Why You Should Bet on Women CEOs w/ Patricia Lizarraga

Imposter syndrome—that nagging feeling that you’re not good enough, that one day you’ll be “found out,” that you’re faking it—is one of the most common internal struggles leaders face. And yet, no one really talks about how to use it. In this episode of Reflect Forward, I sit down with executive coach, speaker, and author Jen Coken to reframe imposter syndrome as a powerful signpost: you're growing, stretching, and stepping into bigger arenas. Instead of running from it or trying to eliminate it, Jen shows us how to lean into it, understand where it comes from, and even transform it into fuel for confident, authentic leadership. Her book, Make Imposter Syndrome Your Superpower, is filled with deeply personal stories, research-backed insight, and practical strategies. During our conversation, we both open up about our own “why me?” moments, including how our childhoods shaped our self-doubt, and how mindfulness, self-inquiry, and storytelling help us lead through it. We also talk about: • Where imposter syndrome really comes from (hint: it’s usually before age 12) • How the brain creates protective patterns that show up in moments of high pressure • The role of mindfulness and micro-moments of stillness in rewiring self-doubt • The power of pause, presence, and play to disrupt those old stories • What it means to lead from your heart—even when it feels vulnerable This is a raw, honest, and empowering conversation that I know will resonate with so many of you navigating self-doubt while leading in uncertain times. Favorite Quotes from the Episode “You can have ‘why me’ over for a drink, but don’t let it sleep in your bed—because you’ll want to chew your arm off in the morning.” — Jen Coken “Your suffering lies in your stories. Change the story, and you change your experience.” — Jen Coken Key Takeaways: How to Make Imposter Syndrome Your Superpower 1. Recognize it’s not you—it’s your brain. Imposter syndrome is an amygdala hijack, not a reflection of your capabilities. Awareness is the first step. 2. Trace it back. Most imposter patterns begin with childhood experiences that shaped our beliefs about worthiness and safety. Get curious, not judgmental. 3. Pause and reflect. Use mindfulness to create space between the feeling and your response. Micro-moments of stillness build long-term resilience. 4. Tell a better story. Reframe your narrative. When self-doubt creeps in, challenge it by telling yourself three more empowering stories about what could happen. 5. Visualize success—and feel it. Don’t just see yourself succeeding, embody the feeling of confidence. Your nervous system believes what you feel. If you’re ready to stop letting self-doubt call the shots and start owning your brilliance, this episode will help you reframe imposter syndrome as the growth companion it truly is. Connect with Jen Coken • Website: www.jencoken.com • Book: Make Imposter Syndrome Your Superpower – available on Amazon or request it from your local indie bookstore or Barnes & Noble • Speaking & Workshops: Invite Jen to your organization, team offsite, or book club If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a fellow leader who might be struggling with imposter syndrome or self-doubt. And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps more people find these powerful conversations. This episode is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t forget to subscribe to Reflect Forward on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube. Visit my website, kerrysiggins.com, to explore my book, The Ownership Mindset, and get more leadership resources. Let’s connect on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok! Find Reflect Forward on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kerrysiggins-reflectforward Find out more about my book here: https://kerrysiggins.com/the-ownership-mindset/ Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-siggins/

Changing your mind isn’t indecision—it’s intelligent leadership. And that’s why great leaders change their minds. In this episode of Reflect Forward, I dig into why the best leaders are those who are open to changing their minds. If leadership is about learning, then pivoting when presented with new information is not just acceptable—it’s essential. One of my favorite leadership philosophies comes from futurist Paul Saffo, who coined the phrase: “Strong opinions, loosely held.” It means having the confidence to act decisively and the humility to evolve your thinking when things change. This blend of conviction and adaptability is what makes a leader trustworthy, resilient, and future-ready. Why is it so hard to change your mind? We explore the psychology behind resistance, including: • Cognitive dissonance – the discomfort of holding conflicting beliefs • The sunk cost fallacy – continuing down a path just because you’ve already invested in it • Confirmation bias – our tendency to seek information that confirms our beliefs • Ego and fear of looking wrong – which can lead to rigidity and poor decision-making Leading by example I share a few personal stories where I changed my mind as a leader—once during a key hiring decision and again in response to a product development timeline. These moments weren’t easy. They required introspection, courage, and a willingness to let go of ego. But they helped build trust with my team, made our business stronger, and reinforced one of my core leadership beliefs: Great leadership isn’t about always being right—it’s about being open to getting it right. Mental flexibility is a leadership muscle You’ll walk away with four practical tools for building mental flexibility: 1. Build in decision checkpoints. 2. Create safe feedback loops. 3. Practice saying “I don’t know… yet.” 4. Make self-reflection a ritual. I also tie all of this back to the Ownership Mindset—because leadership is about owning both your successes and your missteps. That means being willing to evolve, especially when it’s uncomfortable. Key Takeaways • The best leaders are learners—and learners change their minds. Resistance is natural, but self-awareness can override it. Changing your mind with transparency builds credibility. Reflection and feedback improve decision-making agility. The Ownership Mindset requires the courage to grow and adapt. Challenge of the Week Say out loud: “I changed my mind.” Even just once. Pay attention to how it feels and how it shifts your thinking. Then ask yourself: “What belief or decision am I holding onto too tightly?” If you enjoyed this episode, I’d be so grateful if you’d share it with another leader who could use this message. And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Reflect Forward—your support helps amplify these conversations on modern leadership.

Leaders are built on purpose, not on PR. In this powerful and heart-opening episode of Reflect Forward, I sit down with Kevin Edwards, President—and soon-to-be CEO—of Real Leaders, a leadership platform that champions purpose-driven CEOs and companies making an impact. Kevin and I dive into what it means to lead with authenticity, how Real Leaders is challenging the Forbes status quo, and why being seen as more than just a title matters—because behind every CEO, founder, or entrepreneur is a human being with struggles, dreams, and a purpose worth pursuing. From his humble beginnings as an intern to becoming the driving force behind a global media brand, Kevin shares his journey, the lessons he's learned interviewing 500+ leaders (including Gary Vee, Jay Shetty, and Mel Robbins), and how his mission is rooted in one powerful belief: that leaders who show up authentically transform lives. What We Talk About • Why Real Leaders is redefining what it means to be an “impact company” • The six elements of real impact using their I.M.P.A.C.T. framework • Kevin’s personal journey from intern to CEO—and how purpose guided every step • The role of authenticity in leadership (especially in an AI-driven world) • Why leadership must be seen as a vocation, not just a title • The challenge of showing up as your real self even when it’s uncomfortable • How to empower people to believe in themselves through your leadership Why You Should Listen This episode is a raw, real, and uplifting conversation that reminds us: being a great leader isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about creating environments where others can believe in themselves, grow, and thrive. Whether you're a seasoned CEO, a new manager, or someone thinking about your next chapter, Kevin's insights will inspire you to lead with more heart, vision, and courage. Key Takeaways 1. Leadership is a Vocation: We must start treating leadership like we do engineering or accounting—it requires intentional learning, accountability, and refinement. 2. Authenticity Wins: In a world increasingly filtered through AI, the leaders who will stand out are those who keep it real. 3. Impact is More Than ESG: Real Leaders uses a powerful I.M.P.A.C.T. framework—Intention, Model, People, Accountability, Collaboration, Transforming lives—to spotlight leaders who go beyond profit to serve purpose. 4. Build Your Brand and Your Business: Your personal growth as a leader can and should align with your company’s growth. Don’t let others tell you otherwise. 5. Great Leaders Help Others See Themselves Differently: The most powerful leadership moves are often the ones that help others feel seen, valued, and capable of more. Quotable Moments “A real leader is someone who helps people see themselves in a better future—and makes the world around them relevant to that vision.” — Kevin Edwards “Leadership isn't about being liked by everyone. It's about being authentic, accountable, and helping others rise—even when it's messy.” — Kerry Siggins Resources Mentioned • Real Leaders Magazine and Membership • Real Leaders Podcast Support Reflect Forward This episode is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t forget to subscribe to Reflect Forward on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube. Visit my website, kerrysiggins.com, to explore my book, The Ownership Mindset, and get more leadership resources. Let’s connect on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok! Find Reflect Forward on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kerrysiggins-reflectforward Find out more about my book here: https://kerrysiggins.com/the-ownership-mindset/ Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-siggins/

What if the key to unlocking your next level of leadership isn’t about doing more—but about owning who you already are? In this episode of Reflect Forward, I dive into one of my favorite topics—unlocking your leadership superpower. That one thing (or maybe a few things) you do instinctively. Effortlessly. The things that make people lean in when you speak, trust you with big decisions, or feel seen and inspired in your presence. These strengths are your superpowers—and when you learn to name them, claim them, and use them with intention, you can elevate your career, your leadership, and your impact in ways you never imagined. To bring this to life, I share the story of Oprah Winfrey. She didn’t come from privilege. She wasn’t handed an opportunity. She had a gift for connection, storytelling, and making people feel seen and understood. And instead of trying to fit into the traditional media mold, she owned her superpower—and built a legacy by using it to uplift others. That’s the power of leading from who you truly are. I also open up about my own superpowers—storytelling with vulnerability and listening with presence—and how they’ve shaped how I lead, connect, and influence. I talk about the mistakes I made trying to be someone I wasn’t, and how everything shifted when I gave myself permission to lead from my strengths, not someone else’s idea of success. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned executive looking to play a bigger game, this episode will help you tap into what makes you powerful, aligned, and unforgettable. In this episode, I share: • What a leadership superpower actually is—and what it’s not • Why we often miss what makes us brilliant • A simple process for discovering your superpower using reflection, feedback, and tools like ChatGPT • Why embracing your zone of genius isn’t selfish—it’s the most effective way to lead and serve • How to use your superpower to grow your career, build trust, and create a ripple effect in your organization and beyond Key Takeaways from This Episode: 1. Your leadership superpower is your edge—it’s what sets you apart and fuels your greatest impact. 2. Self-awareness is the foundation of powerful leadership. When you know yourself, you lead with clarity and authenticity. 3. The answers are already within you—pay attention to when you feel in flow, energized, and effective. 4. Use your superpower with intention—it’s how you build confidence, accelerate your career, and inspire your team. 5. Great leadership isn’t about being everything to everyone. It’s about showing up fully in your genius—and empowering others to do the same. Call to Action: Ask three people you trust: What do you think is my greatest leadership strength? Then ask yourself: Am I using it every day? If not, what’s one small shift I can make to lean into it more? If this episode speaks to you, share it with someone who’s searching for their spark. Subscribe to Reflect Forward wherever you listen to podcasts or watch on YouTube. And if you feel inspired, leave a review—it helps more people find the show. Connect with me on LinkedIn and tell me what your superpower is. I’d love to cheer you on. Listen Now: This episode is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t forget to subscribe to Reflect Forward on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube. Visit my website, kerrysiggins.com, to explore my book, The Ownership Mindset, and get more leadership resources. Let’s connect on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok! Find Reflect Forward on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kerrysiggins-reflectforward Find out more about my book here: https://kerrysiggins.com/the-ownership-mindset/ Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-siggins/

Strategic foresight is the visionary practice of anticipating what’s ahead—so you can make bold, future-shaping decisions today that turn uncertainty into opportunity. In this week’s episode of Reflect Forward, I sit down with futurist and designer Donna DuPont, founder and chief strategist at Purple Compass, to discuss how to anticipate the future and make better decisions. Donna’s work is all about helping organizations embrace the power of strategic foresight—not the crystal ball kind, but the kind that empowers leaders to make bold, intelligent decisions today that position their organizations for tomorrow. Donna shares how foresight allows leaders to improve their relationship with uncertainty and confidently navigate disruption. She breaks down the difference between forecasting and foresight, explains how to develop anticipatory thinking skills, and offers actionable advice for integrating a culture of foresight into your team and company. I also share my own journey of applying foresight to lead StoneAge through strategic shifts, innovation challenges, and industry disruption. From creating a "what the future looks like" document in 2018 to guiding bold strategic moves, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful future-priming and pattern recognition can be. This episode is full of practical wisdom, thought-provoking insights, and a whole lot of energy around why developing future-ready leadership is more important than ever. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • What strategic foresight really is—and what it’s not • How to practice foresight through horizon scanning and scenario planning • Why courage and vulnerability are key in navigating uncertainty • How confirmation bias derails smart strategy (and how to overcome it) • What you can do today to start building a future-proof culture in your organization Key Takeaways: 1. Foresight isn't about predicting the future—it's about understanding emerging patterns and making empowered decisions. 2. You don’t need to overhaul everything. Start small. Choose a product, problem, or strategic focus area and test out anticipatory thinking there. 3. Innovation is messy, and that’s okay. Courage, not perfection, leads to breakthrough moments. 4. Challenge your assumptions. Just because you think it doesn’t make it true. 5. Hope is a mindset. Leaders who stay curious, connected, and optimistic are best positioned to create a better future. About Donna DuPont: Donna is a professional futurist and founder of Purple Compass, a consultancy that helps leaders and organizations develop future-readiness through foresight practices. She recently launched the Future Intelligence Lab and The Future Minds Coaching Collective—a free, monthly coaching experience for anyone looking to deepen their foresight skills. You can learn more at purplecompass.ca. Let’s Reflect Forward: Donna’s insight reminds us that the ability to reflect on past experiences and bring those lessons forward into the future is a powerful leadership skill. As she puts it, "Each experience allows us to learn something new about ourselves… and shape a personal future that opens up new opportunity." Listen Now: This episode is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t forget to subscribe to Reflect Forward on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube. Visit my website, kerrysiggins.com, to explore my book, The Ownership Mindset, and get more leadership resources. Let’s connect on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok! Find Reflect Forward on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kerrysiggins-reflectforward Find out more about my book here: https://kerrysiggins.com/the-ownership-mindset/ Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-siggins/

In this episode of Reflect Forward, I dive into one of the most important truths of leadership: your team doesn’t need a perfect leader, they need a real, authentic one—especially now, in the age of AI and automation. As technology becomes more integrated into our daily work, it’s easy for leaders to slip into the background—managing from behind a screen, buried in email threads and Zoom meetings. But leadership is, and always will be, a human endeavor. If you're not out with your team, building trust through authentic connection, you're missing the most valuable part of leadership. I share why leaders who isolate themselves behind closed doors or computer screens are failing their teams, and how something as simple as walking around and asking thoughtful questions can transform team dynamics. Management by Walking Around (MBWA) isn't a new concept, but it's more relevant than ever. When you're visible, approachable, and genuinely curious, you foster real engagement and trust. We also explore the power of authenticity—how showing up as your full, imperfect self builds stronger relationships and deeper trust. In a world where AI can mimic human interaction, your ability to empathize, connect, and be vulnerable is what sets you apart. Your team wants to trust you, and they want to feel trusted. That’s the foundation of high-performing, psychologically safe teams. Plus, I leave you with one powerful, simple exercise you can try today to begin building more trust and connection with your team. It takes just a few minutes, but the impact can last a lifetime. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Why being present and engaged with your team matters more than ever How hiding behind screens is damaging trust and connection The value of authenticity in leadership and how to show up as your true self Why AI will never replace the emotional intelligence and human intuition you bring A simple, powerful trust-building exercise you can implement today Now more than ever, your team needs you. Not your title. Not your polished image. Just you—real, present, and engaged. Tune in to be reminded why human-centered leadership is not just timeless—it’s the future. Listen and Subscribe Find this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and YouTube and be sure to subscribe. If you enjoyed this conversation, please share it with your network and leave a review. The more we amplify the success of women in leadership, the faster we create lasting change. Visit my website, kerrysiggins.com, to explore my book, The Ownership Mindset, and get more leadership resources. Let’s connect on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok! Find Reflect Forward on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kerrysiggins-reflectforward Find out more about my book here: https://kerrysiggins.com/the-ownership-mindset/ Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-siggins/

Should you bet on women CEOs? In this episode of Reflect Forward, I sit down with Patricia Lizarraga, Managing Partner of Hypatia Capital and the driving force behind the WCEO ETF, the first exchange-traded fund dedicated to investing in publicly traded U.S. companies led by female CEOs. We explore a fascinating question: Do companies led by women perform better? Patricia shares compelling data that suggests they do—and explains why. With decades of experience in finance and investment banking, she witnessed firsthand how women in leadership positions frequently faced greater obstacles in their ascent to the top. The result? Many of them are extraordinarily resilient and effective leaders. This episode isn’t just about investing; it’s about shifting the narrative around leadership, success, and financial empowerment. If you’re interested in supporting diversity in corporate leadership while making smart investment decisions, this conversation is for you. What You’ll Learn • Why companies led by female CEOs often outperform and what the data says • How investing in women-led businesses can create long-term impact • The ripple effect of leadership diversity and why it benefits everyone—not just women • How the WCEO ETF makes it easy to invest in companies with female CEOs • Patricia’s personal journey and what she’s learned about taking ownership of her career Why This Matters Despite the progress made, women still hold only a small percentage of CEO positions in major corporations. Yet research consistently shows that diversity in leadership leads to better financial performance, stronger company culture, and greater innovation. Patricia’s work is not just about creating investment opportunities; it’s about normalizing female leadership and giving more women a seat at the table. Episode Quote "If you want your daughter to enter the workforce without her hands tied behind her back after you just spent half a million dollars to send her to college, it behooves you for there to be more women CEOs." – Patricia Lizarraga How to Learn More and Invest To learn more about Patricia and the WCEO ETF, visit wceoetf.com. You can also follow Patricia on LinkedIn, where she shares insights on women in leadership and the financial markets. If you’re interested in investing, the WCEO ETF is available through major brokerage platforms like Schwab, E-Trade, Robinhood, and SoFi under the ticker WCEO. Listen and Subscribe Find this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and YouTube and be sure to subscribe. If you enjoyed this conversation, please share it with your network and leave a review. The more we amplify the success of women in leadership, the faster we create lasting change. Visit my website, kerrysiggins.com, to explore my book, The Ownership Mindset, and get more leadership resources. Let’s connect on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok! Find Reflect Forward on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kerrysiggins-reflectforward Find out more about my book here: https://kerrysiggins.com/the-ownership-mindset/ Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-siggins/

If you're waiting for motivation to strike before you take action, you're wasting time. The truth is that motivation doesn’t create action—action creates motivation. In this episode of Reflect Forward, I share three science-backed strategies to help you stop procrastinating and start moving, even when you don’t feel like it. Top performers, productivity experts, and psychologists use these techniques—and they’re surprisingly simple. I also get personal, sharing my own struggle with procrastination while writing my second book and how I’m using these exact strategies to push through. If you feel stuck, uninspired, or overwhelmed, this episode is for you. What You'll Learn: • Why waiting for motivation is a trap and what to do instead • How small actions create momentum and build confidence • Three simple productivity hacks to stop procrastinating and get moving The 3 Science-Backed Secrets to Taking Action: 1. The 5-Minute Rule – Just start Commit to working on your task for just five minutes—nothing more. This technique, similar to Mel Robbins’ 5-Second Rule, helps you push past hesitation and lowers mental resistance. Often, once you begin, you’ll keep going. Try this: The next time you're stuck, set a timer for five minutes and see what happens. 2. The 'Why Power' Method – Find the emotional connection Your deepest motivation comes from understanding why something matters to you. Simon Sinek’s Start With Why emphasizes that actions tied to a strong purpose are more sustainable. When you connect your tasks to a bigger reason, they feel more meaningful. Try this: Write down why achieving this goal is important to you. Keep it visible to remind yourself daily. 3. The Micro-Win Stack – Celebrate small victories James Clear, in Atomic Habits, explains that stacking small wins creates an identity shift—you become someone who acts. Small wins release dopamine, reinforcing motivation and making habits stick. Try this: Set three small goals for today, complete them, and acknowledge your success. Final Takeaway. You won’t always feel like taking action, but action is the ultimate motivator. The smallest step forward is infinitely better than standing still. You will never regret showing up—even if you didn’t feel like it at first. Episode Challenge Right now—before you close this episode—write down ONE task you’ve been avoiding. Set a five-minute timer and take action. DM me and tell me what you did! Please share this episode with a colleague or friend if you find it valuable. Subscribe to Reflect Forward on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to help spread the word. Resources & Links: Don’t forget to subscribe to Reflect Forward on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube. Visit my website, kerrysiggins.com, to explore my book, The Ownership Mindset, and get more leadership resources. Let’s connect on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok! Find Reflect Forward on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kerrysiggins-reflectforward Find out more about my book here: https://kerrysiggins.com/the-ownership-mindset/ Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-siggins/ For my website only Please order my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn. Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO! And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!

Have you ever felt like leadership wasn't bringing you joy? That climbing the corporate ladder was draining rather than fulfilling? My guest this week, Marlene Linzner Scherf, faced that very dilemma—and did something truly courageous. Thrown into leadership at a young age, Marlene quickly realized that it wasn’t the right fit for her at the time. She made the bold decision to step back, not out of failure, but as a strategic move to rediscover what leadership meant to her. She went back to being an individual contributor, pursued coaching certification, and embarked on a journey of personal and professional growth. This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt stuck in a role that no longer serves them but fears what stepping back might mean. In this episode, we discuss: • The challenges of being thrown into leadership without guidance • The power of listening to your gut and knowing when to pivot • How crisis communication skills shape great leadership • The courage to take a step back in order to move forward • How investing in personal growth leads to long-term success Marlene’s journey proves that leadership isn’t always about moving up—it’s about moving in the right direction for you. More about Marlene Marlene is the founder of Ripe Consulting, a business specializing in brand experience, digital strategy, and coaching. She believes in empowering professionals to cultivate their best selves and navigate their careers with confidence. Originally from Austria, she now resides in the Netherlands and works globally to help individuals and teams thrive. You can connect with Marlene on LinkedIn or visit her website at ripemcc.com. If you enjoyed this episode, please: • Share it with someone contemplating a career change • Subscribe to Reflect Forward on your favorite podcast platform and YouTube • Leave a review or comment—I’d love to hear your thoughts Listen now for an inspiring conversation about redefining leadership and having the courage to design a career that truly fits you. Don’t forget to subscribe to Reflect Forward on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube. Visit my website, kerrysiggins.com, to explore my book, The Ownership Mindset, and get more leadership resources. Let’s connect on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok! Find Reflect Forward on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kerrysiggins-reflectforward Find out more about my book here: https://kerrysiggins.com/the-ownership-mindset/ Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-siggins/ Please order my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn. Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO! And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!

How do you create lasting happiness in your life and career? More importantly, how do you take responsibility for it? In this episode of Reflect Forward, I explore why happiness is a worthy goal and why you must take ownership of your well-being. I reflect on my fireside chat with Jenn Lim, CEO of Delivering Happiness and author of Beyond Happiness, to discuss how true happiness is cultivated through purpose, progress, and deep connections—not just quick dopamine hits. Happiness and leadership are closely linked. Unhappy leaders create disengaged teams, while fulfilled leaders inspire innovation and growth. Workplace culture thrives when individuals take ownership of their happiness and well-being. In this episode, Jenn and I explore the mindset shifts and daily habits that help leaders and employees build sustainable happiness, resilience, and fulfillment in work and life. Key Takeaways • Happiness is a choice and a skill. It requires effort, mindset shifts, and intentional action. • Dopamine vs. sustainable happiness. Quick dopamine hits (social media, alcohol, shopping) provide momentary pleasure but do not lead to long-term well-being. True fulfillment comes from purpose, progress, and relationships. • Leadership and happiness are interconnected. When leaders take responsibility for their happiness, they set the tone for an engaged, motivated workplace culture. • Use the “LIT Framework” to define your purpose. Light (what excites you), Impact (how you contribute), and Talent (what you excel at) help align your career and life with what brings fulfillment. • Self-care is a discipline, not a luxury. Leaders and professionals must prioritize their mental, physical, and emotional well-being to show up fully. • Gratitude creates a ripple effect. Regularly expressing gratitude strengthens team culture, improves relationships, and enhances personal happiness. This episode is essential for leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals looking to improve workplace engagement, personal fulfillment, and resilience. Happiness at work leads to higher productivity, stronger collaboration, and a healthier company culture. Reflect Forward Episode on Why You Should Do Hard Things mentioned in this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsKcPAEPUWM&t=1s Jenn Lim’s book, Beyond Happiness: https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Happiness-Authentic-Leaders-Prioritize/dp/1538736888/ref=asc_df_1538736888?mcid=45c01e95587f39b1980af23d567c4540&hvocijid=17706018888584484959-1538736888-&hvexpln=73&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=730352155585&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=17706018888584484959&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9015544&hvtargid=pla-2281435176698&psc=1 Please share this episode with a colleague or friend if you find it valuable. Subscribe to Reflect Forward on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to help spread the word. Don’t forget to subscribe to Reflect Forward on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube. Visit my website, kerrysiggins.com, to explore my book, The Ownership Mindset, and get more leadership resources. Let’s connect on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok! Find Reflect Forward on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kerrysiggins-reflectforward Find out more about my book here: https://kerrysiggins.com/the-ownership-mindset/ Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-siggins/ Please order my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn. Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO! And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!