LEAD LIKE A GIRL

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.