Welcome to Lead to Soar Presents: The Strategic Skills Series—a new podcast series where real leadership meets real career growth. In this launch episode, Michelle Redfern drops three truth bombs every ambitious woman must hear about the state of women’s leadership, the flawed advice we’ve been given, and what it really takes to advance.

This isn’t about surface-level fixes or being told to “raise your profile.” This is about the strategic skills that matter—skills that get women promoted, paid, and positioned for power.

Michelle lays out the three pillars of effective leadership taught inside the Lead to Soar Network and in her book The Leadership Compass:

• Business Intelligence (BQ): Strategic, financial, and commercial acumen.

• Emotional Intelligence (EQ): Mastering self-awareness, self-regulation, and leadership of others.

• Social Intelligence (SQ): Building influence, credibility, and strategic visibility.

You’ll also hear about the real reasons women are underestimated at work, why traditional career advice keeps missing the mark, and how to speak the language of business to shift perceptions and outcomes.

This series features live coaching sessions, exclusive workshops, and no-nonsense conversations with women from inside the Lead to Soar Network who are navigating complex leadership challenges and rising—strategically.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why being seen as a high-impact, commercial leader is essential for advancement

• How BQ, EQ, and SQ combine to form the leadership trifecta

• What advice to stop listening to—and what to ask for instead

• How to navigate systems built by men, for men, without losing your ambition or your edge

• Why confidence is not the issue—access to strategic skill-building is

Key Resources:

• The Leadership Compass by Michelle Redfern

• No Ceiling, No Walls by Susan Colantuono

• Lead to Soar Strategic Skills Audit and Career SWOT tool (exclusive to network members)

Join the Lead to Soar Network:

Membership is $255 annually or $30 monthly (USD). Inside, you’ll gain access to strategic tools, live coaching, mentoring, and a powerful global community of women leaders. This is not another networking group. It’s a leadership lab for ambitious women ready to lead with purpose, power, and commercial impact.

Subscribe now to Lead to Soar Presents: The Strategic Skills Series and visit www.leadtosoar.network to become a member.

From conversation to action. From overlooked to in-demand. From busy to strategic. Lead to Soar.

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Helga Svendsen is a self-confessed 'governance nerd' who is a facilitator, coach and mentor specializing in strategy and planning, governance and stakeholder engagement. She hosts the Take on Board podcast, a weekly pod where she talks all things governance, as well as the Take on Board community, which is a thriving community of women who connect through active Facebook group events. Helga also runs programs to enable to get onto their first board and to a program to help women who are establishing their board careers. In this episode, Michelle asks Helga what women should pay attention to and when they aspire for a board career. 

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Resources

• Sign up for A Career that Soars! *Premium
• Take on Board podcast https://helgasvendsen.com.au/take-on-board-podcast/
• Take on Board Community - https://helgasvendsen.com.au/community/
• About Helga - https://helgasvendsen.com.au/about/

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In this episode of L2S!, leadership and gender equality expert Michelle Redfern sits down for an interview with Jo Thomas, the CEO of the Australian Institute of Business. Jo shares her career story, how she ended up living in Australia, and how she climbed the career ladder to hold multiple C-Suite positions.

Learn more about Lead to Soar! and A Career that Soars! by visiting LeadToSoar.com

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Guest Jo Thomas' Bio: Jo Thomas is the Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Institute of Business. Jo is all about flawless execution, authentic leadership, and innovation. She is experienced with both online and offline customer offerings, and leading teams. Jo is extremely passionate about the human experience and enjoys making both the workplace and customer interactions life-enhancing experiences. In her words, success lies where people, process and data intersect. 

Michelle Redfern's Bio: Michelle is the founder of Advancing Women, an enterprise providing research and advisory services on workplace gender equality, inclusion and diversity. She is co-host of A Career that Soars! the founder of women’s network Women Who Get It co-founder of CDW (Culturally Diverse Women) and host of the Lead to Soar podcast.

Michelle is an experienced Non-Executive Director with Board and advisory roles in the finance, sport, for purpose and supply chain sectors. She is a proud Ambassador for Flexible Working Day and Girls Uniform Agenda. She has held executive leadership roles at ASX & FTSE listed companies NAB, Telstra and Serco during her 30-year corporate career.

Michelle is a Graduate of the AICD, holds an Executive MBA (Distinction) and holds various accreditations in organisational diversity and coaching. She is an in-demand speaker and is a regular contributor to the discussion and advocate for gender equality and inclusion in sport and business workplaces.

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Lead to Soar! is a production of A Career that Soars!

In this episode of L2S!, leadership and gender equality expert Michelle Redfern sits down for an interview with Semiconductor engineer and DEI expert Alicia Scott. Alicia joins us to share her experiences advancing in a highly male-dominated space - semiconductors and shares her thoughts and experience as a Woman of Colour in STEM. 

Learn more about Lead to Soar! and A Career that Soars! by visiting LeadToSoar.com.

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Bio for Guest Alicia Scott

Alicia Scott has 25 years of professional experience in the semiconductor industry and is currently the Senior Director of People, Culture and DEI at onsemi. Alicia earned a BS in Microelectronic Engineering from Rochester Institute of Technology, and an MBA from Arizona State University.

Bio for Michelle Redfern

Michelle founded Advancing Women, an enterprise that provides research and advisory services on workplace gender equality, inclusion, and diversity. She is co-host of A Career that Soars! the founder of women’s network Women Who Get It co-founder of CDW (Culturally Diverse Women) and host of the Lead to Soar podcast.

Michelle is an experienced Non-Executive Director with Board and advisory roles in the finance, sport, for purpose and supply chain sectors. She is a proud Ambassador for Flexible Working Day and Girls Uniform Agenda. She has held executive leadership roles at ASX & FTSE listed companies NAB, Telstra and Serco during her 30-year corporate career.

Michelle is a Graduate of the AICD, holds an Executive MBA (Distinction) and has various accreditations in organisational diversity and coaching. She is an in-demand speaker and is a regular contributor to the discussion and advocate for gender equality and inclusion in sport and business workplaces.

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In this episode of L2S!, leadership and gender equality expert Michelle Redfern sits down for an interview with the one and only Sheila Flavell. Sheila is an extraordinary leader (by our full ACtS! definition!) in the truest sense. She has created exceptional outcomes for business and women in the Tech industry. She continues leading today and has the curiosity and energy to keep learning and pushing herself into new territory. We were so inspired by this episode, and hope you are too!

Learn more about Lead to Soar! and A Career that Soars! by visiting LeadToSoar.com

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Bio for Guest, Sheila Flavell

Sheila Flavell has over 30 years experience in the global tech sector. She played an integral role in FDM’s flotation on AIM in 2005 and was a key instigator of the management buy-out of the Group in 2010 and the subsequent listing onto the main FTSE Market in 2014. Sheila’s sector knowledge has been crucial in driving FDM’s global expansion programme, taking them into the FTSE250. She spearheads the ‘Global Women in Tech’ campaign and created FDM’s hugely successful Returners Programme. Sheila is Deputy President of TechUK and chairs the Institute of Coding’s Industry Advisory Board. One of her proudest moments in business was when FDM achieved a zero gender pay gap. She has won numerous awards during her career for services to the tech industry and was recognised in the 2020 New Year’s Honours list with ‘Commander Of The Order Of The British Empire’ for her services to gender equality in IT and the employment of graduates and returners. She is also listed in Computer Weekly’s ‘Most Influential Women in UK Tech, Hall of Fame.’

Bio for Michelle Redfern

Michelle founded Advancing Women, an enterprise that provides research and advisory services on workplace gender equality, inclusion, and diversity. She is co-host of A Career that Soars! The Women Who Get It is the founder of the women’s network, co-founder of CDW (Culturally Diverse Women), and host of the Lead to Soar podcast.

Michelle is an experienced Non-Executive Director with Board and advisory roles in the finance, sport, for purpose and supply chain sectors. She is a proud Ambassador for Flexible Working Day and Girls Uniform Agenda. She has held executive leadership roles at ASX & FTSE listed companies NAB, Telstra and Serco during her 30-year corporate career.

Michelle is a Graduate of the AICD, holds an Executive MBA (Distinction) and has various accreditations in organisational diversity and coaching. She is an in-demand speaker, a regular contributor to the discussion, and an advocate for gender equality and inclusion in sports and business workplaces.

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Cheryl Morrison Deutsch, CEO of Zillion, joins us on episode 28 of the Lead to Soar podcast to share her career story and philosophies on leadership.

Guest Bio: Cheryl Morrison Deutsch, CEO of Zillion, brings almost three decades of experience in translating business and technology requirements into actionable plans to provide superior user experiences. Morrison Deutsch most recently served as Executive Director of Customer Experience, Collaboration & Transformation at Kronos. Before this, she was a thought leader at Cloud Technology Partners, a premier cloud services and software company serving Fortune 500 companies, developing technical and organizational strategies to support customers’ business transformations. Morrison Deutsch also served as Chief Application Officer at Health Dialog, overseeing the design, development and implementation of a proprietary coaching application developed to convert predictive analytics into easily digestible contextual patient information.

NOTABLE QUOTES

QUOTES "It's ok that you don't know everything. You just surround yourself with people who can support you. You don't have to be an accountant to understand finance and its implications for your business. You add value in your experience and [through] your thoughtfulness around any subject... except maybe surgery." -- Cheryl Morrison Deutsch on Business, Strategic and Financial Acumen

"Information is only power when you share it." -- Cheryl Morrison Deutsch

"We don't care where you sit. We care what you do and how you do it." -- Cheryl Morrison Deutsch on leading the remote workforce of the future

"Don't let fear guide your [career] decisions." -- Cheryl Morrison Deutsch

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Guest Bio: Laura Ryan BA (Hons), MSc, DipM MCIM 

Laura has a First-Class Honours in Marketing and a Masters in Management and has also achieved Chartered Marketer status via the Chartered Institute of Marketing. Laura joined the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) in 2007 after successfully launching premium beef & lamb brands within a large butchery business in the North East of England. Working her way through the ranks she was appointed as Sector Strategy Director for Beef & Lamb Board in 2015. She led the strategic review and development for the Beef & Lamb sector in England by identifying key challenges and opportunities which deliver long-term growth. Last year, Laura successfully launched Lavenpark, her own consultancy business, which is working with levy boards and government and commercial companies to achieve greater success through improved industry insight, connectivity, business development, marketing, and communications. Laura is the founder and global Chair of Meat Business Women, launched in 2015. The United Nations have recently recognized it with Laura presenting on the contribution Meat Business Women makes to the global Sustainable Development Goals. 

Link

Meat Business Women

Episode Quotes

On Strategy -- “Don’t let folks tell you that it’s more complicated than that. Understand, do the research, understand where you are now, what’s the ambition, what’s the macro-environmental impact, what are your competitors doing, get the research, get the data, and then map out a road map.” - Laura Ryan “Strategic networking is essentially about generosity and reciprocity, but we have to invest time in it. And [we’re] debunking the myth that your networking is turning up to conferences or after-work functions with mediocre wine and dreadful canapes... It’s genuine care, but also having that strategic intent. And being able to say – this is where I want to be able have an impact in my industry, my sector, wherever it may be.” -Michelle Redfern "I think the networking piece is really important... investing in your network, in your personal board.” - Laura Ryan “Be brave and push yourself outside your comfort zone.” - Laura Ryan

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Guest bio: Julie Escobar is a sharpened international market-driven leader and international businesswoman. She has driven the achievement of tremendous sales goals - from $20M to $50M in 3 years. Escobar is co-founder of Global Women Fresh, an organization whose mission is to leverage the talent of Women in produce to close the food industry’s gender divide by inspiring, connecting, and empowering women around the world.

Episode Quotes

“To go where you really want to go, you have to put the hours, you have to put the energy, the investment – financial and non-financial – and ultimately that takes determination, right? I mean you have to have determination, you have to be incredibly intentional about what your goals and your dreams are.” - Julie Escobar “Rock the boat. Ask difficult questions.” - Julie Escobar “Hope is not a strategy.” - Michelle Redfern “You need to understand how the company is making money. And when you are comfortable articulating – how does the company make money and how do you add value to that equation – and you can articulate that well in front of anyone... then I think that’s ultimately when you become someone critical in the equation.” - Julie Escobar “The advice given to women is so rarely around developing your business, strategic, and financial acumen. It’s so rarely about how to harness and point your ambition in the right way. It’s so rarely about unleashing their potential. It’s so often about their appearance. It’s so often about work-life balance. It’s so often about the very gendered things...” - Michelle Redfern “Absolutely, it is important to hit the numbers, and to hit the revenue and the profits, but at the same time it Is incredibly important to bring the team and to have an environment and a culture that you are supporting and empowering and mentoring the people behind you. Because if not, then it doesn’t really work. The company can be making millions and billions of dollars, but if everyone hates coming to work, it’s a nightmare for everyone”. - Julie Escobar “Putting your head down and your bottom up doing really good work is OK. But you need to also build those internal and external relationships.” - Michelle Redfern

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Heather Polinsky is an environmental consulting professional with over 20 years of experience. She started as a civilian project manager for the US Army Environmental Command. She found herself in consulting not too long ago and has had a wonderful career trajectory that's taken her from Project Management through Program Management and Client Development. She is now a leader of leaders in Operations. In this episode of the Lead to Soar Podcast, Heather reflects on some of the ways mentors have helped her most, the best career advice she's ever received, and how she has developed The Missing 33% (business strategic and financial acumen) throughout her career. Heather was recently appointed as the Chief Operating Officer of Arcadis North America, with a staff of ~6,000 professionals.

Learn more about Arcadis by visiting Arcadis.com

Notable Quotes from Heather Polinsky:

On advice for professionals growing in leadership: "Really make sure that you're willing to ask questions, and the second part is - trust your team... We're all at the table because of something we offer that's unique... and if you've built a good team, it's designed that way. So use it!"

"You have to understand what your picture looks like and be happy with your picture. Don't spend your days comparing yourself to other people, families, or pictures. Because they might not be the same, but it's OK..."

"My message is: go for it now. If you think you'll be ready in a year, you're probably ready now."

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Michelle Redfern sits down with Lizzy Goldfinch to explore the crucial intersection of money, leadership, and women’s potential. Lizzy shares her professional expertise and personal experiences to illuminate how financial literacy and independence are foundational for closing the leadership gender gap. The conversation focuses on breaking down harmful money myths, embracing financial empowerment, and taking actionable steps to build wealth and create choices.

Whether you’re navigating your career, seeking financial freedom, or dreaming of a larger impact in your community, this episode will inspire you to take control of your financial future.

Episode Highlights

The “3 Ds” of Financial Vulnerability:

• Death, Divorce, and Domestic Violence often leave women in precarious financial positions.

• Women aged 55+ are the fastest-growing demographic of homeless people in Australia, emphasizing the need for financial independence.

Why Money Matters:

• Financial resources give women the power of choice and freedom, enabling them to escape abusive situations or transition careers without fear.

• By 2034, women are projected to control 65% of Australia’s wealth, making financial literacy more crucial than ever.

Reframing Harmful Money Mindsets:

• Common limiting beliefs:

• “I’m not good with money.”

• “Money is vulgar or shameful to talk about.”

• Empowering reframes:

• “I’m learning to get better with money.”

• “I love money and the choices it brings.”

Investing in Yourself:

• Warren Buffett’s advice: The best investment you can make is in yourself.

• Tips for self-investment: podcasts, networking, online courses, and continuous learning.

The Power of Choice Through Money:

• Financial independence allows women to:

• Volunteer and engage in meaningful causes.

• Leave unsupportive workplaces or unhealthy relationships.

Practical Tips to Build Wealth:

• Create a “Runaway Fund” for emergencies or unexpected life transitions.

• Start small with consistent saving and investing—compounding interest is a game changer.

• Keep a record of your accomplishments to ensure fair remuneration at work.

Leadership Call to Action

1. Examine Your Money Mindset:

Identify any limiting beliefs you have about money. Write them down and consciously work to reframe them into empowering affirmations.

2. Start Building Wealth Today:

Open a savings account and set up an automated transfer—even $5 per paycheck can snowball over time.

3. Prepare for Your Next Salary Negotiation:

Document your accomplishments and contributions to the business. Set a target remuneration goal and plan your negotiation strategy now.

4. Get Educated:

Listen to podcasts like She’s on the Money, read books like The Barefoot Investor by Scott Pape, or follow Lizzie Goldfinch for actionable financial insights.

5. Support Your Community:

Use your financial resources or time to give back in meaningful ways—whether by mentoring, volunteering, or donating to causes you care about.

Connect with Lizzy Goldfinch:

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• The Barefoot Investor by Scott Pape

• The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko

• PepTalkHer App by Meggie Palmer

            • The Snowball - Warren Buffet

Make sure to subscribe to Lead to Soar on your favourite podcast platform and share this episode with women in your network who are ready to take control of their financial futures.

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