LEAD LIKE A GIRL

Jessica Smith, Coralyn Musser and Jamie Knebel

We are empowering everyday women through our stories – the good, the bad, and the funny. Join hosts Jessica, Jamie, and Coralyn as they dive into unfiltered stories, big lessons, and real conversations. They met in their 20s as ambitious sales pros, quickly rising to the top. Careers shifted, industries changed, and life threw curveballs—but their drive never wavered. Now, they’re sharing the highs, lows, and hilarious moments of balancing career, family, faith, and friendship. If you’re ready to lead, laugh, and level up, you’re in the right place!

  1. 6D AGO

    7 Simple Phrases That Instantly Build Trust, Inclusion & Stronger Teams; E100

    The words you choose as a leader matter more than you think — and these 7 simple phrases can change everything. In this powerful and relatable episode of Lead Like a Girl, we’re diving into the everyday language that builds (or breaks) trust, inclusion, and resilience in your team. Because leadership isn’t always about big strategies — sometimes it’s about the small, intentional words that make people feel seen, supported, and valued. From real-life leadership moments to practical communication tips, we’re unpacking how showing up with the right mindset — and the right words — can completely transform your workplace culture. If you’ve ever wondered how to lead with more impact without overcomplicating it… this episode is your playbook. What We’re Talking About: The power behind simple phrases like “I’ve got your back” — and why they matter more than you thinkHow to create a culture of trust and inclusion through everyday communicationWhy servant leadership isn’t soft — it’s strategic and impactfulReal talk: learning from mistakes and building resilience as a leaderEasy ways to check in with your team that actually build connectionHow small shifts in language can lead to big shifts in team performancePractical leadership tips you can start using immediatelyKey Takeaway:Leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about showing up, supporting your people, and creating an environment where everyone can thrive. Sound Bites You’ll Love: “Show up and support your team.”“Ask, ‘What can I help you with?’”“Your work makes a difference.”Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Light Banter06:08 The Importance of Growth and Learning10:01 Navigating Leadership Challenges13:31 Building Trust in Leadership17:19 Fostering Inclusion Through Communication21:03 The Power of Servant Leadership22:33 Embracing Mistakes and Learning27:27 Collaboration and Team Support29:16 Empathy in LeadershipResources & Links: Lead Like a Girl Lab – https://leadlikeagirl.comToastmasters International – https://www.toastmasters.orgLeadership Quotes Book by Grifford Thomas

    39 min
  2. APR 8

    Stop Fixing Everyone: The 4 Truths That Will Set You Free; E99

    You’re not responsible for fixing everyone—and this conversation proves why letting go is the most powerful leadership move you can make. In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, Jessica, Jamie, and Coralyn unpack the emotional weight so many women carry every day. From managing other people’s feelings to over-explaining decisions and stepping in too soon, this is an honest conversation about what it really looks like to lead without control. Inspired by the principles of Mel Robbins, this episode brings real-life stories into the spotlight. From parenting to leadership to family dynamics, the conversation highlights how letting go is not about caring less, but about leading better. If you have ever stayed up at night trying to solve everyone else’s problems, this episode will challenge you to rethink what is actually yours to carry. Key Takeaways You are not responsible for other people’s happiness even when you care deeply Rescuing others can delay their growth and development Over-explaining decisions leads to burnout, not clarity You do not need to be liked to be a strong and effective leader People-pleasing often comes from early life experiences and patterns Letting people struggle can feel uncomfortable but is necessary for growth Leadership is less about control and more about trust and coaching What This Episode Covers Emotional responsibility and why women often carry more than they should The difference between rescuing and coaching in leadership Building confidence without needing validation or agreement Setting boundaries in real-life situations including family and work Framework Featured: The Core Four and Let Them principles by Mel Robbins Action Steps Pause before stepping in and ask if you are helping or controllingLet someone work through a challenge without interferingMake a decision without over-explaining it to othersPay attention to where your discomfort is driving your behaviorReplace the need for agreement with confidence in your own clarity Chapters 00:00 Celebrating milestones and setting the tone 03:52 Emotional responsibility and happiness 06:22 The need to be understood 09:10 The impact of rescuing others 12:13 Burnout and people-pleasing 19:56 Parenting and generational patterns 24:14 Coaching versus controlling 29:40 Decision-making without approval 33:41 Self-acceptance and confidence 39:24 Letting go of control Final Thought You do not have to carry everything to prove you care. Letting go is not weakness. It is leadership.

    46 min
  3. APR 1

    Joy vs. Happiness: The Truth No One Tells High-Achieving Women; E98

    Joy isn’t something you find someday — it’s something you choose today. And if you’ve been chasing happiness but still feeling empty, this episode is your wake-up call. In this raw and honest conversation, we unpack the difference between joy vs. happiness, why so many women in leadership feel disconnected, and how to reclaim joy in the middle of busy, messy, real life. If you're a working mom, a high-achiever, or just trying to hold it all together, this episode will hit home. The real difference between joy and happiness — and why it matters for women’s leadershipWhy high-performing women struggle to feel joy (even when they “have it all”)How living in the moment unlocks deeper emotional well-beingThe hidden cost of chasing accomplishments without meaningWhy gratitude and self-awareness are essential for cultivating joyHow comparison silently steals your happiness and confidenceThe importance of building a supportive circle that actually lifts you upWhy authenticity is the foundation of true joy and personal growthSimple ways to recognize your daily wins and stop overlooking themHow to intentionally choose joy, even in imperfect seasonsJoy is deeper than happiness — it’s rooted in meaning, not just momentsYou can experience joy even when life isn’t perfectBeing present is a powerful and often overlooked tool for emotional well-beingBurnout often comes from constant striving, not lack of abilityGratitude can quickly shift your perspectiveComparison will rob you of joy if you let itYour circle matters — choose people who support your growthSelf-forgiveness opens the door to experiencing joySmall, everyday moments are where joy actually livesJoy is not accidental — it’s something you cultivate intentionally“What actually brings you joy — not just validation?”“I miss out on all the joy when I’m chasing the next thing.”“Finding joy starts with yourself.”“Comparison is the thief of joy.”“You’ve got to get your people right.”“Joy is a constant — if you allow it.”“It’s never too late to find joy.”“You can always change your life.”00:00 – Introduction to Joy and Happiness02:58 – The Difference Between Joy and Happiness06:00 – Experiencing Joy in Everyday Life08:59 – Finding Joy in Helping Others12:09 – Meaning and Purpose as the Root of Joy14:48 – Why High-Performing Women Struggle17:51 – Living in the Moment and Finding Balance19:57 – Recognizing Daily Successes22:57 – The Power of Authenticity25:54 – What True Joy Really Looks Like30:02 – Gratitude and Happiness34:00 – The Comparison Trap36:57 – Building Your Support Circle In This Episode, We Dive Into:Key TakeawaysSound BitesChapters

    37 min
  4. MAR 25

    Fear Is Your Superpower: How Women Leaders Turn Doubt Into Growth | Stephanie Wedgeworth TEDx Speaker, E97

    Fear is something we’re taught to avoid… but what if it’s actually the key to your next level? In this powerful and real conversation, we sit down with leadership expert and TEDx speaker Stephanie Wedgeworth to unpack how fear can become your greatest tool for growth — not your biggest obstacle. From her journey in the automotive industry to her bold mindset shifts, this episode is packed with real stories, laughter, and game-changing perspective for women in leadership, working moms, and anyone navigating the messy middle. We’re talking courage, confidence, and what it really looks like to lead when things feel uncertain. Connect with Stephanie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-wedgeworth-4a367923/ In This Episode, We Dive Into: How fear shows up differently for women in leadership Why avoiding fear is actually holding you back Turning fear into fuel for growth and confidence Stephanie’s TEDx message: using fear as a superpower The power of storytelling and lived experiences in leadership Navigating career growth in male-dominated industries Real-life mindset shifts that actually work The importance of community (and why you shouldn’t do it alone) Bonus: the unexpected raw vegan story you didn’t see coming Key Takeaways: Fear isn’t a stop sign — it’s a signal you’re growing Confidence is built through action, not perfection Your story matters more than your title Women leaders thrive when they support, not compete Growth requires discomfort — but it’s always worth it Quotable Moments: “Fear isn’t something to avoid — it’s something to harness.” “You don’t need to be fearless… you just need to move anyway.” “Growth lives on the other side of discomfort.” Conversation Starters: What fear are you currently avoiding that might actually be your next opportunity? When was the last time you did something that scared you — and what did it teach you? How can you reframe fear into something that works for you instead of against you? Why You Should Listen: If you’re a woman in business, a working mom, or someone chasing growth while juggling real life — this episode will hit home. It’s honest, empowering, and packed with practical mindset shifts you can start using immediately. Don’t Forget: Subscribe, rate, and share this episode with a woman who needs this reminder today. Because around here… we don’t wait to feel ready. We lead anyway.

    48 min
  5. MAR 18

    You Might Not Be Who You Think You Are: Introvert, Extrovert, or Both?, E96

    Have you ever met someone who lights up every room… and then says they’re actually an introvert? Same. In this episode of Lead Like a Girl — empowering everyday women through our stories — we’re getting real about introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts… and why this conversation matters way more than a personality label. Because this isn’t about being shy or outgoing.It’s about energy. How you show up.How you recharge.And how that impacts your relationships, leadership, and communication. We talk about the surprising truth that a lot of high-energy, social women are actually introverts… how group settings can drain some people and fuel others… and why silence in a meeting does NOT mean someone isn’t engaged. We also get into how to advocate for yourself in conversations, how to make space for different personalities, and why self-awareness might be one of the most underrated leadership skills. This one feels like a conversation every team, every friend group, and honestly every woman needs to hear. IN THIS EPISODE: The real difference between introversion and extroversion (it’s not what most people think) Why “it’s seasonal and situational” might actually describe you perfectly What an ambivert is and why most people fall somewhere in the middle How energy works in social and work environments Why some people leave a meeting energized and others feel completely drained The mistake leaders make when they only listen to the loudest voices How to advocate for your needs in group settings without overthinking it Why silence does not equal disengagement Simple ways to create space for all voices in conversations How self-awareness can change your relationships, communication, and leadership

    49 min
  6. MAR 11

    See It First: How Visualization Can Transform Your Confidence, Goals & Mental Health, E95

    What if the life you want starts with the picture you create in your mind? In this powerful episode of Lead Like a Girl, we dive into the transformative power of visualization, manifestation, and goal setting — and how seeing your future clearly can actually help you create it. From childhood dreams to real-life breakthroughs, we share personal stories about how visualizing success, confidence, and courage has helped us navigate fear, parenting, personal growth, and major life transitions. If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about your next step, this conversation will show you how mental rehearsal, vision clarity, and intentional thinking can shift your mindset and your life. Visualization isn’t just wishful thinking — it’s a proven tool used by athletes, leaders, and entrepreneurs to build confidence, reduce anxiety, and prepare for success. And the best part? Anyone can start using it today. How visualization supports personal growth and self-improvement Why your childhood dreams still influence your adult goals The science behind mental rehearsal and confidence building How visualization can reduce stress and improve mental health Real stories of using visualization to overcome fear and anxiety Why specific goal setting makes visualization more powerful How visualization can be used in parenting and raising confident kids The connection between visualization, manifestation, and action Journaling techniques to clarify your vision and purpose Simple ways to start using visualization daily Visualization is a powerful tool for personal growth and empowerment Childhood aspirations often shape our long-term goals and identity Being specific when visualizing increases the likelihood of success Mental rehearsal can reduce stress and build confidence Visualization prepares your brain for real-life challenges and opportunities Parents can use visualization to build confidence in their children A vision becomes powerful when it leads to action and movement Journaling can help bring clarity to your dreams and intentions Visualization can help you face fears and move through uncertainty Anyone can benefit from practicing intentional visualization In This Episode We Talk About:Key TakeawaysMemorable Quotes

    39 min
  7. MAR 4

    The Drift Wake-Up Call: How We Lose Focus — And How to Get Back on Track, E94

    Drift doesn’t happen overnight — it happens quietly in your daily choices. In this episode, we talk about the subtle ways women in leadership lose focus, drift from their goals, and wake up wondering how they got off track. Through real stories and practical accountability checks, we share how to reclaim clarity, rebuild momentum, and realign with your mission. Through storytelling, laughter, and honest life lessons, we unpack how women — especially working moms, business owners, and leaders — can unintentionally trade their big-picture mission for distractions, busy schedules, and “good enough” success. If you've ever looked up and thought, How did I get here? — this conversation is for you. We’re talking about accountability, clarity, women empowerment, and what it really takes to stay aligned with your purpose. Because leadership isn’t about perfection — it’s about intention. How “drift” happens without you even noticing Why communicating your goals with your tribe matters The power of accountability partners in women leadership How success in one area can distract you from your main mission Why regular rest and reflection create clarity Setting both attainable and stretch goals for real growth Identifying distractions that quietly pull you off course The importance of visualizing your mission daily Surrounding yourself with women who inspire and challenge you Taking small, consistent actions toward big dreams “You don't just wake up and decide to drift.” “You have to have a mission.” “Get out of your yoga pants in life.” 💬 In This Episode, We Talk About:🎧 Sound Bites You’ll Love:

    43 min
  8. FEB 25

    The Unexpected Life Changes That Forced Us to Rethink Everything & Keep Moving; E93

    Plot twist: the life you planned isn’t the life you’re living — now what? In this raw and empowering episode of Lead Like a Girl, we dive headfirst into unexpected changes, personal growth, resilience, and adaptability — and how life’s detours often become our biggest breakthroughs. From travel mishaps and cultural quirks to career pivots, faith shifts, and identity reinvention, we unpack the messy middle of life transitions. Because let’s be honest — there are “too many rules,” and sometimes you realize… you can’t drink in that state. 😅 Whether you’re navigating a career pivot, redefining success beyond relationships, adjusting to motherhood, or simply trying to make sense of a season that looks nothing like you expected — this conversation will remind you that change isn’t the enemy. Stagnation is. We explore the emotional side of unexpected change, the myth of the master plan, and how journaling, faith, and flexible thinking can help you build true resilience. If you’re a woman in leadership, a working mom, or someone standing in the middle of a life transition — this episode is your permission slip to scrap the plan and start again. Because here’s the truth: Change is going to happen. The question is — will you grow with it? – Why unexpected changes often spark the greatest personal growth – The myth of the “master plan” and redefining success on your terms – How resilience and adaptability build stronger women leaders – The power of journaling for emotional well-being and self-discovery – Why your identity is fluid — and that’s a strength, not a flaw – Coping strategies for life transitions (career, motherhood, relationships, faith) – The importance of asking for help during uncertain seasons – How creativity often emerges through chaos – Hidden strengths you only uncover when plans fall apart – Why courage over comfort is the real leadership move 🔑 In This Episode, We Cover:

    46 min
5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

We are empowering everyday women through our stories – the good, the bad, and the funny. Join hosts Jessica, Jamie, and Coralyn as they dive into unfiltered stories, big lessons, and real conversations. They met in their 20s as ambitious sales pros, quickly rising to the top. Careers shifted, industries changed, and life threw curveballs—but their drive never wavered. Now, they’re sharing the highs, lows, and hilarious moments of balancing career, family, faith, and friendship. If you’re ready to lead, laugh, and level up, you’re in the right place!

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