Women Leading Boldly Virtual Summit

In this BOLD Leader Spotlight, we’re featuring Meagan Norris—a retired attorney, certified life coach, and single mother of three—who turned her divorce into a launchpad for financial and personal transformation.

Within three years, Meagan built a thriving coaching business from scratch, generating over $600,000 and securing her financial independence. She empowers women to become the CEO of their divorces, guiding them toward financial success and a life so good it “doesn’t make sense.”

Her mission? To redefine divorce not as a setback, but as the start of something unstoppable.

5 Key Takeaways

1. Self-Leadership Unlocks Everything: Many women seek external validation or a clear path to success, but true transformation comes from leading yourself first—trusting your own instincts, making bold decisions, and not waiting for permission.

2. Conviction Creates Success: Meagan struggled to gain traction in her coaching business until she embraced her true message: helping women navigate divorce. Once she owned her perspective—without fear of making others uncomfortable—her business skyrocketed.

3. You Are Your Own Guarantee: Instead of looking for external security, Meagan encourages women to trust themselves. Whether it’s career choices, finances, or personal reinvention, believing in your own ability to figure things out is the ultimate safety net.

4. Emotions Are Not a Problem: Rather than avoiding or suppressing discomfort, Meagan teaches women to own their emotions—whether it's anger, sadness, or fear. Every feeling is valuable data that, when managed correctly, leads to clearer decisions and greater alignment.

5. Wealth Creation is a Game-Changer for Women: Meagan emphasizes that financial independence isn’t just about security—it’s about power and choice. She challenges women to step into wealth-building, whether through career advancement or entrepreneurship, because well-resourced women change the world.

"What story do I want to be able to tell?" - Meagan Norris

Meagan uses this question as a guiding principle for decision-making. Instead of seeking the "right" choice, she considers what kind of narrative she wants to create for her life. This shift simplifies decisions and builds self-trust.

Meagan’s journey is a testament to the power of bold decision-making, self-trust, and financial independence. Her story reminds us that challenges—even life-altering ones like divorce—can become the catalyst for an extraordinary new chapter. The key is stepping into leadership, owning your emotions, and believing in your own capability.

Where to Connect with Meagan:

Connect on IG: https://www.instagram.com/meagannorriscoaching/

Find her here: https://www.meagannorris.com/

In this episode of the Women Leading Boldly Summit, Karen Gombault interviews Dr. Michelle Morkert, PHD, a Fulbright scholar, former researcher on gender and conflict, and now a leadership coach and strategist.

With a background that spans from researching war widows in Guatemala to working with feminist leaders in Poland, Michelle brings a deep understanding of how women navigate and challenge systems that weren’t built for them.

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Confidence is Already Within You: Women aren’t lacking confidence—they are navigating systems that weren’t designed for them. Confidence exists in various areas of life, and the challenge is applying it to new spaces.

2. The Brain Science Behind Fear & Confidence: Fear triggers the amygdala, activating a fight-or-flight response. This is normal and can be managed by shifting focus to the prefrontal cortex, where strategic thinking and leadership skills live.

3. Your Nervous System is Not the Enemy: Physical reactions like sweating, a tightening throat, or racing thoughts are normal signs that you care deeply about what you’re doing. Recognizing and managing these responses helps avoid unnecessary self-doubt.

4. Imposter Syndrome is About the Environment, Not You: Feelings of not belonging often stem from entering spaces where you don’t see others like you. The solution isn’t to "fix yourself"—it’s to develop strategies for navigating these environments.

5. Saying No is Saying Yes to What Matters: Leadership is about prioritization. When women learn to say no to unnecessary demands, they create space for what truly aligns with their values and goals.

"You don’t have a syndrome. Nothing is wrong with you. Your brain is operating exactly the way it’s supposed to. We just need strategies to manage it." – Dr. Michelle Morkert, PHD

Dr. Michelle emphasizes that women are already equipped for leadership—they just need the right strategies and support. Recognizing and managing fear, understanding systemic barriers, and embracing the power of saying no are essential tools for navigating leadership spaces with confidence.

Where to Connect with Dr. Michelle Morkert:

Website: https://www.michellemorkert.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichellemorkert/

Newsletter: https://michellemorkert.com/form/

Upcoming Program: Launching soon for Women’s History Month

In this episode, I sit down with Ingrid Oumlouarde, founder and CEO of Sekai Business Solutions, to discuss her bold transition from corporate leader to entrepreneur.

With a background in market research, commercial strategy, and team leadership, Ingrid shares her personal journey of stepping away from a structured corporate environment to build her own business.

She reveals the mindset shifts, leadership lessons, and pivotal experiences that shaped her decision—and how she now helps businesses grow through sales strategy and team performance.

This conversation is packed with invaluable insights for ambitious professionals considering a career evolution, stepping into entrepreneurship, or refining their leadership style.

5 Key Takeaways

1. Entrepreneurship Requires a Mindset Shift: Transitioning from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship takes time, courage, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty. Ingrid spent years considering the move before making the leap.

2. Leadership is About Finding Your Own Style: Success as a leader doesn’t come from replicating someone else’s approach. Ingrid emphasizes the importance of developing a leadership style that aligns with your strengths and values.

3. Seeking Feedback Builds Confidence: One of the most powerful tools for personal and professional growth is feedback—whether from mentors, peers, or teams. Ingrid shares how feedback shaped her leadership and business decisions.

4. Networks & Communities Matter: Being part of programs like Women in Research helped Ingrid gain the confidence to step up and lead. Surrounding yourself with like-minded professionals can accelerate career growth.

5. Self-Leadership is Key to Work-Life Integration: Balancing ambition with personal well-being requires intentionality. Ingrid shares her approach to structuring her days and making time for what truly matters.

"Trust yourself. You don’t need permission to lead, to grow, or to take the next step in your career." — Ingrid Oumlouarde

Final Thoughts...

Ingrid’s journey is a testament to the power of bold decisions, continuous growth, and trusting yourself. Whether you’re navigating leadership in a corporate role or considering entrepreneurship, her insights remind us that success comes from stepping into our own style and seizing opportunities with confidence.

Connect with Ingrid Oumlouarde

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ingrid-pilon-oumlouarde-aa97858/

Contact Ingrid to get your free Action Worksheet, to help you gain clarity, set bold goals, and move forward with confidence.

Contact [email protected]

In this episode of the Women Leading Boldly Summit, Karen sits down with Samantha Kaye Harris—a dynamic speaker, consultant, and certified life coach—who is dedicated to helping women in male-dominated industries build unshakable confidence and take up space without seeking validation.

With over 25 years of firsthand experience navigating these challenging environments, Samantha shares her powerful journey from being the only woman in the room to leading with authority. She equips women with the tools to trust their voices, stand firm in their expertise, and thrive on their own terms.

Key Takeaways!

1. Women often adapt to fit in—at the cost of their authenticity. Many women unconsciously change their behavior, tone down their strengths, or overcompensate in male-dominated environments to be accepted. Recognizing and reversing this pattern is essential for true confidence.
2. External validation is a trap—real confidence comes from within. Women are often conditioned to seek approval, whether at work or in their personal lives. True self-assurance comes from being your own ally rather than relying on others to recognize your worth.
3. Setting boundaries is an act of self-respect. Protecting your time, energy, and priorities is crucial—not only for personal well-being but also for commanding respect in professional settings. Boundaries are a statement of self-worth, not a sign of weakness.
4. Self-leadership is key in male-dominated spaces. While allyship is valuable, women must first become their own strongest advocates. Learning to stand firm in your value and expertise ensures that others take you seriously.
5. Confidence is a practice, not a destination. Confidence isn’t about never doubting yourself—it’s about trusting yourself enough to take action despite the doubt. Reminding yourself of your qualifications and accomplishments helps reinforce a strong, unwavering mindset.

Samantha’s journey is a testament to the power of self-leadership and personal growth. She reminds us that while navigating male-dominated spaces comes with challenges, the real transformation happens when women stop seeking external validation and instead root themselves in their own confidence.

"Behind every successful woman is herself." — Samantha Kaye Harris

• Instagram: Samantha K Harris (@coachsamanthak) • Instagram photos and videos
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-harris-10b648268?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.SamanthaKayeHarris.com
• Podcast: Rooted in Your Confidence (Launching soon!)
• Take her confidence quiz: https://link.fgfunnels.com/widget/survey/ywqSxt660xCiWFWiRvya

Host Karen Gombault speaks with Kirsteen Williamson-Guinn, an experienced senior leader, founder of Elevate Women, and author of Unshakable Confidence, Your Blueprint.

Kirsteen specializes in helping female leaders build unshakable confidence so they can speak up, step up, and stand out in their careers.

In this episode, they discuss why women in leadership often struggle with visibility, the impact of self-doubt, and how strategic mindset shifts can elevate careers—especially in male-dominated industries.

5 Key Takeaways

1. Overworking Won’t Get You Promoted – Many women believe working harder will get them noticed, but being seen as a "safe pair of hands" rather than a strategic leader can stall career growth. Instead, prioritizing visibility and strategic impact is key.
2. Visibility Is Non-Negotiable – Women often resist putting themselves out there due to fear of judgment, yet career advancement requires being seen and recognized by the right people. Confidence grows when you focus on the value you bring rather than how you might be perceived.
3. Your Network Must Be Intentional – Women are often happenstance in their networking, while men tend to be more strategic. Expanding beyond internal company relationships and cultivating a powerful external network is critical for career mobility.
4. Discomfort Is a Growth Signal – Confidence isn't about eliminating fear—it’s about taking action despite it. Learning to tolerate discomfort, whether in public speaking or stepping into new roles, accelerates leadership growth.
5. Self-Concept Shapes Success – Women often underestimate their strengths and focus on gaps rather than assets. Tools like StrengthsFinder help identify and leverage core strengths, reinforcing confidence and strategic career decisions.

Confidence isn’t about being fearless—it’s about taking action despite self-doubt. Women in leadership must prioritize visibility, build intentional networks, and shift from overworking to strategic influence.

📢 Final message from Kirsteen: “My mission is way more important than someone else’s judgment of me.”

Where to Find Kirsteen Williamson-Guinn

Take her 90-second confidence quiz to gain insights into your confidence levels and how to strengthen them.

Connect with her to learn more about building a career with impact and confidence:

Contact: [email protected]

Website: www.elevate-women.co.uk

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirsteen-williamson-guinn/

Link to Confidence Quiz: https://kirsteen-kldndktp.scoreapp.com/p/main-landing-page

Resources referenced in the discussion:

Mindset by Carol Dweck

Gallup Strengthsfinder: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/strengthsfinder.aspx

Claire Zammit Feminine Power: https://femininepower.com/about-claire-zammit/

In this episode, Karen Gombault sits down with Lidia Lae, PHD, principal psychologist and director of To Learn Consulting.

Lidia specializes in psychological consulting, leadership development, and cross-cultural training, helping women redefine success and recognize their role as the heart of every culture.

She is passionate about bold, purpose-driven action, equipping leaders to lead authentically and create meaningful impact. Together, Karen and Lidia explore the deep connection between leadership and culture, particularly how women shape workplace dynamics and societal structures.

5 Key Takeaways

1. Women Are Natural Leaders: Women are at the core of culture—whether at home, in workplaces, or in society. Many women underestimate their leadership potential, but every woman is already a leader, shaping environments through values, trust, and influence.

2. The Four Pillars of Culture Creation – LIFT Framework

L – Leadership: Leaders set, shape, and manage culture.

I – Integrity of Values: A clear definition of values attracts aligned individuals.

F – Foundation of Purpose: Employees seek meaning beyond a paycheck—organizations must define their 'why.'

T – Trust & Psychological Safety: Without trust, collaboration suffers.

3. Leaders must create safe spaces for voices to be heard- Toxic Workplace Cultures Are Subtle Yet Damaging: Many organizations claim strong values but fail to embody them. This disconnect fosters toxic environments, often unnoticed but deeply damaging. Leaders who fail to address toxicity enable it to persist. The solution? Leaders must align their actions with their values and prioritize trust and inclusivity.

4. Women Must Own Their Stories & Find Their Voices: Many women hold themselves back due to internal narratives of self-doubt. The first step to stepping into leadership is self-awareness—understanding one's values, strengths, and the story they tell themselves. By changing the internal dialogue, women can step into leadership with confidence and influence organizational culture.

5. The Workplace Is Rapidly Changing – Adaptability Is Key: The rise of remote work, entrepreneurship, and digital influence has shifted traditional career paths. Young professionals now prioritize flexibility, alignment with values, and opportunities for personal growth. Organizations that fail to adapt risk losing top talent to more agile, purpose-driven ventures.

"Leadership is not a title or position—it’s a bold act of culture creation. You are already a leader. Step up, be bold, and recognize your impact." – Lidia Lae

This episode redefines leadership as an act of shaping culture, not just holding a title. Lidia emphasizes that women already create culture through their actions, values, and presence. The key to stepping into leadership is owning your story, embracing boldness, and aligning with environments that nurture growth. Organizations must also adapt to changing workplace dynamics or risk becoming obsolete.

Connect with Lidia Lae:

Website: www.lidiallae.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lidialae/

[email protected]

Free resource:

Unlock the Secrets to Living a Joyful and Successful Life https://lidialae.com/download-guide

Dr. Shelly Jones Holt is a speaker, author, and visionary leader dedicated to fostering equity-driven systemic change in education and business.

In this powerful conversation, she dives into the complexities of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), the importance of courageous leadership, and how women can unify to create lasting impact. She emphasizes that women across the globe—not just in the U.S.—must stand together to challenge systemic barriers and lead unapologetically.

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Women Must Stand Together Across All Divides: Historically, the women’s movement has been fractured by race, class, and religious divides. Now more than ever, women must bridge those gaps and unite against systemic oppression.

2. Understanding History is Essential for Change: Many of the rights and protections women assumed were permanent can be easily revoked, as seen with recent legal and political shifts. Women must relearn and reclaim their historical narratives to prevent history from repeating itself.

3. Fear & Inconsistency Are the Biggest Barriers to Progress: Fear—whether of losing status, facing uncomfortable truths, or disrupting the norm—keeps women from stepping fully into leadership. Additionally, the lack of a unified message on what actionable steps to take weakens collective impact.

4. Courageous Leadership Starts with Self-Education & Relationships: Women can start by learning about cultures and histories different from their own. Building relationships across diverse communities fosters understanding and creates stronger, more inclusive spaces.

5. Change Begins with Concrete, Daily Actions: Small, intentional steps—such as engaging in open conversations, challenging biases at work, and advocating for systemic improvements—lead to meaningful change. Women should focus on one area of growth at a time to build momentum.

"Courageousness means pushing past fear, and it's much easier to do together. We are more powerful when we lock arms, face the harsh truths, and build a world that works for all women—not just some." - Dr. Shelley Jones-Holt

Dr. Shelly Holt delivers a passionate call to action for women to step into courageous leadership, acknowledge their collective history, and push for systemic change without fear. By learning, uniting, and leading with intention, women can create a more just and inclusive future.

To Connect with Dr. Shelly Jones Holt, you can find her at:

https://www.leadershiplegacyconsulting.com

[email protected]

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drshelleyjonesholt/

https://www.facebook.com/LeadershipLegacyConsultingLLC

In this episode, we hear from Antoinette Benoit, a Franco-Canadian former Chief Marketing Officer and diversity advocate, about the new threats to women’s advancement in the workplace. With political and societal shifts challenging DEI efforts, she discusses why female leaders must take bold action to reset inclusive leadership now.

1️⃣ Progress in Diversity Is Real but Slow – Women hold only 8-10% of CEO roles globally despite years of effort.

2️⃣ Backlash Against DEI Is Rising – Toxic leadership and political shifts are fueling resistance to workplace diversity.

3️⃣ Inclusive Leadership Benefits Everyone – A more collaborative, empathetic workplace benefits both men and women.

4️⃣ Women & Men Must Work Together – Inclusion isn’t a women-only issue; male leaders must actively support progress.

5️⃣ Action Is Needed Now – Investing in early leadership training, research, and mentorship is critical for lasting change.

Progress isn’t irreversible. If leaders don’t act now, hard-won gains in diversity could be lost. Political shifts, societal resistance, and corporate hesitation pose real threats to inclusive leadership. Women and men must unite to champion workplace inclusion, ensuring diversity remains a business and social priority.

Companies must go beyond performative DEI efforts—investing in real structural change, leadership development, and fostering inclusive cultures that benefit all employees.

📢 Final message from Antoinette: “You only know what you’ve lost once it’s gone. If we don’t want to lose progress, we must actively protect and advance it.”

Antoinette is available on LinkedIn and works with CMOs and marketing executives seeking strategic guidance in leadership, branding, and executive committee collaboration.

Connect with her here: Antoinette Benoit | LinkedIn

So glad you are here. Listen in to what you can expect to hear and learn from 18 amazing women I had the honor of interviewing.