Connect!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

Do you avoid making decisions and dread dealing with the opinions everyone has along the way? Decision making comes with being a leader, and we need to be confident in it. One thing that makes it even harder is trying to get agreement from everyone. It is almost never possible! Learn a simple tool from leadership expert John Maxwell that can make decision making much easier. Of course, Jena expands on the concept and adds her own spin.The 25-50-25 Principal of Change can be bound in John Maxwell's book Leadershift: 11 Essential Changes Every Leader Must Embrace(mike link that book to : https://www.amazon.com/Leadershift-Essential-Changes-Leader-Embrace/dp/0718098501 )Follow John Maxwell's inspiring content on instagram: @johncmaxwellConnect with us on Instagram: @elevatedleadershipWebsite: www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.comEmail: [email protected]

Being a *clear and direct* communicator is THE cornerstone of good leadership. You can quickly tell how impactful a leader is based on HOW they communicate. In this episode Jena breaks down the main fears around saying the things you need to say as well as the 4 Communication Faux Pas to avoid.-Avoidant Communication-Anxious Communication-Insecure Communication-Unprofessional CommunicationBreak through on the beliefs that keep you stuck and become more impactful and intentional with what you say and how you say it.Connect with us on Instagram: @elevatedleadershipWebsite: www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.comEmail: [email protected]

A habit is a pattern or routine that happens subconsciously and, in these cases, you will want to drop them ASAP. As always, Jena offers powerful NEW options to replace these habits with. In this episode you will hear:*The importance of allowing flexibility in goal setting*The pitfalls of oversharing with employees*How to avoid taking things personally*What happens when you keep the “wrong” people around*The lie of having to do it all yourself*Does micromanaging ever workLet’s Connect!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

Many leaders either struggle with people pleasing themselves or can identify it in others. This is an episode that can be shared far and wide because people pleasing is prominent in the business world and exhausting. “It is a personality type that feels a strong urge to please others, even at their own expense. They may feel that their own needs aren’t as important as the needs of others or decide to alter their personality to be more “likeable.” It isn’t a medical diagnosis, but it is a way of thinking and operating.” - Jena YoungListen in today to have a complete reframe on this topic.In this episode you will hear:*Jena’s journey to people pleasing recovery*How People Pleasing works against you*The true key to letting go of the People Pleasing Ways*A complete reframe on what is REALLY happening when you are people pleasingLet’s Connect!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

Many leaders are grasping to be in control of situations, other people, outcomes, how they are perceived. Today’s episode is the key to TRUE control, and that is in learning to control yourself. It really is the only thing that you can actually control anyway. Jena shares about the difference between “responding” and “reacting” and how mastering or improving this will lead to more success and satisfaction. This episode covers:*How to know if you are responding or reacting*The edge that responding gives you*Immediate tools to begin practicing this*A real life example to help grasp it allLet’s Connect!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

This topic is near and dear to Jena’s heart because she has watched this one shift change entire businesses. This episode dives into the importance of establishing the core values of your Self and your business and then aligning all of your decisions (including who you work with) through those values. It is easy, simple and fun and will simplify many of your biggest decisions.Listen in for:*What are “Core Values”*Why knowing your values matter*How to find your values*What to do with them*Where to start and the “how-to” of it allAlso:*What is “true passioning” and are you doing it?This is a major “nuts and bolts” episode where Jena will lay out the who, what, where, when and why of the topic.Let’s Connect!Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com

Welcome to 'Elevated Leadership,' where we embrace the truth that everyone is a leader…whether they recognize it or not. The secret to having great impact lies in how well we lead ourselves above all else!In this episode you will:*Get to know Jena and her history as a leadership coach and hospitality entrepreneur*Understand how fear and catabolic energy play a role in keeping leaders “stuck” and ineffective*Learn how to notice when you are operating with fear and common leadership fears*Discover why some leaders are afraid to not be afraid*Uncover ways to shift out of fear and why some people resist itLet’s Connect! Instagram: @elevatedleadership and @jenayoung2.0www.elevatedleadershipgrowth.com