In a dynamic conversation between Phil Gerbyshak and Jenny Mitchell, we dive deep into the themes of leadership, ambition, and the unique challenges faced by women in the workplace. Jenny, editor and author of Embracing Ambition: Empowering Women to Step Out, Lead, and Be Seen, shares her journey, insights, and advice on how women can break free from societal norms and embrace their true potential.
Jenny Mitchell is not just an author; she’s an executive coach, podcaster, and founder of Chaver, a business dedicated to empowering women. In this conversation, Jenny reveals the lessons she's learned, the obstacles she's overcome, and the advice she gives to women striving to lead.
Trusting Your Instincts and Defying Misplaced Advice
One of the most striking moments in the conversation comes when Jenny reflects on some of the worst advice she ever received. Early in her career, she had an "inkling" that she wanted to be a leadership coach. However, when she shared this with a client, the response she received was disheartening. The client, who needed a fundraising coach, dismissed her aspirations by saying, "I could hire a million leadership coaches, but right now, I have a need for fundraising." This advice led Jenny to "turtle" for about five years, pushing her leadership ambitions aside.
Reflecting on this, Jenny shares, "I really respected her and took it to heart. It put me back in my box, and that’s the part I really regret." She explains how this misplaced advice kept her from pursuing her true passion for leadership coaching, a decision she wishes she had challenged sooner.
"I turtled for about five years... it put me back in my box, and that’s the part I really regret."
The Challenge of Ambition for Women
Another key theme in Jenny's book and conversation is the concept of ambition, particularly how it is perceived differently for men and women. She discusses the societal challenges women face when they exhibit ambition, describing it as a "bad word" for women, loaded with negative connotations. She points out the conflict many women feel between nurturing and ambition, compassion and drive.
Jenny eloquently states, "For women, there’s this conflict between nurturing and ambition... they get stuck in this weird middle place where they’re valued for their emotional labor but not for their drive to thrive in a business world."
"For women, there’s this conflict between nurturing and ambition... they get stuck in this weird middle place."
She emphasizes that ambition should not be a dirty word for women, but rather a badge of honor that drives them toward their goals. Jenny argues that it’s crucial to create environments where women can thrive without being judged for their ambition.
Stepping Out and Being Seen
The conversation also delves into the practical steps women can take to step out of their comfort zones, be seen, and lead. Jenny highlights the importance of visibility and the courage it takes for women to be seen, especially in environments where they may not feel welcome or equal.
She shares a personal anecdote about attending a conference with her boss, who encouraged her to sit beside a CEO. This experience was eye-opening for Jenny as it made her realize the importance of positioning herself in spaces of influence.
"Being seen is truly an act of faith and trust in themselves... believing you’re worthy of sitting beside the CEO."
Jenny encourages women to seize opportunities to be seen and to surround themselves with allies who support their journey. She also stresses the importance of mentorship and finding someone who can help them navigate these challenges.
Leadership and Radical Responsibility
As the conversation winds down, Jenny and Phil discuss the concept of leadership, especially for women who may struggle with feelings of unworthiness. Jenny advocates for what she calls "radical responsibility" – the idea that individuals must take full ownership of their lives, choices, and careers.
She emphasizes, "At the end of the day, you are responsible for yourself. Own it, own that you screwed up, and stop hedging between ‘I told you so’ and living life to its fullest."
"At the end of the day, you are responsible for yourself... stop hedging between ‘I told you so’ and living life to its fullest."
This radical responsibility, according to Jenny, is crucial for anyone looking to step into leadership roles and make a meaningful impact. It requires a shift from defensive living to one of opportunity and bold decision-making.
Taking the First Step
The conversation concludes with Jenny offering actionable advice for women who want to begin their journey of stepping out, being seen, and leading. She emphasizes the importance of making the decision to change, no matter how small the first step might be. Whether it’s waking up earlier, leaving the office on time, or reaching out to a trusted confidant, the journey begins with acknowledging your ambition and taking action.
Phil echoes this sentiment, adding that being open to feedback and seeking support from others are crucial steps in this journey.
For those looking to delve deeper into Jenny’s insights, her book Embracing Ambition is available on Amazon. Her work at Chavender continues to inspire and empower women to embrace their leadership potential.
In Jenny’s words, "Acknowledging your ambition is really important. Make the decision, reach out to someone you trust, and be open to feedback. That’s how you start stepping out, being seen, and leading."
Step Up, Be Seen and Lead