What can we do to help end the cycle of poverty in the world?

In this compelling episode, host Nicole Jansen sits down with Shilpa Alva, founder and executive director of Surge For Water. Committed to breaking the cycle of poverty, Shilpa shares how her organization delivers safe water, sanitation, hygiene, and menstrual health solutions to communities worldwide. Through her inspiring journey from management consulting to non-profit leadership, Shilpa demonstrates the significant impact of investing in fundamental human needs and championing women's voices.

Discover how prioritizing clean water and effective sanitation solutions can lift entire communities out of poverty. Shilpa's story of leaving a successful corporate career to pursue her passion offers valuable insights for anyone looking to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Key Takeaways

• The crucial link between water, sanitation, and poverty reduction.
• The impact of empowering women in community-centric projects.
• The logistical and emotional aspects of transitioning to a purpose-driven career.
• The importance of partnerships with local organizations for sustainable change.
• Overcoming fear and taking courageous steps towards your passion.
• Understanding the sacrifices and rewards involved in social entrepreneurship.
• The power of daily rituals to maintain focus and drive.
• Why team engagement and celebration are critical in sustaining growth and impact.
• How to contribute to Surge For Water's mission or identify your own path for social impact.

Podcast Timestamps

0:00 - Safe Water and Sanitation Impact

4:19 - Global Water Crisis: A Worldwide Issue

7:50 - From Corporate Ladder to Social Purpose

13:23 - Embracing Minimalism: Leaving Corporate Life

15:41 - Crab Mentality and Breaking Through

18:55 - Excellence Even When Departing

22:16 - Togetherness, Inspiration, and Rituals

25:11 - Rediscovering Motivation and Purpose

28:55 - Inspire Action, Explore Possibilities

Favorite Quotes

Commitment & Courage: “The fear is just this little thing, and you can get over it... It's this ripple effect.”

Passion with Purpose: “Do something that you're really passionate about because it's going to be necessary to fuel you during those difficult years.”

Episode Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/health/529-ending-poverty-with-safe-water-sanitation-and-hygiene-with-shilpa-alva 

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How is AI revolutionizing financial crime detection? In this informative episode, host Nicole Jansen engages in a deep conversation with Peter Reynolds, the visionary CEO of ThetaRay. As an industry leader in AI-powered anti-money laundering, Peter and his team are on a mission to reshape financial crime detection. Dive into this episode to understand how AI is transforming the banking sector by accurately detecting illicit activities while ensuring financial inclusion in developing nations.

Peter provides a captivating exploration of Theta Ray’s cutting-edge solutions as he demystifies the complexities of AI technology for listeners who may not be tech-savvy. Discover how AI is utilized to streamline processes, reduce false positives in Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance, and enhance the way institutions handle financial transactions on a global scale. This episode will equip business leaders and entrepreneurs with the knowledge they need to embrace technology ethically and effectively.

Learn about real-world implications from TD Bank’s case and the inefficiencies of legacy systems and gain insights from Peter’s journey at the helm of an innovative tech company.

Key Takeaways

• Theta Ray’s mission in AI-powered anti-money laundering.
• How legacy systems are failing in detecting financial crimes.
• The benefits and future potential of AI in money laundering detection.
• Impacts and lessons learned from TD Bank’s recent financial sector fines.
• Simple explanations of how AI differentiates between normal and abnormal transactions.
• How small-to-medium businesses can benefit from AI technologies.
• Peter’s transition from law to fintech and leadership strategies.
• Regulatory considerations and AI’s integration in various markets.
• The evolution of AI blending cognitive understanding with machine learning.
• Country-specific challenges in implementing AI-driven solutions.

Podcast Highlights

0:00 - AI Revolution in Financial Crime Detection

6:17 - AI Enhances Financial Crime Detection

9:55 - Legacy Systems in Banking

12:36 - Bank Inaction Despite Resources

15:06 - Streamlining Remittances with AI Technology

20:38 - Navigating Regulatory Compliance in AI

23:08 - AI Reduces AML False Positives

24:30 - Human-AI Collaboration for Decision-Making

30:53 - African Business Expansion & Compliance

33:40 - Understanding Fraud Prevention Insights

36:00 - Expand Your Perspective

Favorite Quotes

Mission and Vision: "Our mission is to reshape the future of financial crime detection and AML." - Peter Reynolds

Legacy System Issues: "Banks have to assume something's bad all the time because they don't know it's good." - Peter Reynolds

AI's Potential: "AI is really good now at being able, in a very cost-effective way with great cloud computing software, to actually identify things like financial crimes." - Peter Reynolds

Episode Show Notes: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/business/528-reshaping-financial-crime-detection-with-ai-with-peter-reynolds/

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What key question will be the catalyst for your success in 2025?

In this mind-expanding episode, Nicole Jansen sits down with Chad Brown, the anti-hustle coach and founder of the Founder’s League. Chad is committed to helping creative entrepreneurs grow sustainable and scalable businesses while leading fulfilling personal lives.

In their conversation, Chad shares his own transformative journey from a burnt-out media company owner to a celebrated business coach. He demystifies the myth of work-life balance and introduces the concept of work-life integration, along with the power of the Single Actionable Question (SAQ).

Discover how a seemingly simple question can streamline your decision-making process and lead to monumental changes in both your professional and personal life. Chad’s insights challenge conventional wisdom and provide actionable advice that can help you take back control of your time, focus your efforts, and achieve remarkable growth.

What We Discuss in this Episode

• Chad’s journey: How did you go from media company founder to coaching startup founders?
• The myth of work-life balance versus work-life integration.
• Identifying your Single Actionable Question (SAQ).
• Transformational impact of asking the right question.
• Scaling businesses with integrity and sustainability.
• Trust in teams: immature vs. mature trust.
• Strategies for creative entrepreneurs to scale their businesses.
• Balancing family and business priorities effectively.
• Practical tips for startup entrepreneurs.
• The pivotal role of vision in decision-making.

Podcast Highlights

0:00 - Success, Sacrifice, and Realization

3:37 - Hired Coach for Business Survival

8:05 –Overcoming the Desire to Be Liked

10:04 - Balancing Broom Analogy

15:07 - Balancing Family and Side Business

19:02 - Will It Make the Boat Faster?

23:01 - Visibility, Credibility, Consistency

24:21 - Client Focus for Business Success

28:39 - Refining Business Strategies

30:33 - Types of Trust Explained

33:15 - Understanding Team Concerns

36:46 - Choosing Trust, Embracing Possibilities

40:45 - Honest Self-Reflection and Transformation

Episode Show Notes and Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/business/527-the-anti-hustle-approach-to-entrepreneurial-success-with-chad-brown

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How do we become more culturally fluent leaders?

In this episode, Nicole Jansen invites global leadership strategist Jane Hyun to explore empathy and cultural fluency in leadership effectiveness. As a coach to Fortune 500 companies and author of pivotal works such as "Breaking the Bamboo Ceiling," Jane Hyun brings a wealth of knowledge on inclusive leadership and self-care practices essential for today's fast-paced business environment.

Reflecting on her personal journey from South Korea to New York City, Jane shares how her experiences of cultural dissonance have shaped her leadership strategies. Together, Jane and Nicole unpack the process of navigating cultural differences and the power of empathy in leadership. They discuss actionable strategies for leaders to create whole-person workplaces, emphasizing emotional health, diversity, and continuous personal growth.

Join us as we explore the nuances of cross-cultural leadership, the intricate responsibilities that come with roles in diverse work environments, and the importance of self-care amidst increasing work complexities

What We Discuss in this Episode

• Maintaining emotional connections within teams.
• Creating whole-person workplaces where emotional connections are valued.
• The importance of taking time to process grief and emotions in leadership.
• Continual personal growth and the necessity for cultural fluency in leadership.
• Building bridges across racial, gender, and other differences.
• Reflective questions for engaging effectively in new and high-stakes situations.
• Practicing reflective habits to challenge assumptions and slow down.
• The mismanagement of expectations and understanding the company's bigger mission.
• Effective self-care practices and the importance of understanding one's value proposition.

Podcast Highlights

0:00 - Cross-cultural leadership and changing workplaces.

3:05 – Experiencing cultural differences personally.

7:03 – Navigating cultural fluency.

10:22 - Bringing authenticity to the workplace.

16:46 - Mismanaged expectations stem from unclear role communication.

20:22 – Demonstrating self-empathy as a leader.

24:11 - Creating genuine workplace connection.

29:15 – Steps to engaging effectively with others.

34:40 - Explore books for valuable insights, connect via show notes.

Favorite Quotes

Self-Care and Effectiveness: “To handle challenges effectively, one must practice self-kindness and take necessary breaks.”

Empathy and Connection: “Building bridges across differences and practicing empathy can transform leadership and enhance team dynamics.”

Reflective Leadership: “Leading with curiosity rather than judgment opens pathways to better engagement and cultural fluency.”

Episode Show Notes and Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/leadership/526-embracing-leadership-and-cultural-fluency-with-jane-hyun/

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What if 2025 is the year you truly thrive?

In this uplifting solo episode, Nicole Jansen, host of the Leaders of Transformation podcast, presents a special New Year's message focused on transforming past disappointments into future victories. Nicole passionately articulates how 2025 can be your year to thrive, filled with hope, transformation, and limitless possibilities.

Holding nothing back, Nicole shares her own experiences with failures and setbacks and encourages listeners to adopt a mindset of abundance and positivity. She emphasizes the power of speaking life over oneself and the incredible potential within every individual. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to reboot their mindset and seize the opportunities that lie ahead in the new year.

What We Discuss in this Episode

• What inspired the focus on thriving in 2025.
• How past disappointments can be transformed into future growth.
• What strategies can help in speaking life over oneself.
• How beliefs impact our actions and results.
• Releasing past hurts and embracing a prosperous future.
• How Nicole's personal experiences have shaped her approach to overcoming failures.
• The importance of setting meaningful goals and maintaining a vision.
• The role of community and supportive environments in achieving success.
• Why speaking life over different aspects of life is crucial.
• How to declare your prosperity and abundance in 2025.

Podcast Highlights

0:00 - Embracing the Call 2:28 - Transforming Setbacks into Comebacks 3:22 - The Power of Declaring Abundance 5:12 - Strategizing Life and Future Goals 6:41 - Importance of Setting Meaningful Goals 9:11 - Opening Up to Learning and Growth 10:09 - Practical Steps for Transformative Growth 12:16 - Being an Example of Positive Influence 12:58 - Letting Go and Moving Forward in 2025 14:39 - Final Encouragement

Favorite Quotes

Belief and Transformation: “If we really understood what our potential was and what we were capable of, we would do so much more than we have ever done in the past.”

Learning from Setbacks: “When we don't learn the lesson, we are bound to repeat it.”

Power of Positivity: "Life and death is in the power of the tongue. Use your words to transform your situation."

Hope and Future: “God is abundant, and we are made in his image. We are created to prosper.”

Don't miss out on this empowering episode that aims to elevate your mindset and set you on a path to thrive in 2025. Listen now and start declaring your success today!

Episode Show Notes and Resources

https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/mindset/525-its-time-to-thrive-in-2025-with-nicole-jansen

Leaders of Transformation Faith Community

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How do the most successful entrepreneurs buy good businesses at a great price?

In this episode, host Nicole Jansen sits down with Richard Parker, a seasoned expert in Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) who has acquired 14 companies and advised on transactions worth over $2 billion. Richard shares the secrets behind his successful program, How to Buy a Good Business at a Great Price, and underscores the essential knowledge needed for buying a business successfully.

Throughout the conversation, Richard offers profound insights into business acquisitions, the importance of an advisory team, and the virtues of methodical decision-making. Together, Nicole and Richard explore key strategies for growth, the significance of leveraging an existing customer base, and the often-overlooked need for creativity and curiosity in entrepreneurship.

Join us for this enlightening discussion filled with actionable takeaways, whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner looking to expand.

What We Discuss in this Episode

• Key steps involved in the "How to Buy a Good Business at a Great Price" program.
• How Richard Parker has maintained his childlike imagination throughout his career.
• The crucial role of having a business coach or advisor for business success.
• Common mistakes that entrepreneurs should avoid when looking to buy or run a business.
• Why leveraging your current customer base can be more effective than seeking new markets.
• The risks that entrepreneurs face when entering unfamiliar industries.
• The impact of misinformation on social media on new entrepreneurs.
• The biggest mistakes Richard made in his business career and the lessons learned from them.
• The current hot industries for business acquisition.
• The importance of relationships and trust in business transactions.

Podcast Highlights

0:00 - Lower market business stays steady, active, flourishing.

3:53 - Institutional investors make competition difficult for individuals.

8:19 - Experience highlights risks; business advisers offer guidance.

12:33 - Maximize existing clients by upselling additional products.

15:00 - Grow by adding products/services for customers.

17:26 - Quick decisions often hide incompetence or overconfidence.

20:11 - Successful entrepreneur faced losses after shifting focus.

26:30 – Why likability and trust are crucial for deals.

28:41 - Address business vulnerabilities; ensure operational continuity.

33:38 - Ego hindered hiring; realized teamwork improves success.

34:25 - Surrounding with smarter people improves business success.

40:44 - Intellectual curiosity trumps not attending university.

45:29 - Explore entrepreneurship resources.

Favorite Quotes

"Having someone to guide you, to point out potential pitfalls you can't see on your own, is invaluable in navigating through business acquisitions."

"Imagination is so critical in this game of entrepreneurship. It fosters innovation and helps you look at common problems through a novel lens."

"The 23 steps in our program are designed to simplify the complex process of business acquisitions, making it accessible for both novices and seasoned entrepreneurs."

Episode Show Notes and Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/business/524-what-you-need-to-know-when-buying-a-business-with-richard-parker

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Where Does Your Self-Worth and Resilience Come From?

This week, we had the privilege of speaking with Jane Boulware - a global business leader, former Microsoft VP, and now an inspiring author of the new book WORTHY.

From her humble beginnings in the cornfields of Iowa, Jane defied expectations to lead billion-dollar businesses and rise to the top ranks of Microsoft leadership. By the age of 52, she had launched three major ventures, navigated the largest corporate merger in U.S. history, and helped shape the careers of countless leaders along the way.

Driven by a deep passion for helping others recognize their inherent worth, Jane now dedicates her time to mentoring, serving on boards, and enjoying nature with her family. What’s more, all proceeds from her book WORTHY are being donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Youth of the Year scholarships, making her work a beacon of hope for the next generation.

In this episode, Jane opens up about her remarkable journey, sharing personal stories and professional lessons that emphasize the power of family support, self-acceptance, and the courage to ask for help. From navigating high-stakes corporate roles to overcoming personal struggles, her insights are invaluable for anyone seeking to grow as both a leader and an individual.

Together with host Nicole Jansen, Jane explores thought-provoking topics like turning differences into strengths, fostering positive self-dialogue, and embracing diversity as a critical element of leadership. Whether you’re building resilience, nurturing self-worth, or stepping into a new leadership role, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and encouragement to help you thrive.

Don't miss this empowering conversation with a leader who proves that no matter where you start, you are worthy of success and fulfillment.

What We Discuss in This Episode

• Turning setbacks into opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• Exploring how women and men often perceive and estimate their capabilities differently—and what we can learn from it.
• The invaluable role of family support in achieving balance between career aspirations and personal life.
• An unexpected lesson: how selling used carpet in university became a turning point in Jane's journey to success.
• Building self-worth and resilience through personal growth, embracing challenges, and learning from experiences.
• The transformation of Jane's leadership style over the course of her career and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
• Simple yet powerful daily habits Jane relies on to nurture and reinforce her sense of self-worth.
• Why diversity in leadership isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s a critical factor for business success.
• Practical strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome and stepping into leadership with confidence.

Podcast Highlights

0:00 – Imposter syndrome: A universal challenge across all experience levels.

5:30 – Why women often underestimate their performance and how to overcome it.

7:13 – The power of stepping into discomfort to unlock career growth.

9:57 – From selling homemade rugs to fund tuition: Lessons in grit and resourcefulness.

13:35 – Embracing risks and leading with courage in overseas roles.

18:02 – The importance of vulnerability in leadership and empowering others’ unique strengths.

19:46 – Building self-worth through collaboration and teamwork.

24:40 – Rewriting your internal dialogue to foster self-acceptance and resilience.

32:01 – Using self-reflection as a tool to boost confidence and recognize your worth.

33:18 – True transformation begins within: Renewing your mind for lasting change.

Favorite Quotes

On Self-Worth: "Self-worth comes from collaboration and accepting one's limitations rather than constantly proving oneself."

On Leadership: "Acknowledging and leveraging the strengths of your team is the real essence of effective leadership."

On Personal Growth: "Stepping out of your comfort zone and saying 'yes' to intimidating opportunities is crucial for personal and professional growth."

Episode Show Notes: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/mindset/523-worthy-from-cornfields-to-the-corner-office-of-microsoft-with-jane-boulware

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How do we unleash our leadership potential and transform the world around us?

In this heart-centered episode, we explore the principles of love, leadership, and influence with Dr. Sam Adeyemi, a distinguished leader, author, and speaker. Dr. Adeyemi has inspired millions through his transformational leadership approach and deep understanding of human behavior, bible truths, and how to balance rational thinking with emotional intelligence.

Throughout the conversation with host Nicole Jansen, Dr. Adeyemi shares his journey, including his paradigm shifts in church management, the significance of love, and trust in building effective leadership. This episode offers listeners invaluable insights on creating an environment where individuals feel empowered and valued through heart-centered and systematic leadership.

What We Discuss in this Episode

• How did implementing love and trust influence the success of your church during your three-year absence?
• Can you describe the transformation from a stage-centric ministry to a purpose-driven model?
• What does your "SHIFTS" model entail, and how does it foster transformation?
• Why is building emotional bank accounts crucial in leadership?
• How does intuition integrate with rationality in your leadership approach?
• How can leaders navigate global changes through cultural shifts?
• What are the core elements of heart-centered leadership?
• How do you define and balance character and competence in leadership?
• How can continuous exposure to ideals influence an individual's subconscious?
• What role do training programs play in creating a cohesive organizational mindset?

Favorite Quotes

"Leadership grounded in love builds trust, care, and a sense of belonging." - Dr. Sam Adeyemi

"Creating emotional bank accounts is crucial for building strong relationships within an organization." - Dr. Sam Adeyemi

"Adaptation to cultural shifts is vital for navigating global changes and ensuring sustainable leadership." - Dr. Sam Adeyemi

Episode Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/leadership/522-love-trust-and-influence-leadership-insights-from-dr-sam-adeyemi 

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How do you break away from superficial success and experience greater fulfillment and purpose in your life and business?

In this mind-expanding episode, we dive deep with Christine Jewell, a high-achieving speaker, author, podcast host, and faith-based executive coach, who has transitioned from training athletes to coaching top executives on how to achieve holistic success. Christine shares her unique perspective on how shifting the focus from mere physical fitness to a holistic approach that includes mental, emotional, and spiritual health can lead to real transformation and lasting success.

Christine’s personal faith journey from athletic training to addressing the root causes of executives' stress, pain, and chronic issues provides an inspiring narrative. Join us as we explore the idea that true success in life and business requires more than just behavior changes; it requires addressing fundamental issues of the heart and soul.

What We Discuss in this Episode

• Transitioning from training athletes to coaching executives
• The pivotal moment that led Christine towards a holistic coaching approach
• The importance of addressing root causes instead of behavior modification
• Christine’s personal journey of faith, trust and transformation
• How to build self-trust and personal integrity
• Managing life transitions as an executive
• Adjusting life priorities in achieving deeper change
• Common misconceptions about self-sufficiency and spiritual partnership

Podcast Highlights

0:00 - A calling to elevate consciousness and love.

5:15 - Journey of growth, athletics, teaching, and healing.

8:56 - Address root issues: mental, emotional, spiritual wellness.

9:42 - Guiding executives to balance success and well-being.

13:08 - People experiencing transitions, questioning life paths.

16:17 - Heart's motives shape blessings and life's patterns.

21:16 - Embrace all aspects of yourself, shortcomings included.

22:53 - Human limitations balanced by divine partnership.

26:28 - God gives more to handle; seeks partnership.

30:28 - Few are chosen; willing to embrace transformation.

32:08 - God loves to write redemption stories.

35:18 - Embracing submission and conflict to merge businesses.

40:47 - Rebuilding trust after betrayal in leadership, relationships.

43:54 - Unspoken expectations lead to broken trust.

45:16 - Trusting faith strengthens trust in His character.

Favorite Quotes

"True success starts not just by changing behaviors but by addressing the foundational issues of the heart and soul."

"Faith is the belief in the unseen, while trust is developed through experiencing God's character in faith-driven actions."

Episode Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/mindset/521-redefining-success-in-life-and-business-with-christine-jewell 

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How do you earn a seat at the decision-making table? In this episode, Nicole Jansen sits down with Jenny Mitchell, an inspiring leader from Ottawa, Canada. Jenny is the Chief Visionary Officer at Chavender.com, author of Embracing Ambition, and host of the Underdog Leadership Podcast.

Committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders, Jenny works closely with not-for-profit leaders to change the world one mission at a time. She is a fundraising professional, as well as an executive coach passionate about helping aspiring women overcome hardship, stereotyping, typecasting, and debilitating self-doubt to step into the best version of themselves as leaders.

Join us as we explore the keys to overcoming obstacles, embracing ambition from a place of inner fullness, understanding personal strengths, and transforming discomfort into growth. We also tackle the intricacies of leadership, fundraising for non-profits, and the essential qualities that empower individuals to transition from supportive roles to primary leadership positions.

What We Discuss in this Episode

• Jenny’s path to leadership and empowerment
• What does it mean to embrace ambition
• How discomfort and fear can turn into growth and leadership
• How to move from "number two" to "number one" positions in your career
• Fundraising insights for non-profit leaders
• Aligning donors' values with your fundraising cause
• The role of celebration within charitable organizations
• How understanding personal assumptions and biases can improve leadership

Key Takeaways

Growth often comes from stepping outside of comfort zones and facing fears head-on.

Approach your goals with a sense of inner worth and fullness rather than seeking external validation.

Effective fundraising involves aligning donors' values with the cause and communicating a transformative vision.

Recognizing and celebrating successes within organizations helps maintain motivation and community spirit.

Seek clear, constructive feedback from peers to gain valuable perspectives on personal growth.

Demonstrate self-awareness, courage, and the ability to act on feedback for personal leadership.

Thriving in supportive roles is equally important and can be a path to discovering one's strengths.

Knowing your worth at the start of each day fosters a sense of abundance and empowerment.

Challenge personal assumptions and biases to improve leadership and create inclusive environments.

Utilize tools like breathwork and positive affirmations to support personal and professional development.

Podcast Highlights

0:00 - Empowerment approach for women's inclusion, not victimhood.

3:23 - Promoting underdog leadership through self-improvement.

10:35 - Adversity is essential; it encourages growth.

14:13 - Combining research, stories, and experiences for inspiration.

17:29 - Understanding others expands our perspective and impact.

23:28 - Intrinsic motivation over external validation transforms ambitions.

30:16 - Focus on ROI, not costs, for charities.

34:25 - Need compelling reasons and stories for funding.

36:51 - Full body coaching integrating personal and professional growth.

40:35 - Use a scale for feedback and perception.

44:05 - Know yourself and pursue what fulfills you.

46:07 - Take action for personal transformation and growth.

Favorite Quotes

On Personal Growth: “Embracing discomfort and fear is essential—they are signals that you're pushing boundaries and growing.”

On Leadership: “Self-awareness, the courage to ask for feedback, and acting on it are pivotal elements of true personal leadership.”

On Fundraising: “Shifting from a 'tin cup' mentality to inspiring donors with a larger vision of change can transform fundraising efforts.”

On Celebrating Successes: “Celebrating all wins within an organization maintains motivation and engagement, fostering a healthy community spirit.”

Episode Show Notes and Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/leadership/520-learning-how-to-embrace-ambition-with-jenny-mitchell

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