Podcast
LEAD LIKE A GIRL
Hosted by Jessica Smith, Coralyn Musser and Jamie Knebel · EN
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!
15episodes
Episodes
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Should Personality Tests Decide Who Gets Hired? Hiring, Leadership & Self-Awareness; E112
4d ago00:38:13Tap to summarizePersonality Tests: Hiring Hack or Huge Mistake?Can a personality test really predict great leadership—or are we giving these assessments too much power? In this candid panel discussion, Jessica, Coralyn, and Jamie unpack the truth behind personality assessments, hiring decisions, leadership development, and self-awareness.From DISC and Myers-Briggs to the Big Five, we share personal experiences, challenge common misconceptions, and discuss why these tools should start conversations—not end them. If you've ever taken a personality test, interviewed for a job that required one, or wondered how to build stronger teams, this episode is for you.The real purpose of personality assessments in hiringWhy personality tests should never be the only hiring decisionThe difference between cultural fit and culture addHow self-awareness creates stronger leadersUsing assessments to improve communication and teamworkThe biggest mistakes organizations make with personality testingWhy diversity of thought builds better businessesPractical interview tips for candidates and hiring managers"Honesty is the best policy in assessments.""Rules can be flexible when it comes to leadership.""Personality tests are a starting point, not the final answer."00:00 – Introduction to Lead Like a Girl Podcast02:44 – Reflections on Past Episodes and Personal Growth05:25 – The Role of Personality Tests in Career Development08:32 – Pros and Cons of Personality Assessments10:49 – Cultural Fit vs. Diversity in Hiring13:42 – Using Assessments for Team Dynamics and Self-Development21:30 – Harnessing Assessments for Career Growth22:49 – The Power of Direct Communication27:03 – Self-Assessment and Personal Growth32:20 – Understanding Personality Insights36:46 – Integrating Assessments in Career DevelopmentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/leadlikeagirllabIf you enjoyed this conversation, don't forget to Like, Subscribe, and Share. New episodes of Lead Like a Girl drop every week with honest conversations about women in leadership, business, personal growth, and navigating the beautifully messy middle of life.#WomenLeadership #Leadership #Hiring #PersonalityTests #DISC #MBTI #SelfAwareness #LeadershipDevelopment #WorkingMoms #WomenInBusiness #CareerGrowth #TeamBuilding #LeadLikeAGirl
Transcribe →Leadership, Loyalty, and Letting Go: The Hidden Cost of Staying Too Long; E111
2w ago00:38:11Tap to summarizeIs your loyalty helping you grow—or quietly holding you back?For many professionals, especially women over 40, career loyalty can feel like a badge of honor. But what happens when staying in the same role starts costing you your confidence, growth, and happiness?In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, Jessica dives into the difficult but empowering questions around career identity, workplace loyalty, and knowing when it's time for your next chapter. If you've ever wondered whether you're staying because you love your work—or because change feels scary—this conversation is for you.Whether you're navigating burnout, considering a career change, or simply reevaluating what success looks like today, this episode offers practical strategies to help you move forward with confidence.Why your job should never become your entire identityHow to recognize the warning signs you've stayed too longThe difference between loyalty and fearWhat today's changing job market means for experienced professionalsHow to build your personal brand before you need itPractical ways to prepare for your next career opportunityWhy leaving isn't starting over—it's starting anew"What is the pain of staying versus leaving?""Your experience is your greatest asset.""Your next chapter could be your best yet."00:00 – Introduction and Setting the Stage01:35 – Identity vs. Job: A Deep Dive04:53 – The Changing Job Market and Its Impact09:10 – Loyalty in the Workplace: A Double-Edged Sword12:08 – Understanding Pain Points: Staying vs. Leaving17:27 – Assessing Your Current Situation21:32 – The Role of Fear and Comfort in Career Decisions26:41 – Signs You've Stayed Too Long29:00 – Reframing Your Identity Beyond Your Job32:42 – Final Thoughts and EncouragementLead Like a Girl Lab: https://leadlikeagirllab.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadlikeagirllabIn This Episode:Memorable QuotesChaptersResources
Transcribe →The 2026 Guide to Winning Friends and Influencing People; E110
3w ago00:47:23Tap to summarizeStop networking. Start connecting.In a world filled with followers, likes, and endless digital noise, genuine relationships have become one of the most valuable leadership skills you can develop. In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, Jamie, Jessica, and Coralyn explore the timeless principles of relationship building and discuss why authentic connection still wins in business, leadership, and life.Inspired by Dale Carnegie's classic book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, the conversation dives into practical ways to make meaningful connections, remember important details, and build relationships that create opportunities, trust, and lasting impact.Whether you're a business owner, working mom, leader, or someone simply looking to strengthen your personal and professional relationships, this episode offers actionable strategies you can start using today.In this episode, we discuss:Why genuine interest in others is the foundation of every strong relationshipLessons from Dale Carnegie that still apply in 2026How small interactions can lead to unexpected opportunitiesThe role social media plays in modern relationship buildingPractical ways to remember names, stories, and personal detailsWhy kindness remains one of the most powerful leadership toolsThe difference between networking and authentic connectionHow relationship-building strategies evolve through different seasons of lifeReal-life examples of meaningful connections that made a lasting impactWhy face-to-face conversations still matter in a digital worldMemorable Quotes:"You catch more flies with honey than vinegar.""It takes character and self-control to be understanding.""The best relationships are built through genuine curiosity and connection."If you've ever wondered how to build stronger relationships, create meaningful professional connections, or become more influential without being transactional, this episode is for you.Resources Mentioned:Dale Carnegie's How to Win Friends and Influence PeopleLinkedInSocial Media and Networking Best PracticesRelationship Building Strategies for LeadersConnect with the Hosts:Jamie on TwitterJessica on TwitterCoralyn on InstagramEnjoying Lead Like a Girl?Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman in your life who inspires connection, leads with heart, and believes relationships are the foundation of success.Keywords: women leadership, relationship building, networking, authentic connections, communication skills, influence, leadership development, social skills, personal growth, women in business, working moms, professional networking, meaningful relationships
Transcribe →Are You Quitting in the Boring Middle? Why Commitment Matters More Than Motivation; E109
4w ago00:38:38Tap to summarizeMotivation got you started… but commitment is what gets you across the finish line.In this episode of Lead Like a Girl, we dive into the often-overlooked phase of personal growth and success: the boring middle. It’s the part no one talks about—the weeks, months, and sometimes years between setting a goal and seeing the results.We share real-life stories about staying committed when motivation fades, why discipline matters more than inspiration, and how accountability can help you push through setbacks. Whether you're building a business, pursuing a fitness goal, advancing your career, or simply trying to keep promises to yourself, this conversation will help you stay focused when the excitement wears off.Why the “boring middle” is where most people quitHow commitment differs from motivationThe role accountability plays in long-term successPractical ways to build discipline into your daily routineHow to plan for obstacles before they happenWhy small wins create massive momentum over timeThe importance of saying no to protect your goalsStrategies for staying engaged when progress feels slow“Plan for what can go wrong.”“Start small, celebrate wins.”“Plan your routine to avoid boredom.”00:00 – Introduction and Personal Reflections03:25 – Post-Wedding Life and Commitments06:14 – The Challenge of Commitment09:03 – Understanding Accountability and Discipline11:44 – The Boring Middle of Commitment14:41 – Fear and Its Impact on Commitment18:40 – Commitment and Accountability21:51 – Setting Realistic Goals28:00 – Navigating the Boring Middle33:33 – The Importance of Saying Nowomen leadership, empowerment, goal setting, discipline, accountability, motivation, habits, consistency, personal development, self-improvement, working moms, leadership growth, success mindsetIf you've ever felt stuck between starting and succeeding, this episode is your reminder that progress isn't always exciting—but it is worth it.Subscribe, share with a friend, and join us as we learn to Lead Like a Girl—fiercely, fearlessly, and full of heart.
Transcribe →50 and Fabulous: Getting Married Again—Here's the Truth; E108
Jun 1000:40:03Tap to summarizeWho says the best chapters of life happen before 40?In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Lead Like a Girl, Jamie shares her personal journey of finding love, embracing vulnerability, and preparing to get married at 50. From navigating heartbreak and learning from past relationships to discovering the power of healing, self-awareness, and courage, this conversation is a reminder that life doesn't come with an expiration date on happiness.We dive into the realities of second chances, wedding planning stress, blended families, and the lessons that only come with experience. Whether you're rebuilding after disappointment, chasing a new dream, or wondering if it's too late to start over, this episode will encourage you to trust your journey and embrace what's next.Because sometimes the most beautiful love stories begin when you least expect them.Why courage is required to pursue happiness at every ageThe lessons Jamie learned from past relationships and engagementsHow healing and self-awareness create healthier relationshipsRed flags, relationship wisdom, and trusting your instinctsWedding planning expectations versus realityManaging stress and staying focused on what truly mattersNavigating blended families and communication challengesLetting go of other people's opinions and living authenticallyWhy it's never too late for love, growth, or new beginnings"Pay attention to red flags.""Healing is a work in progress.""It's never too late for love."00:00 – Introduction and Guest Credibility01:02 – Courage, Happiness, and Second Chances02:00 – Wedding Excitement and Personal Growth03:03 – Red Flags and Relationship Warning Labels05:09 – Refusing to Stress Over Wedding Details10:55 – Jamie's Love Journey and Past Engagements12:40 – Meeting the Right Person at 5014:17 – Self-Discovery, Healing, and Growth19:21 – Letting Go of Others' Opinions21:04 – How Past Relationships Shape Us22:57 – Healing Timelines and Moving Forward26:02 – Wedding Planning Stress and Resilience27:31 – Funny Wedding Disagreements and Unexpected Costs30:10 – Wedding Day Nerves and Excitement31:48 – Celebrating Love and New Beginnings34:01 – Jamie's Mother's Inspiring Wedding Story36:12 – Communication and Blended Family Lessons37:43 – Final Encouragement and Closing ThoughtsSubscribe to Lead Like a Girl for weekly conversations about women leadership, empowerment, personal growth, working moms, entrepreneurship, and the real stories behind success.Watch more episodes on Lead Like a Girl Lab:https://www.youtube.com/@LeadLikeaGirlLabwomen leadership, empowerment, second chances, marriage at 50, love after 50, personal growth, healing journey, relationship advice, life lessons, authentic living, happiness, self-awareness, women supporting women, blended families, real storiesIn This Episode We Discuss:Memorable QuotesChaptersConnect With UsKeywords
Transcribe →The Comparison Spiral: Why Your Real Life Will Never Win Against a Highlight Reel; E107
Jun 300:44:22Tap to summarizeWe all do it. We all hate that we do it. And yet — here we are, still comparing ourselves to literally everyone.In this episode, Coralyn, Jamie, and Jessica are getting into the comparison spiral — why your brain is wired for it, why social media pours gasoline on the whole thing, and why you're always measuring your behind-the-scenes against everyone else's highlight reel.They're getting honest about negative self-talk, the environments that keep you stuck, and the one mindset shift that might actually break the cycle.Spoiler: it starts with cheering for other women instead of quietly resenting them. Yes, really.If you've ever opened your phone and immediately felt behind — this one's for you.What they cover:The biology of comparisonWhy social media is designed to make you feel behindHow negative self-talk fuels the spiralGratitude and self-awareness as actual toolsHow to build a circle that lifts you upIf this hit home, share it with a woman who needs to hear it.Find us:Website: leadlikeagirllab.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/leadlikeagirllab
Transcribe →Your Purpose Is Bigger Than Your Job Title: Finding Your Why; E106
May 2700:35:01Tap to summarizeAre you building a life with purpose… or just staying busy checking boxes?In this powerful and honest conversation, Jessica, Jamie, and Coralyn dive into one of life’s biggest questions: Why am I here? From discovering your unique gifts to understanding how serving others can unlock meaning, this episode explores what it looks like to live intentionally instead of running on autopilot.If you've ever found yourself thinking “There has to be more than this,” this conversation is for you.Through personal stories, practical takeaways, and real-life reflections, we unpack how purpose often isn't found in giant life moments — it's revealed through everyday interactions, courageous steps, and serving one person at a time.– Why discovering your "why" matters more than chasing achievement– How everyday interactions reveal your unique gifts and strengths– The connection between purpose, service, and fulfillment– What distractions are stealing your attention and focus– Practical steps for self-discovery and intentional living– How women in leadership and working moms can create impact through ordinary moments– Ways to stop surviving and start living with greater meaning"Are we just busy living?""There has to be more than this.""Serve one person at a time."00:00 – Discovering Your Why03:16 – Unpacking Personal Gifts and Purpose11:59 – The Importance of Serving Others20:09 – Finding Meaning in Everyday Life25:07 – Practical Steps to Make a Difference– Lead Like A Girl Website– StrengthsFinder by Gallup– Giant Worldwide Core Beliefs Assessment– Jessica on LinkedIn– Jamie on Twitter– Coralyn on InstagramIn this episode, we cover:Quotable MomentsChaptersResources MentionedConnect with the Hosts
Transcribe →Am I Too Old for This? Confidence, Growth & Reinvention at Any Age; E105
May 2000:39:36Tap to summarizeWho decided life has an expiration date on dreams, reinvention, or joy?In this heartfelt and hilariously honest episode of Lead Like a Girl, Jamie, Jessica, and Coralyn dive into the pressure women feel around aging, timelines, and “having it all figured out.” From career pivots and relationships to confidence, fashion, and personal growth — this conversation is your reminder that life doesn’t stop at a certain age… it actually gets better when you stop asking for permission.If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking “Am I too old for this?” — this episode is for you.Together, the hosts unpack societal expectations around women and aging, the emotional weight of missed milestones, and the freedom that comes from embracing your journey exactly as it is. Through laughter, vulnerability, and real-life stories, they explore how confidence and self-acceptance evolve over time — and why celebrating your wins matters no matter when they happen.Why women feel pressured by society’s timelinesThe truth about aging and self-confidenceNavigating career pivots later in lifeRelationships, dating, and finding love againFashion, identity, and owning your personal styleEmotional growth and celebrating unexpected milestonesHow friendship and community help us embrace changeWhy it’s never too late to reinvent yourself“Every day is priceless, make the most of it.”“You’re never too old for anything.”“Celebrate your wins, no matter the timing.”Aging, women leadership, self-acceptance, confidence, life transitions, empowerment, personal growth, working moms, friendship, motivation, career pivots, embracing change, real stories🎧 Lead Like a Girl is the unapologetically real podcast empowering women through honest conversations about leadership, growth, motherhood, ambition, and the messy middle of life. Subscribe and join the movement to lead boldly, fearlessly, and fully yourself.
Transcribe →Do Hard Things: The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything; E104
May 1300:36:14Tap to summarizeComfort is quietly limiting your growth.In this powerful and honest episode of Lead Like a Girl, Jessica, Jamie, and Coralyn dive deep into why doing hard things is the key to confidence, resilience, leadership, and personal growth.From starting over and facing fear to embracing discomfort and learning through adversity, this conversation is packed with real stories, practical mindset shifts, and empowering reminders that growth rarely happens inside your comfort zone.If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or afraid to take the next step — this episode will challenge and encourage you to move anyway.✨ Because small brave wins lead to life-changing transformation.Why hard things build confidence and characterThe connection between discomfort and growthReal stories of overcoming fear and adversityHow resilience is built one small win at a timePractical ways to expand your capacity and mindsetWhy women leadership often requires courage before confidence“Comfort is quietly limiting us from growth.”“Embrace the hardness, it makes you stronger.”“Small brave wins lead to big transformations.”00:00 Introduction and Setup01:02 The Importance of Hard Things01:32 Personal Experiences with Hardships04:27 Lessons from Hardships07:26 The Role of Support in Overcoming Challenges10:22 Conclusion and Reflections12:58 Embracing Achievements and Pride13:45 The Courage to Start Over14:02 Comfort vs. Growth16:57 Creating Change Through Small Actions19:35 Building Confidence Through Hardship22:11 The Power of Small Brave Wins24:27 Facing the Unknown with Courage27:42 The Instinct to Act in Crisis32:07 Takeaways: Embracing HardshipsToastmasters InternationalGrit by Angela DuckworthInstagram – CoralynTwitter – JessicaLinkedIn – Jamie#womenleadership #personalgrowth #confidence #resilience #empowerment #workingmoms #leadershippodcast #growthmindset #womeninbusiness #hardthings #selfdevelopment #motivationIn This Episode:Sound Bites:Chapters:Resources Mentioned:Connect With Us:
Transcribe →How to Overcome Fear & Keep Climbing | Jennifer Harkness; E103
May 600:47:26Tap to summarizeCould you keep climbing when everything in your body tells you to quit?Jennifer Harkness joins Lead Like a Girl to share her unforgettable experience attempting to summit Mount Kilimanjaro — and the life-changing lessons she learned along the way.From intense physical preparation to unexpected panic attacks at high altitude, Jennifer gets real about the mental toughness required to face fear, push through discomfort, and redefine success.This episode is for every woman navigating big goals, self-doubt, leadership challenges, motherhood, business ownership, or simply trying to survive life’s hard seasons with courage intact.Whether you’re climbing literal mountains or personal ones, this conversation is packed with inspiration, resilience, and practical wisdom.Women leadership and resilienceMental toughness and perseveranceOvercoming fear and self-doubtAdventure travel and personal growthGoal setting and mindsetWorking through setbacksBuilding confidence through challengeLiving a purpose-driven life00:00 — Introduction and Banter02:29 — Preparing for Goals: Successes and Failures07:24 — The Journey to Climbing Kilimanjaro11:05 — Training and Mental Preparation16:43 — The Climb Begins: Overcoming Challenges22:05 — Facing Fears and Finding Strength27:51 — The Final Push to the Summit29:40 — Mental Struggles: Pressure and Self-Doubt on the Climb31:43 — Turning Back: The Decision to Descend32:46 — Reflections on Failure: Learning from the Experience33:54 — The Call to Adventure: Planning for Another Attempt35:44 — Embracing the Journey: Finding Pride in the Experience39:26 — Life Lessons from the Mountain: Overcoming Challenges42:58 — The Importance of Community: Support on the JourneyJennifer Harkness on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferharknessMount Kilimanjaro: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_KilimanjaroWomen High on Adventure: https://womenhighonadventure.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferharknessTopics CoveredChaptersResources & LinksConnect with Jennifer
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