The Leadership Story Podcast

In this conversation, Jenna Muñiz shares her journey from a challenging childhood marked by trauma to becoming a licensed professional counselor and business owner. She discusses the impact of her upbringing on her understanding of leadership, the importance of vulnerability in both her personal and professional life, and how her experiences shape her parenting. Jenna emphasizes the significance of empathy, resilience, and the transformative power of acknowledging one’s own vulnerabilities in the healing process.Key Topics We Explore* Jenna’s childhood experiences shaped her understanding of leadership.* She found purpose in her pain and used it to help others.* Empathy is a crucial skill developed through her experiences.* Parenting is a reflection of one’s own vulnerabilities.* Vulnerability is essential for effective leadership.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Jenna Muniz01:55 Childhood and Early Leadership Experiences05:49 Finding Purpose in Pain08:55 Becoming a Therapist and Specializing in Trauma11:56 Lessons from Mentorship and Leadership14:33 Starting a New Practice17:25 Parenting Through a Lens of Trauma21:21 Vulnerability in Leadership24:58 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsConnect with Jenna🌐Check the website: Echoes and Embers TherapyConnect with the Leadership Story📖 Subscribe on Substack: leadershipstory.substack.com💼 Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones-mbcp-mbci-57872823📱 Follow on Instagram: @theleadershipstoryReferencesBecky Kennedy: The Single Most Important Parenting StrategyBrene Brown Parenting Manifesto: The Wholehearted Parenting Manifesto - Brené Brown This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Twelve years. That’s how long it took Kiersten Talbert to pass her funeral director’s licensing exam. Most people would have quit. She didn’t.In this powerful conversation, Kiersten shares her journey from struggling through 12 years of licensing attempts to becoming one of the youngest first-generation funeral home owners in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. She opens up about learning the business in heels and a pocketbook, the personal losses that fueled her determination, and the divine guidance that led her to build her own chapel instead of someone else’s brand.This is a story about faith, persistence, and the courage to bring your authentic self—rhinestones and all—to an industry that doesn’t always expect it. When asked for one word to describe her leadership story, Kiersten’s answer says it all: Consistent.Key Topics We Explore* The 12-year journey to passing the national funeral director boards and what finally made the difference* Learning funeral service from a female director who insisted on doing it all, in heels* How personal loss and a colleague’s question became the catalyst for finally getting licensed* The moment Kiersten decided to build her own business instead of someone else’s brand* Starting a funeral home from scratch with no loans, the real obstacles of entrepreneurship* Breaking barriers as a young, first-generation funeral home owner in Montgomery County, PA* How prayer, fasting, and faith guide business decisions in a practical, difficult industry* Creating comfort for families through authentic presence and signature style* Why consistency, not perfection, is the real key to leadershipChapters00:00 Introduction01:28 Educational Journey and Career Start05:48 Apprenticeship Experience10:31 Overcoming Personal and Professional Challenges17:38 Starting Her Own Funeral Home21:31 Business Challenges and Vision25:40 Incorporating Personal Style and Faith27:04 Legacy and LeadershipConnect with Kiersten:🌐Check the website: Kiersten M. Talbert Funeral Chapel📱Follow on Instagram: @kmtalbertfuneralchapel📔Follow on Facebook: Kiersten M Talbert Funeral Chapel, Inc☑️Follow on TikTok: KMTalbert Funeral ChapelConnect with the Leadership Story📖 Subscribe on Substack: leadershipstory.substack.com💼 Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones-mbcp-mbci-57872823📱 Follow on Instagram: @theleadershipstorySubscribe, rate, and review The Leadership Story wherever you listen to podcasts. Your reviews help other women find these conversations. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

In this conversation, Lisa Jones interviews Emily Vizcaino, exploring her journey through leadership, resilience, and the challenges of balancing work and family life. Emily shares her experiences in business continuity, the impact of personal crises, and the importance of mentorship and empathy in leadership. The discussion highlights the significance of resilience in navigating both professional and personal challenges, emphasizing that while one may not always see the entire path ahead, taking small steps can lead to meaningful progress. Key Topics We Explore:00:00 Introduction to Emily Vizcaino04:14 Emily's Journey into Business Continuity06:55 Transitioning from Public to Private Sector09:53 Consulting Experience and Industry Exposure12:44 The Challenges of Client Education15:26 Balancing Career and Family Life18:07 Supportive Work Environment and Flexibility20:54 Mentorship and Growth in Consulting25:47 Building a Supportive Team Environment27:07 Navigating Family Challenges During COVID29:15 Coping with a Child's Illness33:00 The Journey of Resilience35:55 Leadership Lessons from Personal Experience42:25 Defining Leadership Through ResilienceContact with EmilyLinkedIn: Emily VizcainoConnect with the Leadership Story📖 Subscribe on Substack: leadershipstory.substack.com💼 Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones-mbcp-mbci-57872823📱 Follow on Instagram: @theleadershipstorySubscribe to The Leadership Story wherever you get your podcasts and join our Substack community for early access to episodes, exclusive content, and resources for your leadership journey. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Episode DescriptionGen X mom Melissa Muñiz and Gen Z daughter Annalicia Russell sit down for an honest conversation about career, identity, and what happens when one generation clears a path for the next. From negotiating salaries without apology to redefining what work means in your life, this special episode explores how daughters learned from watching mothers do it scared and decided to do it differently.Key Topics We ExploreWhy Gen Z negotiate salaries from day one while Gen X waited decades to find that confidenceHow career became identity for one generation while the next keeps work as just one part of lifeThe "yes woman" syndrome and learning when saying no is actually saying yes to yourselfWhat happened when COVID forced everyone to question if their career sacrifices were worth itWhy representation matters: How watching strong women shapes the next generation's confidenceThe database project moment: Knowing your strengths vs proving you can do everythingDoing it scared so your daughters can do it confidentChapters00:00 Introduction to Generational Perspectives02:40 Negotiating Salary: A Generational Shift06:17 Understanding Self-Worth in Careers11:33 The Influence of Strong Female Role Models18:36 Defining Career vs. Identity26:17 Impact of COVID-19 on Career Perspectives33:29 The Pressure to Say Yes in the Workplace34:27 The Struggle for Self-Advocacy36:07 Knowing Your Strengths37:27 The Importance of Self-Awareness41:44 Finding the Balance: Yes vs. No47:53 Lessons from Our Mothers51:45 Hopes for the Next Generation58:23 Defining Leadership: Energetic vs. Beginning01:02:32 Embracing Fear in LeadershipConnect with Our GuestsMelissa MuñizLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melissamuñiz-resilienceAnnalicia RussellLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annaliciacarlsonConnect with The Leadership Story📖 Subscribe on Substack: leadershipstory.substack.com💼 Follow on LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones-mbcp-mbci-57872823📱 Follow on Instagram: @theleadershipstorySubscribe to The Leadership Story wherever you get your podcasts and join our Substack community for early access to episodes, exclusive content, and resources for your leadership journey. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

EPISODE DESCRIPTIONStop making two separate goal lists.Your health goals and your career goals aren't separate pursuits, they're the same conversation. And the reason you're not hitting those professional milestones might have nothing to do with your skills and everything to do with the fact that you're running on empty.In this episode, I sit down with Elethia S. Gay, Global Training Manager, National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach, and founder of Hiking for Hope, to talk about why self-care isn't separate from your leadership strategy. It IS your leadership strategy.We explore why "being in love with yourself" is strategic not selfish, why rest is a leadership superpower, and how to pick ONE thing to start with instead of seven resolutions you'll abandon by February.If you're burnt out, exhausted, and wondering why you can't seem to reach the next level, this conversation is for you.Key Topics We Explore- The Wellness Journey Begins- From Personal Transformation to Hiking for Hope- The Problem with Two Lists- Self-Care as Strategy- The Practical Approach- Rest as Leadership Strategy- Spirituality and Surrender- The Courage to LeadChapters00:00 - Introduction: The Two Lists Problem02:11 - Meet Elethia: From Birthday Party to Leadership Conversations03:31 - The Wellness Journey: Mom's Cancer Battle & Tony Little08:16 - The Spin Class Moment: "Why Not You?"11:01 - Roots to Wellness: Creating Space for Self-Expression14:18 - Hiking for Hope: From Tragedy to Healing Mission19:12 - Your Body Is One Member: Why Self-Care Gets Skipped24:05 - Practical Integration: Start With ONE Thing29:01 - Rest, Spirituality & Surrender: The Foundation of Leadership34:00 - The Signature Question: COURAGE34:51 - Connect With Elethia & ClosingConnect with ElethiaInstagram: @elethiagayWebsite: elethiagay.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elethiagaycoachBook a Wellness Discovery Call: elethiagay.comElethia offers wellness coaching, personal training, and transformative programs that help you integrate self-care with professional success.Roots to Wellness Journal: https://a.co/d/2zQoXENConnect with Lisa:Website: leadershipstory.substack.comEmail: leadershipstory@substack.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones-mbcp-mbci-57872823 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

What do you get when you cross a career in visual art with one in strategic transformation?In this episode, Lisa sits down with her sister friend of 15 years, Lee Anna Will, an artist, consultant, and leadership facilitator who’s mastered something most people say is impossible: being both creative AND strategic.Lee Anna started as a high school art teacher in Baltimore and today advises C-suite executives on large-scale transformation initiatives. But here’s what makes her journey so compelling, she never left the art behind. Lee Anna shares how the same process she uses to create a painting is exactly what she uses to lead transformation projects. She reveals what teaching 38 teenagers taught her about executive leadership, the story behind her painting “Follow Your Heart Home,” and why she gave herself permission to bring her whole self to work.If you’ve ever felt like you had to choose between different parts of yourself to be an effective leader, this conversation will change how you think about your leadership journey.Key Topics we explore:- The Art of Translation - From Classroom to C-Suite- Permission to Be Whole- Redefining Creativity in Leadership- The Anchor and Compass PhilosophyChapters00:00 Bridging Art and Strategy11:53 The Journey from Teaching to Business22:10 Fostering Creativity in Leadership31:16 - Authenticity and Collaboration in LeadershipConnect with Lee Anna:Instagram: @WillPowerDesignsEtsy: WillPowerDesigns - Etsy - Check out “Follow Your Heart Home” and more of Lee Anna’s artworkLinkedIn: Lee Anna Will - Transformation PMPConnect with Lisa JonesWebsite: leadershipstory.substack.comEmail: leadershipstory@substack.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

In this conversation, Tara Jones shares her unique career journey from aspiring physician to leading resilience programs and consulting. She discusses the importance of soft skills, mentorship, and the pivotal moments that shaped her path. Tara emphasizes the value of authenticity in leadership and the necessity of trusting one’s instincts when considering career changes. Her insights provide a roadmap for those looking to pivot in their careers, highlighting the interplay between preparation, opportunity, and the support of others.Key topics explored:* Tara’s journey illustrates the importance of mentorship in career development.* Soft skills are crucial for success in any field, especially consulting.* Trusting your instincts can lead to significant career changes.* Authenticity in leadership fosters trust and productivity among team members.* Career pivots can be driven by personal circumstances and opportunities.* Networking and community support are vital for professional growth.* Preparation and opportunity are key to achieving success.* Resilience practitioners must also apply risk management principles to their own careers.* Leadership is about supporting and trusting your team, not micromanaging.* Embracing change can lead to unexpected and rewarding career paths.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tara Jones and Her Journey04:28 From Pre-Med to PhD: A Shift in Career Path08:53 Transitioning to Business Continuity14:58 Navigating the Early Days in Consulting18:58 The Importance of Mentorship and Soft Skills19:47 The Journey of Mentorship and Learning21:04 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship23:35 Exploring Different Sectors25:45 Building a Consulting Business27:30 The Importance of Trust in Leadership30:05 Authenticity in Leadership34:05 Navigating Career Changes36:47 Defining Leadership Through LuckConnect with Tara Jones:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tara-jones-329b138QS Consulting: QS Consulting | Quodammodo Solutions, LLCEmail: tjones@qshcc.comACP Hampton Roads Association of Continuity Professionals - VA: Hampton Roads (Virginia)Connect with Lisa JonesWebsite: leadershipstory.substack.comEmail: leadershipstory@substack.comAbout The Leadership Story: Hosted by Lisa Jones, MBCP, MBCI. Real Women, Real Leadership, Real Resilience! Honest conversations about what leadership really looks like.Subscribe to our Substack community for early access and exclusive resources. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

EP2: Finding your Authentic Leadership (April Renner)What does it take to find your authentic leadership voice? How do you keep showing up as a leader when your personal life is in transition?In this powerful episode, April Renner, real about navigating the shift from financial services to construction, finding her voice in rooms where she's often the only woman, and leading through personal challenges including divorce and single parenthood. Through candid conversation, she shares how those difficult seasons didn't derail her career - they shaped her into a more authentic, empathetic, and effective leader.Key topics we explore:Finding your authentic voice across different industries and culturesWorking your way up without a traditional path (and going back to school as an adult)Navigating personal challenges while advancing your careerThe resilience required to keep moving forward when everything feels overwhelmingHow personal struggles become leadership strengthsWhether you're working in a male-dominated field, navigating your own personal challenges, or wondering if you can really have it all, April's story will remind you that you're stronger than you think and your challenges are preparing you for something greater.Real women, Real Leadership, Real Resilience!Chapters00:00 Navigating Authenticity in Career Transitions02:37 Mentorship and Leadership in Male-Dominated Fields05:16 Embracing Change: From Finance to Construction07:59 Curiosity and Compassion in Leadership11:01 Work-Life Integration in the Resilience Industry13:56 Balancing Education and Career17:07 Finding Your Voice Through Education24:30 Navigating Leadership and Education28:04 Personal Challenges and Professional Growth37:21 Vulnerability in Leadership39:43 The Essence of ResilienceConnect with April Renner:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aprilrennerConnect with Lisa:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-jones-cbcp-mbci-57872823Website: leadershipstory.substack.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

SummaryIn this episode of The Leadership Story, Lisa Jones introduces the podcast's mission to share authentic stories of women in leadership, emphasizing resilience and the importance of overcoming adversity. She reflects on her own journey from being an administrative assistant to a leader in the resilience industry, highlighting the lessons learned along the way. The conversation touches on themes of imposter syndrome, the value of personal experiences, and the need for women to recognize their leadership potential. Lisa encourages listeners to embrace their unique stories and prepare for future episodes featuring diverse voices in leadership.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership Stories02:48 The Journey to Leadership05:25 Overcoming Adversity in Leadership08:06 Building Resilience in Leadership11:13 Imposter Syndrome and Leadership13:52 Embracing Your Leadership Potential16:42 Looking Ahead: Future Conversations on LeadershipEpisode Length: 18:48Host: Lisa Jones This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com

Episode Length: 90 secondsHost: Lisa Jones, MBCP, MBCI This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipstory.substack.com