Welcome to Shameless Leadership! This show is for women, transgender people, non-binary folks, and allies who are committed to advancing their leadership and the leadership of those around them. In this space, we believe everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, valued, and supported. Our mission is to help you foster these feelings within your own circles of influence to build trust, psychological safety, and a culture of belonging.
In each episode, we dive into essential topics impacting women in leadership - everything from shutting down your inner critic and imposter syndrome to overcoming perfectionism to using your voice in new ways to advocate for yourself, your ideas, and other folks carrying marginalized identities. You'll hear practical tips, effective strategies, and inspiring stories that will not only enhance your leadership skills but also broaden your perspective to become a more confident, thoughtful, and empathetic leader.
Our stories come from people carrying identities who are often underrepresented, underestimated, and excluded. By sharing their experiences, we aim to provide you with invaluable lessons that will transform your leadership journey. We are thrilled to have you join this community of Shameless Leaders who are actively creating a world where everyone, regardless of gender, can intentionally lead through a more curious, compassionate, and inclusive lens.
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Welcome to Shameless Leadership! This show is for women, transgender people, non-binary folks, and allies who are committed to advancing their leadership and the leadership of those around them. In this space, we believe everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, valued, and supported. Our mission is to help you foster these feelings within your own circles of influence to build trust, psychological safety, and a culture of belonging.
In each episode, we dive into essential topics impacting women in leadership - everything from shutting down your inner critic and imposter syndrome to overcoming perfectionism to using your voice in new ways to advocate for yourself, your ideas, and other folks carrying marginalized identities. You'll hear practical tips, effective strategies, and inspiring stories that will not only enhance your leadership skills but also broaden your perspective to become a more confident, thoughtful, and empathetic leader.
Our stories come from people carrying identities who are often underrepresented, underestimated, and excluded. By sharing their experiences, we aim to provide you with invaluable lessons that will transform your leadership journey. We are thrilled to have you join this community of Shameless Leaders who are actively creating a world where everyone, regardless of gender, can intentionally lead through a more curious, compassionate, and inclusive lens.
955: LEADERSHIP STRATEGIES: What Actually Makes Someone a Thought Leader?
Shameless Leadership
34 minutes
2 months ago
955: LEADERSHIP STRATEGIES: What Actually Makes Someone a Thought Leader?
When you hear the phrase thought leader, what comes to mind? For a lot of people, it’s someone with a massive following, a bestselling book, or a keynote spot at a big conference. But here’s the truth: thought leadership isn’t about popularity, perfection, or being the smartest (or loudest!) person in the room. It’s about having the courage to share ideas that shape or shift how others think, act, or lead. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what actually makes someone a thought leader—and what doesn’t.
I’ll walk you through some of the biggest myths about thought leadership, like the idea that you need a huge audience, massive expertise, or flawless content before you can make an impact. Spoiler: you don’t. Then, I’ll break down the traits that really define thought leadership—clarity, consistency, courage, and a commitment to service. I’ll also share examples of leaders (many without fancy titles) who are shaping culture and conversations right where they are.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your voice matters enough to share publicly, or if you’ve doubted whether you’re “qualified” to be seen as a thought leader, this episode is for you. You’ll leave with practical ways to start building credibility and influence, even if you’re starting small. Thought leadership isn’t about ego or self-promotion. It’s about generosity, contribution, and showing up consistently with ideas that matter. Anyone can be a thought leader, and your path to thought leadership can begin today!
Episode Highlights:
Why thought leadership is about service, not self-promotion
The biggest myths (and truths!) about thought leadership
The four traits that make someone a trusted and influential voice
How to know if you’re already showing up as a thought leader without realizing it
5 practical steps you can take to begin sharing your ideas with more confidence and consistency
Links Mentioned:
Jalonni Weaver on IG: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jalonniweaver/
Attend my Influence & Ignite Retreat for Women Business Owners: saradean.com/retreat
Hire me to speak: saradean.com/speaking
Coach with me: https://saradean.com/executive-coaching-services
Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saradeanspeaks
Watch Shameless Leadership episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@saradeanspeaks
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Shameless Leadership
Welcome to Shameless Leadership! This show is for women, transgender people, non-binary folks, and allies who are committed to advancing their leadership and the leadership of those around them. In this space, we believe everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, valued, and supported. Our mission is to help you foster these feelings within your own circles of influence to build trust, psychological safety, and a culture of belonging.
In each episode, we dive into essential topics impacting women in leadership - everything from shutting down your inner critic and imposter syndrome to overcoming perfectionism to using your voice in new ways to advocate for yourself, your ideas, and other folks carrying marginalized identities. You'll hear practical tips, effective strategies, and inspiring stories that will not only enhance your leadership skills but also broaden your perspective to become a more confident, thoughtful, and empathetic leader.
Our stories come from people carrying identities who are often underrepresented, underestimated, and excluded. By sharing their experiences, we aim to provide you with invaluable lessons that will transform your leadership journey. We are thrilled to have you join this community of Shameless Leaders who are actively creating a world where everyone, regardless of gender, can intentionally lead through a more curious, compassionate, and inclusive lens.
