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Managing from the middle can feel like navigating a tightrope, especially when you're caught in the crossfire of clashing bosses. Ever wondered how to keep team morale high when the ones above you can't see eye to eye? Join us as we unpack the unique struggles of middle management. Drawing from our personal experiences, we reveal the art of leading small teams while gracefully managing upwards. It's about being the calm in the storm, ensuring productivity doesn't wane amidst upper-level tensions, and mastering the balance between authenticity and discretion.

In this candid conversation, we explore the power of emotional intelligence in turning a challenging dynamic into an opportunity for growth. Discover how we strategically approached bosses who didn’t get along, and the proactive steps we took to safeguard our teams. Whether you're a middle manager seeking advice or simply curious about the nuances of corporate life, this episode is packed with insights and strategies to help you thrive in the middle. Listen in and find actionable advice that might just change the way you approach your role.

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Learn more about us and the podcast at www.stirringsuccess.com

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What if the key to successful leadership is knowing when to say no? Join us as we uncover strategic problem-solving and leadership secrets with the insightful Kendra Gaither. This episode promises to equip you with strategies for balancing team success with well-being, focusing on essential tasks, and staying aligned with your team's North Star, even when unexpected opportunities knock on your door.

Courage and collaboration take center stage as we explore a recent engagement with investors in Southern Africa, highlighting the transformative impact of stepping into uncertainty and aiming for audacious goals. Kendra shares her experiences in rallying teams towards shared objectives, fostering a culture of respect, and striving for excellence. Learn how the collective efforts and trust-building within a team can culminate in achieving ambitious outcomes, making each attempt a learning milestone rather than a failure.

Our conversation takes a heartfelt turn as we reflect on the balance between individual excellence and teamwork, inspired by Carla Harris's experiences. We delve into the pitfalls of perfectionism, the joy of embracing one's unique qualities at work, and the power of expecting to win. As we prepare for the upcoming transition from 2024 to 2025, we tackle the challenges of mission creep and the importance of gratitude and friendship in leadership. Celebrate the enduring connection with Kendra, whose warmth and earnest commitment have resonated deeply with our audience, and join us in anticipating what's to come.

Kendra's Recommended Resources:

• Expect to Win by Carla Harris (She also authored Strategize to win and Lead to win) https://www.carlaspearls.com/author
• Atomic Habits by James Clear
• Born in Blackness: Africans, and the Making of the Modern World, 1471 to the Second World War by Howard French

Podcasts:

• Dare to Lead by Brene Brown https://open.spotify.com/show/3oEPsPKDhPVoNNL7pH5db6?si=F1VhySCpTQWaea_nVAdZrg
• WorkLife podcast by Adam Grant https://open.spotify.com/show/4eylg9GZJOVvUhTynt4jjA?si=dJRDaX0bRgO-k1K9MKn7FA

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We publish new episodes every other Wednesday.

Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights.

Learn more about us and the podcast at www.stirringsuccess.com

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Ever felt the weight of external negativity and wondered how to keep your inner strength intact? This episode promises to equip you with essential strategies for maintaining resilience and intentionality in leadership. We dive into the real-world challenges leaders face, from microaggressions to the relentless pressures of pioneering new initiatives. Through personal stories and practical advice, we share how to preserve your mental energy, pick your battles wisely, and ensure your responses are both measured and impactful. It's all about safeguarding your internal strength and staying steadfast on your path to success.

Leadership isn't just about making decisions; it's about managing the emotional toll that comes with striving for excellence amidst constant criticism. Learn why developing strong habits and building a supportive community early in your career can sustain your high performance and resilience. Hear personal anecdotes that highlight the importance of self-care and the damaging effects of being told to "be less." Discover why it's essential to stay true to your greatness and not conform to mediocrity, even when external pressures are at their peak. This empowering conversation is designed to help you lead with authenticity and strength.

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We publish new episodes every other Wednesday.

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Learn more about us and the podcast at www.stirringsuccess.com

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What if self-awareness could be your secret weapon in effective leadership? In Season 2 of the Leadership Tea Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Nichole Gladden McCall, an accomplished leader and proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated, who shares her profound insights on leading with authenticity and empathy. Nichole opens up about the critical importance of self-awareness, detailing her daily practice of mindful self-checks and accountability to ensure her leadership is both impactful and compassionate. Nichole’s message on authentic leadership shines through, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to lead with a startup mindset.

Navigating tough conversations with team members can be one of the most challenging aspects of leadership, and in this episode, we unpack actionable strategies to do just that with honesty and respect. We dive into the art of setting a positive tone, actively listening, and making sure everyone feels heard, even when addressing performance issues. With personal anecdotes and practical tips, we explore how to build trust and manage combative situations, ensuring that transparency and empathy are at the heart of every interaction.

Leadership is not just about strategy and performance—it's about people. Inspired by the Zulu proverb "Sawubona" meaning "I see you," we delve into the essence of creating an inclusive environment where every voice is valued. From tackling imposter syndrome to fostering genuine connections, we provide concrete examples to help leaders ensure their teams feel seen and appreciated. The episode wraps up with a fun lightning round, reflecting on personal preferences and the central role of love in leadership. Join us as we explore how leading with love, humanity, and honesty can transform the way we lead.

More information about Nichole is available here.

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We publish new episodes every other Wednesday.

Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights.

Learn more about us and the podcast at www.stirringsuccess.com

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Ever wondered how to lead with a startup mindset in any sector—be it government or private industry? Our latest season promises to equip you with all the tools you need. We kick off Season 2 of the Leadership Tea Podcast with our first full YouTube episode, breaking down how agility, flexibility, and creativity are vital when embarking on new projects or building teams. As the seasons change, we discuss the importance of reassessing your goals and preparing effectively for the year ahead.

Struggling with mission creep or feeling overwhelmed by tasks? We’ve got you covered. This episode dives deep into effective goal setting and the art of maintaining clarity in your objectives. Learn our three-tiered goal-setting system that aligns team goals, meets your boss's expectations, and helps you achieve personal milestones. Real-life examples are shared to illustrate how flexibility and periodic reviews can make a difference, especially in complex or startup environments.

How do you adjust strategies without overcorrecting and lead without fear of failure? We explore these questions and more. From the nuances of strategic leadership to the importance of fostering a supportive environment, our discussions offer actionable insights. Hear about a crisis communication project where calm leadership was crucial, and get a sneak peek into our next episode on self-awareness. Make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more engaging discussions and actionable advice.

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We publish new episodes every other Wednesday.

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Learn more about us and the podcast at www.stirringsuccess.com

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This season finale of the Leadership Tea podcast is an opportunity to reflect on our journey, where we share our favorite moments and impactful quotes from the season. Belinda recounts Perlita's powerful insights on the unsustainability of constant fight-or-flight leadership, urging us to find balance and authenticity in our roles. Shelby reminisces about our enlightening conversation with mentor Emily Haber, focusing on the strength that vulnerability brings to leadership. Together, we emphasize that the most impactful lessons often come from genuine, unscripted exchanges and the community we've built around them.

As we take a brief hiatus to plan for the next season, we highlight the importance of self-reflection and staying true to our leadership values. Though new episodes will pause, we'll remain engaged through Instagram and email updates and introduce a new feature for listener feedback via text messages. Your voice matters to us; share your thoughts, suggest topics, and spread the word to those who might benefit from our insights. We're grateful for your support and excited about the new connections and content awaiting us in season two. Until then, let's continue to inspire and uplift each other in our leadership journeys.

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Learn more about us and the podcast at www.stirringsuccess.com

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What happens when a seasoned diplomat becomes an entrepreneur? Belinda shares her inspiring journey of courage and self-discovery after leaving a career in diplomacy. This episode is not just a conversation—it's a heartfelt exchange filled with wisdom and authenticity. Shelby begins with a powerful personalized hype poem encapsulating Belinda's essence and accomplishments. From the emotional farewell to the State Department to navigating the uncharted waters of the private sector and entrepreneurship, Belinda's story is a testament to resilience and the limitless possibilities of embracing change.

Join us as Belinda opens up about the skills and sacrifices that no longer served her and how redefining her boundaries led to a newfound sense of empowerment. She discusses the importance of understanding one's needs and the bravery required to chart a new path. If you're contemplating a major career shift or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is a treasure trove of encouragement and insights. Listen in and learn how Belinda leveraged her skills, network, and dreams to create a life of limitless success.

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We publish new episodes every other Wednesday.

Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights.

Learn more about us and the podcast at www.stirringsuccess.com

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Curious about how to build a team that thrives on creativity and curiosity?

Join us on the Leadership Tea Podcast as we welcome Erika Bennett, founder and CEO of Conscious Culture Creative. Erika's unique leadership approach fosters deep relationships and encourages an environment where curiosity is valued. Drawing from her rich experiences, Erika shares how nurturing diverse talents can lead to substantial personal and professional growth for everyone on the team.

Have you ever wondered how personal insecurities can shape leadership styles? In this episode, Erika reflects on her journey from an intern to an executive, emphasizing the significance of embracing failure and maintaining accountability. By doing so, leaders can better support their teams, fostering a more honest and productive work environment.

Finally, we dive into the complex balance between professional success and personal fulfillment. Erika discusses her transition from high-profile roles to a more balanced life as an entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of mental health and personal fulfillment.

Don't forget to leave us a review and connect with us on Instagram to continue this journey of sipping wisdom and stirring success together.

Learn more about Erika's professional journey here.

Find us on YouTube!

We publish new episodes every other Wednesday.

Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights.

Learn more about us and the podcast at www.stirringsuccess.com