242: Rewriting the Confidence Code: Leading Without Changing Who You Are - Rewrite the Mother Code with Dr. Gertrude Lyons | Lyssna här

In this episode, I speak with Jennifer Marcou, international leadership coach, author, mother of three, and former Microsoft and American Express executive, about what it means to lead with confidence without changing who you are. Jennifer shares her journey from a career in corporate leadership to coaching introverts and ultimately writing her first book, Lead with Quiet Confidence.

Jennifer and I explore the often-misunderstood experience of introversion and the ways that workplace culture can favor extroverted behaviors. We talk about how introverts can learn new behaviors without becoming someone they are not, and how small, intentional actions can build confidence over time.

We also connect these ideas to motherhood, exploring the pressure women experience to follow inherited expectations about how they “should” mother. Jennifer shares how trusting your own wisdom, quieting the critical voices, and becoming clear about your own values can help you make decisions that feel authentic to you.

You’ll also hear about:

(01:56) Jennifer’s journey from corporate leadership to coaching introverts and writing her first book
(06:00) Why introverts can feel underestimated in the workplace
(13:59) Understanding introversion, extroversion, and the difference between shyness and social energy
(21:58) How introverts can practice speaking up without changing who they are
(30:33) Building confidence through small, intentional steps
(34:00) Motherhood, self-trust, and finding your own way of parenting
(36:03) Quieting the inner critic and listening to your “wisdom within”
(38:07) Making values-based decisions as a mother and a leader
(42:57) The three-part “Lead with Quiet Confidence” bridge: awareness, confidence, and action
(44:16) Why women and introverted women in particular need to make their accomplishments visible

Don't miss Jennifer's inspiring perspective on embracing introversion, trusting your own wisdom, and building confidence without becoming someone you're not!

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