It's not you... but sometimes it is

The uncomfortable reality of leadership no one talks about… high performers often become the biggest bottleneck in their own success. In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Belen Tokarski , President and COO of Mylo, dismantles the outdated leadership myth that being decisive and driven automatically makes you a great leader. From toxic high performance habits to broken team dynamics, this episode exposes the hidden truth behind scaling teams, emotional intelligence, and why most leaders unknowingly kill innovation inside their own organizations.With over 25 years in insurance and insurtech leadership, Belen Tokarskibrings hard earned insights on leadership development, company culture, and building high performance teams that actually work in today’s business environment.If you care about business growth, leadership mindset, team performance, or scaling a company in today’s competitive landscape, this conversation delivers practical, real world insights you can apply immediately.What you’ll learn◼️ 00:00 The broken system behind high performance leadership◼️ 03:10 Why most leaders fail at driving change in teams◼️ 07:25 Culture vs strategy and the hidden growth killer◼️ 12:40 The uncomfortable truth about bad leadership habits◼️ 18:05 Emotional intelligence and self awareness in leadership◼️ 24:30 How leaders bring negative energy into teams without realizing◼️ 29:15 Practical ways to build trust and accountability in teams◼️ 35:20 Why leaders must stop controlling and start coaching◼️ 41:10 Creating high performance teams with high support◼️ 47:00 Career growth, risk taking, and leadership mindset shiftsWe hope you enjoy this episode with Belen Tokarski.Connect with Belen Tokarski on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/belen-tokarski-937308/If this conversation sparked something for you, like, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss future episodes.— MegConnect with Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megpoag/Or via email: meg@missionsquared.comVisit the Mission Squared website here: https://missionsquared.com/Listen to It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is!, on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sXianujhOPcs1C4mKiFjvApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is/id1785669837Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f9f9031d-74d9-4a65-9dc3-3aa34ef9fde8/it's-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is#leadershippodcast #teammanagement #resilientleadership #workplacecommunication #managertraining #emotionalintelligence #conflictresolution #leadershipdevelopment #teambuilding #authenticleadership #professionalgrowth #organizationalculture #leadershipchallenges #managerlife #leadwithpurposeIt’s Not You (But Sometimes It Is!), hosted by Meg Poag, is the go-to podcast for managers, team leads, and emerging leaders navigating real-world workplace dynamics. Each episode features honest conversations with experienced professionals on leadership challenges—from building resilient teams and fostering authentic connections to managing change, enhancing communication, and balancing ambition with well-being. Whether you’re steering through conflict, scaling a team, or seeking clarity in your leadership style, Meg brings actionable strategies, personal stories, and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and compassion.

The uncomfortable truth about leadership growth is that the biggest barrier is often the leader themselves. In this candid and insightful conversation, Bridgette Ferraro, CEO of iCopy Legal, pulls back the curtain on the hidden challenges of scaling companies, leading through hyper growth, and confronting the ego traps that quietly derail leaders. From the myth of doing everything yourself to the emotional intelligence required to build strong teams, Bridgette shares the raw lessons most executives only learn the hard way.What you’ll get to explore in this episode:◼️ 0:00 – Introduction: Leadership, Growth & Change with Bridget Ferraro◼️ 2:00 – Bridget’s Career Path: From Nonprofit to CEO of iCopyLegal◼️ 6:00 – Leading Through Hypergrowth: Why Pace Matters◼️ 11:00 – Culture vs Strategy: The Real Driver of Business Success◼️ 16:00 – Hiring Lessons: Culture Fit vs High-Skill Talent◼️ 20:00 – Bad Bosses & Self-Awareness in Leadership◼️ 25:00 – Emotional Intelligence: The #1 Leadership Skill◼️ 31:00 – Delegation: Letting Go of Control as a CEO◼️ 38:00 – Building Autonomous Leadership Teams (RACI Framework)◼️ 55:00 – Advice to Her Younger Self & Final Leadership TakeawaysIf you’re a founder, CEO, executive leader, startup operator, or entrepreneur managing growth and team dynamics, this conversation offers practical leadership insights that will resonate.Connect with Bridgette Ferraro on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridgette-ferraro-94a7773b/If this conversation sparked something for you, like, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss future episodes.— MegConnect with Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megpoag/Or via email: meg@missionsquared.comVisit the Mission Squared website here: https://missionsquared.com/Listen to It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is!, on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sXianujhOPcs1C4mKiFjvApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is/id1785669837Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f9f9031d-74d9-4a65-9dc3-3aa34ef9fde8/it's-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is#leadershippodcast #teammanagement #resilientleadership #workplacecommunication #managertraining #emotionalintelligence #conflictresolution #leadershipdevelopment #teambuilding #authenticleadership #professionalgrowth #organizationalculture #leadershipchallenges #managerlife #leadwithpurposeIt’s Not You (But Sometimes It Is!), hosted by Meg Poag, is the go-to podcast for managers, team leads, and emerging leaders navigating real-world workplace dynamics. Each episode features honest conversations with experienced professionals on leadership challenges—from building resilient teams and fostering authentic connections to managing change, enhancing communication, and balancing ambition with well-being. Whether you’re steering through conflict, scaling a team, or seeking clarity in your leadership style, Meg brings actionable strategies, personal stories, and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and compassion.

The banking industry talks about growth, systems, and scale but almost no one talks about the uncomfortable reality of leadership at the top. The hidden truth? Scaling responsibly in financial services is less about strategy decks and more about emotional intelligence, courage, and compassion. In a sector often labeled conservative and transactional, this episode challenges outdated leadership myths and exposes what actually drives sustainable growth in modern finance.In this powerful conversation, Stephanie Walker, Chief Operations Officer at Georgia United Credit Union, shares her 24 year journey inside the credit union industry and what it really takes to lead at the C suite level.◼️ Why compassion is a competitive advantage in financial services◼️ How low emotional intelligence quietly erodes team trust and results◼️ The danger of outsourcing your confidence as a senior leader◼️ Why culture multiplies force more than strategy alone◼️ Lessons from bad bosses and the power of self awareness◼️ How to separate influence from control to lead with clarityAs a seasoned COO in Atlanta, Stephanie oversees operational strategy, process redesign, automation, digital transformation, fraud prevention, and scalable member experience. But her biggest leadership breakthrough was not technical. It was personal.0:00 Introduction2:45 Stephanie’s Career Journey in Credit Unions7:30 Leading Change with Compassion14:50 Letting Go of People-Pleasing20:30 Culture That Drives Performance26:45 Lessons from Bad Leadership32:10 Emotional Intelligence in Action38:40 Growth Mindset & Executive Coaching45:20 Advice to Her Younger Self49:30 Final TakeawaysWe hope you enjoy this episode with Stephanie Walker.Connect with Stephanie Walker on LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stephaniezulegerwalker/If this conversation sparked something for you, like, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss future episodes.— MegConnect with Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megpoag/Or via email: meg@missionsquared.comVisit the Mission Squared website here: https://missionsquared.com/Listen to It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is!, on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sXianujhOPcs1C4mKiFjvApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is/id1785669837Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f9f9031d-74d9-4a65-9dc3-3aa34ef9fde8/it's-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is#leadershippodcast #teammanagement #resilientleadership #workplacecommunication #managertraining #emotionalintelligence #conflictresolution #leadershipdevelopment #teambuilding #authenticleadership #professionalgrowth #organizationalculture #leadershipchallenges #managerlife #leadwithpurposeIt’s Not You (But Sometimes It Is!), hosted by Meg Poag, is the go-to podcast for managers, team leads, and emerging leaders navigating real-world workplace dynamics. Each episode features honest conversations with experienced professionals on leadership challenges—from building resilient teams and fostering authentic connections to managing change, enhancing communication, and balancing ambition with well-being. Whether you’re steering through conflict, scaling a team, or seeking clarity in your leadership style, Meg brings actionable strategies, personal stories, and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and compassion.

Step inside the mind of Erin Stadler, COO at Boomtown Innovation, in this electrifying episode of It's Not You, But Sometimes It Is! From tech developer to C-suite powerhouse, Erin reveals the psychology behind leadership, why teams resist change, and how to turn organisational disruption into innovation gold. Packed with humour, authenticity, and actionable insights, this episode is a masterclass in modern leadership!In this episode, you’ll discover:◼️ The human side of organisational change – why people resist and how to inspire adoption◼️ Lessons from leading remote and cross-functional teams during challenging times◼️ How to identify and navigate dysfunctional leadership patterns effectively◼️ Strategies to foster innovation while keeping teams aligned and motivated◼️ Erin’s journey from software developer to COO and her top leadership lessons◼️ Turning discomfort and tension into catalysts for action and transformation◼️ Insights on merging technology, innovation, and organisational culture for lasting impactThis episode is more than theory, it’s battle-tested advice from someone who’s navigated the highs and lows of C-suite leadership. Learn how to implement agile practices, handle resistance, and ignite innovation across any organization.💡 Stay tuned until the end for Erin’s top advice on trusting your instincts, embracing your unique strengths, and thriving in high-impact leadership roles. Essential wisdom for leaders ready to take action and elevate their influence!Connect with Erin Stadler on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinstadler/If this conversation sparked something for you, like, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss future episodes.— MegConnect with Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megpoag/Or via email: meg@missionsquared.comVisit the Mission Squared website here: https://missionsquared.com/Listen to It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is!, on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sXianujhOPcs1C4mKiFjvApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is/id1785669837Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f9f9031d-74d9-4a65-9dc3-3aa34ef9fde8/it's-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is#leadershippodcast #teammanagement #resilientleadership #workplacecommunication #managertraining #emotionalintelligence #conflictresolution #leadershipdevelopment #teambuilding #authenticleadership #professionalgrowth #organizationalculture #leadershipchallenges #managerlife #leadwithpurposeIt’s Not You (But Sometimes It Is!), hosted by Meg Poag, is the go-to podcast for managers, team leads, and emerging leaders navigating real-world workplace dynamics. Each episode features honest conversations with experienced professionals on leadership challenges—from building resilient teams and fostering authentic connections to managing change, enhancing communication, and balancing ambition with well-being. Whether you’re steering through conflict, scaling a team, or seeking clarity in your leadership style, Meg brings actionable strategies, personal stories, and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and compassion.

In this candid, energizing conversation, Karen Wicker a serial entrepreneur, former PR agency founder, board member, and communications strategist ,shares hard-won leadership wisdom from a career built in the trenches. From starting her first business at 15 to scaling and selling a high-growth marketing communications agency, Karen offers real, unfiltered insights on people, culture, and what it truly takes to lead well.This episode of It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is! dives into the messy human side of leadership like hiring mistakes, bad boss moments, emotional intelligence gaps, and the identity shift that comes after selling a business. Karen speaks openly about building no-drama cultures, hiring for grit over CVs, and why ego and low EQ quietly destroy teams and reputations.If you’re a UK-based founder, CEO, senior leader, consultant, or female entrepreneur navigating growth, culture challenges, or career reinvention, this conversation will resonate deeply.What you’ll learn◼️ Why hiring for curiosity, grit, and cultural fit beats experience alone◼️ How low emotional intelligence impacts team performance and client trust◼️ Lessons from scaling, selling, and stepping away from a founder identity◼️ The truth about bad bosses — and whether they’re actually fixable◼️ How to build flat, high-trust cultures that get work done◼️ Why mentorship, reinvention, and self-awareness matter at senior levelsAbout Karen Wicker-Serial Entrepreneur & Founder, CANDOR Former PR & Marketing Communications Agency Owner (Scaled & Sold)Board Member & Leadership AdvisorExpert in reputation management, culture, and executive communicationsAdvocate for emotionally intelligent, people-first leadershipWe hope you enjoy this episode with Karen Wicker.Connect with Karen Wicker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-wicker-61b8bb8/If this conversation sparked something for you, like, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss future episodes.— MegConnect with Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megpoag/Or via email: meg@missionsquared.comVisit the Mission Squared website here: https://missionsquared.com/Listen to It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is!, on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sXianujhOPcs1C4mKiFjvApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is/id1785669837Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f9f9031d-74d9-4a65-9dc3-3aa34ef9fde8/it's-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is#leadershippodcast #teammanagement #resilientleadership #workplacecommunication #managertraining #emotionalintelligence #conflictresolution #leadershipdevelopment #teambuilding #authenticleadership #professionalgrowth #organizationalculture #leadershipchallenges #managerlife #leadwithpurposeIt’s Not You (But Sometimes It Is!), hosted by Meg Poag, is the go-to podcast for managers, team leads, and emerging leaders navigating real-world workplace dynamics. Each episode features honest conversations with experienced professionals on leadership challenges—from building resilient teams and fostering authentic connections to managing change, enhancing communication, and balancing ambition with well-being. Whether you’re steering through conflict, scaling a team, or seeking clarity in your leadership style, Meg brings actionable strategies, personal stories, and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and compassion.

In this candid, insightful conversation, Andrea Vinyard - veteran Air Force officer, COO, and founder of The Vinyard Group - shares lessons from decades of senior leadership across military, healthcare, and corporate sectors. We dive deep into conscious leadership, navigating change, building trust, and stepping into your most intentional self.If you’ve ever wondered how to lead with curiosity, rebuild culture, or evolve your leadership style for long-term impact—you’re in the right place.What you’ll learn◼️ How conscious leadership transforms decision-making, culture, and team momentum◼️ The importance of emotional intelligence in managing stress, conflict, and change◼️ Strategies to rebuild trust and empower autonomy within teams◼️ Lessons from high-stakes military and corporate environments on leading through uncertainty◼️ How to shift from “doer” to strategic partner while maintaining influence and impactAbout Andrea Vinyard - Founder, The Vinyard Group: coaching, facilitation, and executive retreats for high-performing leaders Former Senior Executive & COO: Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Signa Medical Group, Optum Behavioral Health Veteran: 22 years active-duty Air Force, Medical Service Corps Officer Leader, mentor, and advocate for conscious, values-driven leadershipWe hope you enjoy this episode with Andrea Vinyard.Connect with Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreavinyard/I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss an episode!- MegConnect with Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megpoag/Or via email: meg@missionsquared.comVisit the Mission Squared website here: https://missionsquared.com/Listen to It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is! on these podcast platforms:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sXianujhOPcs1C4mKiFjvApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is/id1785669837Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f9f9031d-74d9-4a65-9dc3-3aa34ef9fde8/it's-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is#leadershippodcast #teammanagement #resilientleadership #workplacecommunication #managertraining #emotionalintelligence #conflictresolution #leadershipdevelopment #teambuilding #authenticleadership #professionalgrowth #organizationalculture #leadershipchallenges #managerlife #leadwithpurposeIt’s Not You (But Sometimes It Is!), hosted by Meg Poag, is the go-to podcast for managers, team leads, and emerging leaders navigating real-world workplace dynamics. Each episode features honest conversations with experienced professionals on leadership challenges—from building resilient teams and fostering authentic connections to managing change, enhancing communication, and balancing ambition with well-being. Whether you’re steering through conflict, scaling a team, or seeking clarity in your leadership style, Meg brings actionable strategies, personal stories, and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and compassion.

In this episode, host Meg sits down with Themis Gomes, an engineer-turned-executive and entrepreneur with one of the most globally diverse career journeys you’ll hear on the podcast. From aerospace engineering to startups, global leadership roles, and ultimately becoming CEO and board member of BeHaven Kids in Nebraska, Themis shares hard-earned lessons on leadership, culture, and the people side of business.The conversation explores how to engineer the human side of business—designing strong structures, processes, and cultures that create momentum, accountability, and motivated teams. Themis speaks candidly about vulnerability, decision-making under uncertainty, navigating leadership as a woman, and the realities of scaling people-first organisations in complex industries like healthcare.We hope you enjoy this episode with Themis Gomes . Connect with  Themis Gomes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themisgomes/I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss an episode!- Meg

We sit down with Sabrina Bailey, CEO of Fiducian Advisors, to uncover her journey from a young professional in financial services to a top executive. Sabrina shares her secrets to rapid career growth, overcoming workplace bias, and leading with purpose and impact.✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:♦ How to navigate a non-linear career path and leapfrog into leadership♦ The “people-first” approach that drives team performance and innovation♦ Strategies for handling toxic work cultures and turning setbacks into growth♦ Mastering feedback as a superpower for personal and professional development♦ Balancing conviction, openness, and authenticity in executive leadership♦ Mentorship lessons that accelerate your career and influenceWhether you’re an aspiring CEO, finance professional, or business leader, Sabrina’s insights reveal practical ways to excel in high-pressure environments, unlock potential in your team, and lead with clarity and joy.We hope you enjoy this episode with Sabrina Bailey. Connect with Sabrina Bailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrina-bailey-change-agent/I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss an episode!- Meg

In this episode of It’s Not You, But Sometimes It Is, executive coach Meg sits down with Fran Maier — Silicon Valley pioneer, co-founder of Match.com, and CEO & Founder of BabyQuip. Fran brings three decades of leadership in tech, marketplaces, and scaling female-led companies in male-dominated environments.From building Match.com in the Wild West of the early internet to scaling BabyQuip into the world’s leading baby-gear rental marketplace, Fran opens up about sexism in tech, overcoming boardroom battles, rebuilding after failure, and the deep personal growth required to lead with authenticity. Her insights are raw, real, and immediately usable.Key Insights You’ll Learn♦ How Fran built BabyQuip into a profitable global marketplace with 3000+ providers♦ What really happened behind the scenes at Match.com — and the costly lesson that changed her career♦ The hidden biases female founders face and how to counter them with confidence♦ Why personal growth, stillness, and self-awareness are leadership superpowers♦ How to navigate toxic cultures, board conflicts, and co-founder misalignment♦ How motherhood, authenticity, and vulnerability shaped Fran’s leadership♦ The truth about fundraising as a woman in tech — and what investors really look for♦ Fran’s hard-won lessons for younger founders, especially women in male-dominated industriesIf you’re a travelling family, investor, or marketplace enthusiast, explore BabyQuip’s services and current growth opportunities. Follow Fran’s journey, support the BabyQuip mission, and stay connected with one of the most influential women in the tech and startup ecosystem.What you’ll learnWe hope you enjoy this episode with Fran Maier. Connect with Fran Maier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franmaier/I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss an episode!- Meg

In this episode of It’s Not You, But Sometimes It Is, Kelly Lazuka gets brutally honest about the messy reality of leadership—bad bosses, culture problems, tough calls, and the moment she almost walked away from the C-suite entirely.Kelly, now the CEO of Fullerton, opens up about the hard lessons, the surprising victories, and the leadership principles she swears by today. This one is packed with wisdom, humility, and some seriously relatable “Oh wow… same” moments.✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode-How a CEO reframes a major crisis and protects her team-The hidden tension between people and profitability—and how to balance it-How culture actually eats strategy for breakfast (with real examples)-Why bonuses, incentives, and accountability can make or break collaboration-The difference between great leadership and ego-driven leadership-Lessons learned from bad bosses—and how they shaped Kelly’s leadership brandWhat it really takes to transform a siloed, drama-filled culture into a high-performing oneAbout -we explore what it really takes to lead through crisis—especially when chaos hits faster than expected. She opens up about stepping into a major leadership role, only to face unexpected operational and cultural turbulence within the first three months.You’ll hear her reflect on rebuilding trust, stabilizing teams, making tough calls under pressure, and guiding an organization through a high-stakes turnaround. This episode dives into her mindset, her decision-making framework, and the leadership habits that helped her rise above the chaos and steer the company forward.We hope you enjoy this episode with Kelly Lazuka. Connect with Kelly Lazuka on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-lazuka/I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss an episode!- Meg

We sit down with Kelly Rakowski, CEO of American Health Staffing Group, based in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. With more than 30 years in healthcare leadership across consulting, BPO, technology, and workforce solutions, Kelly has navigated industries in crisis, teams in transition, and cultures in need of reinvention.This conversation goes deep. Kelly opens up about leading through COVID’s chaos, the emotional weight of losing top performers, fixing cultural friction points, and the mindset shifts required to grow from a high-achieving contributor into a truly impactful executive. If you’ve ever struggled with team disengagement, culture drift, burnout on your leadership bench, or your own voice in crisis—this episode will hit home.✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode-How to lead in high-stress, high-change environments without losing clarity, humanity, or your team’s trust.-What really happens inside companies during crises—burnout, attrition, fear, and how leaders can stabilize culture.-Why “grit” isn’t always good and how Kelly reframed her company’s identity as it scaled.-Practical ways to shape culture intentionally instead of letting the loudest person define it.-Kelly’s biggest leadership mistake—why she held onto people too long and what she learned about courage and timing.-How great leaders manage their own fear so they can show up strong for others.-When command-and-control leadership works—and when it destroys teams.About -In this candid, thoughtful conversation, Kelly reveals the behind-the-scenes reality of running a company during one of the most volatile periods in healthcare history. She talks openly about scaling teams overnight, dealing with post-COVID disengagement, and rebuilding culture from the inside out.You’ll hear real stories about difficult people dynamics, cultural rewrites, leaders behaving badly, and the emotional complexity of being the person everyone looks to when everything feels uncertain.Meg and Kelly also explore the human side of leadership—imposter moments, the desire to be liked, the courage to make tough calls, and the pivotal role a strong HR partner plays during chaos. It’s raw, honest, and packed with insights you can use today.We hope you enjoy this episode with Kelly . Connect with Kelly Rakowski on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-rakowski/I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss an episode!- Meg

Stepping into leadership isn’t always a moment of celebration. Sometimes, it begins with a conflict you didn’t expect, pressure you didn’t ask for, or a role you never imagined would be yours. In this episode, Rhonda Levine now the CEO of Ziosk—shares the kind of leadership journey that doesn’t start in a boardroom, but in the messy, human moments where confidence is tested, courage is born, and emotional intelligence becomes a non-negotiable skill.Rhonda takes us behind the curtain of her transition from CPA to tech CEO, revealing how saying yes to unfamiliar opportunities, even terrifying ones, shaped her entire path. As she recounts lessons learned from early mentors, the reality of facing bullies in professional settings, and the pivotal moments where she had to choose between staying silent or stepping up, she paints a vivid picture of what modern leadership really demands.What You’ll Learn in This Episode-How to lead with high emotional intelligence-Why confidence and self-belief matter more than credentials-The truth about managing conflict, difficult people, and bullies-How to build a healthy team culture in times of change-Career pivots: saying yes before you're ready-What makes a great modern leader in 2025-How non-tech leaders can thrive in tech rolesAbout This conversation goes deep into what leadership really looks like today—from EQ-driven communication to having the courage to make bold decisions. Rhonda also shares honest stories about times she doubted herself, moments of growth, and the mindset that helped her rise to the top of a tech company.If you want practical tools for leading better—this one is for you.We hope you enjoy this episode with Rhonda Levine. Connect with Rhonda Levine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonda-levene-445451/I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss an episode!- MegConnect with Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megpoag/Or via email: meg@missionsquared.comVisit the Mission Squared website here: https://missionsquared.com/Listen to It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is!, on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sXianujhOPcs1C4mKiFjvApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is/id1785669837Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f9f9031d-74d9-4a65-9dc3-3aa34ef9fde8/it's-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is

Today we welcome Angelica Arceneaux, Chief Operating Officer at SAENZ-GARCIA LAW, PLLCConnect with Angelica on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelica-arceneaux-22538b/ Connect with Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megpoag/Or via email: meg@missionsquared.comVisit the Mission Squared website here: https://missionsquared.com/Listen to It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is!, on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sXianujhOPcs1C4mKiFjvApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is/id1785669837Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f9f9031d-74d9-4a65-9dc3-3aa34ef9fde8/it's-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is#leadershippodcast #teammanagement #resilientleadership #workplacecommunication #managertraining #emotionalintelligence #conflictresolution #leadershipdevelopment #teambuilding #authenticleadership #professionalgrowth #organizationalculture #leadershipchallenges #managerlife #leadwithpurposeIt’s Not You (But Sometimes It Is!), hosted by Meg Poag, is the go-to podcast for managers, team leads, and emerging leaders navigating real-world workplace dynamics. Each episode features honest conversations with experienced professionals on leadership challenges—from building resilient teams and fostering authentic connections to managing change, enhancing communication, and balancing ambition with well-being. Whether you’re steering through conflict, scaling a team, or seeking clarity in your leadership style, Meg brings actionable strategies, personal stories, and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and compassion.

I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss an episode!- MegConnect with Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megpoag/Or via email: meg@missionsquared.comVisit the Mission Squared website here: https://missionsquared.com/Listen to It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is!, on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sXianujhOPcs1C4mKiFjvApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is/id1785669837Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f9f9031d-74d9-4a65-9dc3-3aa34ef9fde8/it's-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is#leadershippodcast #teammanagement #resilientleadership #workplacecommunication #managertraining #emotionalintelligence #conflictresolution #leadershipdevelopment #teambuilding #authenticleadership #professionalgrowth #organizationalculture #leadershipchallenges #managerlife #leadwithpurposeIt’s Not You (But Sometimes It Is!), hosted by Meg Poag, is the go-to podcast for managers, team leads, and emerging leaders navigating real-world workplace dynamics. Each episode features honest conversations with experienced professionals on leadership challenges—from building resilient teams and fostering authentic connections to managing change, enhancing communication, and balancing ambition with well-being. Whether you’re steering through conflict, scaling a team, or seeking clarity in your leadership style, Meg brings actionable strategies, personal stories, and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and compassion.

We hope you enjoy this episode with Leslie Randall. Connect with Leslie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslierandall/I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss an episode!- MegConnect with Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megpoag/Or via email: meg@missionsquared.comVisit the Mission Squared website here: https://mission-squared.com/Listen to It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is!, on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sXianujhOPcs1C4mKiFjvApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is/id1785669837Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f9f9031d-74d9-4a65-9dc3-3aa34ef9fde8/it's-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is#leadershippodcast #teammanagement #resilientleadership #workplacecommunication #managertraining #emotionalintelligence #conflictresolution #leadershipdevelopment #teambuilding #authenticleadership #professionalgrowth #organizationalculture #leadershipchallenges #managerlife #leadwithpurposeIt’s Not You (But Sometimes It Is!), hosted by Meg Poag, is the go-to podcast for managers, team leads, and emerging leaders navigating real-world workplace dynamics. Each episode features honest conversations with experienced professionals on leadership challenges—from building resilient teams and fostering authentic connections to managing change, enhancing communication, and balancing ambition with well-being. Whether you’re steering through conflict, scaling a team, or seeking clarity in your leadership style, Meg brings actionable strategies, personal stories, and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and compassion.

We hope you enjoy this episode with Allison Rabin. Connect with Allison on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-rabin/I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss an episode!- MegConnect with Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megpoag/Or via email: meg@missionsquared.comVisit the Mission Squared website here: https://mission-squared.com/Listen to It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is!, on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sXianujhOPcs1C4mKiFjvApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is/id1785669837Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f9f9031d-74d9-4a65-9dc3-3aa34ef9fde8/it's-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is#leadershippodcast #teammanagement #resilientleadership #workplacecommunication #managertraining #emotionalintelligence #conflictresolution #leadershipdevelopment #teambuilding #authenticleadership #professionalgrowth #organizationalculture #leadershipchallenges #managerlife #leadwithpurposeIt’s Not You (But Sometimes It Is!), hosted by Meg Poag, is the go-to podcast for managers, team leads, and emerging leaders navigating real-world workplace dynamics. Each episode features honest conversations with experienced professionals on leadership challenges—from building resilient teams and fostering authentic connections to managing change, enhancing communication, and balancing ambition with well-being. Whether you’re steering through conflict, scaling a team, or seeking clarity in your leadership style, Meg brings actionable strategies, personal stories, and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and compassion.

We hope you enjoy this episode with Julianne Jones. I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss an episode!- MegConnect with Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megpoag/Or via email: meg@missionsquared.comVisit the Mission Squared website here: https://mission-squared.com/Listen to It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is!, on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sXianujhOPcs1C4mKiFjvApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is/id1785669837Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f9f9031d-74d9-4a65-9dc3-3aa34ef9fde8/it's-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is#leadershippodcast #teammanagement #resilientleadership #workplacecommunication #managertraining #emotionalintelligence #conflictresolution #leadershipdevelopment #teambuilding #authenticleadership #professionalgrowth #organizationalculture #leadershipchallenges #managerlife #leadwithpurposeIt’s Not You (But Sometimes It Is!), hosted by Meg Poag, is the go-to podcast for managers, team leads, and emerging leaders navigating real-world workplace dynamics. Each episode features honest conversations with experienced professionals on leadership challenges—from building resilient teams and fostering authentic connections to managing change, enhancing communication, and balancing ambition with well-being. Whether you’re steering through conflict, scaling a team, or seeking clarity in your leadership style, Meg brings actionable strategies, personal stories, and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and compassion.

We hope you enjoy this episode with Kayla Carey. Connect with Kayla Carey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaylacarey/I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss an episode!- MegConnect with Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megpoag/Or via email: meg@missionsquared.comVisit the Mission Squared website here: https://mission-squared.com/Listen to It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is!, on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sXianujhOPcs1C4mKiFjvApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is/id1785669837Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f9f9031d-74d9-4a65-9dc3-3aa34ef9fde8/it's-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is#leadershippodcast #teammanagement #resilientleadership #workplacecommunication #managertraining #emotionalintelligence #conflictresolution #leadershipdevelopment #teambuilding #authenticleadership #professionalgrowth #organizationalculture #leadershipchallenges #managerlife #leadwithpurposeIt’s Not You (But Sometimes It Is!), hosted by Meg Poag, is the go-to podcast for managers, team leads, and emerging leaders navigating real-world workplace dynamics. Each episode features honest conversations with experienced professionals on leadership challenges—from building resilient teams and fostering authentic connections to managing change, enhancing communication, and balancing ambition with well-being. Whether you’re steering through conflict, scaling a team, or seeking clarity in your leadership style, Meg brings actionable strategies, personal stories, and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and compassion.

What happens when you go from saying "Ew, I don’t want to manage people…” to leading a high-growth tech company as Chief Operating Officer?In this raw, insightful, and relatable episode of It’s Not You, But Sometimes It Is, Serena Schultz (COO at Mogli, Colorado-based Salesforce ISV) shares her unexpected journey from social work dreams to tech exec reality. Serena opens up about leadership missteps, managing burnout, what it really takes to build high-performing teams, and learning to let go of being the hero.We talk about:Navigating fast-paced growth and leadership identity crisesOwning failure and asking for help (even when it’s hard)Why alignment beats expertise—and culture eats strategy for breakfastHow to shift from "fixer" to "partner" in team dynamicsReleasing ego and leading with humilityIf you’ve ever felt like leadership is more about survival than strategy—this one’s for you. 🎙️🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more honest conversations with real leaders doing hard things.#LeadershipPodcast #WomenInTech #COOJourney #StartupLife #RealTalkLeadership #ItsNotYouButSometimesItIsConnect with Serena on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/serenaschultz/I hope you enjoyed this episode. Like and subscribe to never miss an episode!- MegConnect with Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megpoag/Or via email: meg@missionsquared.comVisit the Mission Squared website here: https://missionsquared.com/Listen to It’s Not You… But Sometimes It Is!, on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sXianujhOPcs1C4mKiFjvApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is/id1785669837Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f9f9031d-74d9-4a65-9dc3-3aa34ef9fde8/it's-not-you-but-sometimes-it-is#leadershippodcast #teammanagement #resilientleadership #workplacecommunication #managertraining #emotionalintelligence #conflictresolution #leadershipdevelopment #teambuilding #authenticleadership #professionalgrowth #organizationalculture #leadershipchallenges #managerlife #leadwithpurposeIt’s Not You (But Sometimes It Is!), hosted by Meg Poag, is the go-to podcast for managers, team leads, and emerging leaders navigating real-world workplace dynamics. Each episode features honest conversations with experienced professionals on leadership challenges—from building resilient teams and fostering authentic connections to managing change, enhancing communication, and balancing ambition with well-being. Whether you’re steering through conflict, scaling a team, or seeking clarity in your leadership style, Meg brings actionable strategies, personal stories, and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and compassion.

We hope you enjoyed this episode with Bonnie Thompson. Connect with Bonnie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonniejthompson/#Leadership #WomenInBanking #CareerGrowth #FrontierBankOfTexas #ItsNotYouButSometimesItIs #BankingIndustry #WomenInLeadership #GrowthMindset