http://www.sherylkline.com/blog In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the privilege of speaking with Melissa DiMuro, the Chief People, Culture & Marketing Officer at Limbach, about leading with resilience during times of change and the importance of evolving alongside the businesses we serve. Melissa’s journey started in a blue-collar household and was shaped by the strength and grit of her grandmother—a farmer’s daughter who raised twelve siblings and worked multiple jobs just to keep food on the table. That legacy of resilience deeply influenced Melissa’s leadership style and commitment to growth through discomfort. Though her path wasn’t linear—initially aspiring to be a psychologist—Melissa leaned into her natural strengths and built a career across multiple male-dominated industries including printing, aviation, and construction. Her ability to navigate change and adapt through uncertainty positioned her as a transformational leader who prioritizes systems thinking, emotional intelligence, and authenticity. Melissa emphasized that today’s leaders must lead with calm confidence, agility, and vision—even when the future is unclear. She urges emerging leaders to develop their emotional intelligence, stay informed, and most importantly, lead with intention no matter their title. Key takeaways from the interview: 0:01:58 – Melissa’s hardworking grandmother served as a model for persistence, strength, and self-determination. 0:05:13 – Her career path wasn’t a straight line—she pivoted from psychology to HR, learning to embrace discomfort as a growth driver. 0:06:47 – Melissa chose to take on tough roles and switch industries, believing that growth happens when you lean into the uncomfortable. 0:09:57 – Evolving leadership means practicing systems thinking and being agile amidst constant change. 0:11:29 – Emotional intelligence and intentionality are essential for leading people through disruption. 0:13:21 – Great leaders manage fear by preparing their teams and working themselves out of a job—developing others is key. 0:15:13 – Change leadership is not just about strategy, but the how—transparency and empathy build trust. 0:18:13 – Melissa shares how Limbach is deepening customer relationships by leading with purpose and service—not just transactions. 0:21:18 – A leader’s long-term success depends on relationships, context, and empowering teams with shared vision. 0:26:11 – Her final advice: compete only with yourself. Be better than yesterday and seek inspiration—not comparison—from others. If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast, or you’re a leader looking to gain clarity on ‘what’s next’, how to build more cohesive and high-performing teams, and lead with greater confidence and influence, let’s have a confidential conversation (http://www.sherylkline.com/meeting). Cheering you on always! – Sheryl…

http://www.sherylkline.com/blog In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the true pleasure of speaking with Sara Connell , bestselling author, TEDx speaker, coach, and Founder of Thought Leader Academy, about the transformative journey from corporate leader to thought leader. Sara’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and the power of claiming your voice — and using it to create meaningful, lasting impact. Sara’s career began in the corporate world at a top advertising agency, where she quickly realized that while the training was invaluable, the culture was toxic. It took a mental and physical health crisis for Sara to finally make the leap out of corporate life — a leap inspired by a chance encounter with a life-changing book she discovered in an airport bookstore. That single book inspired her to commit to writing the stories and messages she wished had existed for her, and ultimately to empower other leaders to do the same. Throughout our conversation, Sara spoke candidly about the mindset shifts required to leave a traditional corporate path and build a thriving thought leadership business. She emphasized the importance of creating a clear “flag in the ground” — your core message or movement — and then choosing one meaningful platform to start sharing it, whether that’s a book, a talk, or a podcast. Sara also shared her wisdom on managing imposter syndrome, embracing discomfort, and remembering that legacy-level impact rarely comes from comfort zones. Key takeaways from the interview: 0:01:10 – Sara’s career pivot from corporate advertising was born out of both desperation and inspiration, sparked by a book she discovered during a personal crisis. 0:03:52 – The toxic myth that “if you leave, you’ll fail” keeps many leaders stuck — Sara debunks this through her own story. 0:06:24 – Mindset is 100% of the game; it either keeps you in the game or takes you out. 0:08:16 – Every thought leader faces self-doubt and imposter syndrome — even icons like Maya Angelou and Elizabeth Gilbert. 0:10:44 – Act “as if” when your confidence wavers. Pretend to believe in yourself until your actions prove you right. 0:12:14 – Start by identifying your “flag in the ground” — your signature message, idea, or movement you want to be known for. 0:14:57 – Choose one thought leadership platform to begin with — speaking, writing, podcasting — based on what lights you up. 0:18:26 – Find the intersection of your corporate expertise, your untapped passions, and the audience you most want to serve. 0:20:33 – Great marketing starts with listening; have real conversations with your ideal audience to learn what they need. 0:23:45 – Often our greatest superpowers feel invisible to us — fresh eyes and mentors can help uncover your unique brilliance. If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast, or you’re a leader looking to gain clarity on ‘what’s next’, how to build more cohesive and high-performing teams, and lead with greater confidence and influence, let’s have a confidential conversation . Cheering you on always! – Sheryl…

http://www.sherylkline.com/blog In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the privilege of speaking with Sandy Ball , Chief People Officer at Aspida, about navigating leadership in times of rapid change, standing firm in your values, and leading with authenticity. Sandy’s candor and warmth made this conversation feel like a masterclass in people-centered leadership. Sandy’s leadership journey is rooted in her natural curiosity about people and what drives them. She credits her early experience working at Disney for shaping her people philosophy — recognizing that every individual, no matter their role, wants to feel seen, heard, and valued. This belief has guided her through a career spanning multiple industries and leadership transitions. We talked about what it means to lead in today’s environment where uncertainty is constant, and the courage it takes to stay aligned with your values when navigating tough organizational dynamics. Sandy spoke openly about the importance of creating psychological safety, building cultures of accountability without fear, and knowing when to take the risk of speaking up. Sandy also highlighted how, as women leaders, we often feel the pressure to prove ourselves in every room. Her advice? Prepare relentlessly, trust your instincts, and build genuine relationships — the kind where you can be both strong and vulnerable. Key take-aways from the interview: 0:01:48 – Sandy’s early career at GE taught her the foundational importance of making people feel valued at every level of an organization. 0:05:54 – Leadership is about building trust and creating psychological safety so people can speak up, make mistakes, and learn. 0:09:09 – Leading through change requires relentless clarity about your values and a willingness to have difficult conversations. 0:12:57 – In moments of fear or doubt, preparation and surrounding yourself with trusted advisors are critical. 0:16:21 – Building accountability cultures isn’t about fear; it’s about clear expectations, consistency, and kindness. 0:19:34 – Navigating organizational politics with integrity means knowing when to stay quiet, when to push, and when to walk away. 0:22:53 – As a woman in executive leadership, you don’t have to over-prove yourself — show up prepared, be curious, and let your results speak. 0:27:26 – The best leaders create personal connections with their teams, seeing people as whole humans, not just job titles. 0:31:19 – Saying “I don’t know” as a leader is a strength, not a weakness; it models vulnerability and invites collaboration. 0:35:07 – Personal growth often comes from the moments you say yes to what scares you most. If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast, or you’re a leader looking to gain clarity on ‘what’s next’, how to build more cohesive and high-performing teams, and lead with greater confidence and influence, let’s have a confidential conversation . Cheering you on always! – Sheryl…

http://www.sherylkline.com/blog In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the true pleasure of sitting down with Liz Almeida , Chief Human Resources Officer at Panasonic North America. Liz shared an inspiring story of resilience, curiosity, and leadership transformation — and a much-needed reminder that success rarely follows a straight line. Liz’s career didn’t start in HR. She originally aspired to be a mechanical engineer at NASA, but a tough academic setback in college and the support of a powerful mentor helped her pivot, embrace curiosity, and lean into unexpected opportunities. That openness not only changed her career trajectory but shaped her leadership philosophy today. Throughout our conversation, Liz reflected on the critical importance of culture transformation, psychological safety, and co-creation — especially during times of disruption. She believes the best cultures are intentionally built around clear values and inclusive leadership that invites vulnerability, innovation, and diverse perspectives. Liz is a fierce advocate for mentorship, reverse mentoring, and creating organizations where people feel safe bringing their whole selves to work. Key takeaways from the interview: 🔹 0:01:31 – Liz’s leadership journey began after a college setback and a mentor’s tough love, which sparked a lifelong commitment to curiosity and growth. 🔹 0:03:44 – Mentorship, both formal and informal, has been crucial to her success — and she now makes it a leadership responsibility to pay that forward. 🔹 0:05:42 – Liz’s career path felt more like a “jungle gym” than a ladder — driven by curiosity and opportunities for intellectual growth, not titles. 🔹 0:08:45 – The encouragement of her mother instilled a fearless mindset: if no one’s done it before, be the first. 🔹 0:11:03 – Psychological safety is the foundation for innovation and high performance — leaders must create spaces where people feel safe being themselves. 🔹 0:14:28 – Leaders should actively work to build cultures where even “crazy” ideas are welcomed — because those ideas often lead to breakthrough innovation. 🔹 0:17:06 – Reverse mentoring has been a valuable leadership tool for Liz, helping challenge her assumptions and stay sharp in a fast-changing world. 🔹 0:19:42 – Culture must be intentionally aligned to company values, with leaders modeling the way and being transparent about what those values look like in action. 🔹 0:21:32 – Listening with curiosity is one of the most underrated leadership skills — the best ideas and solutions often come from unexpected places. 🔹 0:23:11 – Co-creation is essential for engagement and performance; people support what they help build. If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast, or you’re a leader looking to gain clarity on ‘what’s next’, how to build more cohesive and high-performing teams, and lead with greater confidence and influence, let’s have a confidential conversation . Cheering you on always! – Sheryl…

Watch the interview video here: http://www.sherylkline.com/blog In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Lori Borg , Vice President of Americas Go-To-Market Strategy for Global Partner Solutions at Microsoft. In this heartfelt conversation, Lori opened up about her leadership journey, the transformative power of organizational health, and why leading with vulnerability and transparency matters now more than ever. Lori’s leadership story began with overcoming stereotypes. Growing up, she found herself boxed in by limiting labels, only to later reject them by leaning into her passion for business and performing. A pivotal moment came in high school when she shifted her focus from piano performance to business competitions, discovering her true love for leadership, influence, and growth. She shared how embracing her unique strengths has helped shape her career—from founding successful businesses to now leading at Microsoft. Lori emphasized that organizational health is the secret sauce behind high-performing, resilient teams, especially during times of rapid change and uncertainty. Her practical wisdom on fostering trust, gathering honest feedback, and building strength-based cultures is advice every leader needs right now. Key takeaways from my interview with Lori: 🔹 0:01:18 – Lori overcame early stereotypes and shifted her self-belief through a pivotal high school experience in business leadership. 🔹 0:04:31 – She credits understanding and leaning into her unique strengths as the foundation for scaling businesses and leading corporate teams. 🔹 0:06:57 – Organizational health is critical for sustainable success and breakthrough moments; it’s more than short-term wins. 🔹 0:07:52 – A strengths-based approach turns a diverse team into a high-functioning, cohesive unit where one plus one is greater than two. 🔹 0:10:13 – Feedback is a gift—but only if you create the psychological safety for people to give it honestly. 🔹 0:12:43 – Lori prioritizes vulnerability and transparency as the fastest way to build trust and credibility with new teams. 🔹 0:13:58 – Actioning feedback is non-negotiable. Listening without follow-through erodes trust faster than silence. 🔹 0:15:13 – Leaders must regularly check their own motivations: am I seeking truth, or seeking to look good? 🔹 0:17:08 – Know your strengths, own them, and seek opportunities that let you lead from those superpowers. 🔹 0:17:43 – Even when organizational trust feels shaky, being the light by voicing concerns and suggesting solutions can ignite change. If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast, or you’re a leader looking to gain clarity on “what’s next,” how to build more cohesive and high-performing teams, and lead with greater confidence and influence, let’s have a confidential conversation . Cheering you on always! – Sheryl…

http://www.sherylkline.com/blog In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Kim Dorsett , Chief Human Resources Officer for Capital Impact Partners and CDC Small Business Finance, both part of the Momentus Capital branded family of organizations. Kim and I spoke about what it really means to believe you're good enough to go for greatness. This episode was a powerful reminder that mindset, boundaries, and bold action are the cornerstones of breakthrough leadership. Kim’s leadership journey is grounded in the lessons she learned from her mother, who always expected excellence and taught her to strive five times harder. That relentless commitment to personal growth has carried Kim from early career milestones to her current executive seat. With a nod to her children for encouraging her to share her story, Kim spoke openly about how structure, discipline, and saying no have been critical to her success. She highlighted the importance of essentialism—focusing only on what truly matters—and of building a network that reflects a diversity of thought and experience. Perhaps most powerfully, Kim urged women to stop competing with each other and start uplifting one another, reminding us there is more than one seat at the table. This conversation is for anyone who's ever looked at a list of job qualifications and hesitated—Kim's message is clear: You don’t have to check every box to go for greatness. Key takeaways from the interview: 0:01:18 – Kim credits her mother with instilling a mindset of excellence and perseverance from an early age. 0:02:40 – Discipline and essentialism have helped her avoid burnout and stay focused on what truly matters. 0:03:52 – Saying no and setting boundaries are crucial leadership skills—especially for women. 0:04:31 – You don’t have to meet 100% of job requirements to be qualified. Let others be the judge—just try. 0:05:26 – Women must stop competing with each other and instead build supportive networks. 0:06:07 – Confidence is built through action—even when it feels uncomfortable. 0:06:59 – Kim embraces the confidence-competence loop: the more you try, the more you grow. 0:07:30 – Failure is just feedback. Every experience, win or setback, teaches something valuable. 0:07:48 – Build a diverse network that challenges your thinking—not just people who agree with you. 0:08:53 – Lifelong learning is part of leadership. Kim recently completed a certificate at Wharton to continue evolving. If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast, or you’re a leader looking to gain clarity on “what’s next,” how to build more cohesive and high-performing teams, and lead with greater confidence and influence, let’s have a confidential conversation . Cheering you on always! – Sheryl…

http://www.sherylkline.com/blog In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the privilege of speaking with Johnita Due , the Executive Vice President of Integrity and Inclusion for CNN and TNT Sports. Johnita’s story is one of purpose, resilience, and deep conviction. She spoke about using her voice—and helping others find theirs—at the highest levels of media and corporate leadership. Johnita’s foundation was shaped early by her parents, both civil rights leaders. Her mother led the first jail-in during the movement, and her father, a “freedom lawyer,” modeled activism through law. Inspired by their work, Johnita pursued law with a vision to create change—not just in courtrooms, but in boardrooms and newsrooms. Her journey into media law allowed her to amplify underrepresented voices through journalism and storytelling. Now, as a leader overseeing both integrity and inclusion, Johnita helps CNN and TNT Sports foster cultures of trust, truth, and equity—internally and externally. She offered candid reflections on being a “double only” in executive spaces, and shared her hard-won wisdom on owning your value, advocating for yourself, and never self-eliminating from opportunity. Key takeaways from the interview: 0:01:01 – Johnita’s fierce drive to make a difference was shaped by her parents’ activism during the Civil Rights Movement. 0:03:10 – Her mother empowered her to pursue impact in boardrooms and classrooms—not just the courtroom. 0:05:05 – Media law became her unexpected but perfect path to support truth, access to information, and representation. 0:08:37 – Her journey was not linear; mentors and early exposure to diverse perspectives shaped her leadership rise. 0:14:26 – Giving voice means creating a safe space for employees to share ideas, feedback, and concerns. 0:15:54 – The shift from “giving voice to others” to “empowering others to use their own voice” was a powerful mindset change. 0:16:51 – Building a culture of voice and inclusion starts with a clearly stated, company-wide commitment—and accountability. 0:20:59 – Generational diversity brings critical insight; young professionals must be encouraged to speak up and share fresh ideas. 0:22:57 – Companies that deprioritize voice and inclusion risk disengagement, stagnation, and lost innovation. 0:25:15 – Her advice: don’t self-eliminate. Advocate for yourself, know your worth, and never let a third party define your value. If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast, or you’re a leader looking to gain clarity on "what’s next," how to build more cohesive and high-performing teams, and lead with greater confidence and influence, let’s have a confidential conversation . Cheering you on always! – Sheryl…

http://www.sherylkline.com/blog In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the pleasure of speaking with Brenda Dysinger , Chief Human Resources Officer of Seneca Gaming Corporation, about the evolving landscape of leadership, the power of authenticity, and how HR can be a true strategic driver in an organization. Brenda’s leadership journey is a testament to resilience and adaptability. She spoke about her early career, where she had to navigate male-dominated spaces and learn how to advocate for herself and others. Her approach to leadership is rooted in fostering trust, prioritizing culture, and leading with transparency. She shared how HR has transformed from a compliance-focused function to a core driver of business success. In her role, Brenda ensures that employee engagement, leadership development, and inclusion are at the forefront of corporate strategy. She believes that when leaders invest in people, they create stronger businesses and better results. Brenda also emphasized the importance of continuous learning. She encourages leaders to stay curious, challenge the status quo, and be open to change—even when it feels uncomfortable. Her advice to aspiring female leaders? Own your seat at the table, be confident in your abilities, and never underestimate the impact of showing up as your true self. Key takeaways from the interview: 0:02:15 – Leadership is about trust, transparency, and staying true to your values. 0:05:32 – HR is no longer just about policies; it’s a strategic function that drives business success. 0:08:21 – Creating a culture of inclusion starts with leadership setting the tone. 0:12:47 – Navigating male-dominated spaces requires confidence, preparation, and self-advocacy. 0:15:38 – The best leaders invest in their people—employee engagement is key to long-term success. 0:18:52 – Continuous learning and curiosity help leaders stay ahead in an evolving workplace. 0:21:09 – Leading through change requires agility and a willingness to embrace discomfort. 0:24:45 – Women in leadership should own their power and not be afraid to take up space. 0:27:33 – Culture isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of high-performing organizations. 0:30:10 – Authenticity is the secret to strong leadership—people follow leaders they trust. If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast OR you’re a leader looking to gain clarity on ‘what’s next’, build cohesive, high-performing teams, or lead with greater confidence and influence, OR if your company would like to be a part of the 10-company book speaking roadshow for my new book, The Fearless Female Leader , let’s have a confidential conversation . Cheering you on always! – Sheryl…

http://www.sherylkline.com/blog In the latest Fearless Female Leadership episode, I had the opportunity to speak with Deep Mahajan , Vice President of Talent Management at Juniper Networks, about the transformative power of empathy in the workplace—and how it’s anything but a “soft” skill. Deep shared her personal journey, the pivotal influence of her father, and how empathy is not only a moral imperative but a performance-driving force within high-achieving organizations. Deep's leadership philosophy began taking shape in a small town in Rajasthan, India, where she watched her father—at the peak of his career as a surgeon—pivot to a life of service. His courageous example inspired her to choose a people-centered path, ultimately leading her to the world of talent development and performance strategy. Throughout her career, Deep challenged conventional norms and followed a purpose-led approach, opting for authenticity and human-centric design over prestige or tradition. Her commitment to building empathetic systems has enabled her to scale high-performance cultures while still honoring each employee’s unique journey. In our conversation, Deep breaks down how empathy is woven into every part of performance management: from setting collaborative goals to delivering meaningful feedback, and from personalized development to building a culture of trust and inclusion. Her message is clear—empathy isn’t optional, it’s essential. Key takeaways from the interview: 0:00:57 – Deep’s father was her first role model in empathy, choosing community service over personal accolades at the height of his medical career. 0:03:27 – Her career path shifted from engineering and medicine to economics and ultimately HR, driven by her desire to help people grow. 0:04:41 – Empathy is a critical ingredient in performance management—it enhances goal setting, feedback, development, and recognition. 0:06:53 – Lack of empathy in leadership leads to broken systems, disengagement, and underperformance. 0:08:15 – Continuous, two-way conversations drive better outcomes than impersonal, once-a-year performance reviews. 0:09:12 – High-performance cultures depend on balancing bold expectations with genuine, consistent care for individuals. 0:10:00 – The future of work demands personalization, and empathetic systems are key to retaining and inspiring top talent. 0:11:08 – Empathy must be authentic—it can’t be faked. Caring must come from a place of real connection. 0:11:50 – Deep’s “5-second rule” helps leaders pause and respond with empathy in emotionally charged conversations. 0:12:21 – True empathy is about listening to understand, not to respond—especially when tensions are high. If Deep’s insights resonated with you, I’d love to hear your story. Let’s connect and explore how you can bring strategic empathy into your own leadership journey. If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast, please email me at info@sherylkline.com . If you’re a leader looking to gain clarity on ‘what’s next’, build cohesive, high-performing teams, or lead with greater confidence and influence, let’s have a confidential conversation . Also, if your company would like to be a part of the 10-company book speaking roadshow for my new book, The Fearless Female Leader , I’d love to discuss it with you ! Cheering you on always! —Sheryl…

http://www.sherylkline.com/blog In the latest Fearless Female Leadership podcast interview, I had the privilege of speaking with Michelle Jewell , Global Head of Leadership Development at ThoughtWorks, about the power of empathy in leadership and why it’s far more than just a “soft skill.” Michelle shared incredible insights on how empathy drives influence, enhances team performance, and creates a lasting impact on workplace culture. Michelle’s journey to leadership has been filled with unexpected twists, from starting her career in consulting to making bold leaps into roles that didn’t even exist yet. Through creative problem-solving and an unwavering commitment to understanding people, she has built a career rooted in leadership development and talent growth. One of Michelle’s core messages is that empathy isn’t just about being kind—it’s a strategic advantage. She highlighted how leaders who deeply understand their teams can drive engagement, reduce turnover, and improve overall business outcomes. Whether you’re leading a team, influencing without authority, or looking to level up your leadership style, Michelle’s insights provide a powerful roadmap. Key takeaways from the interview: 🔹 0:01:49 – How a childhood lesson in creative problem-solving shaped Michelle’s approach to leadership. 🔹 0:03:36 – The importance of recognizing burnout and making career moves that align with personal well-being. 🔹 0:05:15 – Embracing uncertainty—why taking leaps of faith into new roles can lead to unexpected growth. 🔹 0:05:58 – Empathy as a leadership superpower—how understanding others fuels influence and impact. 🔹 0:07:53 – The difference between empathy and sympathy, and why empathy is crucial for strong leadership. 🔹 0:08:33 – Radical candor: How leaders can balance empathy with direct, effective feedback. 🔹 0:11:42 – Navigating leaders with low emotional intelligence—what to do when empathy is lacking in your organization. 🔹 0:14:19 – The power of listening—why truly hearing people is the simplest yet most effective leadership tool. 🔹 0:16:35 – The high cost of low empathy—how a lack of emotional intelligence leads to disengagement and turnover. 🔹 0:17:12 – Empathy is not just a “nice to have”—it directly impacts productivity, profitability, and organizational success. Watch the video of my interview with Michelle Jewell for a more in-depth perspective. Michelle’s insights reinforce that empathy isn’t just about connection—it’s a game-changer for leadership effectiveness and business results. If her wisdom resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Let’s connect and explore how you can apply these principles to your leadership journey. Book a call with me today to take the first step toward fearless leadership. If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast, please email me at info@sherylkline.com . If you’re a leader looking to build high-performing teams, gain clarity on ‘what’s next,’ or create a culture of belonging within your organization, let’s have a confidential conversation . Also, if your company would like to be part of the 10-company book speaking roadshow for my new book, The Fearless Female Leader , I’d love to discuss it with you ! Cheering you on always! – Sheryl…

http://www.sherylkline.com/blog In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the privilege of speaking with Melissa Lewis , Senior Director of Talent Growth and Development at Facing History & Ourselves. We discussed the power of owning our worth and taking agency over our careers. Melissa shared powerful insights on stepping into leadership with confidence, navigating career pivots, and embracing the discomfort that often comes with growth. Melissa’s journey has been anything but linear. From pursuing a PhD and rewriting entire chapters multiple times to making a bold shift from K-12 education to corporate learning and development, she has faced her share of setbacks. Yet, through persistence, courage, and an unwavering belief in her own value, she has continued to rise. She emphasized that owning our worth isn’t just about recognizing our value—it’s about taking action. Too often, women wait for permission, hesitate to take risks, or allow external doubts to shape their career decisions. Melissa challenges that mindset, advocating for what she calls the “do it afraid” approach. Whether it’s applying for a higher-level role, reaching out to a mentor, or making a bold career move, taking action despite fear is what separates those who step into their power from those who remain stuck. Key takeaways from the interview: 🔹 0:01:51 – The power of civic education and why Melissa transitioned from teaching to leadership in talent development. 🔹 0:03:40 – Success isn’t a straight path—embracing detours, setbacks, and U-turns is key to long-term growth. 🔹 0:05:51 – Happiness should be the guiding principle in career decisions—listening to your gut and intuition is essential. 🔹 0:09:12 – Owning your worth means recognizing your value, claiming authority over your career, and taking bold action. 🔹 0:10:24 – The importance of a strong support system—how to create your own “personal board of directors.” 🔹 0:12:57 – “Do it afraid”—why taking risks is necessary for breaking through career plateaus. 🔹 0:17:44 – Applying for roles above your current level is key—stop waiting for permission and start making bold moves. 🔹 0:22:23 – Persistence is the secret ingredient to career success—how to navigate rejection and keep moving forward. 🔹 0:25:49 – Reframing rejection: A “no” doesn’t mean you’re not good enough—it means there’s a better-aligned opportunity ahead. 🔹 0:30:07 – The power of resilience: Honor your disappointments, then decide to move forward stronger than before. Melissa’s wisdom is a testament to the power of courage, action, and resilience in leadership. If her insights resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Let’s connect and explore how you can apply these principles to your leadership journey. Book a call with me today to take the first step toward fearless leadership. http://www.sherylkline.com/meeting If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast, please email me at info@sherylkline.com . If you’re a leader looking to build high-performing teams, gain clarity on ‘what’s next,’ or create a culture of belonging within your organization, let’s have a confidential conversation . Also, if your company would like to be part of the 10-company book speaking roadshow for my new book, The Fearless Female Leader, I’d love to discuss it with you! Cheering you on always!! – Sheryl…

http://www.sherylkline.com/blog In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the privilege of speaking with Angela Stopper, PhD , Chief Learning Officer & Director of People and Organization Development at UC Berkeley, about the power of confidence, courage, and human connection in leadership. Angela shared deeply personal stories about overcoming self-doubt, building a strong professional network, and creating environments where people feel valued—insights that are critical for leaders at every level.. Angela’s leadership journey was shaped by an early experience in high school gym class, where an unexpected act of inclusion taught her the impact of courage and community. This moment, still vivid 30 years later, influences how she leads today—prioritizing belonging, empathy, and ensuring others feel seen and supported. Throughout our conversation, Angela emphasized the role of middle managers in employee retention and the importance of leaders fostering psychological safety. She shared how strategic empathy, gratitude, and meaningful one-on-one conversations can transform workplace cultures, ultimately halting the costly cycle of employee churn. Key take-aways from the interview: 00:01:09 – The high school experience that shaped Angela’s leadership philosophy on confidence, inclusion, and courage. 00:09:49 – Rejection and setbacks can be defining moments—how Angela turned a career-altering rejection into an opportunity. 00:13:47 – The importance of building a professional network that supports and challenges you 00:17:38 – Employee retention is deeply tied to feeling valued—leaders must prioritize human connection. 00:22:27 – How leaders can foster engagement through consistent, meaningful conversations with their teams. 00:23:57 – One-on-one meetings should be a space for support, not just status updates—small shifts can create major impact. 00:27:45 – Strategic empathy: Why truly understanding employees’ challenges leads to stronger performance and retention. 00:29:35 – The power of gratitude and recognizing employees in ways that make them feel genuinely seen and valued. 00:32:31 – Expanding your network beyond your comfort zone is essential for personal growth and fearless leadership Watch this impactful interview with Angela Stopper for more in-depth perspective: https://www.sherylkline.com/blog/halting-churn Angela’s wisdom is a testament to the impact of courageous leadership and the power of fostering a culture of care. If her insights resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Let’s connect and explore how you can apply these principles to your leadership journey. Book a call with me today to take the first step toward fearless leadership. If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast, please email me at info@sherylkline.com . If you’re a leader looking to gain clarity on ‘what’s next’, build cohesive, high-performing teams or navigate challenges with greater confidence and/or influence, let’s have a confidential conversation . Also, if your company would like to be a part of the 10 company book speaking roadshow for my new book, The Fearless Female Leader, I’d love to discuss it with you ! Cheering you on always! - Sheryl…

http://www.sherylkline.com/blog In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the privilege of speaking with Tamesa Rogers , Chief People Officer, about her journey and the power of leaning into what scares you. This was Tamesa’s first podcast interview, and she shared incredible insights on overcoming fear, building resilience, and redefining success. Tamesa’s leadership journey was shaped early on when she started kindergarten mid-year, feeling like an outsider. This experience instilled in her both determination and empathy, making her a leader who actively seeks to ensure others feel included and valued. She believes that fostering a sense of belonging translates directly to organizational success. When asked about being one of the few women—or sometimes the only woman—in executive spaces, Tamesa credited her preparation and grit. She emphasized that confidence stems from knowing you are qualified and refusing to let fear dictate your actions. She encourages self-reflection, questioning negative thoughts, and ensuring that doubts are based on facts rather than insecurity. Tamesa also discussed the importance of embracing uncertainty. After leaving her last role without a set plan, she took time to rest, travel, and reflect—something she believes many high-performing leaders overlook. This period of rest ultimately reignited her passion and helped her define what she truly wanted next. Key takeaways from the interview: - 0:01:22 – Tamesa’s early experience of feeling like an outsider in kindergarten helped shape her compassion and leadership approach. - 0:05:09 – Confidence is built on preparation, determination, and refusing to let fear hold you back. - 0:06:34 – Self-doubt should be examined and challenged—are your fears based on fact, or are they limiting beliefs? - 0:08:02 – Taking time to rest and reset can be just as productive as action; clarity often comes from stillness. - 0:14:23 – Networking and stepping outside of comfort zones can be daunting, but pushing through fear leads to unexpected opportunities. - 0:17:39 – The key to overcoming fear is preparation, understanding the "rules of the game," and playing to win. Tamesa is now looking for her next opportunity—one where she can drive meaningful change, build strong relationships, and solve complex problems. If Tamesa’s story resonated with you, I’d love to hear yours. Let’s connect and explore how you can apply these principles to your leadership journey. Book a call with me today to take the first step toward fearless leadership. If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast, please email me at info@sherylkline.com . If you’re a leader looking to gain clarity on ‘what’s next’, build cohesive, high-performing teams or navigate challenges with greater confidence and/or influence, let’s have a confidential conversation . Also, if your company would like to be a part of the 10 company book speaking roadshow for my new book, The Fearless Female Leader, I’d love to discuss it with you ! Cheering you on always! —Sheryl…

http://www.sherylkline.com/blog In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the privilege of speaking with Sophie Gelsthorpe , CHRO, Sitecore, about her journey and insights on intrinsic motivation. Sophie’s career in HR began by chance after university, influenced by her hardworking parents. She emphasizes the importance of intrinsic confidence, sharing her experience with confidence after becoming Chief People Officer at OpenTable and Kayak. Sophie advises reflecting on personal experiences, practicing self-validation, and preparing thoroughly for meetings. She highlights the need for women to fake it till they make it and suggests finding supportive peers to help build confidence. Key take-aways from the interview: 0:02:32 Sophie’s early life and family background, including her parents’ divorce and their strong work ethic, inspired her ambition and drive. 0:04:43 Sophie fell into HR by chance during university, but found it to be a perfect fit for her interests and strengths. 0:07:15 Relocating for her husband’s job while pregnant was a significant challenge that impacted Sophie’s confidence, but she was able to find new opportunities. 0:11:48 Developing intrinsic confidence and self-love is crucial, not just relying on external validation. 0:15:36 Practices like writing a positive narrative about yourself can help build intrinsic confidence. 0:20:19 Thorough preparation and practice, including anticipating different scenarios, are key to projecting confidence in high-stakes meetings. 0:27:28 It’s important to be able to detach from the outcome and be okay if things don’t go exactly as planned. If Sophie's story resonated with you, I’d love to hear yours. Let’s connect and explore how you can apply these principles to your leadership journey. Book a call with me today to share your story and take the first step toward fearless leadership. If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast, please email me at info@sherylkline.com . Cheering you on always! - Sheryl…

http://www.sherylkline.com/blog I had the honor of interviewing Natasha Engan , Senior Vice President of Global Sales at Deltek, and we discussed leading high-performing teams through disruptive times. She emphasized the importance of controlling what you can, such as work ethic, attitude, and communication. Natasha highlighted the need for transparency, trust, and clear communication to build resilience among employees. She also stressed the significance of listening to customers and maintaining trust through honest feedback. Natasha advised leaders to set a positive tone, empower employees, and balance product launches with customer needs. She concluded by urging mindful communication to inspire and support teams effectively. Key take-aways from the interview: 0:01:47 Focus on what you can control - your work ethic, attitude, and focus - during disruptive times, rather than worrying about external factors beyond your control. 0:02:36 Communicate frequently and transparently with your team to build trust, provide clarity on priorities, and keep them focused on the company's mission and vision. 0:04:27 Empower employees at all levels by pushing decision-making down and providing them with the necessary tools and training. 0:07:39 Balance product launches and innovation with listening to and addressing customer needs to maintain trust and satisfaction. 0:10:17 Tailor your communication to the audience, considering their experience levels, locations, and cultural differences to ensure inclusivity and avoid polarizing topics. 0:15:54 Encourage female leaders and marginalized voices to speak up by providing one-on-one support, building alliances, and creating safe spaces like employee resource groups. 0:17:24 Set a positive tone for your team by appreciating their efforts, asking questions, and focusing on how you can support them rather than interrogating them. If Natasha's story resonated with you, I’d love to hear yours. Let’s connect and explore how you can apply these principles to your leadership journey. Book a call with me today to share your story and take the first step toward fearless leadership. If you’re interested in being featured on the Fearless Female Leadership podcast, please email me at info@sherylkline.com . Cheering you on always! - Sheryl…