The Sow to Speak Podcast with Kristy Mandour

The Sow to Speak Podcast with Kristy Mandour

By Kristy MandourEducationSelf-Improvement
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The Sow to Speak Podcast with Kristy Mandour episodes

  • Embodying the Energy and Mindset of Your Leadership Vision

    Your leadership vision can’t be clear until your internal state is in check. When you’re grounded, aligned, and intentional, everything else — your decisions, communication, and presence — flows clearly and confidently.

    In this episode, we’re kicking off the year with a fresh perspective. Forget “new year, new you.” This is about embracing wholeness and leading from a place of integrity — where every part of you feels connected and purposeful.

    We’ll explore:

    • Why your future self holds the key to becoming the leader you aspire to be.
    • Simple ways to align your daily energy with your leadership vision. (Meaning, who you want to be when you enter the room.)
    • Powerful techniques to recognize and release tension to stay grounded and present.


      • 👉 Ready to lead with calm and confidence? Download your free Calm Under Fire Guide (aka the “Meeting Sanity” guide) for tools to help you stay grounded and emotionally regulated in even the most challenging conversations. Grab it here.

      Tune in and start 2025 with clarity, purpose, and a truly inspiring and genuine leadership presence.


      WORK WITH ME

      If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call ⁠⁠⁠here ⁠⁠to learn more about my Lead Out Loud communication program for recently promoted or hired leaders. Spots are limited, so be sure to grab yours today. Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.

      Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠ 


      RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST

      Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!

      Speaking of connection:

      Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

      CONNECT WITH ME:

      ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠

      ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠

      24 min
    • Lead Yourself First: Tools to Chill Inner Chaos and Shine

      Let’s talk about the voice in your head—the one that critiques, questions, and sometimes holds you back. In this episode of The Sow to Speak Podcast, we’re wrapping up our series on navigating difficult conversations by turning inward. I’m sharing three practical strategies to help you reframe your inner dialogue, quiet the noise, and create more space for clarity and confidence. Because if we can’t communicate with kindness and purpose to ourselves, how can we expect to do that with anyone else?

      Episode Highlights:

      • Name That Voice: How labeling your inner critic can create space to respond instead of react.
      • Proving vs. Approving Energy: Why starting your day with gratitude shifts your focus from "not enough" to abundance.
      • The Five-Breath Reset: A simple technique to find your center in high-pressure moments.
      • The science behind these strategies and how they help reduce stress, improve resilience, and keep you grounded.
      • Real-life scenarios and "before and after" examples to inspire you to reframe self-talk in a relatable way.


        • Your inner dialogue matters. It shapes how you show up, lead, and connect. By tuning into and shifting your self-talk, you create space for confidence, compassion, and forward momentum—not just for yourself but for everyone around you.

        And don’t forget to grab your free guide, Calm Under Fire: 20 Ways to Keep Your Cool in High Emotion Meetings. It’s packed with quick, actionable tools to help you stay composed and lead with clarity when emotions are running high.

        Grab your free guide here.

        Let’s navigate these conversations together—starting from within.


        WORK WITH ME

        If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call ⁠⁠⁠here ⁠⁠to learn more about my Lead Out Loud program. Spots are limited so be sure to grab yours today. Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.

        Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠ 


        RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST

        Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!

        Speaking of connection:

        Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

        CONNECT WITH ME:

        ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠

        ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠

        26 min
      • Grace Under Holiday Pressure: Navigating Family Time

        We LOVE the holidays and YET: Holiday family gatherings can be a whirlwind of emotions, unexpected questions, and, sometimes, passive-aggressive remarks that leave us feeling overwhelmed.

        But what if you had strategies to handle those sticky moments with clarity, confidence, and genuine compassion? In this episode, we’re diving into actionable ways to navigate the challenges of holiday gatherings while protecting your peace and preserving your relationships.

        Episode Highlights:

        • The Gentle Boundary: How to set respectful, firm limits without over-explaining, and go-to phrases for deflecting intrusive questions.
        • The Pressure Valve: Recognizing when to step away before emotions escalate and small “reset rituals” to regain composure.
        • The Growth Mindset Reset: Shifting from defensiveness to curiosity, reframing tough comments, and redirecting conversations with ease.
        • The Long View: Why staying grounded in the bigger picture helps you avoid escalating conflict and respond with intention.
        • The Connection Creator: Leaning into vulnerability to foster understanding and create meaningful moments, even when traditions or emotions shift.
        • The Non-Relative Strategy: Treating family interactions with the same professionalism and calm you’d use with a coworker or colleague.

          • Ready to lead with confidence in your communication?
          2025 is your year to communicate with clarity, confidence, and ease! Book a free chemistry call with me today to learn how you can grab one of the remaining spots in my Lead Out Loud communication and leadership program. Let’s transform your leadership voice and presence together.

          Click here to book your call now.


          RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST

          Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!

          Speaking of connection:

          Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

          CONNECT WITH ME:

          ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠

          ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠

          29 min
        • How to Give Feedback on Underperformance: Real Strategies for Leaders

          This week on The Sow to Speak Podcast, we’re diving into one of the trickiest parts of leadership: giving feedback on underperformance during tough conversations.

          Whether addressing a new teammate, navigating power dynamics with a former peer, or managing a challenging direct report, these conversations test your emotional intelligence and communication skills. In this episode, I share practical human strategies to prepare yourself and handle these situations with clarity, compassion, and confidence.


          What You’ll Learn:


          Why emotional intelligence is key to grounding yourself before a tough talk.


          How to use self-awareness, empathy, and self-compassion to set the tone for productive conversations.


          Step-by-step strategies for navigating three tough scenarios:


          Giving feedback to a new teammate missing deadlines.


          Addressing dismissive behavior from a friend-turned-direct-report.


          Holding a difficult team member accountable for offloading their work.


          How the Personification Posse archetypes (like The Worrier, The Whipper, and The Wise One) show up in these moments—and how to work with them.


          Episode Highlights:


          Why prep matters: Feedback is about more than fixing behavior; it’s about showing up as the leader you want to be.


          Scenario 1: A new teammate missing deadlines → Lead with curiosity, set expectations, and collaborate on solutions.


          Scenario 2: A dismissive former peer → Start with curiosity, call out specific behaviors, and tie feedback to team values.


          Scenario 3: A difficult direct-report → Acknowledge their contributions, focus on behavior not the person, and set clear expectations.


          Big takeaway: Tough talks are never easy, but they’re an essential skill for leaders committed to creating authentic, supportive, and high-performing teams.


          Take the Next Step:

          Join me this Tuesday, December 17th for my free workshop "Conversations that Connect: Mastering the Art of Navigating Tough Talks" where we’ll dive even deeper into these strategies and practice tools you can use immediately.

          Register here and save your spot!


          Until next time, remember: the most effective feedback starts with connection. You’ve got this.



          WORK WITH ME

          If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call ⁠⁠⁠here ⁠⁠to learn more about my Lead Out Loud program. Spots are limited so be sure to grab yours today. Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.

          Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠ 


          RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST

          Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!

          Speaking of connection:

          Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

          CONNECT WITH ME:

          ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠

          ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠

          20 min
        • Navigating Tough Talks – Mastering Feedback with Heart and Candor

          In today’s episode, we’re continuing our December series on Navigating Tough Talks by tackling one of the most challenging leadership skills: giving feedback. If you’ve ever felt like you had to choose between being candid or compassionate, this episode is for you.

          I’m sharing three powerful ways to prepare for feedback conversations that honor the person and the issue. We’ll also walk through real-life scenarios to see how preparation can transform the way you approach even the toughest conversations.

          Episode Highlights:

          • Why feedback feels so tricky—and how prep can change everything.
          • The “don’t want to do” exercise: How to uncover what you do want and center your energy before tough talks.
          • The SBI Method (Situation, Behavior, Impact): A simple framework to keep feedback clear and constructive.
          • The Triple Win: How to reframe feedback for mutual growth and collaboration.
          • Real-life before-and-after scenarios: Giving feedback to a direct report, colleague, or even your boss.
          • The magic of an energetic dress rehearsal: Immersing yourself in the leader you want to be.


            • Want to take your conversation skills to the next level?
            Join me for my free workshop, Connected Conversations: Master the Art of Navigating Tough Talks, on Tuesday, December 12th at 9 AM PT / 12 PM EST. You’ll learn the three secrets every master communicator knows for handling crucial conversations like the leader you are.

            ➡️ Save your spot and learn more here

            Don’t miss next week’s episode, where we’ll dive into how to manage underperformance without crushing spirit. See you there!


            WORK WITH ME

            If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call ⁠⁠⁠here ⁠⁠to learn more about my Lead Out Loud communication program. Spots are limited so be sure to grab yours today. Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.

            Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠ 


            RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST

            Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!

            Speaking of connection:

            Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

            CONNECT WITH ME:

            ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠

            ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠

            13 min
          • From Conflict to Connection: Practical Tools for High-Achieving Leaders

            In today’s episode, I’ll show you how to navigate disagreement with curiosity, empathy, and confidence—whether it’s in a meeting, with a colleague, or even with your boss. You’ll walk away with a simple yet powerful practice to transform tension into teamwork.

            Episode Highlights:

            • Why conflict feels uncomfortable—and how to shift your mindset.
            • The Curiosity First approach: ask, listen, and co-create solutions.
            • Real-life scenarios for using this technique in meetings, feedback sessions, and team dynamics.
            • A three-step action plan to reframe disagreements into opportunities.
            • Quick conversation starters to keep conflict collaborative.


              • Tune in for practical, actionable advice that you can implement immediately in your next tough conversation.


              WORK WITH ME

              If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free chemistry call ⁠⁠⁠here ⁠⁠to learn more about my Lead Out Loud program. Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.

              Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠ 


              RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST

              Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!

              Speaking of connection:

              Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

              CONNECT WITH ME:

              ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠

              ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠

              18 min
            • From Buzzkill to Breakthrough: Navigating the Inconvenient Nudge of Intuition

              Ever felt like your intuition is trying to steer you in a direction you really don’t want to go? Maybe it’s whispering that you need to have that awkward conversation or rethink a decision you’ve already made. It’s tempting to ignore it and stick with what’s comfortable—but when you build the courage to lean in, even when it feels inconvenient, the rewards are undeniable: more clarity, less regret, and grounded confidence.

              In this episode, we’re breaking down what it really means to listen to your intuition, why it’s so tied to emotional intelligence, and how to stop thinking of it as a buzzkill. Plus, I’ll share practical ways to tune in without freaking out, especially when life is busy, messy, and full of distractions.

              Episode Highlights

              • Why intuition often feels inconvenient—and why that’s actually a good thing.
              • Busting the myth: intuition isn’t about drastic, immediate action.
              • Real-life workplace and parenting scenarios where listening to your gut can make all the difference.
              • How emotional intelligence is the key to decoding your inner Wise One.
              • Three actionable steps to reconnect with your intuition, even when life feels too hectic.

                • Ready to strengthen your intuition muscle and lead with more clarity and courage? Let’s dive in.


                WORK WITH ME

                If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free call ⁠⁠⁠here ⁠⁠to learn more about my Lead Out Loud program. Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.

                Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠ 


                RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST

                Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!

                Speaking of connection:

                Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

                CONNECT WITH ME:

                ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠

                ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠

                23 min
              • How to Build a Simple Practice of Intuitive Decision-Making

                In the wake of the election results, it’s easy to feel the weight of fear, disgust, and blame swirling around us. But with clarity comes the power to decide what’s next. In this episode, we explore how intuition—your inner GPS—can help you navigate uncertain times with confidence and calm.


                Through real-life examples and actionable practices, we’ll dive into strengthening your connection to that quiet, steady voice that always knows your next right step.

                Episode Highlights:

                • The clarity that comes after the chaos: How to regain control in moments of uncertainty.
                • The Wise One and its flip sides: Recognizing intuitive energy in daily life.
                • Real-life leadership moments with intuition at play.
                • Two simple, actionable practices to build trust with your inner guide.

                  • Call to Action:
                  Set aside 10 minutes today to try one of the exercises. Start small, tune in, and let your Wise One lead the way. The world needs leaders who trust their gut—why not start now?


                  EPISODES MENTIONED of The Personification Posse™ archetypes:

                  The Worrier

                  The Whipper

                  The Warrior

                  The Wizard

                  The Wise One


                  WORK WITH ME

                  If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free chemistry call ⁠⁠⁠here ⁠⁠to learn more about my Lead Out Loud program. Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.

                  Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠ 

                  RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST

                  Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!

                  Speaking of connection:

                  Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.


                  CONNECT WITH ME

                  ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠

                  ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠




                  24 min
                • From Doubt to Clarity: Strengthening Intuition for Better Leadership

                  This episode is all about reconnecting with a sometimes underappreciated ally: your intuition. As we dive into November’s theme of Strengthening Intuition, we’re exploring The Wise One, the final archetype in my Personification Posse Method.

                  What You'll Learn:

                  • Meet The Wise One: The calmest member of the Posse, The Wise One offers steady guidance and reminds you, “You already know.”
                  • Fear vs. Intuition: Ever wonder how to tell if it’s fear or intuition talking? Learn to spot the subtle but powerful difference – and how to trust the voice that brings clarity over chaos.
                  • The Power of Intuition in Leadership: Discover three clear ways intuition can elevate your decision-making and boundary-setting, both at work and at home. Think: clearer choices, easier boundaries, and a powerful example for your kids.


                    • Key Takeaways:

                    • Decision-Making without Doubt: Intuition can cut through the noise and give you a clear “yes” or “no,” making decisions easier.
                    • Boundaries with Confidence: When you listen to The Wise One, setting boundaries feels less like a battle and more like self-care.
                    • Modeling Intuition for Your Kids: Show your kids what it looks like to trust themselves by leading with your own inner guidance.


                      • Tune in and get ready to harness the power of your inner knowing. It’s time to re-examine your relationship with intuition and start listening to the voice that’s been quietly waiting to guide you all along.


                      WORK WITH ME

                      If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free chemistry call ⁠⁠here ⁠to learn more about my Lead Out Loud program. Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.

                      Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program ⁠⁠here.⁠⁠ 


                      RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST

                      Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!

                      Speaking of connection:

                      Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠.

                      Follow Kristy:

                      ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠

                      ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠

                      22 min
                    • Balancing Vision and Focus: The Power of the Wizard Archetype

                      In this episode, we're diving deep into our fourth archetype in the Personification Posse Method™: The Wizard—the high-energy, visionary part of us that fuels creativity and keeps us open to possibility. This one’s especially for high-achieving leaders who need a little extra spark amid the daily grind (and mounting election season stress!). Here's what we cover:

                      • Meet the Wizard: Discover how to channel this playful, “What If” energy to fuel creativity, inspiration, and a sense of joy—especially as life gets busier.
                      • Visionary Powerhouses: Real-life examples from Oprah Winfrey, Sarah Blakely, and Tina Fey show us how leaning into playfulness and innovation can bring big dreams to life without burning out.
                      • Wizard at Work: How to spot when Wizard energy is overboard or underused, and what balanced Wizard energy can look like in the workplace to keep the team inspired and focused.
                      • Pairing with the Worrier: Learn how the Worrier can balance the Wizard’s impulsive ideas with thoughtful strategy, making for a powerhouse team in work and life.

                        • Takeaway: Which tip will you try? Bringing joy to your everyday can make all the difference in reaching your goals and enjoying the journey along the way. Keep dreaming big, stay grounded, and see you next week!


                        LEARN MORE ABOUT THE LEAD OUT LOUD PROGRAM

                        If you’re ready to take your communication skills to the next level, book a free discovery call ⁠here to learn more about my Lead Out Loud program. Together, let’s transform your self-doubt into self-assuredness once and for all! 


                        Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program ⁠here.⁠ 

                        Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!

                        Speaking of connection:

                        Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak ⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠.

                        Follow Kristy:

                        ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

                        ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

                        29 min

                      About The Sow to Speak Podcast with Kristy Mandour

                      From the publisher's feed

                      Passionate, overthinking high-achievers rejoice!