Growing Through It

Think hospitality leadership is just about customer service? Think again. In this episode, HR leader Junid Sanchez reveals why hospitality is like boot camp for leadership skills - and what every middle manager can learn from an industry that forces you to think fast, connect authentically, and lead when everything keeps moving. In this episode, you'll discover why "marinating" on decisions beats rushing to judgment, how one piece of direct feedback transformed Junid's leadership approach, and why sometimes missing out on a promotion is exactly what your career needs.  Plus, hear the ice cream cart story that perfectly captures what happens when leaders have autonomy to show employee appreciation. Whether you're in hospitality or any other industry, Junid's insights will help you build the kind of leadership presence that makes people actually want to work for you. Follow The Made Leader for more leadership insights and strategies. For links mentioned, visit www.growthsignals.co Join The Made Leader Community by May 30th at https://bit.ly/MadeLeaderCommunity  

Are you and your team ready for AI, or are you still hoping it's just another business fad that will fade away? While executives debate high-level AI strategies, middle managers are caught in the trenches, needing practical approaches that balance real-world implementation with their team's day-to-day responsibilities. In this episode, AI-HR strategist Theresa Fesinstine cuts through the noise with practical advice on leading teams through the AI revolution. You'll discover how to move beyond just polishing emails, have tough conversations about automation, and implement AI tools your team will actually use. No technical jargon or unrealistic strategies—just straightforward guidance on balancing people and technology in your leadership approach. Whether you're AI-curious or AI-anxious, you'll walk away with action steps you can start tomorrow. Follow The Made Leader for more leadership insights and strategies. For links mentioned, visit www.growthsignals.co  Join The Made Leader Community by May 30th at https://bit.ly/MadeLeaderCommunity  

Are your employees just collecting paychecks, or are they giving you their best work? In this episode, authors Tamara Myles and Wes Adams reveal the science behind meaningful work through their powerful "Three C's" framework: Community, Contribution, and Challenge.  You'll discover why purpose alone isn't enough, how one simple thank-you per week can cut employee burnout in half, and practical strategies any middle manager can implement—even without organizational support.  Whether you're leading a team of two or twenty, the strategies in this episode will help you create an environment where employees bring their best selves to work. By focusing on community, contribution, and challenge, you'll not only boost performance metrics but transform your leadership impact. Follow The Made Leader for more leadership insights and strategies. For links mentioned, visit www.growthsignals.co 

Frustrated by endless status updates and feeling stuck in the details? Project management expert Paul Koetke reveals practical strategies for middle managers drowning in deliverables.  With the right project management approach, you can transform chaos into clarity and make better decisions with less effort. Paul's down-to-earth strategies will help you master practical project management techniques to streamline your workload, boost team communication, and transform your leadership approach. Learn how to create systems that actually reduce your workload, transform boring update meetings into action sessions, and communicate effectively up and down the organization. Stop wasting time collecting data nobody uses and start leading instead of just managing. Links Mentioned: Website: koetkeconsulting.com Connect with Paul on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulkoetke/ The Made Leader Community: https://growthsignals.co/leadership-training/

The conversation every manager dreads: "I want to move into leadership." How do you know if they truly understand what they're asking for? After all, the skills that make someone excel at their job are often completely different from what makes them effective at leading others. In this coaching episode, host, Jen Arnold is joined by leadership coach Julie Binter,  Founder of Clear The Way Coaching & Consulting, to break down why identifying leadership potential goes far deeper than performance metrics, and how to know whether someone is truly ready to lead. Learn the subtle signs of leadership potential, the red flags to watch for, and why someone's motivation for wanting to lead reveals more than any performance review. Whether you're considering promoting someone or already have, this conversation delivers practical insights on identifying who's truly ready for the challenge.  In your first 3 years of management? Join The Made Leader Community for continuous support for 3 months. Learn more here: https://growthsignals.co/leadership-training/ Connect with Julie –  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliebinter/ Website: https://www.clearthewaycoach.com/ Connect with Jen-  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/  Website: https://growthsignals.co/

Is showing empathy a leadership weakness? Podcast guest, Chrystal Morris Harry shatters this myth by revealing how the most effective leaders balance compassion with accountability. Drawing from her 20+ years of HR expertise and current role as Organizational Development Manager at the City of Las Vegas, Chrystal shares practical wisdom that middle managers can implement immediately.  You'll discover how authenticity creates psychological safety, why admitting mistakes strengthens your leadership, and strategies for encouraging reluctant team members to grow. Chrystal's refreshing candor about her own leadership journey—from hourly employee to award-winning manager—offers a roadmap for anyone looking to lead with both heart and effectiveness.  If you're tired of leadership advice that feels disconnected from real-world challenges, Chrystal's down-to-earth wisdom and willingness to share her own missteps offer the perfect antidote. Her practical insights will help you unlock your team's potential while staying true to yourself. Connect with Chrystal –  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrystal-morris-harry-mba-sphr-jctc-jcdc-63350a13/ Business LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jbm-strategic-partners/ Connect with Jen-  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/  Website: https://growthsignals.co/ The Made Leader Community is kicking off in June to help transform early managers into confident leaders: https://growthsignals.co/leadership-training/

Ever feel like your leadership failures are holding you back? Think again. In this episode, Anne Turchi reveals how the best leaders don't avoid mistakes—they transform them into growth opportunities.  Anne Turchi, Director of Organizational Effectiveness and Transformation at Columbia Sportswear, shares her leadership journey from managing a tennis camp to leading a team of internal consultants in a large corporation. With over 20 years of experience driving organizational change across for-profit, higher education, and non-profit institutions, Anne brings a wealth of insights about creating cultures where growth and learning thrive. In this episode, Anne reveals how her biggest leadership lessons came from everyday challenges and failures. She explores the critical importance of having safe spaces to process mistakes and reflects on how her approach to leadership has evolved over time. Discover practical strategies to create environments where both you and your team can fail forward, learn continuously, and develop stronger leadership skills through honest reflection. Stop dreading missteps and start leveraging them for your leadership journey. Connect with Anne on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/anneturchi/

That feeling when someone calls your workplace a "family"? It doesn't feel right for a reason. Real workplace community is something entirely different—and much more valuable for your team's success. In this episode, community expert DeMario Bell reveals what actually creates belonging at work (hint: it's not happy hours or pizza parties). Learn the trust equation that builds genuine connections, simple ways to foster psychological safety on your team, and why those little moments in one-on-ones matter more than grand team-building events. Whether you're leading a small team or an entire department, this conversation offers practical steps to build workplace communities that support both personal growth and business results—no forced "family" dynamics required. Connect with DeMario –  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/demario-bell-7a510994/ Website: https://www.gatherfulconsulting.com/ Connect with Jen-  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/  Website: https://growthsignals.co/  

Ever find yourself frustrated that your team just isn't "getting it"? You're not alone.  In this coaching episode, Jen and Julie tackle the invisible barrier that keeps teams underperforming - unclear expectations. Discover why stating something once isn't enough, how to define behaviors that actually get results, and when to stand firm on your non-negotiables. Jen and Julie share real-world examples of leadership struggles, practical tips for communicating standards without being rigid, and strategies for building a team culture that extends beyond your meetings.  Whether you're leading seasoned pros or new hires, this conversation delivers bite-sized actions to transform how your team shows up—starting tomorrow morning. Connect with Julie –  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliebinter/ Website: https://www.clearthewaycoach.com/ Connect with Jen-  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/  Website: https://growthsignals.co/  

The future of work demands both technical expertise and human-centered skills that appeal to the five generations in today's workforce. Podcast guest, Michelle Westfort, Chief Product Officer at InStride, reveals how the smartest organizations are weaving education into their cultural fabric rather than offering it as just another benefit.  In this episode, Michelle busts the myth that older workers resist learning, sharing what skills they're actively pursuing and how middle managers can prioritize development regardless of age.  She offers a way for middle managers to prioritize continuous learning among their team, regardless of generation, and shares how a reverse mentorship programs was a hit with one of their clients. The business impact is clear: when managers prioritize development, people feel valued, teams perform better, and companies retain their institutional knowledge. Listen in for simple strategies any middle manager can implement tomorrow to start building a team that's continuously learning. Follow The Made Leader for more leadership insights and strategies. Connect with Michelle –  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-westfort/ Website: https://www.instride.com/ Connect with Jen-  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/  Website: https://growthsignals.co/  

Your boss returns from a conference with the "next big thing." A team member pitches an exciting idea when you're already swamped. Sound familiar?  In this episode, Dr. Rob Lion reveals why so many leadership ideas crash and burn—and how to know which ones are worth your time. Rob unpacks why context must come before content in any successful implementation, and offers practical strategies for middle managers caught in the leadership sandwich. You'll learn the "Five I" framework that transforms how you introduce new initiatives to your team, and discover the two questions that instantly cut through the noise when your boss drops their latest bright idea on your desk.  Stop wasting time on initiatives that won't stick and start creating the buy-in that drives real results. Connect with Rob –  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlion/ Website: Black River Performance Management Connect with Jen-  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/  Website: https://growthsignals.co/  

Ever wondered how bad leadership experiences transform someone into an exceptional leader? Listen in as tech industry powerhouse Lexi B shares her journey from being powerless to becoming the protective leader she never had.  Discover why she believes leadership requires militant service and protection, how she builds genuine connections in remote environments, and why she values "home training" above technical skills.  Lexi reveals the career advice that took her years to appreciate: "titles make short-term money, but knowledge makes long-term money." Whether you're managing a team or aspiring to lead, this conversation offers practical wisdom on creating safe spaces where people can be honest about their needs, navigating tech workplaces with emotional intelligence, and why the best leaders don't need to be the smartest people in the room. Connect with Lexi –  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexib/ Website: https://www.lexib.com/ Connect with Jen-  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/  Website: https://growthsignals.co/ Want to lead better meetings? Take our 2-minute assessment & get your free toolkit at https://bit.ly/TeamMeetingCheck

"What do I do if I'm not doing the work anymore?"  Join Jen and leadership coach Julie Binter as they tackle the identity crisis every new manager faces – moving from player to coach. Discover how to shift from star player to coach while still finding meaning in your role. Learn practical strategies for taking the 30,000-foot view of your team's purpose, coaching rather than solving problems, and creating systems that work without you (so you can actually take vacation!). Whether you're feeling lost in your new leadership position or struggling to let go of the hands-on work you excelled at, this conversation offers the roadmap you've been looking for to become the leader your team needs. Connect with Julie –  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliebinter/ Website: https://www.clearthewaycoach.com/ Connect with Jen-  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/  Website: https://growthsignals.co/  

As a middle manager, handling workplace conflict might be your biggest daily challenge. But what if the secret isn't about finding one approach to conflict, but adapting to different conflict styles? Dr. John Eliot, who's advised NASA and Fortune 500 companies, reveals why some of your team members clash despite their best intentions—and what you can actually do about it.  Learn how to spot the five conflict styles, when to step in (and when not to), and how to adapt your approach whether you're dealing with your direct reports or senior leadership. Get practical tools for turning workplace tension into productive relationships, including a game-changing technique for handling emotional emails. What if the key to team harmony isn't avoiding conflict but instead understanding how to navigate it effectively? Connect with Guest –  Book: How to Get Along with Anyone Website: theconflictdocs.com Connect with Jen-  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/  Website: https://growthsignals.co/

Feel like your every move is under a microscope? You're not imagining it.  Leadership comes with a spotlight, and executive coach Sabina Nawaz reveals how to handle it effectively.  Drawing from 12,000 pages of real feedback about bosses, Sabina shares the hidden power traps that can derail even the best leaders. You'll learn why trying to be "just one of the team" might be your biggest mistake, how to use the "delegation dial" for better results, and what to do when your team starts treating you differently.  Whether you're struggling with team dynamics or wanting to level up your leadership game, this episode gives you practical tools to step confidently into your power – without losing yourself in the process. Follow The Made Leader for more leadership insights and strategies. Connect with Sabina –  Website: https://sabinanawaz.com/ Connect with Jen-  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/  Website: https://growthsignals.co/  

Looking to boost team engagement but tired of the same old recognition tactics? Discover why status - not titles or corner offices - might be your most powerful motivational tool.  Behavioral Scientist Jordan Birnbaum reveals how status is really about belonging and future value, not hierarchy. Learn practical ways to position your team members for success, including the simple yet powerful phrase that transforms ordinary recognition into status-building moments.  Plus, explore an innovative solution for overwhelmed middle managers that could help organizations rethink leadership roles.  Whether you're struggling with team motivation or simply want to enhance your leadership toolkit, this episode offers fresh insights and tomorrow-ready action items to help you create lasting engagement through the often misunderstood power of status. Follow The Made Leader for more leadership insights and strategies. Learn more about Jordan –  The Glinda Group: www.glindagroup.com Psychology Today articles: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/the-uncertainty-principal Connect with Jen -  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/  Website: https://growthsignals.co/  

Feel pressured to talk more in meetings to advance your career?  In this monthly coaching episode, Jen and guest coach, Julie Binter, tackle a common leadership challenge: how to maintain presence in meetings when you're naturally more reserved. We explore the case of a successful senior manager who's concerned that her thoughtful, processing style might be limiting her leadership presence compared to more vocal colleagues. This episode offers valuable strategies for leaders wrestling with similar challenges in their organizations. Whether you're questioning your meeting presence or looking to advance, this episode provides practical strategies for making meaningful contributions. Follow The Made Leader for more leadership insights and strategies. Connect with Julie –  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliebinter/ Website: https://www.clearthewaycoach.com/ Connect with Jen-  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/  Website: https://growthsignals.co/

Think disagreement is bad for business?  Think again. Inclusion expert Justin Gomez reveals how constructive dissension can be your secret weapon for innovation and better decision-making.  Learn practical ways to encourage healthy disagreement, create psychological safety, and get the honest feedback your team needs to succeed.  Stop waiting for anonymous surveys – start building a culture where different perspectives drive results. Follow The Made Leader for more leadership insights and strategies. Connect with Justin –  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justintgomez/  Website: KolchaCollaborative.com Connect with Jen -  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/  Website: https://growthsignals.co/

Ever wonder what it really takes to break into the C-suite? Join Nicole Fallowfield, Chief People Officer at Gibson, as she shares her honest journey from Director to executive leader.  Discover why being right all the time might actually be holding you back, how to build genuine influence with peers, and what happens when you finally stop trying to have all the answers. Perfect for leaders ready to level up their impact while staying true to themselves.  Plus, find out why Nicole's promotion sparked an unexpected reaction from female employees that even surprised her. Follow The Made Leader for more leadership insights and strategies. Connect with Nicole –  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolefallowfield/ Website: https://www.thegibsonedge.com/ Connect with Jen -  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/  Website: https://growthsignals.co/

New research reveals managers are facing unprecedented levels of stress and burnout. MeQ co-founder Jan Bruce joins us to unpack data about manager wellbeing and shares practical strategies for building resilience in leadership roles. Discover why supporting your managers might be the most important investment your organization isn't making. Follow The Made Leader for more leadership insights and strategies. For the links mentioned, visit: https://growthsignals.co/  

Hey there! Big news – it's time to preview an exciting change. Growing Through It is becoming The Made Leader podcast.  Why the change? Because here's the thing: great leaders aren't born; they're made. Here's a surprising stat: only 1 in 10 people naturally have what it takes to be an exceptional manager. It turns out that leadership is a skill like any other. You can develop into a good leader with effort and practice. So, if you're in a leadership position and feel like you're swimming upstream - you're not alone. Here's what to expect from weekly episodes of The Made Leader: Expert Deep Dives: Twice a month, there will be interview leadership experts, authors, and researchers who break down crucial leadership skills and challenges - from difficult conversations to building high-performing teams. We'll go beyond the surface to give you actionable insights you can use right away. Real Stories from the Trenches: Ever wonder how other managers figure this stuff out? We'll talk with leaders who are willing to share their path to leadership, along with their successes and challenges along the way. Monthly "Ask Us Anything": Got a leadership challenge keeping you up at night? We'll tackle your real-world management questions. Think of it as no-nonsense guidance for your real leadership challenges. If you're a middle manager looking to level up your leadership game, this show is for you. The first episode drops on January 15th right here. Make sure you hit that follow button to get notified of new episodes!  

In this episode, host Jen Arnold shares what she learned from season 2 of the podcast. She explains why her vision didn't match reality. Jen describes the broad range of topics in this season and what she's doing now that this podcast season is coming to an end. Listen in to see what's next for the Growing Through It podcast.

Attracting top talent is just the first step for organizations. What truly sets successful organizations apart is how they nurture their new hires during those pivotal first days on the job. Building a strong relationship with new hires from the outset increases their engagement and also sets them up for long-term success.  Yet, with the demands of day-to-day responsibilities, leaders may find it challenging to provide the attention new hires need. So, how can leaders help new employees feel productive by the end of week one? Today's guest, Carolyn Sorgenfrei, shares her expert advice on how to get new hires up and running. Carolyn Sorgenfrei is an accomplished employee experience professional with over a decade of experience in driving culture and engagement across various industries. With a proven track record in developing and implementing impactful employee programs, she has successfully led initiatives that enhance workplace culture, boost employee engagement, and foster a sense of belonging. In this episode, Carolyn shares why positive employee onboarding matters, not only for the new hire but for the organization. She recounts a terrible onboarding experience when she ignored blatant red flags and compares that experience with one that fostered clarity, connection, and a sense of belonging. Carolyn describes what a good onboarding process looks like and how leaders can set their new hires up for success. She explains when leaders should check in with new hires and how to leverage their existing team to help. Carolyn leaves us with the one thing that matters most when leaders onboard new hires.  Listen in for insights on transforming your onboarding experience and nurturing lasting relationships with your team! For full show notes, visit https://growthsignals.co/ Connect with Carolyn on LinkedIn Connect with Jen on LinkedIn

Performance reviews—dreaded by many, effective for few. According to Gallup, only 2% of CHROs from Fortune 500 companies strongly believe that their performance management systems inspire employees to improve. Even more concerning, just 20% of employees feel that their reviews are transparent, fair, or motivational. Despite these discouraging statistics, the annual performance review persists in many organizations. Fortunately, there are forward-thinking exceptions—like today's guest, Robert Neiuber. Robert Neiuber, Senior Human Resources Director for the City of Rancho Cucamonga, has been with the City for a decade. He led a progressive shift from traditional performance reviews to a dynamic performance development approach during his tenure. This new system prioritizes future growth over past performance, equipping employees with the tools they need for managing their careers. In this episode, Robert details the City's journey to eliminate performance reviews. He shares the motivations behind the change, the implementation process, and how they successfully rolled out the initiative, including navigating union considerations. Robert also dives into the specifics of their current performance development system, known as MAPs, and discusses their ongoing plans for improvement. As organizations continue to grapple with the limitations of traditional performance reviews, Robert's insights offer a powerful blueprint for those ready to make the shift. Tune in to learn how you can start moving towards a more dynamic and growth-focused approach to performance management in your own organization. For full show notes, visit https://growthsignals.co/ Connect with Robert on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertneiuber/

Ever want to put your head down, work hard, and advance at work? Unfortunately, hard work isn't enough to get you ahead in most organizations. Navigating the unspoken rules of the workplace is crucial for career success, especially for those from nondominant identities who face additional challenges. If you want to succeed in the business world without sacrificing your authenticity, this episode is for you! Podcast guest and author of Unspoken, Dr. Ella F. Washington, shares why these hidden dynamics exist, how they can impact your professional journey, and how to navigate the unspoken. In this episode, Ella explains the concept of code switching, and how to use it in a way that's strategic and not soul-crushing. She underscores the value of “reading the room” and observing social dynamics before asserting your competence. Ella defines personal standards of excellence and why they're critical to career success. She highlights the necessity of networking and showcasing unique skills and contributions.  We discuss Ella's love of negotiation and how it doesn't need to stop once you've been hired. Finally, she shares why we need to speak the unspoken, giving voice to uncomfortable conversations that can make the workplace a better place. Join us as we dive into strategies for excelling in spaces where what's left unsaid often holds the most power.  Connect with Jen on LinkedIn Connect with Ella on LinkedIn

When it comes to employee wellbeing, many organizations treat it as a program to add or an exercise class to offer. However, with research pointing to leadership as a key factor in employee wellbeing, isn't it time we've taken a closer look? In this episode, we welcome Bridgette McCullough, a wellbeing practitioner turned Leadership Development Advisor at OhioHealth Leadership Academy. Bridgette's unique role involves creating solutions that foster a culture of well-being through leader support and development. Bridgette spent the last decade advising employers on how to redesign work for well-being by creating environments and experiences where employees can thrive. In this episode, Bridgette shares her career journey from public health to workplace leadership. We delve into the crucial link between wellbeing and leadership and explore why many organizations fail to connect the two. Bridgette sheds light on OhioHealth's balanced scorecard approach, which incorporates cultural metrics for evaluating leadership performance. We also discuss the various leadership opportunities available at OhioHealth, including training sessions, spot coaching, and an emerging leader program. Bridgette shares what excites her most about her work and leaves us with a practical tip to enhance our own leadership practices. If you're a leader aiming to make a meaningful impact on your team's wellbeing, this episode is for you. Join us as we explore how to create workplaces that not only enhance employee well-being but also drive organizational success. For full show notes, visit https://growthsignals.co/ Connect with Bridgette on LinkedIn

In a world constantly evolving, our ability to adapt to change often defines our personal and professional growth. But when change is happening to us and not for us, how can we prepare both ourselves and others for transitions?  Podcast guest, Kamaria Scott, has been on both sides of change and is here to help us reframe change from a threat into an opportunity for growth. Kamaria is the Founder and CEO of Enetic, a boutique consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations improve manager performance and enabling them to lead engaged, healthy and high achieving teams. An accomplished industrial-organizational psychologist, she has shaped her expertise over two decades, influencing both innovative startups and corporations such as BNY Mellon, FIS, and Accenture. In this episode, we discuss how Kamaria was laid off not once, not twice, but three times over her career. She shares her reactions to those life changing events and how she mastered the art of graceful exits by the 3rd layoff. Kamaria offers advice to organizations and leaders on better ways to handle layoffs and how to lead after select team members are gone. Kamaria explains how to get your team change ready, which includes helping people move on for their growth and development. She describes how leaders can approach change-resistant team members and what to do when they're handed an unfavorable change. Kamaria leaves leaders with advice on how they can get in touch with their own change readiness.  If you find yourself grappling with organizational changes or seeking guidance on leading through transitions, listen in for how to get your team change ready. For full show notes and links mentioned, visit https://growthsignals.co/

Going back to work after having a baby can be tough, especially if you're returning to a leadership role. You're expected to and may want to pick up where you left off. But what happens when you are over-functioning at work and running your team on high octane? Podcast guest, Beth Finkle, candidly shares her post-maternity leave reentry, battling postpartum anxiety and overwhelming emotions. Beth is a loving mom to four wonderful kids and is an experienced worksite wellbeing practitioner with 16 years of expertise. Throughout her career, she's left her mark in various employer settings, including hospitals, health insurance companies, national sports teams, and higher education. In this episode, Beth shares how she led her team in the first few months after returning from maternity leave. She shares how she was holding it all together at work, only to come home and feel enraged. It wasn't until her husband noticed she wasn't herself that she got some help. Beth reveals how she got herself back on track with her wellbeing and leading her team. She shares how her experience made her a better leader and offers her advice to others returning from maternity leave. Beth's experience underscores the significance of supporting mothers returning back from maternity leave. Her story sheds light on how high-functioning anxiety can be masked as being a “good” employee. Connect with Beth on LinkedIn. Listen to her podcast, Trust Me, at https://www.trustmebk.com/ Watch her Tedx talk here  

Is saying yes to too many opportunities getting in the way of being the leader you need to be? In a world full of opportunities and endless demands, knowing when to say “no” can be a transformative skill for a leader. But finding the balance between seizing opportunities and protecting our limits is a delicate dance many of us struggle with. With over 25 years in leadership, podcast guest, LeeAnn Garrick, has been on a journey of learning to set boundaries throughout her career. LeeAnn is the Chief Operating Officer of the Cook Inlet Tribal Council where she manages operational units and large-scale programs. As a recovering “yes” person, she's learned to say no among a slew of work commitments and personal responsibilities to safeguard her well-being. In this episode, LeeAnn recounts a time when she turned down a prestigious fellowship to which she initially said yes. She describes going back to her boss to turn down the opportunity and shares what she learned from that experience. LeeAnn explores where her “yes” attitude comes from and how it's shifted throughout her career.   We also unpack how difficult it can be to say no and how the first step is self-awareness. Even though she still trips up from time to time, she's learned that every opportunity is not worth her energy. Finally, she ends by offering advice on how you can decide what opportunities are right for you in your career.

Meetings are often seen as necessary but dreaded events that everyone complains about. But do they have to be?  As a leader, you can transform these gatherings from mundane to meaningful. The answer lies in creating a safe environment that nurtures idea-sharing, collaboration, and innovation. Podcast guest, Gary Ware shares essential strategies to make your meetings more engaging, productive, and enjoyable. Gary is the Founder of Breakthrough Play and is a sought-after Corporate Facilitator and Keynote Speaker with nearly a decade of experience as a performer in improv theatre. He assists teams with unlocking creativity, confidence, and sparks collaboration with experiential methods proven to drive peak performance. In this episode, we start with some questions to ask before you pull people together and how to set your meeting up for success. Gary shares some connection activities to use at the start of meetings and describes how to create group agreements. We discuss how to get a meeting back on track, the best ways to brainstorm, and code words you can use. Finally, Gary shares how to get feedback after the meeting to ensure the meetings are valuable for everyone. Join us as we uncover practical strategies and valuable tips to transform your meetings, foster creativity, and cultivate a positive atmosphere that inspires collaboration within your team. For full show notes visit www.growthsignals.co. Connect with Gary on LinkedIn. Connect with Jen on LinkedIn. 

Imagine taking on your first role as a new leader, excited at the opportunity, only to uncover one leadership challenge after another. Not only are you leading your former peers, who are more experienced than you, but two members of your three-person team go out on medical leave and eventually quit. This leaves you with one highly motivated but inexperienced team member to do the work of four people. Oh yeah, and when you ask for support, you're told “You've been through worse”.   How well would you do in that first-time leadership role? Podcast guest, Stacy Vega, is here to recount how her first leadership experience made her feel like a complete failure.  Stacy Vega is the Director of Strategic Planning and Governance for Government Marketing at Elevance Health, where she leads the practice and forum to orchestrate communications to the Medicare population. Stacy is passionate about bridging brands and audiences through compelling storytelling. Outside work, Stacy is a mother to two sons, Ciani and Chancellor, and a dog mom to Nugget. For the full show notes and links mention, visit https://growthsignals.co/

Everyone has a personal brand – including leaders within organizations. Your personal brand is not just a logo or a slogan—it's what people say about you when you're not in the room. And in a world where perception can be as influential as performance, personal branding has become a crucial tool for leaders aiming to shape how they are perceived both inside their organizations and beyond. How can you leverage platforms like LinkedIn to elevate your leadership brand? Today's podcast guest, Jessica D. Winder, is here to share how you can stand out on LinkedIn in a way that feels authentic to you. If you've been thinking of posting on LinkedIn but haven't been able to, this episode is for you! For full show notes visit www.growthsignals.co.

Imagine being fresh out of college and being hired in your first leadership role. You fly across the country for a three-month training stint, excited about your new job and ready for the challenge. Four weeks in, you get some upsetting news – you've been replaced by someone more experienced.  What would you do? Today's podcast guest, Karen Suchsland, tells us how she reacted to that exact situation and how it influenced the rest of her 20-year leadership career. In this episode, Karen recounts her bumpy entrance into the world of corporate leadership, when she was taken out of the role she was hired for and reslotted into a special projects role. She shares how that felt, who she leaned on for some honest feedback, and how she recovered.  For full show notes, visit growthsignals.co.

In the constant hustle and bustle of work, it's easy to lose sight of the importance of genuine connections. In this solo episode, host Jen Arnold reflects on a recent incident when a prior coach missed the mark on relationship building. This incident prompted her to stress the value of fostering genuine relationships in the professional world. Jen shares instances where she felt a lack of personal connection at work, advocating for a deeper understanding of team members by learning about their backgrounds and interests. In this episode, Jen also shares a few upcoming podcasts that you don't want to miss.

In the wake of COVID-19, leaders found themselves cast as impromptu mental health counselors, navigating uncharted waters overnight. Now, as discussions surrounding mental wellness continue to gain momentum, particularly with Gen Z placing it at the forefront, the need to address these issues within your team is vital. Yet, the question persists: How does a leader approach such a sensitive topic without overstepping? Also, is it even the responsibility of leadership to initiate these conversations? Today's podcast guest, Andrea Herron, believes it is. Andrea, Vice President of HR at Web MD, is the host of the award-winning HR Scoop podcast and author of “There's an Elephant in Your Office”, co-written with her sister. Most importantly, she's been leading for the past 10 years and is doing her best to address the mental health of her team. Andrea's here to share her mistakes and how we can all learn from them.  Listen in for practical ways to support your team's mental health. For full show notes and links mentioned, visit https://growthsignals.co/

Is there feedback you're putting off because you're not sure how to say it? If so, this episode is for you. In this solo episode, host Jen Arnold delves into the essential leadership skill of giving meaningful feedback. It turns out that delivering meaningful feedback in a way that's both accepted and applied is both an art and a science. Feedback isn't just about words – it's about how you show up to and through the conversation. But since both giving and receiving feedback can create anxiety in both parties, it can impact how we listen, and if we stay open-minded and judgment-free. In a world where feedback is often feared, this episode serves as a guide for effectively delivering feedback. Tune in, learn, and lead with confidence. For full show notes and key highlights, visit https://growthsignals.co  

Imagine getting a call that someone on your team made a mistake on a 100-million-dollar client project. Would you fire them or ask them to lead the project recovery? This is the “gift of failure” that podcast guest, Josh Durham, tells us about in this episode. With almost two decades as a leader in the construction industry, Josh has overseen more than $1 billion in large scale construction. As the owner of Gamut Project Solutions, Josh guides his clients to positive outcomes - from proposal development and risk management to field strategies, dispute resolution, and more. In this episode, Josh tells the story of the 100-million-dollar project where a mistake was made by one of his team members and how he decided on the next steps. He walks us through the unexpected path he chose and how he rallied his team to get the project back on track. Josh shares how his many “gifts of failure” have shaped the leader he is today - one who's purpose-driven, reflective, and builds people up. If you've ever been in charge of a really expensive mistake that tested your leadership, this episode is for you!

In the dynamic realm of team management, one fundamental element stands out as a cornerstone for fostering growth and retaining talent: engaging in meaningful career conversations. As managers, it is not just about overseeing tasks and projects but also about nurturing the professional development and aspirations of our team members.  In this episode, your host, Jen Arnold, walks you through her Guiding Principles for leaders to have career conversations with their teams and five essential steps to get started. You can download the Leader's Guide to Navigating Employee Development Conversations mentioned HERE.

Lex was in her mid-20's and one week into her new role when she got promoted into a leadership role. The catch – she only had two weeks to prep for her new hires! How did this self-proclaimed perfectionist handle not having all of the answers? She tells all of her lessons learned on this episode. Lex Moschakis is the founder of Live Big, an organization dedicated to helping teens build confidence, resilience, and self-leadership skills in schools across the US. Her path has zigzagged from corporate law, to sales, to teaching at the Kellogg School of Management, and training Fortune 100 executive teams on high-impact habits. During her time in sales leadership Lex ran teams regionally and nationally, responsible for recruiting, onboarding, coaching, and career pathing dozens of early-career professionals. In this episode, Lex walks us through the considerable lessons she learned as a new leader. She highlights the difficulties that come with organizational changes, the hiring and firing that are part of a leader's job, and how to interview for fit and not education. Lex offers questions she asked of job candidates to put them at ease so she could get to know them as people.   Lex offers a ton of practical advice, including how to give an underperforming team member autonomy, how to reframe your role as manager, and what to do when someone leaves your team. Tune in to delve deeper into the nuances of being a new leader and learning on the go with Lex Moschakis. Subscribe for the stories, stay for the breakthroughs, and lead better starting today.  

In this “in between the interviews” episode of Growing Through It, host Jen Arnold tells the story of her first few years in leadership. She reveals a vulnerable time in her leadership career when she was unaware of her shortcomings and had the rude awakening of a demotion. Jen walks through her leadership mistakes, as well as where the organization missed the boat in supporting her as a new leader. She also shares what she did after the demotion to learn from her mistakes and regain her confidence to lead again. This episode is designed to celebrate the courage to confront challenges, the power of vulnerability, and the resilience to grow through adversity.  

In this episode, we delve into the story of Michaelangelo Aranda, a seasoned people leader, who was promoted into a Director role. Initially filled with honor and excitement after the promotion, Michaelangelo 's ascent was accompanied by a wave of challenges, primarily stemming from his unsupportive leader. Struggling with a lack of backing and encouragement, Michaelangelo 's confidence wavered, leading to self-doubt and emotional exhaustion. The crux of the story unfolds as Michaelangelo makes the courageous decision to resign. His departure was a pivotal moment, teaching him to advocate for himself and ultimately prioritize a better work environment, even if it meant less pay. Michaelangelo's story serves as a poignant reminder of the complex dynamics within the workplace and the importance of advocating for oneself in the face of adversity. For the full show notes, visit https://growthsignals.co

Trust is like the air we breathe – when it's present, nobody really notices; when it's absent, everybody notices. – Warren Buffet Jen Arnold, seasoned trainer and facilitator, guides us through the profound impact of trust on various aspects of leadership and employee dynamics. In this episode, we delve into the often underestimated yet critical role of trust in leadership, the profound influence of trust on employee retention, productivity, energy, engagement, and burnout, and examine the indicators of trust issues within workplaces. Jen introduces the “layers of trust” model, delineating three pivotal layers: credibility and competence, dependability and consistency, and compassionate candor.  Listen in as Jen uncovers the layers of trust, gaining a deeper understanding of its profound impact on leadership, and learn how to cultivate and preserve trust as a leader. Let me know what you thought of this episode HERE.

Until recently, Dr. Karyn Mathura felt like she had to hide her ADHD from her co-workers. Now, she'll openly disclose her diagnosis, leading with vulnerability about her challenges. In this episode, Karyn candidly shares how she navigates leading in Corporate America while having ADHD. We explore how ADHD is both a challenge and a superpower for her. Karyn openly shares her challenges - she can be direct, interrupt colleagues, has discomfort in social situations, and gets nervous presenting to senior leadership. She also walks us through how she overcomes these situations. Karyn also thinks of ADHD as her superpower - adapting well to change, handling multiple projects at a time, and being an empathetic leader. She's become an asset to her company and the many people she works with.  This conversation underscores the hurdles neurodivergent leaders face and the importance of creating an accommodating environment. You'll gain valuable insights into the complexities of ADHD in the workplace, offering practical advice, and fostering a deeper understanding of neurodiversity. Think neurodivergent leaders can't be successful? Listen to Karyn's story to hear how she has forged her leadership path in Corporate America. For full show notes, visit https://growthsignals.co

In this “in between the interviews” episode of Growing Through It, host Jen Arnold delves into three insights from her interview with Rucker Taylor, who shared his leadership frustrations and how he got through them. Key Themes: Reflecting on frustration: It's normal to have frustration in leadership roles but extended frustration indicates an underlying issue. Jen shares her own leadership frustration story, expressing regret for not examining her approach when a team member faced challenges. It's a reminder that self-reflection is crucial in leadership. Paint a clear picture: No one can read your mind, so don't expect them to. Instead, paint a crystal-clear picture of the outcome you want to see. You don't need to tell them how to get there. Empower your team members and provide the necessary support for their success. Recognizing and nurturing individual strengths can lead to powerful outcomes. Discover your leadership style: Each of us has a natural way we lead but sometimes we question if it's the “right” way. Pay attention to the script in your head and check your outcomes – are you happy with how your team is functioning?  Leadership is a journey, and each insight brings us closer to becoming the best version of ourselves. Be patient in finding an effective leadership approach and embrace your unique leadership journey. For the links mentioned, visit us HERE. 

Think about leading a college baseball team. You're working with 18- to 22-year-olds who also go to school and must keep up their grades. Team members are constantly in flux - graduating, getting drafted, freshman getting acclimated, transfers from other schools, etc. Plus, you're under pressure to win games. You may not be leading a sports team but there are lessons we can take from sports and apply them leadership in a traditional work environment. After all, there's one thread that runs through any strong team – good leadership.  In this episode, Rucker Taylor, Head Baseball Coach at Davidson College, shares his journey of getting comfortable with his authentic leadership style. Rucker unpacks his recent leadership frustration – what were the signs, what caused it, and how he ended up tweaking his approach to give his team what they really needed – more guidance and structure. Connect with Jen on LinkedIn Sign up to get exclusive podcast content that'll give you a leadership edge.

In this "in between the interviews" episode of Growing Through It, host Jen Arnold delves into three insights from her interview with Rhonda Okurowski, who shared her journey leading in her first Fortune 500 company. Whether you're a seasoned leader or an aspiring one, this episode offers valuable wisdom and practical guidance for navigating the complex terrain of organizational fit and change. Connect with Jen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/ Sign up to get exclusive podcast content that'll give you an edge on your leadership journey.    

Rhonda Okurowski, a leader with over 20 years of experience, recounts a challenging period in her leadership when she started at her first Fortune 500 organization. Upon starting her new role, Rhonda began meeting with each one of her 14 team members one on one. When her team raised concerns about inadequate compensation despite increased responsibilities, Rhonda brought these issues to her director, realizing the limitations of middle management in addressing pay-related matters. Her director recommended Rhonda look into it and present him the findings. That's where the miscommunication began. Listen in to hear what happened when Rhonda followed through on her director's advice. Spoiler alert – it didn't end well! In this episode, you'll hear Rhonda's candid story of navigating middle management in her first Fortune 500 company, what actions she regrets and what she doesn't, along with her advice for fellow managers. Connect with Rhonda on LinkedIn Connect with Jen on LinkedIn Sign up to get exclusive podcast content that'll give you a leadership edge.

Jen Arnold, the host of the “Growing Through It” podcast, returns with a new season. In Season two, she shifts focus back to her roots - exploring the impact of work on wellbeing. This time the spotlight is on how leaders recover when things don't go their way. Unlike typical leadership podcasts, Jen will showcase real leaders sharing their stories of mistakes, mishaps, and missteps, and how they recovered and grew from them. The goal of this season is to provide listeners with insights into the challenges of leadership and offer actionable leadership tips. Stay tuned for bi-weekly episodes, all with a fresh story to share. Each episode comes with a nugget of wisdom that we expand on in our newsletter. If you're eager to put these insights into action, you can sign up here and get exclusive content that'll give you an edge in your leadership journey.

And it's a wrap! What started as a seasonal podcast went longer than originally planned. Join your host, Jen Arnold to hear the podcast origin story, her realizations over the past 40 episodes, and what's in store for a next season. She'll also provide some updates on some life challenges she mentioned in prior episodes.

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that affects about 10-30% of adults worldwide. It's defined as a difficulty getting to sleep and/or staying asleep and persists over a period of time.  Insomnia can be caused by a variety of factors, including the genes you're born with, stress, changes in sleep schedules and health issues. Luckily, it's very treatable and there are available tools that can effectively change your relationship with sleep and improve your sleep quality. Podcast guest, Spencer Richards, Ph.D., is back to offer ways to overcome insomnia. Spencer works as a full-time clinical health psychologist and specializes in the treatment of concerns that arise in the space where our mental and physical health meet.   He holds specialty training that includes insomnia, chronic pain, weight management and emotional eating, chronic illness management, and improving overall well-being.  In this episode, Spencer defines insomnia and explains how good sleep hygiene is necessary but insufficient for this condition. He walks us through how to get out of your body's way of receiving sleep signals, what causes insomnia, and how using a sleep diary is an important tool to examine patterns of sleep. Spencer describes sleep consolidation, offers his view on naps, and gives advice on how to decrease the length of time you spend in bed awake.  

With more than one-third of U.S. adults sleeping less than seven hours per night, it's common to have a strained relationship with sleep. Not getting enough quality sleep can not only leave us feeling moody, foggy, and hungry but it also negatively impacts our immune system, memory, and overall brain health. But sleep problems don't start at nighttime. What we do all day has a lot to do with how we sleep at night. Podcast guest, Spencer Richards, Ph.D., is here to offer ways for a better sleep. Spencer works as a full-time clinical health psychologist and specializes in the treatment of concerns that arise in the space where our mental and physical health meet.   He holds specialty training that includes insomnia, chronic pain, weight management and emotional eating, chronic illness management, and improving overall well-being.  In this episode, Spencer explains what “good enough” sleep means and how our sleep needs change as we age. He offers guidance for those working night shift and helps us understand how to get out of our body's way to sleep better.  Spencer debunks some sleep myths and sets us straight on what's fact versus fiction. He leaves us with his top sleep tips so we can all get a better night's sleep.