Podcast appearances and mentions of Jenny Wood

 What if the traits you've been taught to suppress your entire career are actually the very qualities that separate those who get what they want from those who stay stuck waiting for recognition that never comes?Today on the show, Jenny Wood argues that most of us are living in what she calls “an invisible cage” created by an overabundance of caution, and that the biggest lie you've been told in your career is to keep your head down and let your work speak for itself.Jenny is a former Google executive who developed a career development program used by 56,000 people in nearly 100 countries, and she's the author of Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It. In our conversation, Jenny explains how traits that have a negative rap can be used for positive ends that will advance your career. We discuss how being shameless, reckless, nosy, manipulative, obsessed, and more can help you overcome your success-hindering fears, take bolder action, and achieve your goals.Calm the chaos of order fulfillment with the shipping software that delivers. Go to shipstation.com and use code MANLINESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Connect With Jenny WoodJenny's website

The fabulous Jenny Wood shares her journey from a corporate powerhouse at Google to empowering others to chase what they want in life. She's flipping the script on traits that women often shy away from, like being “selfish” or “obsessed.” We're talking about how these can actually be superpowers when it comes to achieving your goals.

Jenny Wood, former Google executive, leadership coach, and author of Wild Courage, joins us to talk about what it really takes to grow your career, whether you're in the early stages or navigating a mid-career reset. With her candid approach, Jenny shares how to apply your experience and find your courage. In this episode, we cover practical, no-nonsense strategies for standing out at work, communicating with your boss, building a network that actually supports you, and tapping into the kind of courage that deepens with age. If you've ever felt overlooked, underestimated, or simply ready for more—this conversation is for you.   Careers: Looking for career clarity, inspiration, or a reset? Check out our other caereer related podcasts  

Too often, the traits we're taught to tone down are the very ones that can drive our boldest breakthroughs. In this powerful episode, we explore what it truly means to lead and live with wild courage. Dismantling conventional career advice, Jenny Wood champions a more audacious path to success, one built on traits long considered too disruptive or inappropriate to embrace. Jenny Wood is a New York Times bestselling author, speaker, and former Google executive who built one of the company's largest career development programs. Her new book, Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It, dives into nine controversial traits, from reckless to bossy, that ambitious professionals can reclaim and reframe to be better leaders and reach their full potential. With a background in research at Harvard Business School and features in Forbes, HBR, and Bloomberg, Jenny brings both insight and irreverence to the table, along with a serious talent for cutting through the noise. Through stories both personal and professional, Jenny illustrates how fear of failure, uncertainty, and judgment often keeps us playing small. Whether it's chasing down a stranger on a subway (now her husband), asking a C-suite executive for mentorship, or launching a career-defining program at Google, she shows how reclaiming so-called negative traits like "shameless" or "reckless" can become a source of power and clarity. This episode is a candid, empowering reminder that growth begins on the edge of discomfort. Jenny shares tools to rewrite the internal stories that hold us back, and reframes boldness as a skill that can be practiced, not just a trait you're born with. If you're ready to stop waiting for permission and start leading with more courage in your career and life, this conversation is a must-listen!   Key Highlights From This Episode: What inspired Wild Courage and the bold subway moment that changed Jenny's life. [04:35] How fear showed up again and again in Jenny's coaching with professionals. [07:41] Enacting wild courage and why it might be more challenging for certain groups. [11:50] The nine controversial traits of wild courage and how to reframe and reclaim them. [12:41] How the seeds were planted for wild courage in Jenny's childhood. [15:21] Ways that shame holds us back and tips for de-shaming your language. [19:45] A candid look at how overthinking fuels self-judgment and fear. [24:29] Tools and internal resources to reframe fear, shame, and self-doubt. [27:15] The reckless trait, why Jenny struggles with it, and how she's learned to embrace it. [32:01] Why we need to give ourselves permission to be selfish, reckless, and bossy. [36:53]   For More Information: Jenny Wood Jenny Wood on LinkedIn Jenny Wood on InstagramJenny Wood on FacebookJenny Wood on Threads Jenny Wood on XWild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It   Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:  Listen to Episode 271: How to Recognize and Release the Damaging Shame You Hold with David JurasekCheck out Kathy's conversation with Jordan Friedman in Episode 308: Powerful Stress Management Approaches Designed for Times Like These   —————— FINDING BRAVE PODCAST AD FOR KATHY AND JORDAN'S CENTRAL PARK RETREAT DATE - JUNE 13, 2025 Join us June 13th, 2025 for a LIVE, calming in-person retreat in NYC's iconic Central Park - hosted by Kathy Caprino and Jordan Friedman Connect with Your Inner Calm on June 13th with Kathy and Jordan, in NYC's iconic Central Park I'm thrilled to announce an event that's truly special coming up on June 13th, designed for folks who would like a stress-reducing, calm and enlivening retreat experience in NYC's Central Park! For the first time, I'm teaming up with my dear friend and top stress management expert, Jordan Friedman (who I've had the honor of interviewing on my podcast twice now) to offer a live retreat and tour experience on June 13th in the heart of New York City's iconic Central Park. We'll start with an 2 and ½ -hour walking tour guided by Jordan (who is also a fabulous licensed New York City tour guide) of some of the most beautiful and relaxing spots in the park, followed by an energizing and supportive Q&A session, where Jordan and I will help you directly address and navigate some of the biggest stressors you're facing today — in your life, career, and family. We cannot wait to spend this special and meaningful time with you, surrounded by the nature, beauty, and deep calm of the urban oasis of Central Park. Spots are limited, so check out the details and register today at thestresscoach.com/central-park-retreat.   Jordan and I would love to offer you this special experience on June 13th!   ——————— READY FOR A HUGE PERSONAL SHIFT TO ACHIEVE MORE SUCCESS, IMPACT, AND FULFILLMENT IN YOUR CAREER THIS YEAR? Work with Kathy and get hands-on, transformative CAREER & LEADERSHIP GROWTH COACHING SUPPORT today! Are you ready for a big positive shift in how you're working and what you're achieving today in your career? Let's make that happen for you! In my 6-session Career & Leadership Breakthrough 1:1 coaching program, I help professionals create and achieve what they want most,  which includes more confidence, impact, advancement, financial reward, and fulfillment. I've worked with over 20,000 professionals across 6 continents, and before that, I served as a therapist, and before that, I was a corporate VP, managing multi-million dollar budgets and global initiatives. I bring all of that experience to our work together, helping you build a new chapter that aligns with who you really are and what you're ready to create. Check out kathycaprino.com/careerbreakthru and I hope you'll register now. I'd love to support you this month and beyond!! And don't forget to leverage Kathy Caprino AI - my new digital career coaching tool - for instant access to answers and guidance about your most pressing career and leadership growth challenges.   ——————— Order Kathy's book The Most Powerful You today! If you enjoy the book, we'd so appreciate your giving the book a positive rating and review on Amazon! And check out Kathy's digital companion course The Most Powerful You, to help you close the 7 most damaging power gaps in the most effective way possible.   Kathy's Power Gaps Survey, Support To Build Your LinkedIn Profile To Great Success & Other Free Resources Kathy's TEDx Talk, Time To Brave Up & Free Career Path Self-Assessment Kathy's Amazing Career Project video training course & 6 Dominant Action Styles Quiz   ——————— Key Quotes from today's episode: “The same theme kept coming up when people felt stuck [and] that theme was fear: fear of failure, fear of uncertainty, and fear of judgment [from] others.” — @itsjennywood [0:08:28] “You don't need permission from somebody else to do these things, to take these bold actions.” — @itsjennywood [0:28:23] “That same bravery, that same wild courage that pushed me to make that ask, is the same wild courage that pushes me to make other asks or requests or bold moves, and then sometimes they work out!” — @itsjennywood [0:31:33] “It's better to learn from your mistakes than to waste time predicting the consequences of every possible decision or outcome. So, think fast and fearless, and if you're on the fence, do it.” — @itsjennywood [0:32:29] “I have found that when I have been the most successful, it's [been] because I was willing to be on the edge of discomfort.” — @itsjennywood [0:32:53] “There's this disconnect between what's real and what we feel, and that's why I say ‘we have to give permission to ourselves to be selfish, to be reckless, to be bossy.'” — @itsjennywood [0:39:02]   Watch our Finding Brave episodes on YouTube! Don't forget – you can experience each Finding Brave episode in both audio and video formats! Check out new and recent episodes on my YouTube channel at YouTube.com/kathycaprino. And please leave us a comment and a thumbs up if you like the show!

What does it really take to leave an 18-year career at Google and chase your purpose? One moment of wild courage.In this episode, Deanna has a raw and real conversation with Jenny Wood—former Google exec turned keynote speaker and author—about the moment she realized success on paper wasn't enough.Jenny shares the subway story that woke her up, the slow unraveling of a life that looked perfect from the outside, and the inner war between staying safe and living fully.Together, they unpack what it means to walk away from a predictable life and into your purpose—how to trust your gut when fear screams louder than your truth, and why chasing alignment isn't a luxury, it's a responsibility.This one's for the woman who knows she's meant for more—and is ready to do something about it.-Connect with Jenny WoodGet Jenny's Book Wild Courage HereWebsite: www.itsjennywood.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennyilles/– Connect with Deanna:Instagram: @deannaherrinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanna-herrin/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedeannaherrinWebsite: http://www.deannaherrin.net–Connect with Jenny WoodGet Jenny's Book Wild Courage HereWebsite: www.itsjennywood.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennyilles/

Career expert Jenny Wood shares lessons from her book Wild CourageSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jenny Wood, a New York Times bestselling author and former Google executive, joins LinkedIn Editor Andrew Seaman to explain why embracing discomfort and overcoming fear is the key to career growth. Leveraging the career program she started at Google, Jenny shares tips on everything from exuding confidence in interviews to tactfully promoting your accomplishments so that you can showcase your worth and go after what you want. Key Topics: Overcoming fear during risky career transitions The “Truths and Tales” exercise for overcoming self-doubt Practical strategies for selling yourself in interviews How to build credibility throughout the job search process How to promote your professional accomplishments Links & Resources: Follow Jenny Wood on LinkedIn here Find Jenny's book ‘Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It' here Listen to more episodes of Get Hired with Andrew Seaman here  Join the Get Hired community on LinkedIn here

What if the only thing standing between you and the life you truly want is the courage to begin? In this episode, I speak with Jenny Wood—former Google executive and author of Wild Courage—about what it means to pursue the essential with boldness. Jenny shares how she walked away from a high-powered role to write the book she felt called to create. We explore the power of being shameless, curious, and even a little reckless when the moment demands it. You'll hear how she faced down fear, navigated imposter syndrome, and embraced the uncomfortable path toward growth. This is a conversation about clarity, action, and living with wild courage—the kind that leads you not just to success, but to meaning. Buy Jenny's Book ⁠"Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It"⁠ Visit Jenny's ⁠Website⁠ Follow Jenny on LinkedIn Join my weekly ⁠newsletter⁠. Learn more about my ⁠books and courses⁠. Join ⁠The Essentialism Academy⁠. Follow me on ⁠LinkedIn⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠X⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, and ⁠YouTube⁠.

Strivers and social helpers: This is the episode for you! With host Sarah Bowen Shea, Coach Liz Waterstraat discusses Wild Courage by Jenny Wood and Big Potential by Shawn Achor. The conversation covers how to put a positive, results-producing spin on “negative” traits, as well as how helping others can actual make ourself stronger. As always, Coach Liz shares athletic wisdom she culled from the books.   When you shop our sponsors, you help AMR.
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It was a spur-of-the-moment decision. Former Google leader Jenny Wood chased an attractive stranger off the subway, and later married him. That moment forever changed Jenny's life. It took courage - Wild Courage. In her new book, 'Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It', Jenny challenges conventional wisdom about achieving your goals, giving the permission and the mindset to ditch fear and chase after what you want, unapologetically. We discuss how reframing our words can be a bold, empowering, and energising guide to embracing our ambition and pursuing what we want.   LINKS   Jenny Wood website https://itsjennywood.com/   Jenny's newsletter wildcouragebook.com/newsletter.   Book on Amazon Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It   The Mojo Sessions website www.themojosessions.com   The Mojo Sessions on Patreon www.patreon.com/TheMojoSessions Full transcripts of the show (plus time codes) are available on Patreon.   The Mojo Sessions on Facebook www.facebook.com/TheMojoSessions   Gary on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/gary-bertwistle   Gary on Twitter www.twitter.com/GaryBertwistle   The Mojo Sessions on Instagram www.instagram.com/themojosessions   If you like what you hear, we'd be grateful for a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Happy listening!   © 2025 Gary Bertwistle.  All Rights Reserved.  

This episode of Bookworm is brought to you by: Today's author promises to help us overcome our fear by giving us the courage to go after what we really want. Join Mike & Cory as they attempt to embrace the boldest versions of themselves. Support the Show Mike's 3 Levels of Knowledge post (+ Practical […]

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Welcome to the What's Next! Podcast with Tiffani Bova.  I'm thrilled to welcome Jenny Wood to the show this week. She had an 18-year career at Google, where she grew from entry-level to executive, and she most recently led a large operations team that helped drive tens of billions of dollars in revenue per year. In 2021, she started a passion project within Google called Own Your Career, which grew to one of the largest career development programs in Google's history. Through the programs she founded, she has trained tens of thousands of people on acing a job search, building relationships, personal branding, effective email writing, increasing confidence, and so much more. She also has a new book out called Wild Courage, which has just hit the New York Times list.    THIS EPISODE IS PERFECT FOR…anyone looking to grow their personal brand, boost confidence, and take bold steps in their career.   TODAY'S MAIN MESSAGE…many people feel stuck in their careers not because they lack talent, but because they hesitate to speak up, stand out, or take action. Jenny shares a roadmap for building confidence and personal brand by overcoming fear and embracing thoughtful risk.    KEY TAKEAWAYS Personal branding starts with solving a real problem and thinking out loud. “Playground time” helps you explore new skills without pressure. Confidence is built through action, not perfection. Sharing your ideas can boost both your career and your company. Rewrite limiting beliefs by separating truths from tales.   WHAT I LOVE MOST…Jenny's reminder that the courage to try, even when you're not ready, is what separates dreamers from doers.   Running Time: 25:00    Subscribe on iTunes     Find Tiffani Online: LinkedIn Facebook X    Find Jenny Online: LinkedIn   Jenny's Book: Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It

Have you ever felt that being weird was something to be ashamed of? Just wait till you hear what Jenny Wood has to say about that. Jenny is a former Google executive and newly-minted New York Times bestselling author of Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It. As someone who's spent years helping corporate leaders and entrepreneurs alike, Jenny brought a treasure trove of advice on everything from silencing your inner critic to reframing those so-called “negative” traits we often hide, think “shameless,” “weird,” and “reckless”, into your actual superpowers at work and in business. Her candor and humor made the conversation electric, and I was inspired (yet again!) by her bold “move, then map” approach to chasing what scares you and owning your wildest aspirations.If you're betting on yourself, whether you're growing your own business or navigating the corporate ladder, you'll find a ton to relate to in Jenny's journey. We discussed breaking out of the perfection trap, advocating shamelessly for yourself, and getting nosy, in the best way, to build real connections and open up new opportunities. Jenny's story reminds us that it's not about waiting your turn or muting your personality to “fit in,” but rather about leaning into who you really are, and turning fear from an obstacle into rocket fuel. I walked away from this chat fired up and ready to keep encouraging everyone tuning in: Your wins are on the other side of speaking up, sharing your story, and being unapologetically you.You will learn:How to embrace fear and find success - 10:35How to brag like a leader - 16:55Mentoring tips to network confidently - 21:09How to bridge perceived power gaps - 25:43How to overcome hesitation - 43:22LINKS:FREE DOWNLOAD: 10 Tips to Make Better Video In Less Time (To Grow Your Revenue) click here Follow host Kim Rittberg on Instagram & Subscribe to Kim's YouTube Channel to Make Better Videos that Convert JENNY'S LINKS:Jenny's WebsiteWild Courage BookJenny's Instagram Jenny's Linkedin Please spread the word to your friends and leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this electrifying episode, I sit down with Jenny Wood, NYT bestselling author of Wild Courage, to unpack how a subway crush led to her marriage and a life-changing philosophy. Discover how angels guided her through corporate success at Google, why even top execs battle fear daily, and practical tools like the “Shameless Monday Email” to reclaim your power. Whether you're stuck in self-doubt, craving career clarity, or ready to co-create with the divine, Jenny's story proves courage isn't innate—it's a muscle. Join my Angel Reiki School (June 2025) or 21-Day Money Miracles Challenge (link below!) to align with your boldest life!   TIMESTAMPED OVERVIEW 00:00 Introduction & Angel Guidance 01:17 Jenny's Subway Love Story 02:53 Defining “Wild Courage” 05:48 Overcoming Fear of Judgment 08:33 Career Strategy: Shameless Monday Emails 12:21 Spiritual Co-Creation & Action 15:46 Google's Largest Career Program Launch 20:57 Balancing Control & Surrender 25:00 “Rock-Chalk-Talk-Walk” Goal Framework 31:13 Tech's Impact on Fear & Productivity 36:19 Celebrating Wins vs. Vanity Metrics 40:04 Redefining Success for the Next Generation 47:24 Closing: Angel Reiki School & Resources   LEARN MORE Have questions about The Angel Membership or the Angel Reiki School? Book a free Discovery Call with Julie: https://calendly.com/juliejancius/discovery-call Angel Reiki School (In-Person) Oak Brook, IL June 6–8, 2025 Get certified in mediumship, energy healing, and angel communication https://theangelmedium.com/get-certified Angel Reiki School (Online) Starts the 1st of every month Learn from anywhere https://theangelmedium.com/get-certified 21-Day Money Miracles Challenge Starts May 11, 2025 Exclusive to Angel Members - JOIN TODAY https://theangelmedium.com/angelmembership Book a 1-on-1 Angel Reading With Julie Connect with your angels and loved ones in Heaven https://theangelmedium.com/readings Want a Free Reading? We're selecting 50+ volunteers for free readings at the in-person Angel Reiki School Leave a 5-star review of the podcast and copy/paste it here for a shot to win: https://theangelmedium.com/contact Earnings Disclaimer: You agree that the Company has not made any guarantees about the results of taking any action, whether recommended on this Website or not. The Company provides educational and informational resources that are intended to help users of this website succeed in their online business and otherwise. You nevertheless recognize that your ultimate success or failure will be the result of your own efforts, your particular situation, and innumerable other circumstances beyond the control and/or knowledge of the Company. You also recognize that prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Thus, the results obtained by others – whether clients or customers of the Company or otherwise – applying the principles set out in this Website are no guarantee that you or any other person or entity will be able to obtain similar results.

What if the fear you feel isn't a stop sign — but a compass pointing you exactly where you're supposed to go?   In this episode of Nobody Told Me!, we're talking with Jenny Wood — author of Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It — about how fear, ambition, self-doubt, and boldness are all tangled together on the road to creating a life you actually want.   Jenny spent 18 years rising through the ranks at Google, ultimately leading a team responsible for tens of billions in revenue, and founding Own Your Career, one of the largest career development programs in Google's history. She knows firsthand what it means to step into bigger, braver versions of yourself — even when it feels terrifying.   Together, we dive into how to turn fear into fuel, why being “too much” is actually your greatest strength, and what it really looks like to bet on yourself when nobody else hands you permission.   If you've ever wrestled with impostor syndrome, second-guessed your dreams, or wondered if you're “ready” to make a leap — this conversation will remind you that courage isn't something you wait for. It's something you choose.

After nearly two decades at Google, where she went from entry-level to executive and helped generate billions in revenue, Jenny Wood realized the secret to success isn't being nice, modest, or agreeable—it actually might call for being a little bit selfish, a little bit shameless, and just manipulative enough to get what you want.

Our streak of highlighting female authors in 2025 continues with this month's feature of Jenny Wood. She's a former Googler, turned full-time author and speaker (turns out she's amazing at both). In her new book, Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get it, she poses the question: What if the traits you need […] The post How to Go After What You Want and Get It with Jenny Wood – Episode 564 (M04) first appeared on Read to Lead Podcast.

This guest post is by Jenny Wood, a former Google executive who led one of the company's biggest career programs, helping thousands take charge of their professional growth. Her new book, Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It, is a bold guide to standing out and getting ahead by embracing 9 unexpected traits.Most professionals don't struggle with time management. They struggle with people-pleasing.From an early age, we're conditioned to say “yes.” Yes to additional responsibilities. Yes to impromptu meetings. Yes to anything that signals we're cooperative team players. But this automatic response creates a significant dilemma: every time we say yes to something inessential, we're implicitly saying no to work that actually matters.As Nir Eyal points out in Indistractable, if you don't take control of your time, someone else will.You can read the Nir And Far blog post on: https://www.nirandfar.com/protect-your-focus/Nir And Far, a podcast about business, behaviour and the brain by Nir Eyal. If you enjoy this podcast, please subscribe on iTunes and leave an iTunes review. It will greatly help new listeners discover the show. Please visit my website Nir and Far for other info about my writing, books and teaching: http://www.nirandfar.com/

In her 18 years at Google, Jenny Wood grew from entry-level to executive and ran a large operations team that helped drive billions of revenue per year. She is the founder of Own Your Career, one of the largest career programs in Google's history with over 50,000 people benefitting in nearly 100 countries. Jenny's work has been featured in the Harvard Business Review, CNBC, Business Insider, Entrepreneur, Inc., and Forbes. Now, Jenny's back at Google to discuss her book, “Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It.” "Wild Courage" coaches you to smash through your fear of discomfort, failure, and the judgement of others, and to embrace your boldest self. The book is an empowering and energizing guide to embracing your ambition and chasing after what you want. Watch this episode at youtube.com/TalksAtGoogle.

Stop following the rules and be weird, ruthless, and bossy. That's the message from Jenny Wood, a former Google executive who approached a stranger on a train because she thought he was handsome. That man later became her husband. This former executive says too many people are being held back because they are afraid to be bossy, shameless, and weird. In this podcast and in her book, Wild Courage, she talks about her unconventional fundamentals to finding success. https://itsjennywood.com/bookYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG1_DIh33LfXaiEiOscEyGQInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/alitakguillen/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/10secondstoair/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alitaguillen/Web: https://www.alitaguillen.com/Web: https://www.10secondstoair.com/

Have you ever let fear of failure, uncertainty, or judgment hold you back from going after what you truly want? In this episode, we dive into the principles of Wild Courage with author Jenny Wood. We break down three of the nine bold traits she explores in her book—how to be positively manipulative, obsessed, and shameless—to achieve extraordinary success in business and life. Jenny shares how a bold moment on a New York subway shaped her fearless approach, how she landed her dream job at Google, and the powerful strategies she now uses as an entrepreneur to build relationships, close deals, and grow her business. Get ready for a conversation packed with insights on influence, persistence, and self-advocacy. Whether you're looking to grow your business, advance your career, or simply take bigger, bolder steps in life, this episode will challenge you to rethink what it means to be fearless. Tune in now—this is your chance to learn how to apply Wild Courage to your own journey!   Topics We Cover in This Episode:  The surprising way fear of judgment holds us back—and how to push through it How to be “manipulative” in the best way possible (yes, really!) Why being obsessed isn't a bad thing—it's the key to success The strategy that got Jenny hired at Google (hint: she didn't just apply online) How to use the "pencil sharpener" tactic to win people over and close deals The simple shift in your emails that makes people say “yes” faster Why your biggest missed opportunity might be not being shameless The unexpected power of asking the right question in a networking call   If you're ready to step up and take action, connect with Jenny and dive deeper into Wild Courage. Visit itsjennywood.com for free resources, follow her on LinkedIn and Instagram, and grab a copy of Wild Courage at wildcouragebook.com. If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend and tag us on social media—we'd love to hear how you're embracing Wild Courage!   Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Email Jenny at: jenny@itsjennywood.com Buy Wild Courage at: https://a.co/d/5M4vFNy Download the resources Jenny mentioned at: itsjennywood.com/mo

Have you ever let fear of failure, uncertainty, or judgment hold you back from going after what you truly want? In this episode, we dive into the principles of Wild Courage with author Jenny Wood. We break down three of the nine bold traits she explores in her book—how to be positively manipulative, obsessed, and shameless—to achieve extraordinary success in business and life. Jenny shares how a bold moment on a New York subway shaped her fearless approach, how she landed her dream job at Google, and the powerful strategies she now uses as an entrepreneur to build relationships, close deals, and grow her business. Get ready for a conversation packed with insights on influence, persistence, and self-advocacy. Whether you're looking to grow your business, advance your career, or simply take bigger, bolder steps in life, this episode will challenge you to rethink what it means to be fearless. Tune in now—this is your chance to learn how to apply Wild Courage to your own journey!   Topics We Cover in This Episode:  The surprising way fear of judgment holds us back—and how to push through it How to be “manipulative” in the best way possible (yes, really!) Why being obsessed isn't a bad thing—it's the key to success The strategy that got Jenny hired at Google (hint: she didn't just apply online) How to use the "pencil sharpener" tactic to win people over and close deals The simple shift in your emails that makes people say “yes” faster Why your biggest missed opportunity might be not being shameless The unexpected power of asking the right question in a networking call   If you're ready to step up and take action, connect with Jenny and dive deeper into Wild Courage. Visit itsjennywood.com for free resources, follow her on LinkedIn and Instagram, and grab a copy of Wild Courage at wildcouragebook.com. If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend and tag us on social media—we'd love to hear how you're embracing Wild Courage!   Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Email Jenny at: jenny@itsjennywood.com Buy Wild Courage at: https://a.co/d/5M4vFNy Download the resources Jenny mentioned at: itsjennywood.com/mo

To be successful you need to be Weird, Selfish, Shameless, Obsessed, Nosy, Manipulative, Brutal, Reckless, and Bossy. And that takes courage. As a former Google leader and top career coach who chased an attractive stranger off the subway and later married him, Jenny Wood knows her way around courage. In this book, Wood shatters conventional wisdom about achieving your goals. She gives you permission to ditch your fear and chase after what you want, unapologetically. Wood reclaims nine traits from their negative shackles and teaches you how to apply them in a savvy and sane way to supercharge your success, whether you're trying to impress your new boss, snag a stretch promotion, or land a life-changing deal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Send us a textAbout This EpisodeWould you ever chase a stranger off the subway? That's exactly what Jenny Wood did, and it changed her life forever. This stranger became her husband and the experience became a powerful metaphor for embracing what she calls "wild courage," the ability to take bold action despite our deepest fears. During her 18 years at Google, Jenny Wood grew from entry-level to executive leadership, running operations teams that drove billions in annual revenue. The heart of Jenny's philosophy is her framework of nine counterintuitive traits: weird, selfish, shameless, nosy, obsessed, manipulative, brutal, reckless, and bossy. These deliberately provocative terms represent qualities we're taught to suppress, especially women. Jenny brilliantly reclaims these traits, showing how embracing the right version of each empowers us to achieve extraordinary results. Whether you're considering a career pivot, seeking promotion, or simply want to live more boldly, this episode will give you the tools to embrace your own wild courage. About Jenny WoodIn her 18 years at Google, Jenny Wood grew from entry-level to executive, and she most recently led a large operations team that helped drive billions of revenue per year. In 2021, she started a passion project within Google called Own Your Career, which grew to one of the largest career development programs in Google's history. Through the program she founded, she has trained tens of thousands of people on: acing a job search, building relationships, personal branding, effective email writing, landing the right mentor, maximizing workplace influence, and most importantly, increasing confidence. Jenny's writing has been featured in Harvard Business Review, Entrepreneur, Inc., and Forbes. She is an FAA-licensed private pilot, a daily hiker, an improv student, a tap dancer, and a zucchini bread connoisseur. She lives in Boulder, Colorado with her two young children and her husband, Jon. She met Jon by chasing him off the NYC Subway, and the New York Times featured their story. Additional ResourcesWebsite: itsjennywood.comCheck Out Her Book, Wild Courage Instagram: @itsjennywoodLinkedIn: @JennyWoodSupport the show-------- Stay Connected www.leighburgess.com Watch the episodes on YouTube Follow Leigh on Instagram: @theleighaburgess Follow Leigh on LinkedIn: @LeighBurgess Sign up for Leigh's bold newsletter

Wisdom comes with age. That's a common belief – but is it necessarily true? Can you acquire wisdom when you are young? This episode begins by looking at the science of wisdom, where it comes from and when it shows up. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8493820/ Doesn't it seem like the world is safer? Cars are safer, equipment is safer, people wear helmets, warning signs are everywhere. So it makes sense to believe that we are safer today than ever before but that's not true according to my guest. Steve Casner is a research psychologist and NASA scientist. He is author of the book, Careful: A User's Guide to Our Injury-Prone Minds (https://amzn.to/4j74GjN). Listen as he explains how and why accidents have been getting worse lately. While you have surely done things in your life that required courage, you can probably recall other times when you wished you had the courage to do something differently – to speak up, to make a move, to do something! But you didn't. How can you be courageous when you need to be? Listen to my guest, Jenny Wood. She is a former Google executive, speaker, and airplane pilot. Her writing has been featured in Harvard Business Review, Entrepreneur, Inc., and Forbes. Jenny is author of the book Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It (https://amzn.to/4iNpYCJ). Yes or no questions can be very telling when you want to figure out if someone is telling the truth. Actually, it's not the question so much as how people answer it that can raise some red flags. Listen as I explain how to use yes or no questions to get a better sense of someone's truthfulness. https://www.inc.com/jack-schafer/an-fbi-agent-on-how-to-detect-deception.html PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! FACTOR: Eat smart with Factor! Get 50% off at https://FactorMeals.com/something50off QUINCE: Indulge in affordable luxury! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. TIMELINE: Get 10% off your order of Mitopure!  Go to https://Timeline.com/SOMETHING HERS: Hers is changing women's healthcare by providing access to GLP-1 weekly injections with the same active ingredient as Ozempic and Wegovy, as well as oral medication kits. Start your free online visit today at https://forhers.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! SHOPIFY:  Nobody does selling better than Shopify! Sign up for a $1 per-month trial period at https://Shopify.com/sysk and upgrade your selling today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when career advancement requires you to be manipulative, bossy, and a bit reckless? Jenny Wood's meteoric rise at Google reveals that success often demands breaking unspoken rules. From strategically meeting your boss's boss to mastering the Monday MiniFesto, Jenny shares how walking the line between authentic boldness and calculated self-promotion propelled her career. But beneath these tactics lies a deeper truth – it's not about becoming cutthroat, but about pushing past the fear of judgment that keeps most people playing small. [Episode 95]Jenny Wood is a former Google Executive, author and entrepreneur.Learn more about Jenny:• Website: https://itsjennywood.com/• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennyilles• X/Twitter: https://x.com/itsjennywood?lang=en• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsjennywood/—-JOIN OUR GROUP COACHING COHORTS:Are you looking to ask deep, introspective and provocative questions about your own life (with Khe and likeminded peers)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply today⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠—-BECOME A RADREADER:

Imagine if the key to achieving your biggest goals was learning to embrace common traits that aren't typically associated with great leaders? As you'll hear from today's guest, it's okay to be selfish, shameless, bossy, or even reckless because it can help you break free from limiting beliefs and supercharge your success. I'm excited to be talking to Jenny Wood. Jenny is a former Google executive and author of Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It. For almost 20 years, Jenny enjoyed tremendous success at Google, starting from an entry-level position to building one of the company's largest career development programs. But in a courageous move, she walked away from corporate life to bet on herself by practicing the very principles she teaches in her book. In our conversation, we discussed nine surprising traits that can be powerful tools when applied the right way to help you break free from fear and self-doubt by rethinking what you've been told about success. If fear of failure, uncertainty, or judgment has ever held you back, this episode will help you unlock your version of wild courage and take bold steps toward positive outcomes. KEY TAKEAWAYS The three fears holding you back from success—and how to overcome them How to reclaim "negative" traits and turn them into strengths Why being selfish can actually help others and lead to greater impact You can create positive outcomes by stepping out of your comfort zone How to stop believing the tales and false stories we create in our mind Get The Full Show Notes To get full access to today's show notes, including audio, transcript, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit MiracleMorning.com/579 Subscribe, Rate & Review I would love if you could subscribe to the podcast and leave an honest rating & review. This will encourage other people to listen and allow us to grow as a community. The bigger we get as a community, the bigger the impact we can have on the world. To subscribe, rate, and review the podcast on iTunes, visit HalElrod.com/iTunes. Connect with Hal Elrod Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube   Copyright © 2025 Miracle Morning, LP and International Literary Properties LLC

Stop playing it safe—embrace the bold, unexpected traits that actually get you ahead. Success doesn't come to those who wait—it comes to those who take it. For years, you've been told to be humble, play nice, and wait your turn. Jenny Wood says that's exactly why so many talented people stay stuck. As a former Google executive turned author of Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It, she's here to expose the real traits that drive success—ones that might make you uncomfortable. Forget the polite career playbook, being selfish, obsessed, even a little manipulative (the right way) can actually be your biggest advantage. Jenny gets radically candid with Kim and Amy on why risk-taking beats waiting for permission, why saying “no” is a career superpower, and how to self-promote without sounding like a jerk. If you're sick of playing it safe and watching others pass you by, this episode is your permission slip to take bigger swings and get what you want. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript Wild Courage by Jenny Wood The Story of “How About Never” | The New Yorker Newsletter | Jenny Wood Watch on YouTube Website Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Facebook YouTube Chapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionKim and Amy welcome Jenny Wood, author of Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It.(00:1:02) The Nine Traits That Will Get You AheadNine controversial traits that are actually career superpowers.(00:4:26) The Subway Story That Changed EverythingJenny shares a story on ignoring self-doubt and taking action.(00:10:16) Calculated Risks vs. Playing It SafeWhy taking smart risks is essential for personal and professional success.(00:13:04) The Google Factor: How It Shaped Wild CourageHow Google built confidence, encouraged risks, and sparked creativity.(00:17:09) Owning Your WeirdAdvice for staying authentic in workplaces that don't naturally foster it.(00:21:38) Identifying Your Power AssetsIdentifying your power assets to make self-promotion feel natural.(00:25:22) Managing Up, Higher, and DiagonallyA tactical guide to workplace influence through strategic senior connections.(00:31:54) Overcoming Bias in the WorkplaceStrategies to counter workplace biases in recognition and self-promotion.(00:36:56) Why Saying No is a SuperpowerHow learning to say no without guilt protects your time and energy. (00:42:40) Get in Front of the Right PeopleThe importance of standing out and getting noticed by leadership.(00:44:57) Pull It and Bullet ItThe “Pull It and Bullet It” method for impactful, time-saving emails.(00:48:05) Where to Find Jenny WoodWhere to get Wild Courage and find Jenny for keynotes and workshops.(00:49:41) Conclusion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Jenny Wood shares how to overcome fear and take bold action. Jenny spent 18 years rising from entry-level to executive at Google, where she founded one of the company's largest career programs. Now, she's the author of Wild Courage, a book that flips the script on success by reclaiming nine so-called “negative” traits—like being reckless, nosy, or shameless—and showing how they can fuel massive growth. We get into what it really takes to break through fear, bounce back from rejection, and build the kind of courage that moves your life and career forward. Jenny holds nothing back—sharing wins, stumbles, and the surprising moment she chased her now-husband off a subway car. Some highlights we explore: The email rejection that made her lose sleep—and what she did next Why separating “truths from tales” is a life-changing tool for fear How to reframe being “shameless” as a leadership superpower What it means to be obsessed... in the healthiest, most productive way Enjoy!

What does it take to leave a prestigious job at Google to chase your true passion? In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin sits down with Jenny Wood, the visionary behind Google's Own Your Career program. Jenny candidly shares her transformative journey from a high-powered corporate role to embracing the uncertainties of entrepreneurship. She delves into the challenges of imposter syndrome, the courage required to be unapologetically selfish in pursuing personal goals, and the art of setting boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Jenny also introduces her innovative goal-setting framework, 'Rock, Chalk, Talk, Walk,' designed to help individuals clearly define and achieve their aspirations. Inside This Episode: The pivotal moments that led Jenny to leave Google and follow her passion.  Understanding and overcoming imposter syndrome in professional transitions.  The role of 'wild courage' in embracing one's unique traits and ambitions.  Strategies for setting and maintaining boundaries to protect personal time.  An introduction to the 'Rock, Chalk, Talk, Walk' goal-setting framework. Who This Episode Is For: Aspiring entrepreneurs, professionals contemplating a career change, and anyone seeking to overcome self-doubt to pursue their true passions. If you're looking for actionable insights on personal growth, boundary setting, and effective goal planning, this episode is a must-listen. And if you're interested in taking one small action right now, you can check out our newest freebie, The 5-Minute Team Commitment Reset, here. It's a plug-and-play exercise that will get your team mentally present, engaged, and committed before any meeting. No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Jenny Wood Jenny's LinkedIn Jenny's website Jenny's book, Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It Jenny's newsletter Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

This week we are joined by the lovely Jenny Wood-Carver and we dive into what the doctrine of hell, the death of empathy and sleep training infants have in common. Its...alot. If you like her work you can check it out here: https://woodcarver.substack.com/ We now have a Discord now for our Patrons! You can join here: Patreon.com/gohomebible This podcast is edited by Elizabeth Nordenholt from Podcat Audio: https://elizabethnordenholt.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the only thing standing between you and the life you want is a little wild courage? In this bonus episode, I sit down with powerhouse author and former Google exec Jenny Wood to talk about her new book, Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It.We dive into: ✅ How fear holds us back—and how to push through it ✅ The art of self-promotion (without feeling icky) ✅ Why you need to tout your ROI (Role, Objective, Impact) ✅ How to network inside your company to get ahead ✅ The power of asking for what you want

Welcome to Strategy Skills episode 537, an interview with the author of Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It, Jenny Wood.   In this episode, Jenny discusses her career journey and the key skills that helped her rise from an entry-level role to an executive over 18 years. She also discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, being strategic with time, and saying no to non-promotable work. Jenny shares the importance of obsessing over key projects, leading with enthusiasm, and breaking unwritten rules to stand out. Her book, Wild Courage, outlines nine traits for success, including being weird, shameless, and reckless.   Today's guest is Jenny Wood. In her 18 years at Google, she grew from entry-level to executive, and she most recently led a large operations team that helped drive billions of dollars of revenue per year. Jenny's writing has been featured in Harvard Business Review, Entrepreneur, Inc. She is a licensed private pilot, a daily hiker, an improv student, a tap dancer, and a zucchini bread connoisseur. She lives in Boulder, Colorado with her two young children and her husband, Jon.   Get Jenny's book here: https://rb.gy/6sj1rj Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It   Here are some free gifts for you: Overall Approach Used in Well-Managed Strategy Studies free download: www.firmsconsulting.com/OverallApproach   McKinsey & BCG winning resume free download: www.firmsconsulting.com/resumepdf   Enjoying this episode? Get access to sample advanced training episodes here: www.firmsconsulting.com/promo  

Jenny Wood, former Google executive and author of Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It, challenges the idea that success means playing it safe. In this episode, she reveals how to reclaim nine so-called "negative" traits—like being selfish, nosy, or even manipulative—and use them to build confidence, influence without authority, and stand out in your career. We explore how these traits play out in risk-averse vs. risk-friendly workplaces, how to apply them in team settings (not just as individuals), and how to avoid Trait Traps that turn strengths into weaknesses. Plus, Jenny tackles skepticism around reframing words like "manipulative" and shares which trait challenged her the most. Resources:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennyilles/   Website: https://itsjennywood.com/ Book: https://itsjennywood.com/book Download Get Promoted Guide: https://itsjennywood.kit.com/7b1b560076   More Tools from Jenny: https://itsjennywood.com/resources  

“If you are thinking about doing something long term, test it internally, be an intrapreneur, right? Go create something amazing for your company and see if you enjoy doing it.”Jenny Wood's transition from a high-flying Google executive to an influential public speaker is nothing short of inspiring. After spending eighteen years at Google, Jenny chose to follow her passion for public speaking, resulting in a story of passion, relentless improvement, and the power of authenticity. She joins us today to share her experiences, the nitty-gritty of making it as a speaker, and the wisdom she's garnered along the way.One crucial element of Jenny's approach is her dedication to constantly improving her craft. By working with a keynote consultant and continuously analyzing her presentations, she shows that learning and adapting are key to success in speaking. Jenny is also candid about dealing with imposter syndrome and the challenges of leaving a secure job, demonstrating that courage is essential when facing the unknown.Furthermore, a significant part of Jenny's strategy has been leveraging her book, Wild Courage, as a tool to establish her voice in the market. She uses it not just as a revenue source, but as a means to spark meaningful conversations and draw connections with her audience. Understanding the business side of speaking, from setting fees to engaging with speaker bureaus, is another area where Jenny offers valuable insights.Jenny's journey highlights the importance of embracing one's unique voice. Her story teaches us that success is about being true to oneself, learning from failures, and continually striving for excellence. For those starting out in speaking, Jenny's experience is a beacon, showing that with dedication and strategic planning, a fulfilling speaking career is within reach.You'll learn:Jenny's speaker pricing strategyAbout Jenny's book launchMultiple revenue streams and book profitabilityIf books are necessary for personal brandingJenny's transition from corporate to speakingChallenges of entrepreneurshipOvercoming fear and uncertaintyCombating imposter syndromeAnd much, much more!“There was some level of high net freedom that was appealing to me of just being on my own.”Episode ResourcesJenny's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Daily Creative we are joined by Jenny Wood, author of Wild Courage and former executive at Google. We delve into the concept of mediocrity and how many bright creatives can inadvertently settle for less due to fear and external pressures. Jenny shares her transformative subway moment that led her to embrace "wild courage" and how she has applied this principle to various aspects of her life and work. We discuss the importance of taking action despite fears, and Jenny introduces us to her unique approach to courage, highlighting traits such as being "healthily manipulative" to enhance influence and success.Jenny also explains the idea of "woo with you," a technique to build relationships through empathy and valuing others, while staying rooted in ethical practices. We explore how courage isn't about eliminating fear, but progressing despite it, focusing on subtle yet determined actions that lead to significant change. Jenny emphasizes rejecting imposter syndrome and owning one's strengths proudly. Her book, Wild Courage, encourages readers to pursue their goals with deliberate, courageous steps that defy conventional expectations.Key learnings from this episode:Mediocrity often happens in small increments of settling, driven by fear disguised as wisdom.Wild courage involves taking calculated risks and acting even when fear is present.Influence can be cultivated through empathy and valuing others, embracing a mindset of healthy manipulation.True courage isn't about bravado; it's small, consistent progress toward meaningful goals.Embracing one's strengths and rejecting imposter syndrome is crucial for professional and personal growth.Get full interviews and daily content in the Daily Creative app at DailyCreative.app.

Have you ever winced at the thought that someone else might label you as weird, selfish, or wreckless?  Today's guest Jenny Wood, a former Google Executive, career coach, and author of the new book (released today!), “Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It,” wants you to be courageous and run towards these labels rather than away from them.  We discuss details of her new book including the 9 traits, three mentioned above, which can act as a deterrent to going after what we want as well as some useful tips on how we can flip the script and make them a positive instead of a negative. Guest's Website: Jenny Wood | Home Purchase Jenny's new book via our affiliate link: Amazon.com: Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It: 9780593717646: Wood, Jenny: Books TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you ever felt weird?  Did it stop you from taking action? Which of the words discussed most resonates with making you feel uncomfortable?  Following the episode do you look at that particular connotation differently? What is something you really want, but haven't had the wild courage to go after yet?   Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.    Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com  and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.  

Kelly gets courageous with former Google executive Jenny Wood to talk about her new book, “Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It.”  “Wild courage will change your life.”  “Serendipity isn't found; it's made.”  “Success mindset precedes success.” 

Jenny Wood is a former Google Executive and the author of Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It. In this episode, Jenny shares her inspiring journey of launching the groundbreaking "Own Your Career" initiative at Google, a movement that empowered thousands of employees to take charge of their professional paths. During the conversation, Jenny shares some key career advice from the book including, including redefining traits like courage, influence, and authenticity to advance in a competitive workplace. Jenny also shares practical strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome, navigating office dynamics, and standing out through bold actions. LinksWebsite: https://itsjennywood.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennyilles/Book: https://itsjennywood.com/book

In today's episode, we're joined by Jenny Wood—career coach, former Google executive, and author of Wild Courage. Over 18 years at Google, Jenny rose from entry-level to executive and created one of the company's largest career development programs. Her work focuses on breaking the myths of professional success and teaching high performers how to reclaim “taboo” traits—like being shameless, weird, or even manipulative—to build authentic relationships, increase visibility, and take control of their careers. Introduction Join us for a bold and insightful conversation with Jenny Wood as she reveals why playing it safe is holding you back—and how to reclaim traits like weird, shameless, and even manipulative to fuel career growth. Jenny shares hard-earned lessons from her rise to executive at Google, the power of strategic visibility, and why soft skills are your ultimate edge in the AI era. What to Listen For Introduction – 00:00:00 What separates high performers who rise from those who stagnate in their careers? What soft skills do tens of thousands of high performers crave—despite excelling technically? Visibility, Influence, and Strategic Self-Promotion – 00:05:21 Why managing your boss isn't enough—and what it means to “manage higher” and “manage diagonally” How to get noticed before a promotion cycle even begins. What's the right way to brag—and how do you do it without sounding arrogant? Reclaiming “Taboo” Traits – 00:17:31 What are the nine negative traits Jenny says you must reclaim—and why are they the key to getting ahead? How do bold, assertive actions (like chasing someone off a subway) illustrate professional courage? Why being manipulative might actually make you a better leader Frameworks That Help You Win – 00:34:27 How to use the “WIN” framework to advocate for your needs without guilt Why saying “yes” to everything might be sabotaging your career What is the “SAFE” framework for giving clear, kind, and honest feedback? Is It Time to Leave? – 00:48:01 What's the FLIP framework—and how can it help you decide whether to stay or go? How to know when your manager is holding you back—and when it's time to make your move A Word From Our Sponsors Tired of awkward handshakes and collecting business cards without building real connections? Dive into our Free Social Capital Networking Masterclass. Learn practical strategies to make your interactions meaningful and boost your confidence in any social situation. Sign up for free at theartofcharm.com/sc and elevate your networking from awkward to awesome. Don't miss out on a network of opportunities! Unleash the power of covert networking to infiltrate high-value circles and build a 7-figure network in just 90 days. Ready to start? Check out our CIA-proven guide to networking like a spy! Indulge in affordable luxury with Quince—where high-end essentials meet unbeatable prices. Upgrade your wardrobe today at quince.com/charm for free shipping and hassle-free returns. Ready to turn your business idea into reality? Shopify makes it easy to start, scale, and succeed—whether you're launching a side hustle or building the next big brand. Sign up for your $1/month trial at shopify.com/charm. Need to hire top talent—fast? Skip the waiting game and get more qualified applicants with Indeed. Claim your $75 Sponsored Job Credit now at Indeed.com/charm. Curious about your influence level?  Get your Influence Index Score today! Take this 60-second quiz to find out how your influence stacks up against top performers at theartofcharm.com/influence. Resources from this Episode Jenny Wood's website Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It Jenny Wood on LinkedIn Check in with AJ and Johnny! AJ on LinkedIn Johnny on LinkedIn AJ on Instagram Johnny on Instagram The Art of Charm on Instagram The Art of Charm on YouTube The Art of Charm on TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Want to pitch yourself with confidence? Want to become better at sales, or just selling yourself? You must learn to be shameless. That's the advice from Jenny Wood, former Google executive and author of the new book Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It. In this episode, she teaches you how and why to embrace shamelessness.

Jenny Wood is a former Google executive who ran a large operations team that helped drive billions of advertising revenue a year. And she also created one of the largest career development programs in Google's history. Jenny is also the author of the book, Wild Courage. In this episode we discuss the following: I love Jenny's advice to be shameless: have the courage to stand behind our efforts and abilities. And go after what we want. What a great example of shamelessness when Jenny chased her husband-to-be off the subway to give him her business card. In the workplace, it's hard to be noticed if we don't stand out. But many of us default to not self-promoting enough. Yet as a manager at Google, Jenny loved getting a shameless Monday morning email from a small number of her direct reports who told her what they had accomplished and what they were going to do next.    Connect on Social Media: X: https://twitter.com/nate_meikle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natemeikle/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nate_meikle/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nate.meikle

Getting what you want isn't just about setting goals—it's about taking risks, embracing fear, and stepping into uncertainty with courage. It requires trusting yourself, being okay with setbacks, and pushing forward even when people don't understand or support you. Today's guest, Jenny Wood, has built a career helping people go after what they want boldly and unapologetically. A former Google executive, career strategist, and author of Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It, Jenny founded Own Your Career, one of Google's largest career development programs. Her insights on personal growth, leadership, and career success have been featured in Harvard Business Review, Entrepreneur, Inc., The New York Times, and Forbes. She's here to talk about what it really takes to stop waiting and start getting what you want. In This Episode, We Cover:  ✅ The 9 power traits that help you take action and achieve your goals ✅ How to build wild courage and make bold moves in your career and life ✅ Overcoming fear, self-doubt, and external resistance ✅ Why overthinking keeps you stuck—and how to break free ✅ The mindset shifts that turn aspirations into reality You don't need permission—just a decision. Say YES to the things that matter, say NO to what doesn't, and keep moving forward. The magic happens in the messy, uncertain, doubt-filled space where fear tells you to stop—so go there anyway. Connect with Jenny Wood:  Website: https://itsjennywood.com/  Book: https://itsjennywood.com/book  Sign Up For Jenny's Newsletter: https://itsjennywood.com/newsletter  Free Downloadable Resources: https://itsjennywood.com/free  Related Podcast Episodes: How To Cultivate Audacity with Anne Marie Anderson | 276 How To Build Courage with Dr. Margie Warrell | 273 How To Chase Your Dream with Broadway's Mandy Gonzalez | 281 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

Go to www.LearningLeader.com for full show notes     Notes: Serendipity isn't found. It's made. Make your own luck. The best leaders create serendipity for their teams. A success mindset precedes success. From Jenny - In 2011, I was single and living in New York City. I spotted an attractive guy across the train from me. I wanted to talk to him, but I was too nervous. Then he got off the train. She met her future husband by chasing after him off a train in NYC. "I was letting life pass me by." She used some wild courage to approach him.  What sits between you and the thing you want is fear. Who are your dynamic dozen? The 12 people you need to meet. Monday mini-festo. In 15 minutes, write the 2 things you did last week that you're proud of. Write 2 things you're excited about for this upcoming week. Focus on doing the work that helps the company be better. Solve problems. Read the VP email. Know your stuff. Get to know your boss's boss. Do it the right way by talking with your boss. Jenny's career at Google - First 11 years in sales, Go To Market, Operations. Own your Career project. She got 2,000 people to come to her first training. Used all resources within the company to do it. Use "for example." Don't speak in generalities.  Role, Objective, Impact - ROI At work, say no to the small. Don't reply all to the Happy Birthday emails. Don't do the NAP work. NAP stands for “Not Actually Promotable” Work. Sign up for the projects that help make your company better. Carlye Kosiak is one of their best hires at Google. She had the courage to stand out. She was specific. Her resume indicated interest in “recipe tasting in pursuit of the perfect oatmeal raisin cookie." Personality popped off the page. She was weird, reckless, nosy, obsessed, brutal. Must be yourself. Don't just be weird to play a role. Goal Setting framework - Rock, Chalk, Talk, Walk. Jenny's goal is to sell 15,000 books by the end of week 1 and hit the NY Times best seller list.  If you sell 12,000 copies in week 1, how will you feel? "You ask such great questions." Don't play it cool.  Play it hot. Don't decide to fit in. Stand out. Watermark your work. Put your name and picture on the deck. Let people know you made it. Lady Gaga – A group of students at NYU created a Facebook group called “Stefani Germanotta, you will never be famous." Have the courage to stand behind your work. Lady Gaga wanted to be a big star. Life and Career Advice - Performance reviews - Focus 75% of your time on your strengths. Say yes to 75% of the things asked of you. Start sentences with "YOU" instead of "I" - Focus on them. Build influence thru empathy.

How can moms feel empowered to make progress towards their personal and professional goals? Jenny Wood, author of the new book WILD COURAGE, offers tips for applying courage in your daily life, balancing personal ambitions with family responsibilities, and setting healthy boundaries. In her 18 years at Google, Jenny Wood grew from entry-level to executive. Jenny's writing has been featured in Harvard Business Review, Entrepreneur, Inc., and Forbes.  Jenny and Margaret discuss: The nine negative adjectives women are often labeled as and how Jenny flips them in her book How to differentiate between the "truths" and the "tales" you tell yourself about a situation The very small ways you can start to exhibit courage in your everyday life Here's where you can find Jenny: www.itsjennywood.com @itsjennywood on IG and @jennyilles on LinkedIn Buy WILD COURAGE: https://bookshop.org/a/12099/9780593717646 We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on our website: https://www.whatfreshhellpodcast.com/p/promo-codes/ What Fresh Hell is co-hosted by Margaret Ables and Amy Wilson. mom friends, funny moms, parenting advice, parenting experts, parenting tips, mothers, families, parenting skills, parenting strategies, parenting styles, busy moms, self-help for moms, manage kid's behavior, teenager, tween, child development, family activities, family fun, parent child relationship, decluttering, kid-friendly, invisible workload, default parent,

In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, we're joined by Jenny Wood, a former Google executive turned keynote speaker, author, and career development expert. Her bold moves, like chasing her now-husband off a subway and launching one of Google's largest career programs, are just the beginning of what makes her story remarkable.Topics Covered:The Subway Meet-Cute: How Jenny's bold decision to chase down a stranger changed her life.Building a Career at Google: From entry-level to executive leadership and founding Own Your Career.The Power of Micro-Moments: How small, courageous actions like following up with a VP can lead to big results.Wild Courage Defined: Practical tips for navigating fear, taking risks, and owning your choices.The Pencil Sharpener Technique: Why sharing a rough project draft within 24 hours can transform your workplace reputation.Not Actually Promotable (NAP) Work: How to say no to tasks that don't move your career forward.The ROCK-CHALK-TALK-WALK Framework: A powerful goal-setting tool to help you identify and achieve your dreams.Key Takeaways:Courage doesn't have to look like chasing a man off a subway—it's often found in micro-moments.Bias to action is one of the most underrated workplace superpowers.Stop doing “NAP” work and start saying yes to tasks that make a measurable impact on your career.Naming your goals, saying them out loud, and taking consistent steps (no matter how small) is the key to success.Links and Resources:Connect with Jenny: itsjennywood.comPreorder her book: Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get ItSpeaking and workshops: itsjennywood.com/speakingBUY THE BOOK - Glass Ceilings and Sticky FloorsBe a Book Launch Insider!!!My FREE 5x5 Starter Kit for LinkedInFREE WEEKLY SUCCESS PLANNERJoin our Facebook Group! Find me on InstagramCheck out our PINS on PinterestAnd YES - I'm on TikTok!

Former Google Executive Jenny Wood joins Patty McCord and Jessica Neal on this week's episode to dive into the fears, ambitions and pitfalls of getting the career you want. Find out more about her book, Wild Courage, here. Do you have an ongoing work issue you need guidance solving? Or maybe you want to know how Patty and Jess would have dealt with a past problem. Share your stories and questions with our producers here.TruthWorks is hosted by Jessica Neal and Patty McCord. The show is edited, mixed and produced by Megan Hayward. Our Production Manager is Kathleen Speckert. TruthWorks is an editaudio production.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, we welcome Jenny Wood, a former Google executive, founder of Own Your Career, and author of Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It. Jenny shares powerful insights into overcoming fear, taking bold risks, and navigating personal and professional growth with courage. In this conversation, we explore: The Courage to Overcome Fear: Jenny opens up about how fear, in various forms, often holds us back from achieving our goals and how Wild Courage provides a practical roadmap to take action despite that fear. Reclaiming "Negative" Traits: Jenny discusses how traditionally negative traits like being "selfish" or "shameless" can actually be powerful tools for personal empowerment when reframed positively. Taking Action Despite Uncertainty: We dive into how fear of failure can paralyze us, and Jenny shares her journey of making bold career decisions, including leaving Google to become a writer and keynote speaker. The Power of Bold Decisions and Risk-Taking: Jenny explains the concept of "reckless courage" and how making decisions quickly and confidently, even when outcomes are uncertain, can lead to powerful growth and learning. Saying "No" and Setting Boundaries: Jenny offers practical advice on how to protect your time, energy, and priorities by saying "no" to small distractions and focusing on what truly matters. Jenny's insights on courage, fear, and bold action are sure to inspire anyone feeling stuck or uncertain about their next step. If you've ever struggled with self-doubt or fear of judgment, this episode provides actionable steps to help you take charge of your life. Learn more about Jenny and her book Wild Courage at JennyWood.com. Connect with Erik: LinkedIn  Facebook  Bluesky This Podcast is Powered By: Descript Descript 101 Castmagic Ecamm Podpage Rodecaster Pro Top Productivity Books List Make sure to support the show by checking out the sponsors! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former Google executive Jenny Wood reveals how traits we're often told to suppress - like being weird, shameless, or obsessive - can become unexpected superpowers for success in her new book "Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It." Through stories like chasing her future husband off a NYC subway and leading billion-dollar operations, Jenny shows how embracing these characteristics unlocks extraordinary potential in work, relationships, and life.You can find Jenny at: Website | Instagram | Episode TranscriptIf you LOVED this episode you'll also love the conversations we had with Dan Pink about experiencing regret.Check out our offerings & partners: Join My New Writing Project: Awake at the WheelVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.