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Stacking Your Team | Leadership Advisor for Women Entrepreneurs

Stacking Your Team | Leadership Advisor for Women Entrepreneurs
Author: Shelli L. Warren
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Stacking Your Team © 2025
Description
As a woman who owns a small business, you've realized you can't do it all yourself. You need a team, but not just any team. It's time you surround yourself with people who are happy to work alongside you.
Fans of the podcast know they are set to secure the longevity of their business with the practical strategies, systems, tools, and tough people conversations you'll learn how to apply directly into your growing small business.
Hosted by Shelli Warren, your Team and Leadership Coach, with decades of experience leading people in multiple organizations, including a Fortune 50 corporation, she teaches you each week to expand your leadership capability.
Fans of the podcast know they are set to secure the longevity of their business with the practical strategies, systems, tools, and tough people conversations you'll learn how to apply directly into your growing small business.
Hosted by Shelli Warren, your Team and Leadership Coach, with decades of experience leading people in multiple organizations, including a Fortune 50 corporation, she teaches you each week to expand your leadership capability.
375 Episodes
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Ever wonder why your team always seems to be scrambling, missing deadlines, or operating in a constant state of overdrive? This episode is all about the toughest leadership skills—PACE. I share practical strategies for teaching your team when to push harder and when to slow down, how to map energy, and the importance of recovery time after big deadlines. Click here to save your seat for the holiday workshop on Tuesday, October 14. Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Free Resources: Click here to grab our NEWEST resource that guides you through a firing framework that protects your culture and your credibility. Check out more free resources here. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
In today’s episode, I’m sharing the five biggest mistakes I keep seeing leaders make over and over again. Don’t worry, this isn’t about shaming you! I want to help you see what’s really holding you back and show you how to make changes that will save you time, energy, money, and credibility. You’ll hear stories from my own clients (yes, real examples) and I’ll walk you through the lessons they learned, often the hard way, and the practical steps you can take so you don’t repeat the same mistakes. If you’ve ever felt frustrated by the people side of your business, or like you’re stuck in a cycle you just can’t break out of, you’re definitely in the right place. Click here to save your seat for the holiday workshop on Tuesday, October 14. Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Free Resources: Click here to grab our NEWEST resource that guides you through a firing framework that protects your culture and your credibility. Check out more free resources here. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
What really happens if you skip holiday planning as a business leader? You risk burnout, team drama, and missed family moments. On today’s Stacking Your Team Podcast, I share real client stories and a simple three-part plan that helps you prepare your business, your team, and yourself for the holiday rush while protecting your peace and wellbeing. Ready to do things differently this season? Join our Sleigh the Season workshop and walk away with a plan that sets you up for a holiday you can be proud of. Click here to save your seat for the holiday workshop. Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Free Resources: Click here to grab our NEWEST resource that guides you through a firing framework that protects your culture and your credibility. Check out more free resources here. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
Wrapping up your internship season? Remember, your role is to help interns grow, so don’t shy away from honest, constructive feedback, even when it’s tough. In today’s episode, I share my three-part framework to deliver feedback with clarity and care: recognize what they did well, clearly state where they struggled, and give practical tips for their next steps. Paid internships, thoughtful coaching, and real talk are the keys to building your talent pipeline and brand. Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Free Resources: Click here to grab our NEWEST resource that guides you through a firing framework that protects your culture and your credibility. Check out more free resources here. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
Are you tired of hiring based on resumes and getting burned by team members who just don’t fit your culture? In this episode, I reveal why attitude matters more than skill when building a powerhouse team. I’ll share the secret "backstory resume" you need to look for, real client mistakes to avoid, and four must-ask interview questions to finally find the right people. Stop betting on hope, start hiring with confidence, and protect everything you’ve built. Grab your free resource Proceed with Caution! Tips to Identify Red Flags in Your Role Applicants Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Resources: Click here to grab our NEWEST resource that guides you through a firing framework that protects your culture and your credibility. Check out more free resources here. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
Today, I want to talk about something that is far more than a “nice to have” in your business, and that’s your team’s happiness. Let’s get real: a happy team isn’t just about good vibes, it’s a genuine driver of productivity, retention, and even client satisfaction. And here’s the good news: you don’t need a Google-sized budget or over-the-top perks to make a memorable impact. In this episode, I’ll be sharing five powerful and practical ways you can improve team happiness right now without breaking the bank. We’re not talking about surface-level perks, but real strategies that change how your team feels about showing up for work every day. I’ll also be sharing stories from small business owners, just like you, who made simple, human changes that left their teams feeling valued, trusted, and energized. Grab your copy of 12 Ways to Motivate Your Team Without a Pay Raise. Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Resources: Click here to grab our NEWEST resource that guides you through a firing framework that protects your culture and your credibility. Check out more free resources here. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
Ever wonder if your office is secretly sabotaging your productivity? In this episode, I’m sharing exactly how I set up my office to fuel my focus, protect my boundaries, and reflect my leadership style. I'm taking you behind the scenes into the simple shifts and personal essentials that transformed my workspace (after years of trial, error, and even a few office flops!). Whether you’re in a home office, a shared space, or a downtown suite, there’s something here for you. I’m also sharing stories and inspiration from some incredible women leaders and designers, plus actionable ideas (BIG and small) that you can implement right now, whether you’re working from home, a shared studio, or that dreamy corner office. Episode Links: Jenni Egger Designs Z Domus Designs Vitalia Inc. Children’s Choice Pediatric Dentistry Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Resources: Click here to grab our NEWEST resource that guides you through a firing framework that protects your culture and your credibility. Check out more free resources here. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
Have you ever been burned by a team member who lied, stole, or took advantage of your trust? On today’s episode of the Stacking Your Team Podcast, I break down why integrity matters more than ever when hiring for your small business. I share powerful interview questions designed to reveal hidden character traits, so you can protect your business, your team, and your peace of mind. Don’t just trust your gut, ask the right questions and build a team you can count on. Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Free Resources: Click here to grab our NEWEST resource that guides you through a firing framework that protects your culture and your credibility. Check out more free resources here. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
Get ready to be inspired! In this episode, I sat down with my client Rose Zefferino of Z Domus Designs, a powerhouse leader who grew from solo entrepreneur with a two-room studio to leading a team of ten and moving into a stunning new 5,000 square foot space. Rose shares what it really takes to scale a business, empower your team, and become the kind of leader who nurtures both growth and creativity. If you're ready to level up your business and leadership game, this episode is a must-listen! Connect with Rose Zefferino: Instagram LinkedIn Website Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Free Resources: Click here to grab our NEWEST resource that guides you through a firing framework that protects your culture and your credibility. Check out more free resources here. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
Have you ever promoted someone who was amazing in their job, only to watch them flounder in a leadership role? I’ve seen the heartbreak (and the headaches) that come from putting the wrong person in charge, and I want to help you avoid this costly mistake. Join me as I unpack why high performance doesn’t always equal leadership success, share real-life stories of promotions gone wrong, and offer practical strategies to spot the warning signs early. I’ll walk you through how to have compassionate, honest conversations and what to do if you need to make a leadership course correction, without burning bridges. Plus, I have a free resource to help you quickly determine if your next potential leader is truly ready for the responsibility! Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Free Resources: Click here to grab our free tool designed to help you spot your leaders. Check out more free resources here. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
Feeling overwhelmed by your team’s constant questions and daily interruptions? In this episode I unpack why your team still relies on you for every decision, even after you’ve trained them, and how this cycle holds your business back. The real issue isn’t your leadership; it’s the lack of a true leadership team and clear ownership. If you want to finally reclaim your focus, stop micromanaging, and build a team that moves forward without you, it’s time to trade burnout for bold leadership. Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Confidence Starts Here: Get the Ask Shelli scripts to know what to say and how to say it. Get Your Free Resource: Click here to grab the podcast companion workbook to use with our most popular episodes. Click here to get the guide on positioning your role as their next best career move. Click here to get our list of red flags to watch for during interviews. Click here for 12 ways to motivate your team without a pay raise. Click here to access essential coaching questions for impactful 1:1 meetings. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
Today I’m speaking to those of you leading teams who are always on the move. Whether your team is out in the field, on the shop floor, behind the wheel, or on their feet keeping things running, you know deskless leadership calls for a unique set of skills and resources that go beyond typical leadership advice. In this episode, I’m sharing the most essential support tools that I’ve seen truly make a difference for deskless teams. I’ll walk you through practical strategies to keep your mobile and frontline team members connected, recognized, and supported, no matter where their work takes them. Drawing from my experience in both retail and manufacturing, I’ll cover the real-world challenges these teams face, from missed updates to feeling invisible, and how we as leaders can bridge those gaps. Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Confidence Starts Here: Get the Ask Shelli scripts to know what to say and how to say it. Get Your Free Resource: Click here to grab the podcast companion workbook to use with our most popular episodes. Click here to get the guide on positioning your role as their next best career move. Click here to get our list of red flags to watch for during interviews. Click here for 12 ways to motivate your team without a pay raise. Click here to access essential coaching questions for impactful 1:1 meetings. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
Ever feel like your team meetings are draining productivity instead of fueling it? In this episode, I break down the biggest meeting mistakes like missing agendas, unclear ownership, overcrowded rooms, and lacklustre kickoffs, and give you simple, actionable fixes. Start making your meetings momentum builders, not momentum killers, and watch your team thrive! Register here for the free workshop Managing vs Leading on Tuesday, July 22. Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Confidence Starts Here: Get the Ask Shelli scripts to know what to say and how to say it. Get Your Free Resource: Click here to grab the podcast companion workbook to use with our most popular episodes. Click here to get the guide on positioning your role as their next best career move. Click here to get our list of red flags to watch for during interviews. Click here for 12 ways to motivate your team without a pay raise. Click here to access essential coaching questions for impactful 1:1 meetings. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
This episode shines a light on the small, easily overlooked habits that can quietly sabotage your credibility as a leader; habits I’ll admit I’ve been guilty of myself. Join me as I walk you through some of the most common mistakes, like leaving a video call before your team, skipping those all-important human moments, or only showing up when things go wrong. I’ll share not just why these behaviors erode trust, but exactly what you can do instead to boost connection and professionalism in your business. Register here for the free workshop Managing vs Leading on Tuesday, July 22. 🎧 Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Confidence Starts Here: Get the Ask Shelli scripts to know what to say and how to say it. Get Your Free Resource: Click here to grab the podcast companion workbook to use with our most popular episodes. Click here to get the guide on positioning your role as their next best career move. Click here to get our list of red flags to watch for during interviews. Click here for 12 ways to motivate your team without a pay raise. Click here to access essential coaching questions for impactful 1:1 meetings. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
Are you still hiring assistants and managers? It’s time to rethink your org chart! In this episode, I shared the newest role titles making waves in small businesses, like Digital Lead Generator, Client Success Strategist, and AI Integration Specialist. These aren’t just flashy names, they’re about hiring for impact, not just tasks. If you want your business to scale and your team to truly thrive, it’s time to hire for results and start building out those roles that will actually drive growth. Ready to make your business future-ready? 🎧 Click here to grab the podcast companion workbook to use with our most popular episodes. Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Confidence Starts Here: Get the Ask Shelli scripts to know what to say and how to say it. Get Your Free Resource: Click here to get the guide on positioning your role as their next best career move. Click here to get our list of red flags to watch for during interviews. Click here for 12 ways to motivate your team without a pay raise. Click here to access essential coaching questions for impactful 1:1 meetings. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
Ever felt sick to your stomach just thinking about firing someone? In this episode of the Stacking Your Team Podcast, I’m digging deep into why letting someone go feels so hard, and how you can turn guilt into empowered, and grounded leadership. I’m sharing the real reasons firing is the hottest topic in my Leadership Lab, plus the hard truths we don’t talk about enough, like protecting your energy, your best team members, and the future of your business. Listen in and walk away with permission to lead with clarity and courage. Sometimes, the best leadership move is letting go, for everyone’s sake. Hit play and let’s stack your confidence, one tough decision at a time! 🎧 Click here to grab the podcast companion workbook to use with our most popular episodes. Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Confidence Starts Here: Get the Ask Shelli scripts to know what to say and how to say it. Get Your Free Resource: Click here to get the guide on positioning your role as their next best career move. Click here to get our list of red flags to watch for during interviews. Click here for 12 ways to motivate your team without a pay raise. Click here to access essential coaching questions for impactful 1:1 meetings. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
Let’s face it, losing your job is rarely about one single mistake. It’s almost always the result of avoidable patterns and tendencies that build up over time. Whether you’re a business owner struggling with a tough decision, a leader wanting to strengthen your team, or someone just trying to stay off the chopping block, I’m here to give you the real talk with no fluff, just the straight facts. I’m sharing the top five reasons people get fired, helping you spot the early warning signs, and offering practical strategies for both leaders and team members to turn things around before it’s too late. Through my own experience, after firing more people than I care to count, I’ve learned what leads to these decisions and, more importantly, how to prevent them whenever possible. Get ready to build your confidence, become a stronger leader, and protect your career (or your team’s culture). Click here to grab the podcast companion workbook to use with our most popular episodes. Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Confidence Starts Here: Get the Ask Shelli scripts to know what to say and how to say it. Get Your Free Resource: Click here to get the guide on positioning your role as their next best career move. Click here to get our list of red flags to watch for during interviews. Click here for 12 ways to motivate your team without a pay raise. Click here to access essential coaching questions for impactful 1:1 meetings. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
In this short special bonus episode of the Stacking Your Team Podcast, I’m sharing all the unforgettable moments from a recent trip to Buffalo, New York, a free bra, a reminder of why women must celebrate their wins, and some personal reflections from our latest Leadership Lab retreat. From toasting a client’s 20th business anniversary in style to witnessing the magic that unfolds when women come together in person, I’ll reveal why these live events truly are game changers for business leaders like us. You’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories, the powerful connections made at our intimate Leadership Lab retreat, and why I believe now is absolutely the time to join our next round. If you’re ready to stop managing chaos, lead with more confidence, and build a team you can truly trust, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in because leadership is about celebrating loudly, supporting each other, and stepping boldly into the next chapter of your business. APPLY for the Leadership Lab GET THE PODCAST COMPANION GUIDE full of reflective questions designed to help you be a more effective leader. Connect with Rosanna Berardi: Website LinkedIn Instagram The Buffalo Club: Website Maple and Rose, Merrickville: Website C'est Tout Bakery & Bistro: Instagram Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
Today, we’re tackling a topic that just about every leader, including me, has struggled with: micromanaging. If you’ve ever thought, “It’s faster if I just do it myself,” or caught yourself hovering a little too close over your team’s work, you’re not alone. Sometimes, micromanaging isn’t as obvious as we think, but it always slows us down and keeps us stuck in the weeds. In this episode, I’ll help you recognize the subtle signs that you might be micromanaging, even if you don’t realize you’re doing it. I’ll dig into what’s really behind those habits, like the fear of mistakes or feeling guilty about letting go, and share practical strategies you can start using today to move from micromanaging to truly mentoring your team. I’ll also give you tools to empower your team, clarify your expectations, and provide the kind of support that grows leaders without all the second-guessing and double-checking. So if you’re ready to create a high-performing team and reclaim your time as a leader, join me as we make the shift from managing every detail to building real trust and momentum in your business. Click here to grab the podcast companion workbook to use with our most popular episodes. Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Confidence Starts Here: Get the Ask Shelli scripts to know what to say and how to say it. Get Your Free Resource: Click here to get the guide on positioning your role as their next best career move. Click here to get our list of red flags to watch for during interviews. Click here for 12 ways to motivate your team without a pay raise. Click here to access essential coaching questions for impactful 1:1 meetings. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter
If you want a real look into what it takes to lead a team in an emotionally charged, high-stakes industry, you’ll love this episode. I had the pleasure of chatting with Courtney Bullard, CEO of ICS Institutional Compliance Solutions and one of my longtime clients. Courtney opens up about leading her team through the complex world of Title IX compliance, not just the challenges, but the heart and empathy it demands every single day. We dig into the biggest misconceptions about her work, the realities of supporting a team in tough situations, and what it means to evolve as a leader as your business scales quickly. Courtney shares her own lessons learned, from letting go of control to investing in professional development for herself and her team. If you’re a leader navigating both business growth and complexity, this episode is packed with relatable insights and actionable tips. I’d love for you to listen to our honest, encouraging conversation! Connect with Courtney Bullard: Website Instagram Youtube LinkedIn Work with Shelli Warren: Book a call with Shelli to talk about how coaching can help you elevate your leadership capability. Apply to join the Leadership Lab. Confidence Starts Here: Get the Ask Shelli scripts to know what to say and how to say it. Get Your Free Resource: Click here to get the guide on positioning your role as their next best career move. Click here to get our list of red flags to watch for during interviews. Click here for 12 ways to motivate your team without a pay raise. Click here to access essential coaching questions for impactful 1:1 meetings. Connect with Shelli Warren: Email: leader@stackingyourteam.com Instagram LinkedIn Subscribe to the Stacking Your Team Newsletter