Leadership isn’t just about guiding others—it starts with leading yourself. In this lively and insightful conversation, Beth Chapman Kaufmann and Nicole Santonastaso share how getting clear on who you are, what you do best, and where you’re headed can transform the way you lead.

With plenty of laughs, relatable stories, and practical takeaways, Beth and Nicole dive into CliftonStrengths, True North Statements, and why reflection time is the secret ingredient for intentional leadership. Whether you’re leading a team, your family, or just yourself, this episode will inspire you to embrace your strengths and confidently chart your own course.

💛 What You’ll Hear in This Episode

0:00 Introduction
3:17 Nancy Walton Laurie Chi Omega Intentional Leader Workshop takeaways
8:56 Can you truly lead others when you cannot lead yourself? Modeling intentional leadership for others
11:43 CliftonStrengths: how they make us unique and spark action
29:00 Balcony and Basement clarity
32:31 Human Design as a framework for thinking and problem-solving
34:32 Creating your True North Statement
47:16 Why reflection time is essential for self-leadership
48:42 How to follow Nicole and Beth
52:00 20-something advice for future leaders
53:27 Online store card choices

💬 Memorable Quotes

"Leadership begins with me – I have to do the work myself to move other people.”
"To take time to think about who I am and where I want to go is an incredible gift to yourself and to those around you.”
"When you have confidence in what you do best you don’t have to fear what other people do best.”
"The True North Statement is a way to remind myself: this is who I am, this is why I’m here on this earth—and that helps me decide what to say 'yes' to."
"Don’t be scared to fail…if it doesn’t work, maybe the hypothesis was wrong. We can try something different."

🔑 3 Key Takeaways

1. Self-leadership comes first. You can’t lead others effectively until you know who you are and where you want to go.

   
   

2. CliftonStrengths and True North give clarity. Tools like CliftonStrengths and a True North Statement help you build confidence in your unique strengths and guide your decisions.

   
   

3. Reflection fuels growth. Taking time to pause, reflect, and ask tough questions is essential to becoming an intentional leader.

   
   

🌟 More About Nicole Santonastaso

Nicole Santonastaso, Millennial, RDN, LD, IBCLC, CDCES, CD (DTI), is the Prevention Program Supervisor for Norton Sound Health Corporation in Nome, Alaska. Her passion lies in increasing food literacy, making movement enjoyable, and building community. She also serves on multiple healthcare committees, supporting team-based care and policy development. A dedicated volunteer for Chi Omega Fraternity, Nicole promotes collegiate women’s wellness through curriculum development and facilitation. She lives in Alaska with her husband and two cats, Edgar and Iris, and loves photography, cooking, and John Mayer concerts.

🌟 More About Beth Chapman Kaufmann

Beth Chapman Kaufmann, Gen X, is the president of Vide Consulting (pronounced Vee-day), where she specializes in leadership development, CliftonStrengths coaching, and group facilitation. A Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach, Beth is known for her humor, insight, and powerful questions that inspire action. Originally from Kentucky, she now lives in Washington, DC with her husband and two kids.

📬 Connect with Nicole

• Website: nicoledionphoto.com• Email: [email protected]• Instagram: @nicoledionphotography• LinkedIn: Nicole Santonastaso

📬 Connect with Beth

• Email: [email protected]• LinkedIn: Beth Chapman Kaufmann

🎙️ Connect with Your Host, Yo

• Website: girltaketheleadpod.com• Email: [email protected]• Instagram: @yocanny• Online Store: Cards & Gifts that spark connection• FB Group: Girl, Take the Lead!