Podcast
Stand Tall & Own It - Equipping Purpose-Driven Leaders to Show Up with Authenticity and Courage
Hosted by Andrea Johnson · EN
“Just be you,” they say. But for many high-achievers, “just being you” hasn’t always felt safe or practical—whether it’s at work, school, church, or even in leadership circles. For purpose-driven leaders, holding back can limit your impact and undermine your authenticity.
Even in workplaces that claim to value individuality, leading with confidence and conviction still takes courage. To lead with steadiness and clarity, you must first understand your values, embrace your individuality, and recognize that the solutions you need are as unique as you are.
Stand Tall & Own It is for modern leaders who want to lead with purpose, integrity, and courage—without sacrificing who they are. Each episode explores how to navigate challenges, make values-anchored decisions, and cultivate the discernment to think critically in a noisy world.
If you’re ready to explore your Core Values and lead with intention, check out my Core Values Blueprint and Core Values Coaching for practical tools to help you grow.
Subscribe now and start leading from the inside out.
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Before You Set Goals for 2026: Start With What’s Still True
Dec 1600:25:01Tap to summarizeFeedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG IDEABefore you step into a new year or set a single goal, pause long enough to name what’s still true. Identity-level truths don’t flip with the calendar. They anchor your leadership, give you direction, and help you move into 2026 with intention rather than urgency.3 WAYS TO APPLY THISWrite down one truth about who you are right now. Use it as an orientation point, not a performance metric.Identify the Core Value that refused to be negotiated this year and let it guide your next decisions.Notice the thread or direction that keeps resurfacing and allow it to quietly shape your approach to the new year.3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELFWhat truth about yourself kept resurfacing this year?Which Core Value remained non-negotiable, even when circumstances shifted?What thread—however faint—keeps tugging you toward 2026?GO DEEPERCore Values Resources:Blueprint (Free Download): https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/corevaluesexercise Digital Course: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/values Coaching: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/core-values-betaHealthy Boundaries Make Happy Holidays: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/healthyboundaries Missed Live2Lead? You can still experience it online through LeaderPass ($79).Watch the keynotes and leadership lessons anytime through February 2026:https://leaderpass.com/pass/live2lead/host/?ref=RHYBTBBYPREFER YouTube?Catch the full episode → https://youtu.be/cjhNz8eSI00PROUD PARTNERS OF STAND TALL & OWN ITPodMatch: https://joinpodmatch.com/theintentionaloptimistLiz Wilcox Email Marketing Membership: https://lizwilcox.com?aff=andrea LET’S CONNECTInstagram + LinkedIn → @theintentionaloptimistEmail → andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comPodcast Hub → theintentionaloptimist.com/podcastYouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@intentionaloptimist ENJOYING THE SHOW? LEAVE A RATING & REVIEWApple → Scroll down on the podcast page, hit 5-stars, and write a quick review.Podchaser (Android) → podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762
Transcribe →Gratitude Grounds You: Leading from What’s Still True
Nov 2500:20:14Tap to summarizeFeedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG IDEAGratitude isn’t about pretending everything’s fine. It’s the practice of seeing clearly what remains true—of letting awareness, not avoidance, steady your heart. When life feels uncertain, gratitude grounds you in your Core Values and helps you lead from what’s still real, good, and enduring.3 WAYS TO APPLY THISPause before reacting. Name one truth that still holds steady, even in change.Write a note of thanks for a value that showed up this season—in yourself or someone else.Use Intentional Optimism to move your values into action: choose curiosity, courage, and presence over reactivity.3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELFWhat value has anchored me through this season?Where have I seen growth or grace, even in hardship?Who might need to hear a word of thanks from me today?ACTION STEP:Choose one Core Value and one simple way to honor it this week—through gratitude, action, or acknowledgment. Let that be your steady place to lead from what’s still true.GO DEEPERCore Values Resources: Anchor your decisions in clarity, define what matters, and build steady, values-based confidence.Blueprint (Free Download): https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/corevaluesexercise Course: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/values Coaching: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/core-values-betaHealthy Boundaries Make Happy Holidays: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/healthyboundaries 🎁 Black Friday Special: When you purchase the Uncovering Your Core Values Digital Course between Friday, Nov 28-Dec 1, you’ll receive a free one-hour coaching session with me as a bonus. It’s the perfect time to get anchored in your Core Values — and step fully into the work that matters most.Missed Live2Lead? You can still experience it online through LeaderPass ($79).Watch the keynotes and leadership lessons anytime through February 2026:https://leaderpass.com/pass/live2lead/host/?ref=RHYBTBBYPREFER YouTube?Catch the full episode → https://youtu.be/9sznDhNDEpg PROUD PARTNERS OF STAND TALL & OWN IT🎙️ PodMatch — Book interviews and share your message with aligned audiences: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/theintentionaloptimist💌 Liz Wilcox’s Email Marketing Membership — $9/month to stay visible and consistent. Join through my link for a free Healthy Boundaries Make Happy Holidays Masterclass:LET’S CONNECTInstagram + LinkedIn → @theintentionaloptimistEmail → andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comPodcast Hub → theintentionaloptimist.com/podcastYouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@intentionaloptimist ENJOYING THE SHOW? LEAVE A RATING & REVIEWApple → Scroll down on the podcast page, hit 5-stars, and write a quick review.Podchaser (Android) → podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762
Transcribe →Aligned Action: The Quiet Power Behind Real Leadership Change
Nov 1800:19:54Tap to summarizeFeedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG IDEADeeper change comes when your intentions and your actions finally align. Vision without movement is fantasy, and movement without discernment is chaos. Real transformation happens in the steady rhythm of reflection, clarity, and consistent, values-based action.3 WAYS TO APPLY THISTrade Certainty for Clarity. Stop waiting to feel 100% ready. Clarity grows through motion — take one intentional step and let experience refine your direction.Use Your Core Values as a Filter. Before you commit to another project, ask: Is this aligned with what I say matters most? Let your values set the pace.Follow the Recognize–Reflect–Respond Rhythm. Build a practice of pausing, evaluating, and then acting on what truly aligns with your vision.3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELFWhich part of my vision have I been circling but not acting on?What small, meaningful action could move me forward this week?How can my Core Values guide where I invest my next energy and attention?ACTION STEP: Identify one micro-action that matches the magnitude of your vision — something small, clear, and completely doable. Take it this week, then notice how momentum grows when your movement finally matches your mission.GO DEEPERCore Values Resources: Anchor your decisions in clarity, define what matters, and build steady, values-based confidence. Blueprint (Free Download): https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/corevaluesexercise Course: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/values Coaching: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/core-values-beta🎁 Black Friday Special: Purchase the Uncovering Your Core Values Digital Course between Friday, Nov 28-Dec 1, and receive a free one-hour coaching session with me as a bonus. It’s the perfect time to get anchored in your Core Values — and step fully into the work that matters most.Missed Live2Lead? Experience it online through LeaderPass ($79). Watch the keynotes and leadership lessons through February 2026: https://leaderpass.com/pass/live2lead/host/?ref=RHYBTBBYPREFER YouTube?Catch the full episode → https://youtu.be/5hk6dpF_p-E PROUD PARTNERS OF STAND TALL & OWN IT🎙️ PodMatch — Book interviews and share your message https://www.joinpodmatch.com/theintentionaloptimist💌 Liz Wilcox’s Email Marketing Membership — $9/month to stay visible and consistent. Join through my link for a free Masterclass: https://andreaLET’S CONNECTInstagram + LinkedIn → @theintentionaloptimistEmail → andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comPodcast Hub → theintentionaloptimist.com/podcastYouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@intentionaloptimist ENJOYING THE SHOW? LEAVE A RATING & REVIEWApple → Scroll down on the podcast page, hit 5-stars, and write a quick review.Podchaser (Android) → podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762
Transcribe →Pay Attention: How Listening Builds Authentic Leadership
Nov 1100:37:43Tap to summarizeFeedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG IDEABig Idea: Listening is the quiet strength that anchors wise, present leadership.3 WAYS TO APPLY THISPractice the Recognize – Reflect – Respond rhythm before replying in any tense conversation.Choose one relationship or meeting this week where your only goal is to listen.Take one daily 3-minute pause to check what your body or environment is communicating.3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELFWhere have I been reacting more than listening?What might I learn if I get curious instead of certain?How does my presence communicate respect before I say a word?ACTION STEP:Notice one place this week where you’ve been reacting more than listening. Pause before responding—and see what new information emerges.GO DEEPERWhat Is Intentional Optimism? (Free Download): https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/what-is-intentional-optimism Core Values Resources: Anchor your decisions in clarity, define what matters, and build steady, values-based confidence.Blueprint (Free Download): https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/corevaluesexerciseCourse: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/core-values-betaCoaching: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/core-values-betaMissed Live2Lead? You can still experience it online through LeaderPass ($79).Watch the keynotes and leadership lessons anytime through February 2026:https://leaderpass.com/pass/live2lead/host/?ref=RHYBTBBYPREFER YouTube?Catch the full episode → https://youtu.be/zP71gjg1JoM PROUD PARTNERS OF STAND TALL & OWN IT🎙️ PodMatch — Book interviews and share your message with aligned audiences: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/theintentionaloptimist💌 Liz Wilcox’s Email Marketing Membership — $9/month to stay visible and consistent. Join through my link for a free Healthy Boundaries Make Happy Holidays Masterclass: https://andreamjohnson--lizwilcox.thrivecart.com/email-marketing-membership/LET’S CONNECTInstagram + LinkedIn → @theintentionaloptimistEmail → andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comPodcast Hub → theintentionaloptimist.com/podcastYouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@intentionaloptimist ENJOYING THE SHOW? LEAVE A RATING & REVIEWApple → Scroll down on the podcast page, hit 5-stars, and write a quick review.Podchaser (Android) → podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762
Transcribe →Steady Leadership in Unsteady Times: Lead with Integrity and Calm
Nov 400:34:20Tap to summarizeFeedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG IDEAWhen the world feels restless and reactive, the most impactful leaders aren’t the loudest — they’re the steadiest. Steady leadership is calm authority in motion: rooted in values, guided by discernment, and expressed through integrity and compassion. Learn how to cultivate steadiness that restores trust, models courage, and invites others to do the same.3 WAYS TO APPLY THISUse the Recognize – Reflect – Respond rhythm to stay grounded and lead with integrity.Choose one Intentional Optimism tenet — Optimistic, Present, Energetic, Courageous, Wise, or Intentional — to practice this week.Share the “why” behind your steady action to invite others into calm, values-based leadership.3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELFWhere in my work, home, or community does uncertainty keep pulling me off balance?Which Core Value or tenet of Intentional Optimism could guide me through that moment?How can I lead with calm authority — and invite others to steady themselves beside me?GO DEEPERWhat Is Intentional Optimism? (Free Download): https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/what-is-intentional-optimism Core Values Resources: Anchor your decisions in clarity, define what matters, and build steady, values-based confidence.Blueprint (Free Download): https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/corevaluesexerciseCourse: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/core-values-betaCoaching: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/core-values-betaMissed Live2Lead? You can still experience it online through LeaderPass ($79).Watch the keynotes and leadership lessons anytime through February 2026:https://leaderpass.com/pass/live2lead/host/?ref=RHYBTBBYPREFER YouTube?Catch the full episode →https://youtu.be/9V9F52RHoiE PROUD PARTNERS🎙️ PodMatch — Book interviews and share your message with aligned audiences: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/theintentionaloptimist💌 Liz Wilcox’s Email Marketing Membership — $9/month to stay visible and consistent. Join through my link for a free Healthy Boundaries Make Happy Holidays Masterclass: https://andreamjohnson--lizwilcox.thrivecart.com/email-marketing-membership/LET’S CONNECTInstagram + LinkedIn → @theintentionaloptimistEmail → andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comPodcast Hub → theintentionaloptimist.com/podcastYouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@intentionaloptimist ENJOYING THE SHOW? LEAVE A RATING & REVIEWApple → Scroll down on the podcast page, hit 5-stars, and write a quick review.Podchaser (Android) → podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762
Transcribe →The Real Reason You’re Still Playing Small (and How to Stop)
Oct 2800:34:29Tap to summarizeFeedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG IDEAPlaying small doesn’t protect your leadership—it dilutes it. In a world that rewards caution and conformity, it takes courage to lead with authenticity. This episode unpacks why we shrink, how it costs us—and what it looks like to show up whole, steady, and courageous.3 WAYS TO APPLY THISRecognize where fear is holding you back—visibility, relationships, or even your pricing.Reflect on the source of that fear. Is it an Assumption, Belief, or Conditioning (your ABCs)?Respond with one bold action that honors your Core Values, even if it feels “too big.”3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELFWhere have I been shrinking back out of fear of being “too much”?Which of my ABCs are feeding that fear? (See Episode 235 for more on your ABCs.)Who benefits if I stop playing small—and who misses out if I don’t?GO DEEPERCore Values Blueprint (Free Download): https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/values Start anchoring your decisions in clarity and confidence.Uncover Your Core Values Course: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/values Discover and define the values that ground your leadership.Core Values Coaching Program: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/values Work with Andrea to build steady, values-based confidence.Missed Live2Lead? You can still experience it online through LeaderPass ($79). Watch the keynotes and leadership lessons anytime through February 2026: https://leaderpass.com/pass/live2lead/host/?ref=RHYBTBBYPROUD PARTNERS OF STAND TALL & OWN IT🎙️ PodMatch- It’s time to use your voice and share your message, PodMatch is where I recommend starting. It’s how I booked myself on 100 podcasts last year—connecting with the right hosts and audiences who needed to hear it. Check it out here: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/theintentionaloptimist💌 Liz Wilcox’s Email Marketing Membership - This $9/month membership gives you everything you need to build your email list and show up confidently. Join through my link and you’ll get my Healthy Boundaries Make Happy Holidays Masterclass—free—as a bonus. Because the holidays are where leadership, values, and courage all get tested. Sign up here: https://aSkillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.LET’S CONNECTInstagram + LinkedIn → @theintentionaloptimistEmail → andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comPodcast Hub → theintentionaloptimist.com/podcastYouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@intentionaloptimist ENJOYING THE SHOW? LEAVE A RATING & REVIEWApple → Scroll down on the podcast page, hit 5-stars, and write a quick review.Podchaser (Android) → podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762
Transcribe →Lead Out Loud: Your Voice Is Not Too Much
Oct 2100:32:15Tap to summarizeFeedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG IDEASilence costs more than approval. When you edit yourself to keep the peace, you lose influence, joy, and integrity. This episode helps you reclaim your voice and lead with conviction, clarity, and grace—so your presence builds trust instead of tension.3 WAYS TO APPLY THISName the Fear Ask “What am I afraid will happen if I speak up?” Naming it breaks its grip.Anchor in Values Identify which Core Value is at stake. Truth spoken through values lands with integrity.Practice Micro-Bravery Say the thing you’ve been editing out. Small, steady acts rebuild confidence and trust3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELFWhere in your leadership are you still holding back your voice?Which Core Value needs to be honored out loud this week?What is one act of micro-bravery you can take right now?Speak up—even if your voice shakes. You were created with the voice you have to use it right where you are.GO DEEPERCore Values Blueprint (Free Download) → theintentionaloptimist.com/values Start anchoring your decisions in clarity and confidence.Uncover Your Core Values Course → theintentionaloptimist.com/values Discover and define the values that ground your leadership.Core Values Coaching Program → theintentionaloptimist.com/values Work with Andrea to build steady, values-based confidence.Couldn’t attend Live2Lead in person? Watch online through LeaderPass ($79): leaderpass.com/pass/live2lead/host/?ref=RHYBTBBYRESOURCESPodMatch → joinpodmatch.com/theintentionaloptimist Start your own show, fill guest slots, or book me as a guest.Impacted Tees → impactedtees.com Find the “Own Your Story” shirt featured in this episode and other original designs that inspire confidence.LET’S CONNECTInstagram + LinkedIn → @theintentionaloptimistEmail → andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comPodcast Hub → theintentionaloptimist.com/podcastENJOYING THE SHOW? LEAVE A RATING & REVIEW & SHAREIf this encouraged you, share it with a fellow leader ready to resist conformity and lead with courage, conviction, andSkillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.LET’S CONNECTInstagram + LinkedIn → @theintentionaloptimistEmail → andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comPodcast Hub → theintentionaloptimist.com/podcastYouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@intentionaloptimist ENJOYING THE SHOW? LEAVE A RATING & REVIEWApple → Scroll down on the podcast page, hit 5-stars, and write a quick review.Podchaser (Android) → podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762
Transcribe →Boundaries Are Leadership: Lead With Clarity, Not Apology
Oct 1400:20:40Tap to summarizeFeedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG IDEABoundaries are not rejection—they are leadership. Setting and holding clear boundaries protects your energy, builds trust, and models integrity. For purpose-driven women, boundaries are not about being mean or difficult; they are about leading with clarity, courage, and care.3 WAYS TO APPLY THISProtect your energy: Identify one place where overextending is costing you and draw a line.Model healthy leadership: Communicate boundaries clearly so your team feels safe to do the same.Anchor in Core Values: Use your values as the blueprint for when and where to set limits.3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELFWhere in my leadership role am I currently stretched too thin?Which Core Value is being dishonored when I fail to hold a boundary?How can I communicate my boundary with clarity and care, rather than apology?Resources & Next StepsFree Core Values Blueprint: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/corevaluesexerciseCore Values Coaching Program: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/core-values-coaching-beta Live2Lead 2025 — Thrive in ’25 Join Andrea LIVE in Virginia this October to recharge, refocus, and rise. Two events designed for purpose-driven leaders who want conviction, courage, and clarity in their leadership.Charlottesville: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/live2lead-charlottesville-2025Lynchburg: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/live2lead-lynchburg-2025Let’s ConnectInstagram + LinkedIn: @theintentionaloptimistEmail: andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comPodcast Hub: www.theintentionaloptimist.com/podcastEnjoying the Show? Leave a Rating & ReviewApple: scroll down, choose a rating, and write a review.Podchaser (Android): https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762Share This EpisodeIf this encouraged you, share it with a fellow leader who’s ready to resist conformity and lead with courage, conviction, and joy.Prefer to Watch Instead?Catch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nRhWe_hDTOg Listen & Subscribe: www.theintentionaloptimist.com/podcast Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.LET’S CONNECTInstagram + LinkedIn → @theintentionaloptimistEmail → andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comPodcast Hub → theintentionaloptimist.com/podcastYouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@intentionaloptimist ENJOYING THE SHOW? LEAVE A RATING & REVIEWApple → Scroll down on the podcast page, hit 5-stars, and write a quick review.Podchaser (Android) → podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762
Transcribe →Joyful Defiance: Leading With Conviction
Oct 700:16:40Tap to summarizeFeedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG IDEAWhat does resistance really look like in leadership? It’s not rebellion or rage — it’s conviction anchored in joy. In this episode, Andrea Johnson, The Intentional Optimist, explains how joyful defiance helps women leaders resist conformity, lead with authenticity, and protect their humanity in high-pressure environments.3 WAYS TO APPLY THISHold firm to one Core Value this week, even if it costs you comfort or approval.Practice joy as resistance — choose humor, gratitude, or curiosity instead of cynicism.Pair clarity with compassion in your leadership. Conviction + humanity = influence.3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELFWhere in my leadership am I tempted to conform instead of stand in conviction?How could I embody joyful defiance — leading with both steadiness and celebration — in one situation this week?What boundary or value is worth holding firm, even if it costs me comfort or approval?Resources & Next StepsFree Core Values Blueprint: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/corevaluesexerciseCore Values Coaching Program: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/core-values-betaLive2Lead 2025 — Thrive in ’25 Join Andrea LIVE in Virginia this October to recharge, refocus, and rise. Two events designed for purpose-driven leaders who want conviction, courage, and clarity in their leadership.Charlottesville: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/live2lead-charlottesville-2025Lynchburg: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/live2lead-lynchburg-2025Let’s ConnectInstagram + LinkedIn: @theintentionaloptimistEmail: andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comPodcast Hub: www.theintentionaloptimist.com/podcastEnjoying the Show? Leave a Rating & ReviewApple: scroll down, choose a rating, and write a review.Podchaser (Android): https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762Share This EpisodeIf this encouraged you, share it with a fellow leader who’s ready to resist conformity and lead with courage, conviction, and joy.Prefer to Watch Instead?Catch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ik3b27Y2VG8 Listen & Subscribe: www.theintentionaloptimist.com/podcast Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.LET’S CONNECTInstagram + LinkedIn → @theintentionaloptimistEmail → andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comPodcast Hub → theintentionaloptimist.com/podcastYouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@intentionaloptimist ENJOYING THE SHOW? LEAVE A RATING & REVIEWApple → Scroll down on the podcast page, hit 5-stars, and write a quick review.Podchaser (Android) → podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762
Transcribe →Stop Reacting. Start Leading.
Sep 3000:21:48Tap to summarizeFeedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG IDEAKnowing your Core Values is just the beginning. The Recognize–Reflect–Respond rhythm is how you lead with intention instead of instinct—especially when things feel fast, loud, or reactive.3 WAYS TO APPLY THISPause before responding—ask: “What value is at stake here?”Buy time with: “I need a moment to think about how I want to respond.”Check: Am I reacting from urgency—or responding from clarity?3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELFWhere am I most reactive right now?What does that reveal about what matters to me?What would shift if I used this rhythm?ENJOYING THE SHOW? LEAVE A RATING & REVIEWApple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.Podchaser (Android): https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762 RESOURCES & NEXT STEPSEpisodes mentioned: Need a Set of Life Principles? Discover the Power of Intentional OptimismPodcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1282826/15174376YouTube: https://youtu.be/KJCAydSnRKo Get your Free Core Values Blueprint: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/corevaluesexerciseGet your Free What Is Intentional Optimism?: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/what-is-intentional-optimism Invest in Core Values Coaching: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/core-values-beta Join Andrea LIVE at THRIVE in ‘25 Live2Lead!Secure your seat in Charlottesville or Lynchburg, VA—two powerhouse events where purpose-driven leaders come to recharge, refocus, and rise.CHARLOTTESVILLE: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/live2lead-charlottesville-2025 LYNCHBURG: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/live2lead-lynchburg-2025 LET’S CONTINUE THE CONVERSATIONDM Andrea on Instagram or LinkedIn: @theintentionaloptimistLet’s chat: andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comSHARE THIS EPISODEIf this episode helped you reframe your leadership growth, send it to another strategic woman leader who’s ready to refine how she leads.Prefer to watch instead? Catch the full epSkillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.LET’S CONNECTInstagram + LinkedIn → @theintentionaloptimistEmail → andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comPodcast Hub → theintentionaloptimist.com/podcastYouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@intentionaloptimist ENJOYING THE SHOW? LEAVE A RATING & REVIEWApple → Scroll down on the podcast page, hit 5-stars, and write a quick review.Podchaser (Android) → podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762
Transcribe →