visit leadershipexchangeclub.com to join the conversation and build your network.

Episode:

Sara Riedel of the KALA Leadership Collective and co-host Deb Jennings talk about why networking works best when it starts with service, not self-interest. They also explore how AI and digital tools can support leaders without replacing the human connection that builds trust, opportunity, and resilience.

• In this episode, Sara Riedel frames the conversation around networking, human connection, and the tension between digital convenience and real relationship-building.
• Deb Jennings defines networking as being in service of others, and says it can feel “icky” when it only shows up as a favor request after years of no contact.
• The two reflect on how this podcast itself began through networking, mutual admiration, and social media connection, which turned into collaboration.
• Deb shares that she now competes against herself rather than against other women, and focuses on elevating others instead of fighting for limited space.
• She points to the Women’s Informational and Social Exchange, or WISE, as an example of building authentic community among female leaders in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Sara shares that her own decision to become an entrepreneur was strengthened by her network, which encouraged her to move forward instead of waiting.
• They note that a large share of jobs are filled through networking, but stress that outreach should be intentional and grounded in genuine care.
• Sara emphasizes that a quick phone call can create more clarity and connection than a long back-and-forth text exchange.
• Deb adds that strong networks check in on people during hard seasons, because you never know what someone is carrying.
• Sara introduces the Leadership Exchange Club, a fall cohort based on Deb’s book, Leadership in the Rough, designed to help people build authentic connections through shared discussion.

(0:00) Episode kickoff and the rule that both hosts answer every question
(0:22) Why this episode is about networking and strengthening connections
(1:26) Sara’s concern that AI may pull people away from one another
(3:23) Deb’s definition of networking as service to others
(3:51) How the podcast began through mutual admiration and intentional outreach
(4:21) Competing with yourself and elevating other women
(5:20) Why WISE was founded and what authentic community looks like
(6:31) Sara on how her network helped her become an entrepreneur
(7:11) Why networking relationships should cross from professional into personal support
(7:58) Staying connected intentionally without making every interaction transactional
(8:58) Why a quick phone call often works better than a long text thread
(10:09) Checking on people and asking “How are you?” with real care
(11:07) Leading with grace and teaching kids that what you put out comes back
(12:22) How the Leadership Exchange Club creates authentic networking through small groups
(13:03) Grace, networking, and the next topic they plan to unpack
(13:40) Closing thoughts and invitation to join Leadership Exchange Club

“The true definition of networking is being in service of others.”

“Pick up the phone. It’s okay and give somebody a call.”

“What you put out, that’s what comes back to you.”

Embracing Change

In this episode of Leadership Without a Playbook, Deb and Sara explore the theme of embracing change, sharing personal experiences and insights on how to navigate significant transitions in life and work.

They discuss the importance of adaptability, the role of leadership during times of change, and the value of a supportive network.

The conversation emphasizes that change is a constant in life, and how one can grow and learn from it, regardless of whether it is chosen or thrust upon them.

Sound Bites

00:00 "Embracing change is all about growth."

08:04 "Everything's gonna be okay."

11:09 "You have to role model leadership."

Chapters

00:00 Embracing Change: An Introduction

01:26 Sara's Journey Through Change

07:09 Deb's Leadership Experience During Change

13:06 The Nature of Change: Chosen vs. Thrust Upon Us

15:34 Final Thoughts on Embracing Change

Leadership Without a Playbook is a podcast for leaders navigating the moments no one prepares you for.

https://leadershipexchangeclub.com/

The difficult conversations. The tough decisions. The uncertainty. The unexpected challenges.

Because the truth is, leadership doesn't come with a playbook.

Hosted by Sara Riedel and Deb Jennings, this podcast is built on honest conversations, shared experiences, and practical ideas to help leaders navigate the realities of leadership with greater confidence and clarity.

Rather than interviewing experts from a distance, Sara and Deb explore leadership together—exchanging perspectives, challenging assumptions, and sharing lessons learned from years of leading, coaching, and working alongside leaders across industries.

Whether you're leading a team, stepping into your first leadership role, or navigating your next challenge, each episode offers practical insights, fresh perspectives, and actionable ideas you can apply immediately.

Because leadership isn't meant to be figured out alone.