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1 Big Idea:

Authentic leadership is about who you are, not just what you do.

5 Ways You Can Apply This:

1. Clarify Your Strengths - Recognize natural leadership abilities and take assessments like Strengthsfinder or DISC.
2. Identify Gaps - Reflect on areas for growth in knowledge, communication, experience, and motivation.
3. Align with Purpose - Define your leadership purpose and ensure it honors your Core Values.
4. Integrate Life Principles - Apply aspirational traits like Intentional Optimism to improve leadership.
5. Address Challenges - Use Core Values and DISC insights to navigate leadership challenges effectively.

3 Questions to Ask Yourself:

1. What are your top three leadership strengths?
2. Which skills do you want to develop this year?
3. How do your Life Principles guide your leadership decisions?

Special Resource:
Download the Leadership Self-Assessment to reflect on your strengths, gaps, and Core Values. Set actionable steps for growth over the next 30 days.

Download the Self-Assessment Here https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/leadershipassessment

Podcast Episodes Mentioned:

• Embrace Your Working Genius: Unleash Your Best Self with Charity Medina
• Discovering Your Unique Strengths: Navigating CliftonStrengths with Allegra Stein
• Need a Set of Life Principles? Discover the Power of Intentional Optimism

Other Resources Mentioned

• Gallup Clifton Strengths 34 - $59.99, but the best strengths assessment I know.
• DISC Products Page
• The One-Minute Manager, by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson
• Live2Lead LeaderPass: Access inspirational content from world-renowned speakers. 
• Live2Lead Lynchburg: January 31, Lynchburg, VA
• Core Values Coaching Program (Beta): Discover your unique values and integrate them into every aspect of your life. 
• Core Values Course: A self-paced guide to uncovering your unique values and living with intention. 

Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/j00ssr6pzkw

For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at [email protected].

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1 BIG Idea:

Celebrating milestones clarifies lessons learned, sets a vision for future growth, and reminds us that perseverance leads to thriving.

3 Ways You Can Apply This:

1. Embrace Perseverance: Reflect on challenges you've faced as a leader and how sticking with your mission has shaped your journey.
2. Define Your Evolving Vision: Consider how your leadership goals have shifted over time and align them with your current values and mission.
3. Thrive Holistically: Set intentions that integrate personal, professional, and spiritual growth, ensuring each aspect supports your overall well-being.

3 Questions to Ask:

1. Overcoming Challenges: “What challenges have you faced over the past few years, and how have you grown through them?”
2. Celebrating Growth: “What’s one thing you’re proud of achieving, even if it felt small at the time?”
3. Defining Thriving: “What would it look like for you to truly thrive in 2025?

It’s Time to Thrive:
Step into 2025 with intention, clarity, and a commitment to holistic growth. Let’s make this year your time to flourish!

Mentioned in This Episode

• Essentialism by Greg McKeown: Learn to focus on what truly matters and eliminate what doesn’t.
• Live2Lead LeaderPass: Access inspirational content from world-renowned speakers. 
• Live2Lead Lynchburg: January 31, Lynchburg, VA
• Core Values Coaching Program (Beta): Discover your unique values and integrate them into every aspect of your life. 
• Core Values Course: A self-paced guide to uncovering your unique values and living with intention. 

Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Cv9PD5uT4KY

For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at [email protected].

Please leave us a rating and review!
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There are only 10 days to Christmas and just two weeks until 2025—can you believe it? The year is almost over, and with it comes a mix of excitement and uncertainty about what’s ahead. So, let me ask: what’s giving you hope for 2025? And what’s keeping you up at night? No matter how you’re feeling, there’s one mindset that can help you face it all: curiosity.

In today’s episode, we welcome Laura Buckley, a seasoned Leadership Consultant with a fascinating background as an Army officer and Registered Dietician. Laura shares her insights on the art and science of curious leadership and how embracing curiosity can:

• Build hope and fuel motivation
• Deepen relationships and enhance team dynamics
• Shift the status quo to create thriving workplace cultures

Laura’s unique perspective highlights the intimate connection between our workplaces and wellbeing, offering practical strategies to help leaders make small but impactful changes. Whether you’re focused on personal growth or organizational success, this conversation will equip you with tools to close out 2024 with intention and enter 2025 with clarity and purpose.

Tune in for actionable takeaways that will inspire you to embrace curiosity and transform your approach to leadership and life.

Mentioned in this Episode:
Website: https://laurabuckleycoaching.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-buckley-9bb38651

Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NcqkHeFyAtA

For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at [email protected].

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Discover how uncovering and embracing your core values can transform your business and life in this inspiring conversation with Leslee Owen, Co-Founder and CEO of Movement Maker Web Design Agency. Leslee’s journey is a testament to the power of alignment, authenticity, and leadership.

With over 20 years of experience in television and digital media, Leslee has helped female CEOs develop marketing strategies that integrate personal values with business growth. A Certified Life & Business Coach and marketing leader for C12, Leslee also co-founded Babes Support Babes, a thriving entrepreneurial community.

In this episode, Leslee shares her experience as a client in my Core Values Coaching program. She reveals how understanding and integrating her core values allowed her to step fully into her role as a visionary leader. From deconstructing limiting beliefs to navigating compromises in business, Leslee’s insights highlight the transformative potential of living in alignment with your values.

Whether you’re a female founder or someone seeking clarity in life and work, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement to help you reestablish a deeper connection with yourself and elevate your journey to the next level.

🎧 Listen now and discover the foundation for authentic success!

Where to find Leslee:
Movement Makers Website: https://movementmaker.pro/
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslee-owen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lesleeowen/

Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dGSn4gGwiJ4

For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at [email protected].

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As the year winds down, it's natural to reflect on where we've been and where we're headed. In this episode, we're diving into a powerful and often misunderstood concept: Deconstruction—not just as a personal growth tool but as a vital process for uncovering and honoring your Core Values.

If you've ever felt stuck, unsure where to start, or hesitant to face the hard work of self-discovery, you're not alone. I'll unpack common fears and misconceptions about deconstruction, show how it's intertwined with identifying your Core Values, and explain why it's essential for authentic leadership and personal growth.

You'll learn:

 ▶️ How deconstruction reveals the motivations behind your actions and beliefs.
 ▶️ Why your Core Values are key to building confidence, clarity, and resilience.
 ▶️ Practical insights into disentangling assumptions, beliefs, and conditioning to embrace your authentic self.

Plus, hear about ongoing opportunities like Live2Lead on LeaderPass—a must for anyone looking to elevate their leadership and growth journey—and an exclusive chance to join my Core Values Coaching Beta Program with special year-end pricing.

The world needs leaders who are curious, welcoming, and wise. That includes YOU. Let’s uncover what makes you uniquely equipped to lead with purpose and integrity.

It’s time to Stand Tall & Own It—embrace the work that makes 2025 your most impactful year yet!

Mentioned in this Episode:
Live2Lead LeaderPass
Core Values Coaching Beta
Demystifying Deconstruction, The Hidden Gem of Personal Growth
Need a Set of Life Principles? Discover the Power of Intentional Optimism
Core Values Exercise
What Is Intentional Optimism?

Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a46yErlm7c0

For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at [email protected].

Please leave us a rating and review!

Apple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.
Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762 

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We’re just six weeks from 2025, and it’s time to OWN the things that shape our lives—starting with our relationship with money. Today, I’m joined by money coach Hanna Bier, creator of the Money Bliss program, to explore how emotional healing, financial freedom, and aligning with your core values can transform your life.

Hanna shares how doing the Core Values exercise helped clarify her approach to money and business. Together, we dive into how your values and money mindset affect every area of your life, from growing your savings to building a fulfilling career or business.

If you’re asking, “Can I create wealth without sacrificing my health and happiness?” or “Is financial abundance possible while living a life of joy?” this episode has the answers you’re looking for. Hanna believes money can (and should) feel fun, easy, and even blissful—and she’s here to show us how.

Let’s meet Hanna Bier and embrace a life-affirming, positive approach to money, values, and abundance!

Mentioned in this Episode:
Website: https://www.hannabier.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannamoneybliss/
Free Gift: The 10 Min Wealth Creation Ritual https://www.hannabier.com/wealth
Hanna's new book: Wealth From Within: https://www.hannabier.com/book

Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ob-kDEpgYxQ

For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at [email protected].

Please leave us a rating and review!
Apple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.
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As we count down the final seven weeks of 2024, it’s time to focus on topics that many of us, as professional women, work to truly own. In this “Own It” series, we’re exploring aspects of life that don’t always come naturally but are essential to showing up with authenticity and confidence. Last week, we tackled the Inner Critic; today, we’re talking about something that can be just as challenging: our bodies and our style.

I’m thrilled to introduce my guest, Angela Foster, a powerhouse in the fashion and beauty industry with over 20 years of experience empowering high-achieving petite women. Angela knows exactly how to help us align our wardrobe with our personality and professional goals, creating a look that feels like an authentic reflection of who we are. If you’re ready to show up fully confident—whether it’s for a board meeting, presentation, or everyday life—Angela’s approach will guide you to embrace a style that’s tailored just for you.

Angela’s expertise has been featured in Real Simple, BestLife, and leadership coaching programs, and today, she’s sharing her insights with us. This episode is packed with practical tips for anyone looking to curate a wardrobe that accentuates their unique shape and style, helping them truly own their presence.

Join me in this empowering conversation with Angela Foster—together, we’ll learn how to let our wardrobe reflect our inner confidence.

Mentioned in this Episode:
Angela’s Website
Angela’s Linked In

Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Zwwfd8IcZ3M

For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at [email protected].

Please leave us a rating and review!
Apple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.
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Today’s guest, Joanna Kleinman, brings a powerful message for anyone feeling the weight of post-election emotions. Joanna is a psychotherapist, leadership coach, and best-selling author of Dethroning Your Inner Critic. With over 30 years of expertise in psychology, science, and metacognition, she’s helped countless people transform self-doubt into personal empowerment.

In this special episode, recorded the day after the U.S. election, Joanna and I address the heightened emotions many of us are experiencing. Her unique framework equips you with the tools to navigate turbulent thoughts, reconnect with your sense of purpose, and bring lasting joy and fulfillment into your life. Joanna’s influence, seen on Good Morning America and The Doctors, resonates here as she helps us find practical ways to process emotions and turn inner growth into positive community impact.

Join us for this timely conversation, and walk away with actionable steps to handle today’s challenges with intention and resilience.

Mentioned in this Episode:
Joanna’s Website: https://masteringyourmind.com/#/
Inner Critic Assessment: https://www.innercriticassessment.com/

Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/HhCFMBRCN8k

For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at [email protected].

Please leave us a rating and review!
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In this episode, I’m joined by Liz Wilcox, an Email Marketing Strategist, Keynote Speaker, and Survivor 46 final four! Known as the Fresh Princess of Email Marketing, Liz built a six-figure business by teaching small business owners how to build authentic online relationships and make real money with emails—using her simple Email Staircase framework.

We also talk about her journey from business success to Survivor, where her authenticity and confidence helped her reach the final four. Liz’s story is a powerful example of how staying true to yourself can transform both your business and your leadership.

Key Takeaways:

• Liz’s journey from building a six-figure email marketing business to competing on Survivor
• Why authenticity is the key to building meaningful online relationships
• How to lead with confidence and create a business that reflects who you are

Tune in to this inspiring conversation with Liz Wilcox to learn how embracing your unique self can fuel business growth and leadership success.

Mentioned in this Episode:
Liz Wilcox Website
Liz’ Freebie
Liz’s Membership
Core Values Exercise

Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/AudtRr70WnA

For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at [email protected].

Please leave us a rating and review!
Apple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.
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In the final episode of our leadership series, “The Four R’s of Leadership,” we’re focusing on Legacy—what you’re building and leaving behind as a leader.

Leadership is influence, and every leader leaves a legacy, whether intentional or not. In this episode, we explore how to build an intentional leadership legacy by growing through the Five Levels of Leadership, as taught by John C. Maxwell.

You’ll learn:

1. The Price Tag of Leadership: Self-Discipline
2. The Expansion of Leadership: Personal Growth

Discover how to leave a lasting impact on your team and organization. If you want to ensure your influence continues to shape the future, this episode is for you.🎧

Mentioned in this Episode:
LIVE2LEAD Charlottesville, October 18, 2024
LIVE2LEAD LeaderPass - Online Access
Developing The Leader Within You 2.0 (Workbook)
DISC Cheat Sheet
Core Values Exercise
What Is Intentional Optimism?

Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/f8uw94S-yc4

For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at [email protected].

Please leave us a rating and review!
Apple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.
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