https://www.sherylkline.com/blog/leading-in-times-of-uncertainty-with-stephanie-royal

In this podcast episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Stephanie Royal, Chief People and Culture Officer at the Robin Hood Foundation. Stephanie’s journey and experiences provide a powerful reminder that leading with authenticity, resilience, and purpose is essential, especially in today’s ever-changing landscape. Together, we unpacked the importance of embracing our unique leadership journeys, navigating cultural and societal expectations, and finding strength in community and self-care.

Here are five key takeaways from our conversation:

1. Embrace Your Unique Journey (1:17)
   Stephanie’s journey to becoming a leader wasn’t linear. Inspired by strong female role models, she learned early on the importance of carving her own path. Despite societal and familial expectations, Stephanie emphasized that we must give ourselves permission to pursue the career and life paths that align with our values. "You do you," as we like to say, because it’s your life to live and your legacy to build.
2. Find Strength in Authenticity (9:14)
   Stephanie reminds us that being our authentic selves is crucial for effective leadership. She shared her own experience as a woman—and often the only woman of color—in executive spaces. Staying true to her identity allowed her to cultivate meaningful relationships and lead with confidence. Authenticity, she believes, is key to feeling settled, comfortable, and ultimately impactful in our leadership roles.
3. Trust is Essential in Times of Uncertainty (16:45)
   During uncertain times, having the trust of your team is paramount. Stephanie emphasizes that being a trusted leader makes it easier to guide teams through crises. By building relationships grounded in trust and transparency, leaders can inspire confidence and collaboration. In times of change, clear communication and a well-articulated plan can be a stabilizing force for the team.
4. Prioritize Self-Care and Reflection (24:12)
   One practical tool Stephanie introduced is embedding weekly reflection time into your schedule. This allows leaders to pause, review, and celebrate progress with their teams, helping everyone stay grounded and motivated. Whether it’s a dedicated hour or even just 10 minutes, reflection gives you the chance to recalibrate and focus on what’s working.
5. Build Your Support System (28:33)
   Stephanie’s final takeaway is about the importance of finding and nurturing a support system. Building connections, having trusted peers or mentors, and taking time for self-care are vital for long-term success and well-being. As she reminds us, “find your people” and invest in relationships that keep you grounded and resilient.

This episode was a powerful reminder that being intentional, authentic, and supported as leaders is essential for navigating today’s challenges. If you’re ready to strengthen your leadership journey, I’d love to connect. Book a discovery call with me to explore how high-level coaching can support your biggest goals and support your team.

Cheering you on always.

Sheryl

https://www.sherylkline.com/blog/developing-resilience-when-it-s-time-to-rise-with-anne-pao

In this insightful episode, I had the pleasure of connecting with Anne Pao, CEO and founder of Ignite Consulting, to explore resilience and the critical role of self-care in leadership. Anne shares her journey from a challenging childhood to a successful corporate career, emphasizing the importance of taking pauses to recharge.

Anne dives into the necessity of integrating self-care routines, the power of sleep, and redefining productivity to include rest. Her experiences offer valuable lessons for female leaders on sustaining resilience and achieving long-term success by prioritizing well-being and trusting oneself.

Key Takeaways

Introduction to Resilience (00:00:01)

The importance of resilience, especially in Q4.

Running Away Decision (00:04:02)

At 12, Anne considers running away but chooses to focus on academics instead, demonstrating resilience.

Burnout and Recovery (00:10:36)

Anne shares her experience with burnout during the pandemic and the importance of taking a break for self-care.

Trusting Yourself (00:15:22)

Anne discusses the importance of self-trust in making decisions, especially regarding taking a pause.

Finding Your Reset (00:22:44)

Anne shares her personal reset activities, emphasizing the need for a routine to clear the mind.

The Importance of Sleep (00:24:43)

Highlighting sleep’s role in growth and mental capability, encouraging better sleep habits.

Adding Social Accountability (00:25:06)

Incorporating social accountability to enhance commitment to self-care routines is key.

If you’d like to connect to discuss how I can help you or your team with coaching, speaking, or about early access to my upcoming book due out just prior to IDW 2025, let’s talk soon!

To your next level of success and joy,

Sheryl

https://www.sherylkline.com/blog/being-an-executive-and-being-happy-with-larissa-thomas

I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Larissa Thomas, Vice President of Talent and Effectiveness at Electronic Arts.

We dive right into career fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of defining personal happiness and success.

Larissa shares her journey, highlighting struggles with confidence and societal pressures. She underscores the necessity of self-care and resetting to achieve mental clarity.

We also touch on cultivating happiness, setting realistic expectations, and focusing on personal growth.

I hope this episode inspires you, as a fearless female leader, to take charge of your career, prioritize well-being, and redefine success on your own terms.

Key Takeaways:

Defining Personal Success (00:03:28)

Larissa discusses the importance of defining her own version of success rather than following corporate norms.

Crafting a Career Change Plan (00:08:15)

Larissa details her process of planning a career change, focusing on strengths and desired work environments.

Controlling What You Can (00:15:34)

Larissa highlights the importance of focusing on controllable aspects of her career and reflecting on accomplishments.

Divorcing the Need for Validation (00:18:15)

Larissa shares her journey of breaking free from seeking validation in the corporate world, enhancing her self-worth.

Reframing Happiness (00:23:29)

She advises listeners to redefine happiness as an active pursuit rather than a passive state.

Visualization Techniques (00:26:05)

Larissa compares career visualization to Olympic training, highlighting its role in achieving clarity and success.

If you’d like to connect to discuss how I can help you or your team with coaching, speaking, or about early access to my upcoming book due out just prior to IDW 2025, let’s talk soon!

To your next level of success and joy,

Sheryl