Collectively Good

Kara Willis

5.0 (1)
Entrepreneurship

Collectively Good is a place for conversations around what’s working as women build influence, leadership skills, personal brands, team cultures, businesses, and lives they’re proud of. Hosted by Kara Willis.

Apr 1

PR is for Entrepreneurs - Interview with Jen Gould PR Coach

Most entrepreneurs shy away from media and PR because they think they need fame to get noticed — but Jen Gould reveals how visibility is accessible to anyone willing to show up and be seen. From her days as a rock star opening for Aretha Franklin to coaching women in business, Jen shares the surprising truth: PR isn’t reserved for celebrities. It’s a powerful tool for positioning you as an authority, increasing revenue, and attracting opportunities without needing to reinvent the wheel. In this episode, Jen takes us behind the scenes of her journey from performing on stage in leather pants to helping her clients become media mavericks. You'll discover how to leverage every media channel—from traditional press and speaking gigs to podcasts and social media—based on your strengths. She shares her signature four-part framework: defining your ideal client, solving their core problem, transforming their life, and consistently communicating your three key messages. This clarity is your secret weapon for building unstoppable authority and confidence. We break down the mindset shifts that turn fear into fuel, including how to reframe nervousness as excitement, create safety through preparation, and develop a fun, fearless approach to visibility. Jen shares real success stories—from a client who hit the Wall Street Journal bestseller list to someone else who landed high-paying speaking gigs—showing that media begets more media. Plus, learn her simple pregame rituals to embody energy, connect with your audience, and make your message resonate. Whether you’re a coach, creator, or service provider, this episode will equip you with practical tools to cut through the overwhelm and start getting noticed today. Most importantly, Jen emphasizes: your stories, your expertise, your message—when communicated with clarity and confidence—can transform your business and your life. If you're ready to amplify your voice, attract new opportunities, and create visibility that feels authentic, this episode is your blueprint. Perfect for introverts, busy entrepreneurs, and women who want to serve from a place of power. Tune in and turn your visibility dreams into reality. Guest Credibility: Jen Gould is a PR and visibility coach, with a background as a classically trained pianist and a client roster that includes Aretha Franklin, Lenny Kravitz, and Dean Graziosi. Her expertise combines artistic performance with corporate media strategies to help women confidently step into the spotlight. Download your One Sheet to start pitching yourself for PR opportunities! https://jengouldcoaching.com
Apr 1

Evolve or Die - Leading Gen Z Workforce with Jen Lai of Gymshark

Transforming Retail Leadership: Insights from Jen Lai of Gymshark. In the fast-paced world of retail, effective leadership is crucial for success. In this interview, we dive into the insights shared by Jen Lai, the head of retail for Gymshark in North America, during a recent conversation. Jen's extensive experience in the sporting goods industry and her unique leadership philosophy provide valuable lessons for aspiring leaders and seasoned professionals alike. ## About Jen Lai Jen Lai is a seasoned retail leader with over 23 years of experience in the sporting goods industry. Currently, she leads retail operations for Gymshark in North America, where she is responsible for building the retail organization from the ground up. Jen's journey began in retail at a young age and has included significant roles at Adidas and Dyson. Her passion for retail and commitment to inspiring her team are evident in her approach to leadership. ## The Retail Landscape: Building from E-commerce to Brick-and-Mortar As Gymshark transitions from an e-commerce-based model to brick-and-mortar retail, Jen faces unique challenges and opportunities. "Most legacy brands like Adidas and Nike started with retail and moved into e-commerce, but we’re doing the opposite," she explains. This shift requires a strategic approach to location selection, team building, and customer engagement. ### Key Considerations for Retail Success - **Data-Driven Decisions**: Jen emphasizes the importance of leveraging data analytics to determine the best retail locations. By understanding consumer behavior and market trends, she can make informed decisions that align with Gymshark's brand values. - **Creating the Right Team**: Building a successful retail organization starts with finding the right people. Jen believes in hiring individuals who resonate with Gymshark's mission and culture, fostering a team that shares a common vision. - **End-to-End Responsibility**: Jen holds full P&L responsibility for the retail operations, ensuring that every aspect of the business is aligned with strategic goals. This comprehensive approach allows her to drive accountability and performance across the organization. ## Leadership Philosophy: Inspire with Passion and Lead by Action Jen's leadership philosophy centers around inspiring her team and leading by example. "I want to inspire you with my passion, but also be realistic about what needs to be done," she states. This balance is essential in fostering a positive work environment while maintaining high standards of performance. ## Key Takeaways from Jen Lai’s Leadership Approach - **Emphasize Passion and Positivity**: A positive attitude can significantly impact team morale. - **Be Clear and Direct**: Transparency fosters trust and accountability. - **Adapt to Diverse Teams**: Understand the unique needs of different generations and adapt your leadership style accordingly. In summary, Jen Lai's insights into retail leadership provide a roadmap for those looking to navigate the complexities of the industry. By focusing on data-driven decisions, inspiring passion, and fostering open communication, leaders can create a thriving retail environment that drives results. ### Conclusion Jen Lai's journey in retail leadership and her commitment to inspiring her team offer valuable lessons for anyone in the industry. By embracing a clear and compassionate approach, leaders can navigate challenges and drive success in the ever-evolving retail landscape.

2 Episodes

Creator

Kara Willis
Years Active

2026
Episodes

2
Rating

Clean
Show Website

Collectively Good

Collectively Good

Episodes

PR is for Entrepreneurs - Interview with Jen Gould PR Coach

Evolve or Die - Leading Gen Z Workforce with Jen Lai of Gymshark

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