Losing a job can feel like losing your identity—but it doesn’t get to define your worth.
In this honest and deeply relatable episode of Lead Like a Girl, we talk about the kind of grief no one prepares you for: job loss, career disruption, and the emotional fallout that follows. We share personal stories, early career lessons, and what it really looks like to rebuild confidence, community, and purpose when life doesn’t go according to plan.
This conversation is raw, real, and validating—for any woman navigating career transitions, professional rejection, or the in-between season that feels uncomfortable but isn’t wasted.
Episode Summary
In this episode, we open with real-life chaos (because that’s life) and move straight into a powerful conversation about grief tied to job loss. We reflect on first jobs, career setbacks, and how losing a role can feel personal—even when it’s not.
We unpack the emotional weight of professional grief, including feelings of betrayal, disappointment, and self-doubt, while also highlighting the importance of community, honest conversations, and maintaining relationships during transitions. This episode explores resilience, gratitude, slowing down, and learning to regain control when everything feels uncertain.
If you’ve ever questioned your worth after a job loss or wondered what’s next, this episode is for you.
Let’s be honest — trust issues at work don’t just “happen.”
They’re built (or broken) by what you do, what you avoid, and what you pretend didn’t matter.
In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, we’re talking about the real reason trust falls apart in leadership — and why it’s not about being liked, perfect, or the loudest voice in the room.
We unpack how trust shows up in communication, consistency, decision-making, and professional relationships — plus what actually works when you’ve messed up and need to rebuild credibility without losing your leadership edge.
Because leadership isn’t about never making mistakes.
It’s about what you do after you make them.
Trust is the invisible currency of leadership — and you spend it daily
Consistency builds trust faster than charisma ever will
Character + competence = leadership credibility
Avoiding hard conversations erodes trust quietly (and quickly)
Owning mistakes doesn’t weaken leadership — it strengthens it
Low trust slows decisions, kills momentum, and frustrates teams
Listening builds trust faster than explaining yourself
You can rebuild trust — but not without accountability
Trust isn’t assumed with a title, it’s earned in behavior
Leaders who ignore trust issues eventually lose influence
“Trust isn’t built in big moments — it’s built in the small ones.”
“Consistency beats talent when it comes to trust.”
“If you won’t own the mistake, you don’t get to keep the trust.”
🔑 Takeaways You’ll Actually Use🎧 Sound Bites That Hit
What if the clothes in your closet actually matched your values?
In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, we sit down with Tia Robinson, sustainability expert and Founder & CEO of Vertical Activewear, to talk about what’s really happening behind the scenes in the fashion industry—and how women leaders can drive meaningful change through intentional business.
Tia shares her journey from corporate life into building Georgia’s first B Corp–certified apparel manufacturer, why overproduction is one of the biggest problems in fashion today, and how on-demand manufacturing can radically reduce waste. This conversation goes beyond clothing—it’s about leadership, responsibility, and learning to align what you buy, build, and believe.
If you’ve ever wondered how your consumer choices matter, how purpose-driven businesses actually work, or how to lead with intention in a noisy, fast-moving world—this episode is for you.
Sustainability in fashion starts with leadership decisions, not just trends
Overproduction is one of the most damaging—and overlooked—issues in the apparel industry
On-demand manufacturing dramatically reduces waste and excess inventory
B Corp certification creates accountability for people, planet, and profit
Mindfulness and curiosity are powerful tools for entrepreneurs and leaders
Wearing your values is both a personal and professional statement
Buying less—but better—has ripple effects across communities and supply chains
“I want people to wear their values.”
“Buy what you love and will actually wear.”
“Stay curious and keep learning—it changes everything.”
Key TakeawaysSound Bites
She didn’t disappear… she’s just tired. 😅 If you’re a working mom in leadership trying to juggle marriage, kids, career ambition, and a schedule that never stops, this one’s for you.
Jessica and Coralyn get real about the “middle years” of marriage—when life gets full, calendars get chaotic, and date nights feel like another task on the to-do list. From petty spouse arguments (laundry + garbage wars, anyone?) to love languages, travel stress, and why “help” shouldn’t come with guilt—this episode is your permission slip to stop trying to do it all perfectly.
In this episode, we talk about:
The moment your spouse says “What happened to the spontaneous girl I dated?” 😬
Women leadership + working mom life: why the middle years feel heavier than the honeymoon stage
Travel, schedule overload, and why “I told you” doesn’t work (calendar invites don’t either sometimes)
Kids’ activities, mom guilt, and setting limits without feeling like a “bad mom”
Marriage connection: love languages, attention, and the ROI of real quality time
Date nights that actually work (and why bringing a kid means it’s NOT a date)
Money shifts: more income, more pressure, more conversations
Proactive marriage support: counseling, classes, and choosing tools before crisis
3 Main Takeaways
Full seasons require new systems. Your marriage needs structure (calendars, communication, help) when life gets heavier.
Connection > perfection. You don’t need 10 big dates—you need intentional moments that make your partner feel loved.
Boundaries are leadership. Saying “no” to over-scheduling your kids and your life is not selfish—it’s survival.
Rejection hurts — but what if it could also be the catalyst for your greatest personal growth? In this week’s episode of Lead Like a Girl, we sit down with the inspiring Shawna Marie Bryant for a raw, uplifting conversation about belonging, acceptance, truth, and the courage it takes to rise again.
Perfect for women craving empowerment, community, and a reminder that they are enough, this episode dives deep into the messy, beautiful journey of owning your worth.
– The transformative power of speaking truth over your life
– Why belonging and acceptance are core to women's emotional wellbeing
– How words shape identity, confidence, and personal growth
– What women can learn from rejection and how to rise from it
– Community as a source of empowerment and connection
– Why letting go of limiting beliefs is essential for new beginnings
– Personal growth as an ongoing, intentional journey
– How to step boldly into your God-given worth and purpose
– Vulnerability as a pathway to deeper relationships
– Why it's never too late to reinvent yourself and pursue passion
https://shawnamariebryant.com/
If the holidays have you dodging group texts, overthinking every social invite, and questioning humanity in the Target parking lot… welcome, friend. This week, we’re diving headfirst into holiday chaos, pet peeves, and the self-care we swear we’re trying to practice.
Takeaways
Self-awareness helps in understanding boundaries.
People aren't intentionally annoying most of the time.
Pet peeves can be amplified during stressful times.
Give grace to yourself and others during the holidays.
Planning ahead can alleviate holiday stress.
Experiences create lasting memories over material gifts.
Traveling light can reduce stress during holidays.
Hydration and self-care are essential during busy seasons.
Laughter can help diffuse tension around triggers.
Avoiding crowded places can maintain peace.
In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, we’re mixing holiday survival mode with real talk - between hilarious pet peeves, deeply relatable stress triggers, and the psychology behind why your uncle’s chewing suddenly feels like an attack, we keep things real.
We dig into why experiences matter more than gifts, how to protect your peace in crowded spaces, and the travel hacks that make December slightly less chaotic.
The takeaway?
You’re not alone, you’re not losing it, and yes — you can still lead with intention, humor, and a whole lot of grace this season.
The holidays are magical… until they’re not. If you’re feeling equal parts festive and fried, this episode is your pre-season pep talk.
In this week’s episode of Lead Like a Girl, Jessica, Jamie, and Coralyn get real about navigating the holiday season as busy women — from family dynamics and pressure-filled traditions to carving out space for self-care, communication, and joy.
The holiday season can be both joyful and stressful
Why flexibility in traditions is the secret to less chaos
How to communicate your needs clearly during family gatherings
Scheduling downtime as a form of self-care (and sanity!)
The power of saying no — without guilt
Delegation: your holiday stress-saving superpower
How planning ahead helps prevent burnout
Ways to involve kids in holiday prep to make meaningful memories
Permission to change long-standing traditions when they no longer serve you
Creating a balance between obligations and personal well-being
In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, Jamie, Jessica, and Coralyn dive into the beautifully messy mix of holiday season expectations, family dynamics, and self-care. They share personal updates and real-life stories about the stressors that sneak into celebrations — and how flexibility, communication, and intentional planning can transform the season from overwhelming to joy-filled.
The hosts talk openly about saying no, delegating tasks, and rewriting old traditions that no longer align with your life. Their message? You’re allowed to protect your peace and prioritize joy — even in December.
holiday season, family dynamics, traditions, self-care, stress management, women empowerment, planning, downtime, communication, delegation, working moms, women leadership, real stories
What We Cover — Quick, Clickable TakeawaysEpisode SummarySEO Keywords
Parenting comes with battles you never asked for — but today we’re digging into the fights worth having, the ones that actually shape your kids into the humans you hope they become.
Parenting isn’t peaceful — it’s powerful. And the truth is, some fights are worth having. In this raw and hilarious episode of Lead Like a Girl, Jessica, Jamie, and Coralyn break down the parenting battles that actually matter: the boundary-setting confrontations, the gratitude talks, the screen-time wars, and those awkward (but necessary) conversations that build character, resilience, and responsibility in our kids.
From personal stories to practical wisdom, we cut through the chaos and get real about what it takes to raise good humans in a world that’s… a lot.
Episode Takeaways:
Navigating your own challenges while still showing up for friends
Why fights with your kids matter and actually build character
How clear expectations reduce chaos and support behavior
Teaching gratitude through modeling, consistency, and reminders
Encouraging resilience and a “you have to figure it out” mindset
The power of respectful communication inside the family
Managing screen time with intention (and sanity)
Using chores to build responsibility and teamwork
Why awkward conversations shape your kids’ values
Instilling faith, integrity, and compassion in daily life
From injectables and GLP-1's to self-image, med spa owner expert Emily Giddings joins us to unpack what’s real, what’s hype, and what it means for how we see ourselves.
In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, we’re walking through the modern world of beauty—from the most popular aesthetic services to what’s actually worth it and what’s just hype. Founder of Giddie Skin Med Spa, Emily Giddings pulls back the curtain on everything you’ve wondered about—from Botox and fillers to skin treatments, GLP-1 medications, and the myths that won’t seem to die.
Emily shares her insider perspective on how the beauty industry is evolving, what trends are here to stay, and how to make smart, confident choices when it comes to treatments. If you’ve ever been curious about med spa services but didn’t know where to start, this conversation will answer your questions—and maybe even change the way you think about modern aesthetics.
Takeaways:
Learn what aesthetic services are actually worth the investment—and which are overhyped.
Get expert insight on today’s most popular treatments, from Botox to GLP-1s.
Understand how to make confident, informed choices about your skin and body.
Keywords:
aesthetics, injectables, skincare, Botox, fillers, GLP-1, beauty trends, med spa, skin treatments, Giddie Skin, aesthetic nurse, Emily Giddings, women empowerment, confidence
What happens when strong women choose to lead themselves first? In this episode, we get real about sobriety, recovery, and the courage it takes to build a life that’s both joyful and intentional.
In this powerful conversation, several women open up about their personal journeys through sobriety and recovery from alcoholism. They share candid reflections on the challenges of staying sober in a social world, the joy of celebrating milestones, and the importance of community. The group dives into the power of mocktails, boundaries, and storytelling—reminding us that sobriety isn’t about what you lose, but what you find on the other side.
Key Takeaways:
Sobriety isn’t about restriction—it’s about freedom and clarity.
Sharing your recovery story can help someone else start theirs.
Mocktails and sober celebrations are redefining what fun looks like.
Strong support systems are the foundation of lasting sobriety.
Community and connection make recovery sustainable and joyful.
Everyday women are using AI to get their time, confidence, and creativity back — here’s how.
In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, Coralyn, Jessica, and Jamie dive into the world of artificial intelligence with AI Strategy expert Maria Antonieta Cruz, — what it is, what it’s not, and how women can use it to their advantage. They share real-life stories, debunk myths, and reveal how AI can make everyday life easier — from meal planning and workouts to writing emails and building confidence at work. The hosts explore the ethical side of AI and why diverse female voices are critical in shaping its future. This episode will leave you inspired to get curious, start small, and see AI as a tool for empowerment and growth.
Grief changes you—but it doesn’t have to define you.
In this heartfelt episode of Lead Like a Girl, the hosts and guests share deeply personal stories of loss—of loved ones, jobs, and dreams—and how they found healing through reflection, community, and hope. They explore how grief evolves over time and what it means to honor both pain and love in the process.
Takeaways
Grief is a reflection of deep love.
Everyone’s grief journey is unique and personal.
Support, movement, and reflection can bring healing and hope.
What if the fastest way to lift an entire community wasn’t through policy or power—but by empowering the women within it?
In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, Coralyn, Jamie, and Jessica are joined by special guest Allison Musser, who’s traveled the world and seen firsthand how building relationships across cultures can shift perspectives and spark real understanding.
Together, the girls dive into Melinda Gates’ The Moment of Lift—exploring stories of women breaking barriers, the importance of listening before leading, and what it really means to use our privilege for good. With honest reflection and heartfelt conversation, they unpack why empowering women isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the smartest investment we can make in the future of our families, communities, and world.
The single most important investment we can make is in women's empowerment.
Women are often overlooked in their talents and contributions.
Cultural understanding is crucial in empowering women.
Empathy and listening are key to effective support.
Women need champions to help them succeed.
Privilege comes with responsibility to uplift others.
Personal stories can inspire and motivate change.
Choice is a powerful aspect of empowerment.
We must understand what people actually need to help them.
Empowering women benefits entire communities and economies.
What if the very thing you’re avoiding is the key to your next level of growth?
In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, Coralyn, Jessica, and Jamie dig into the power of discomfort — why leaning into the hard, awkward, or uncertain moments can actually build our strength, confidence, and resilience. From personal stories about taking on uncomfortable challenges to insights on how stress and recovery drive growth, this conversation is a reminder that the good stuff often starts right outside your comfort zone.
Together, they explore how modern life’s “creature comforts” can quietly dull our edge — and how small, intentional steps toward discomfort can reawaken our courage, grit, and adaptability.
Takeaways
Embracing discomfort is essential for personal growth.
Stress plus recovery equals growth.
Start taking small steps towards discomfort today.
Discipline is key to overcoming challenges.
Humans evolved for survival in an uncomfortable world.
Personal experiences with discomfort can lead to resilience.
It’s important to challenge ourselves intentionally.
Creature comforts can hinder our ability to handle life’s challenges.
Growth often comes from facing hard situations head-on.
Taking small steps can lead to significant change over time.
What if small talk isn’t “small” at all?
Just be curious. In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, Jamie, Jessica, and Coralyn dive into the everyday conversations we often overlook but that actually shape trust, connection, and even our happiness. From awkward elevator moments to the power of a simple “I love your tattoo,” we share real stories, practical tips, and a fresh perspective on how small talk can open big doors.
You’ll hear why curiosity is the secret sauce to building relationships, how to move beyond surface-level chatter, and why embracing the awkward can actually make you more confident. Whether you’re networking, meeting a neighbor, or navigating a digital world full of quick comments and likes—this conversation will help you master the art of small talk in a way that feels natural, genuine, and impactful.
Takeaways
Small talk can enhance health and happiness.
Building trust starts with small conversations.
Curiosity about others can lead to deeper connections.
Awkward small talk experiences are common and relatable.
Small talk is a learned skill that can be developed.
People appreciate genuine compliments and interest.
Overcoming the fear of small talk can lead to growth.
Engaging in small talk can improve mood and belonging.
Using social media cues can facilitate small talk.
Practicing small talk can strengthen professional settings.
What happens when the strong ones finally admit they’re not okay?
In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, we open up about mental health in real, raw ways—sharing our own stories, the weight of current events, and how we find moments of joy even when life feels heavy. From the power of music and movies to the relief that comes when you serve others, this conversation is both honest and hopeful. Together, we unpack what it means to check in with ourselves, show up for our people, and build a community where it’s safe to be vulnerable.
You’ll hear how we navigate sensitive topics with love and respect, the simple practices that help us stay grounded, and why sometimes the bravest thing you can do is say, “I’m not okay.”
Takeaways
It's okay to say you're not okay sometimes.
Finding joy amidst challenges is essential.
Music and movies can uplift our spirits.
Serving others can help alleviate personal struggles.
Conversations about sensitive topics require love and respect.
Surrounding yourself with diverse perspectives is important.
Mental health checks should be a regular practice.
It's okay to step away from the news for mental clarity.
Building a supportive community is crucial for well-being.
Listening more than speaking can lead to understanding.
What would make a woman with years of education, a leadership role, and a career she fought hard for suddenly say, “I’m done”?
In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, we dig into a Time magazine article highlighting why so many women are walking away—burned out from the “second shift” (working all day, then running the entire household at night), buried in childcare struggles, and worn down by the impossible pressure to do it all.
We also sit down with Rachel Leachman—former Director of Development at Generate Hope, now a stay-at-home mom—as she shares her raw and honest story about stepping away from the workforce. Rachel opens up about the “why” behind her decision, the freedom she’s found, and why it’s not only okay to change paths, but absolutely necessary for some seasons of life. And, changing your mind is always OK!
We also touch on the quiet but very real role women play in caring for aging parents, and how self-care and asking for help are key to surviving it all.
Rachel’s journey is proof that success doesn’t have just one definition—and sometimes the bravest choice is the one that puts your own peace and family first.
What you’ll hear in this episode:
Why women are leaving the workforce in record numbers
Rachel’s transition from Development Director to full-time mom—and what she’s learned along the way
Why kids just want their mom to be happy, no matter her career path
The pressures of balancing childcare, work, and caring for aging parents
How asking for help and prioritizing self-care creates real balance
Let’s be real—most of us are exhausted, hungry, and one bad “what’s for dinner?” away from losing it.
In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, we’re talking food, travel, and the life-changing magic of meal prep. We swap hilarious travel stories (including the meals that didn’t quite land), dig into why comfort foods hit us so hard, and share how family recipes connect us across generations. Then we get practical: simple meal prep strategies that actually save time, cut stress, and keep your week running smoother. This isn’t about being perfect—it’s about making food work for your real life, with more laughter and less overwhelm.
Takeaways
Meal prep saves time, money, and your sanity.
Travel changes the way we see and love food.
Comfort foods carry powerful emotional connections.
Planning meals can reduce decision fatigue during busy weeks.
Cooking together builds connection and family memories.
Prepping ahead makes it easier to eat healthy without overthinking it.
Pre-packaged shortcuts are not cheating—they’re smart.
Mixing up your meals keeps it fun and avoids burnout.
Sharing recipes is one of the simplest ways to build community.
Are you leaving money on the table without even realizing it? In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, we dive into the world of salary negotiation and the unique challenges women face in asking for what they’re worth. From real stories to practical strategies, we break down the myths around money conversations and share how confidence, preparation, and research can change the outcome of your career trajectory. This is the conversation every woman needs before her next job offer.
Takeaways
Too many women accept offers without negotiating, which fuels the pay gap.
Knowing your worth is non-negotiable—research salary ranges before the conversation.
Negotiation often leads to bigger bumps than standard annual raises.
Recruiters ask about expectations to understand how you value yourself.
Confidence and clarity are key to getting the offer you deserve.
Expressing gratitude after the interview can reinforce your value.
Why is it so easy to replay our painful stories—and so hard to let them go?
In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, Jamie, Jessica, and Coralyn dive into the complicated reality of past trauma, forgiveness, and what it really takes to move forward. From the way we cling to old narratives, to the challenge of celebrating growth instead of bonding over pain, this conversation is both raw and empowering.
The hosts explore why forgiveness is a two-part process (forgiving others and ourselves), how journaling and therapy can help rewrite our stories, and why joy is most often found in small, ordinary moments. You’ll hear insights on setting boundaries with your past, reclaiming your narrative, and finally stepping into freedom.
You’ll learn:
Why we stay attached to painful stories that no longer serve us
How forgiveness can unlock healing and growth
The surprising role of journaling and therapy in rewriting your narrative
Why people bond over trauma but struggle to celebrate success
How to find joy in ordinary, everyday moments
Why acknowledging pain matters—but doesn’t have to define you
Keywords: forgiveness, healing, trauma recovery, personal growth, journaling therapy, rewriting your story, women empowerment, self-forgiveness, moving forward, resilience, mental health, emotional healing, celebrate growth