Leading Lady Podcast | Coaching and Accountability for Ambitious Women Entrepreneurs

Have you ever thought about how something as simple as buying flowers or adding color to your day could actually improve your leadership and wellbeing? In this episode, I’m diving into The Science of Whimsy — the intentional art of adding surprise, beauty, and delight into your daily life. I share a personal story about how a spontaneous bouquet of fall flowers shifted my entire mindset, and explore the real neuroscience behind why these small acts of joy matter. Join me as we uncover how whimsy isn’t frivolous — it’s a powerful leadership tool that regulates your nervous system, sparks creativity, and helps you lead with light instead of pressure. You’ll hear how to intentionally weave moments of play and beauty into your work and life, and why doing so can boost productivity, collaboration, and overall happiness. Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach/

Have you ever wondered what lessons you’d go back and teach your younger self in business? In this episode, I’m sharing ten truths I wish I had known earlier in my entrepreneurial journey and insights learned through both wins and hard lessons over the past 20+ years. From navigating criticism and burnout to building systems, setting boundaries, and separating your identity from your business, these are the real strategies and mindset shifts that keep you growing and thriving. As I reflect on the journey, I invite you to consider which of these lessons resonate most with you. My hope is that by sharing what I’ve learned the hard way, you’ll be able to skip some of the struggle and step into your success with more clarity, resilience, and confidence. Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Resources Mentioned:  Join The Hub: https://leading-lady.mykajabi.com/the-leading-lady-business-hub?_gl=1*1s4a4xr*_ga*MjU0MDQzMTcyLjE3NTA3NjgxOTQ.*_ga_SNX3LH5T78*czE3NTM0NzE4NzEkbzY5JGcxJHQxNzUzNDcxODgwJGo1MSRsMCRoMA..  Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach/

Have you ever noticed how the more you grow, the more criticism you seem to attract? In this episode of the Leading Lady Podcast, I dive into the connection between growth and criticism—why it happens, how it impacts us as leaders, and what we can do to navigate it with resilience and confidence. I open up about my own experiences as a business owner, from handling personal attacks and misconceptions to reframing criticism into opportunities for growth. We’ll explore the emotional sting of criticism, why it often comes from unexpected places, and how to build healthy boundaries while still staying open to meaningful feedback. If you’ve ever felt like judgment or fear of being misunderstood has kept you from stepping fully into your potential, this conversation will remind you that you’re not alone—and that growth and criticism are often two sides of the same coin. Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Resources Mentioned:  Join the Hub: https://leading-lady.mykajabi.com/the-leading-lady-business-hub?_gl=1*1s4a4xr*_ga*MjU0MDQzMTcyLjE3NTA3NjgxOTQ.*_ga_SNX3LH5T78*czE3NTM0NzE4NzEkbzY5JGcxJHQxNzUzNDcxODgwJGo1MSRsMCRoMA.. Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach/

I have been in business for a long time now. One thing that I learned early on in my business journey is the importance of having a professional help you with your accounting and taxes.    There are so many things that we have to handle and worry about as entrepreneurs. If there is one thing that is important enough to outsource and get help, this is it.    In this episode, I am chatting with my dear friend Jaime Thompson about the importance of getting help with your business accounting.    Jaime Thompson is one of Nicholynn Advisors owners, a full-service accounting firm whose focus is on being the trusted business advisor for small businesses and nonprofits. Jaime's experience working first in a CPA firm and then later as the accountant for a private company gave her unique insight into both sides of the accounting partnership. Jaime is a Lifetime Girl Scout, a role that taught her service above self and always to leave things better than when you found them, both of which Jaime applies to her relationship with her clients. When she's not working, Jaime enjoys hiking, boating, and spending time with her family, and as a true Marylander, she loves eating crab!   If there is one thing that you outsource, I encourage you to consider your business accounting. The peace of mind you will have in knowing that your finances are handled properly is well worth the cost.    Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there!   Let’s connect on Facebook and  Instagram!  

Have you been dreaming of writing a book and becoming a published author? Every year, this is consistently one of the most popular goals that people set. So what does it take to move forward on your dream and make it happen? In today’s episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing a leading lady who knows just how to do that. Jennifer Klepper is the author of Unbroken Threads, a debut novel that has become a USA Today Bestseller. She has a passion for research and learning and is a self-proclaimed collector of information.  As you will hear, Jennifer has some smart advice for anyone aspiring to become an author. It’s easy to see a dream, such as “writing a book” as a big, impossible goal, but it somehow feels more achievable after hearing the experiences of someone who has done it before. Tune in to find out how you can move forward with YOUR big, impossible goals! I would love to connect in the Leading Ladies group on Facebook or reach out to me on Instagram! Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast

When we feel frustrated or angry, it is human nature to want to “vent” and share our challenges with others. It helps us feel less alone in our trials and relieve some stress, but is it always helpful?  In this episode, I share my perspective about “venting” conversations and when they are helpful and when they become simply gossip.  After listening in, I hope that you will pause and think about the purpose of your venting before your next conversation with a friend. It will definitely make a positive impact on your mindset and your relationships.   Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there!   Let’s connect on Facebook and  Instagram!

A  few weeks in Europe have left me with a lot to say! From travel hiccups to business surprises back home, to the emotional revelations I felt while vacationing with my son.   I’m excited to be home and to reflect on what this time has meant to me. We can learn a lot when we’re taken out of our regular day-to-day lives for a while.   In this episode, I’m sharing a few of the lessons I learned while traveling, including what this trip meant to me and what I’ve learned about myself.   Topics covered in this episode include: Allowing your role to change as you learn to parent young adults  How travel hiccups helped me learn about my own capabilities A powerful reminder to experience things for yourself   Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Resources Mentioned:  Book a call with AliceAnne: https://leadinglady-coaching.com/schedule/   Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach/  

How do you show up in the world?    I have worked in the education realm for over 20 years and something that we teachers absolutely love is acronyms! We have one for everything.   In this episode of Leading Lady, I am going to be sharing with you one of my favorite acronyms ever because it has helped me so much and I really think it will help you too. I have used it daily for the last several years and it has made a true difference in my life.    This particular acronym is relatively new and was created to reduce online bullying. It’s called THINK. With this acronym, I want you to think about how you show up in the world. How do you show up as a leader, as a business owner, as a woman, or as a mother?    As high-achieving women, we have to use our voices in our leadership roles. Whether it’s leading our family, our business, a boardroom, or just ourselves, use the THINK acronym and ask yourself if the things you’re saying are aligned with how you want to show up.    Tune in to hear what this acronym stands for, how it has helped me, ways to apply it to all aspects of your life, and how it can help you become the type of woman or leader that you have always wanted to be.    Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach  

What does it take to be a leader?    If you have been following me for a while, you know that I always say “take the lead, and the rest will follow.” If you have air in your lungs, you are a leader. But how do you take the lead in your life?    In this episode of Leading Lady, I am breaking down the word LEADER, and how I use that word in many areas of my coaching.    In my business and leadership masterclass, the word “leader” is broken down into six different modules. My book, TAKE THE LEAD, also follows the acronym L.E.A.D.E.R.: Learner’s mindset, Engagement, Authenticity, Dedication, Emotional Intelligence, and Resilience. I am breaking down what each of these means to me in my business and also giving you some tidbits so you can start thinking about how you are showing up as a leader in your life throughout this episode.   It all starts with self-leadership. How are you leading yourself? Others? Your family? Your business? These are all incredibly important aspects of your life, and I want you to be able to show up and be the leader you have always wanted to be.    Every letter and every aspect of the L.E.A.D.E.R. acronym is equally important. They all blend and work together to help you grow as a leader. Tune in to learn more about the six pieces of leadership and how they can help you step into the leadership role in your life.    Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Resources Mentioned:  Get my book TAKE THE LEAD: https://www.amazon.com/TAKE-LEAD-every-community-world/dp/B09V5JV4DB/ Book a complimentary coaching call: https://leadinglady-coaching.com/private-coaching/   Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach  

Today we’re hearing from the next generation of leaders, our Leading Lady interns!   I’m joined by the amazing interns who have been working with us this summer at Leading Lady, Makaylah, Grace, and Scarlett. I am passionate about mentorship, growth, and leadership, and am excited for you to hear about their experiences.   In this episode, the interns share what they’ve been up to and what they’ve learned during their time in our Leading Lady community.    Topics covered in this episode include: Why these young women applied to the Leading Lady Internship Program What projects they have been working on to support the community Unexpected learning outcomes during their collaboration with this all-women collective   Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Resources Mentioned:  Email AliceAnne to learn more about how you might be able to bring interns in to support your business: https://leadinglady-coaching.com/contact   Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach/

Have you ever found yourself judging a business without considering the human behind it? In this deeply honest solo episode, I open up about a moment that rattled me—a toxic online post about another female founder—and how it unexpectedly struck a nerve. I reflect on the reality of leading a community, the courage it takes to put yourself out there, and the vulnerability that comes with being the face of your brand. Whether you’re a solopreneur, community leader, or simply someone navigating the noise of social media, this conversation will resonate on a human level. I share personal stories, real feelings, and hard truths about showing up—even when it’s uncomfortable. This episode isn’t just about online criticism; it’s about compassion, boundaries, and the quiet courage to keep going, even when you know you’re not everyone’s cup of tea. Tune in to explore why visibility can be both empowering and terrifying, and how we can lead with grace in a world quick to judge.   Topics covered in this episode include: Why visibility and vulnerability often go hand-in-hand The hard truth about being the “villain” in someone else’s story How boundaries and integrity can coexist with support and compassion Why small business owners carry more emotional weight than we think   Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Resources Mentioned:  Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach/  

How do you walk away from diet culture when it’s all around you?   It’s not an easy task, but it’s so worthwhile for your long-term health and happiness. I sat down with Elizabeth Harris to talk about how to break the toxic cycle of comparison, negative self-talk, and perfectionism that shows up in food, body image, and leadership. It’s a heavy topic, but there’s so much joy to be found on the other side of it.    We’re talking about things like how comparison shows up in diet culture, ways to shift your thoughts and conversations away from diet culture, and how to maintain a healthier and happier relationship with food.    Elizabeth Harris is a registered dietitian, certified Intuitive Eating counselor, speaker, entrepreneur, and co-host of the Wellness Rebranded podcast.    Topics covered in this episode include: How to break away from diet culture  Ways to change the subject away from diet and weight How perfectionism shows up in your relationship with food    Join us on our mission to break up with diet culture.    Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Resources Mentioned:  Sign Up for the Discover Intuitive Eating Challenge: https://elizabethharrisnutrition.com/5day-challenge Follow Elizabeth on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethharrisnutrition/ Follow Elizabeth on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethharrisnutrition Check out Elizabeth’s Website: https://elizabethharrisnutrition.com/   Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach/

Let’s take a moment to celebrate you.    In this powerful replay episode, I encourage you to take a moment to look back and see how far you’ve come so far. I’m going to invite you to take inventory of all the amazing things you’ve achieved and celebrate all your hard work.    I recently experienced a moment, which you’ll hear about in this episode, that caused me to pause and notice what an incredible life I’ve created for myself, and it was such a wonderful feeling that I wanted to share it with you, so here we are!   Topics covered in this episode include: The value of celebrating your successes  The power of gratitude  Why it’s important to celebrate your wins before you move on to the next goal   Ready to reflect and celebrate your success?   Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Resources Mentioned:  Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach/  

When you are building a new business and marketing yourself, you will be networking with other business owners quite frequently. In these encounters, it is so important to present yourself as professional and prepared.    In this episode of the Leading Lady Podcast, I discuss a business call that I had and how it left me feeling sour and disappointed. I share this conversation not to rant, but to share an example for any aspiring entrepreneurs about how to show up and share your best abilities.    After listening to my experience, I hope you understand the importance of showing up with professionalism. If you can’t put your best self forward, it may be best to hold off on promoting yourself until you are able to be prepared. I invite you to look at the ways you show up in your life. If something is suffering, what can you do to shift your alignment so you show up as your best self in any situation?    Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there!   Let’s connect on Facebook and  Instagram!  

Are you constantly asking yourself things like: am I doing enough? Am I showing up? Am I delivering on what I said I wanted to deliver? Are people happy with my work?   Like many other high-achieving women, you’re facing the anxiety that comes from striving for perfection. It can be easy to get stuck in that place, but there are things you can do to recenter yourself and squash those feelings that are holding you back.    In this episode of the Leading Lady podcast, I’m getting real and sharing what works for me when I get caught up in striving for perfection.    Topics covered in this episode include: Why perfectionism causes unnecessary anxiety  How to recenter yourself when perfectionism throws you off-course  Grounding questions to ask yourself    If you’re struggling with anxiety and the need for perfection, you’re not alone. Tune in to find out what you can do to overcome them.    Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Resources Mentioned:  Book a Coaching Call: https://leadinglady-coaching.com/private-coaching/    Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach/  

In this Fan Favorite Replay episode, I’m revisiting a time I started a Monday morning by reading a very mean-spirited and hurtful email. It left me feeling upset and slighted, and I had to work really hard to find the positive in that experience.    I chat about this experience, what I did to turn it into an opportunity for growth, and my suggestions for how YOU can do the same.    Looking back now, I can see blessings in that challenge that I would not have if I hadn’t received that nasty email. I hope that you can take these tips I share and use them to find the opportunity in a challenge that you’re facing. There’s always a choice to find the good in every situation.    What You’ll Learn: How to shift your mindset when faced with criticism or negativity Simple practices to turn emotional triggers into opportunities for growth Why challenging moments can hold hidden blessings   Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there!   Let’s connect on Facebook and  Instagram!

Do you try to do everything yourself in your business, or are you able to delegate? As a business owner, your CEO time is precious, and how well you use it determines your success.   Joining me today is Gala McCray, Leading Lady Ambassador and lead consultant of Two Arrows, her boutique bookkeeping firm. Gala is more than just a bookkeeper, though; she is a strategic partner who has helped me run the financial side of my business for years now.   In this episode, Gala shares how delegation is directly linked to financial strategy and how to get comfortable with letting go of control.   With nearly 20 years of experience in executive-level operations across non-profits, government, corporate entities, and small businesses, Gala McCray is passionate about helping business owners achieve clarity and control in their financials. In 2018, she founded Two Arrows, taking a leap of faith at a pivotal crossroads to create a business that blends expertise with compassion.   As a former Air Force service member and QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor, Gala brings a methodical, strategic approach to bookkeeping, paired with a deep understanding of challenges faced by service-based professionals. Her signature themes—consistency, comfort, and confidence—are woven into every interaction, ensuring her clients feel supported and empowered to succeed.   When she’s not managing numbers, Gala enjoys spending time with her blended family, exploring the outdoors, and giving back to her local community.   Topics covered in this episode include: How tracking your time gives you an idea of what to pay yourself Learning the value of automation before delegation Gaining peace of mind as you learn to let go and share the load   Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Resources Mentioned:  Art of Delegation Workbook: https://twoarrows.myflodesk.com/zwkkozdkq2   Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach/  

Let’s talk about team building that actually works!   Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on one of the most strategic things I’m doing right now to grow my business: my brand-new intern program. We’re only a few weeks in, and I am blown away by how much I’m learning and how I’m refining my business.    You know I love collaboration, and I’m so excited to have this space where we can learn and grow together.   In this episode, I’m sharing why I started the internship program and how it’s helping both me and the interns develop and grow into better leaders and team members.   Topics covered in this episode include: Why I started the internship program instead of hiring a full team How the interns are reinforcing the culture of Leading Lady Lessons I’m learning along the way when it comes to team building   Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Resources Mentioned:  Book a call with me: https://aalcoachschedule.as.me/?appointmentType=2262142   Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach/  

Does external success imply that we have it all together? Or that we never have bad days?   I’m here to tell you that we can run successful meetings, have lunch with friends, and manage our households, all while feeling the subtle symptoms of anxiety or depression.   We are all human, and therefore we all experience a range of feelings and emotions. I’m hoping to further change the stigma surrounding mental health struggles.   In this episode, I’m talking about developing a more honest and healthy mindset about mental health, and what you can do to better nurture your own needs and challenges.   Topics covered in this episode include: Why there’s no such thing as a negative emotion Tools and coping strategies to manage mental health Learning to embrace all of your experiences as a human being   Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Resources Mentioned:  Contact me: https://leadinglady-coaching.com/contact/ Check out Maria Winters, Leading Lady Ambassador and mental health therapist: https://thecoachingtherapist.com/   Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach/

It feels like everything I’ve been working on is finally blooming! I’m super excited to share what’s been going on lately in the Leading Lady community.   I started the Leading Lady community because I wanted high-achieving women to have a safe place to explore how to step into their authentic leadership. That includes leading others, but most importantly, how we lead ourselves!  In this episode, I’m going over some of our amazing new programs, how our team is growing, and how it all works together to empower the incredible women in our community.   Topics covered in this episode include: My new internship program that helps develop future women leaders How the new Leading Lady Hub is supporting community members, both old and new, to get the specific resources they need Using coaching to get you unstuck and have more a-ha moments instead   Show notes available at www.leadinglady-coaching.com/podcast   Resources Mentioned:  The new Leading Lady website: http://www.leadinglady-coaching.com Check out the Strategic Planning Wheel: https://leading-lady.mykajabi.com/wheel Join the Leading Lady Hub: https://leading-lady.mykajabi.com/the-leading-lady-business-hub Have you joined the Leading Ladies Facebook Group yet?! I would love to see you in there! Head to https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadingLadiesAAL to join! Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aalcoaching Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leading.lady.coach/