In a world that often tries to put us neatly into boxes, daring to stand out and be true to ourselves can feel daunting. Many of us, at some point, have struggled with the fear of being too much or too little for this world. But what if we stopped shrinking ourselves to fit into spaces that were never designed for our brilliance? What if we dared to redefine inclusivity and self-worth on our own terms?

I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Emmagness Ruzvidzo, a powerhouse in brand strategy and a beacon of inspiration. Emmagness, the CEO of VAKA Consulting, has spent over fifteen years perfecting the art of strategic brand management, and she's made waves in the world of inclusive branding.

When you hear her name, you might also think of accolades like Queensland's 40 Under 40 or the Wonderful Women of Waterford award. But what stands out most to me is Emmagness’s steadfast dedication to promoting authentic leadership and impactful inclusion. She firmly believes that to achieve personal and professional growth, we must stop shrinking ourselves to make others comfortable. Her journey from Zimbabwe to Australia encapsulates stories of resilience and triumph, making her insights truly invaluable.

The conversation with Emmagness opened up a realm of reflection about how we define inclusivity and self-worth. She emphasised that embracing our identity and maintaining curiosity about real inclusivity are vital, not just for personal success, but also for brands keen on making a lasting impact.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of self-worth and embracing your identity
• Challenging societal norms and why we should stop shrinking to fit
• The impact of inclusive brand strategies
• The value in personal branding for migrants
• Navigating cultural transitions and the psychological impacts of moving countries
• Embracing change through coaching
• Roles of brands in shaping diverse perspectives
• The best approach for having conversations around inclusivity
• How to foster curiosity and challenge unconscious bias

Submit your Question: Spotify - click the button below. All other platforms - send me a DM on Instagram or email: support@janinegarner.com.au

Connect with Emmagness:

Website: https://vaka.com.au/meet-emmagness/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmagness

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The Focus Finder Assessment

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In this episode, we explore the proven framework for transforming your business into a referral-generating machine. This episode highlights eight strategic steps that successful businesses use to create a sustainable flow of quality leads and valuable referrals. From crafting exceptional customer experiences to implementing effective follow-up systems, we break down exactly what you need to do to build a thriving referral network.

Learn how to create memorable customer experiences that naturally lead to referrals, build authentic relationships that stand the test of time, and implement a referral program that turns satisfied clients into passionate advocates.

We explore practical strategies for leveraging testimonials, maintaining top-of-mind awareness, and mastering the art of follow-up. Plus, discover why gratitude isn't just good manners – it's a powerful business strategy that can transform one-time referrals into a consistent stream of opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

• How to map and optimise every touchpoint in your customer journey

• The art of asking for referrals without feeling awkward

• Creating a referral program that incentivises and rewards loyalty

• The importance of prompt follow-up and maintaining communication

• Practical ways to show gratitude and maintain long-term referral relationships

• Tips for leveraging social proof through testimonials and case studies

• Strategies for staying top-of-mind with your network

Submit your Question: Spotify - click the button below. All other platforms - send me a DM on Instagram or email: support@janinegarner.com.au

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Struggling to turn promising leads into solid sales? You’re not alone.

I recently sat down with my inner circle community to discuss this problem and our conclusion was clear. Whether you’re running a million dollar business, or pitching your very first offer, we’re all struggling with the same roadblocks.

Clients ghost you, decision times get dragged out, budgets are ever changing  and despite your best efforts, you're left wondering “ what am I doing wrong?”

Today I’m going to answer that question and share three key steps you can take to get the results you’re after.

Delivering Value

Too often, we make assumptions about our client's challenges. What if instead, you walked into that meeting with a crystal-clear understanding of their immediate struggles?

Prepare by considering what keeps them up at night. Reflect on conversations you've had, and come into the meeting ready to engage with their concerns.

Delivering Results

This is where your mastery — your "magic pills" — comes into play. These aren't elaborate schemes, but rather the small, effective tools you wield instinctively. Whatever they looks like for you, these quick wins not only showcase your value but also instil confidence in your potential partners.

Delivering Confidence

Finally, we must empower our clients. Many clients are hesitant, questioning their decision-making capabilities or their ability to implement solutions. Your job is to replace doubt with confidence, showing them the path forward. Share relevant success stories, but make it personal. Show them, "Here’s what we can achieve for you."

Remember, these aren’t just “sales tactics”. By delivering value, results, and confidence, you transform from being just another salesperson to a trusted partner in your client's success.

Submit your Question: Spotify - click the button below. All other platforms - send me a DM on Instagram or email: support@janinegarner.com.au

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It’s time to debunk one of the biggest myths of modern life: we should all be striving for work-life balance.

You might be curious as to how I could pooh-pooh such a sensationalised idea. Yes, work-life balance is a concept that’s been held up high, glittering as the ultimate key to happiness. It promises a neat, tidy split between work and life.

But let me ask you something—when was the last time life felt genuinely balanced? If you're anything like me—or indeed like anyone living in the whirlwind that is the 21st century—it probably hasn't felt balanced at all. But here's the kicker: that's not due to your failure. It's because balance is a myth.

Let’s unpack why this idea of balance isn’t as effective as it seems, explore why chasing it leaves us weary and frustrated and—most importantly—discuss what we can do instead.

We’ll discuss finding integration rather than balance, getting clear on which tasks to prioritise and practical steps towards living with intention.

I implore you to be kind to yourself. Remember, life isn’t about perfectly balancing every facet. It’s about aligning your work and life with intention, cherishing what matters and honouring your unique rhythm.

So go ahead and take a moment today to embrace intentional living, designing it in a way that aligns with who you are and what you value most.

Submit your Question: Spotify - click the button below. All other platforms - send me a DM on Instagram or email: support@janinegarner.com.au

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In a world where perfection is often prized above all, stepping away from this relentless pursuit can feel daunting.

As professionals, we frequently don a suit of polished excellence, striving to meet the myriad expectations placed upon us. But what if I told you that imperfection could be your greatest asset?

This idea is at the heart of my recent conversation with Louise Gibson, a beacon of imperfect leadership and the founder of With Verve. Her deeply personal journey has inspired many to rethink what it means to lead genuinely and effectively in today's world.

A former corporate executive navigating the demands of a high-stakes career and family life, Louise faced a life-altering moment that made her reconsider everything. Imagine receiving a call that your child is in the ER, while you're on the other side of the country.

For Louise, this moment was a catalyst for redefining her own approach to leadership—showing her that striving to be everything to everyone was untenable. She realised that her pursuit of perfection was more of a hindrance than a help. She now helps purpose-led leaders embrace their imperfections and lead with truth, connection and authenticity.

Through our conversation, Louise unearths three transformative ideas that serve as a guide to embracing imperfect leadership:

1. Truth: Stories We Tell Ourselves
2. Things: Embracing Our Perfectly Imperfect Selves
3. Tribe: Who We Surround Ourselves With

I invite you to consider where in your life you could benefit from embracing your own imperfections. What would it look like for you to pause, reflect and engage with your most authentic self? Imperfect leadership may just be the key to unlocking the potential within yourself and those around you.

I hope Louise’s story and insights provoke you to adopt a mindset where imperfection is not a flaw but a powerful tool for connection and progress. Let’s celebrate our unique journeys, and continue pushing against the tide of societal perfection.

If you'd like further inspiration, Louise's "Fess Up Friday" on LinkedIn is a terrific place to start. Embrace who you are, warts and all, to lead the way forward!

Submit your Question: Spotify - click the button below. All other platforms - send me a DM on Instagram or email: support@janinegarner.com.au

Connect with Louise:

Website: https://withverve.com.au/about/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/with-verve/

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Success in leadership and business. What does it actually look like? And what’s the key to achieving it?

As leaders or entrepreneurs, we’re constantly seeking strategies to enhance our productivity, innovation and satisfaction, both in our personal and professional lives. We commonly believe that working ourselves into the ground and forging ahead no matter what hits us will get us there.

But what if there was a better, more holistic way to not only achieve success, but define it? I had the pleasure of exploring this idea with Repa Patel, a leadership expert who blends neuroscience, positive psychology and mindfulness to create impactful change.

In our conversation, Repa reveals why starting with purpose or even starting with your ‘why’ isn't enough to drive true success. Together, we explore the deeper framework for unlocking joy and fulfillment - one that combines purpose, prosperity, pleasure and freedom.

Repa also challenges the myth of resilience, showing why trying to be the rock in tough times can actually hold you back, and how becoming the river helps you adapt and thrive. She shares a powerful exercise to reflect more deeply on how we move through the world, to unlock meaningful change in our lives and our leadership.

As we strive to lead with intention, Repa’s wisdom provides a roadmap not just for achieving success, but for crafting a meaningful life rich with impact.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to lead with intention and create lasting impact and legacy.

Submit your Question: Spotify - click the button below. All other platforms - send me a DM on Instagram or email: support@janinegarner.com.au

Connect with Repa:

Website: https://leadingmindfully.com.au/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/repapatel

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Have you ever found yourself overwhelmed by work commitments, squeezing precious family time into the leftover spaces of your calendar?

You're definitely not alone. As we wrap up another year and look forward to the fresh opportunities of the next, I want to share with you a transformational approach to planning—a method I've been honing that prioritises life first, then business.

This isn't just a shift from chaotic busyness to purpose and intention; it's about creating a sustainable business that complements your life rather than competes with it. So, if you've ever felt like your calendar is dictating your life, let’s look at some practical ways you can create a business and life by design.

I’ll take you through the vital steps of designing a business around your life, starting with flipping the traditional planning strategy on its head. We’ll talk about mapping out the moments that matter as a priority, rather than squeezing life into the gaps left by work.

Once you’ve secured those crucial moments like family events, school commitments and public holidays, it’s time to prioritise self-care. This isn’t just about spa days; it’s about regular maintenance that keeps you, the engine of the business, continuing to run smoothly.

With personal priorities in place, start to focus on structuring your work commitments. I'd advise treating meetings and tasks with the same scrutiny. Allow for transition times and workload buffers, reducing the inevitable exhaustion from packed schedules.

Building a business around your life isn’t just about managing time but ensuring profitability. We’ll explore creating a sustainable venture by setting clear financial target, and using your available working days to determine a target day rate that aligns with your financial goals.

As you begin to map out your future, remember: your business should enhance your life, not be in competition with it. If you’re ready to take it further, I'm here to support you with tailored strategies through my speaking engagements, team training, or one-on-one sessions. Reach out, and let's build that life-first business together!

Submit your Question: Spotify - click the button below. All other platforms - send me a DM on Instagram or email: support@janinegarner.com.au

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As we stand at the edge of another year, ready to leap into the exciting blank canvas that is 2025, I often find myself caught in a whirl of mixed emotions.

On one hand, there's the thrill of stepping into the new year, yet on the other, that persistent pressure to reflect on the goals we may not have quite hit. But, what if we shift the focus? Instead of mulling over what didn't happen, let's celebrate the brilliance of the moments that did—those glimmer moments.

Glimmer moments are those small, magical fragments of joy that light up our lives when we pause to notice them. This concept comes from an amazing psychotherapist named Deb Dana, who describes them as the opposite of triggers. Where triggers ignite stress, glimmers bring calm, connection and joy. They’re unique to each one of us and have the power to transform our outlook on life.

Reflecting on and appreciating these glimmers has a profound impact on our mental health. There’s science behind this too—gratitude rewires our brain, helping us feel calmer and more connected. As Oprah Winfrey beautifully puts it, "The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate." Recognising glimmers isn’t just a nice idea; it's a necessity—an act of self-care rooting us in the present.

This ritual of reflecting on glimmers, something I do every New Year's Eve, always brings a broad smile to my face. It grounds me in gratitude, reminding me of how much I've grown and achieved. Why don’t you give it a shot this year? Set aside some time on December 31st to reflect on the past year's glimmers. You might be surprised at how this exercise slows down an otherwise fleeting year and shifts your perspective to appreciate the joy that unfolded.

If you feel inspired to share, I'd love to hear about your glimmer moments; reach out, send a message or comment where you’re reading this. Let’s keep celebrating together. Have a truly remarkable end of 2024, and until next time, keep finding and cherishing those glimmers.

Submit your Question: Spotify - click the button below. All other platforms - send me a DM on Instagram or email: support@janinegarner.com.au

Connect with Janine:

Elevate with Janine

The Focus Finder Assessment

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Mentioned in this episode:

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