The Grit & Grace Leadership Podcast

Jen Kelly

What fuels the heart of a leader?  Leadership isn't just about guiding—it's about persevering, learning, and growing.  On the Grit & Grace Podcast, we shine a spotlight on the stories behind the leader.  Leaving listeners with the inspiration and tools to do the same.

Join us for stories of triumph, tenacity, and the unwavering grit & grace behind successful leaders.

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Episodes

Grief to Growth & Empowering Resilience in Kids with Lindsay Tucker
Mar 11 2024
Grief to Growth & Empowering Resilience in Kids with Lindsay Tucker
In this compelling episode, hosts Jen and Lindsay delve deep into the heart of resilience, exploring how the challenges we face in early life can sculpt a spirit of endurance and growth. Lindsay Tucker, a seasoned special education teacher with over a decade of experience, shares her personal journey of overcoming adversity, including the profound impact of losing her father at a young age. Together, Jen and Lindsay discuss the power of resilience in personal and professional development, offering insights into fostering this critical trait in children and adults alike.Through a mix of heartfelt personal stories and professional expertise, this episode sheds light on the importance of navigating discomfort, the transformative potential of education, and the innovative teaching practices that can support all learners. Whether you're a parent, educator, or anyone looking to cultivate resilience in yourself and others, this conversation provides valuable principles and practical advice for empowering resilience in the face of life's challenges.Key PointsPersonal and professional perspective on loss and resiliencePractical strategies for developing resilience in childrenStudy featured on the Dr. Andrew Huberman Podcast (link here) on the impact of intelligence versus effort feedback on children's motivation and performance.Join us for a deeply personal and insightful conversation on growth, overcoming adversity, and the enduring power of resilience. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn  for more practical tips, tools, and takeaways for your leadership journey.For us for actionable tools & tips for your leadership journey Instagram @Grit.Grace.PodcastFollow our LinkedIn PageWebsite: www.thegritandgrace.co
Designing Success: Fostering a Mindset of Growth and Innovation with Candice Kaye
Mar 3 2024
Designing Success: Fostering a Mindset of Growth and Innovation with Candice Kaye
Join us in this enlightening episode, where we sit down with Candice Kaye, visionary textile designer and founder of Candice Kaye Design. Her innovative designs have graced the spaces of iconic brands like Nike, Microsoft, Maman Cafe, and Bacardi. Dive deep into Candice's journey from the bustling streets of New York to establishing a unique niche in the competitive world of design, providing invaluable insights for entrepreneurs, designers, and creatives alike.What you’ll learn:The Birth of a Vision: Discover how Candice identified a gap in the market for bespoke textile designs, transforming ordinary spaces into memorable experiences.Overcoming Challenges: Hear about the resilience required to build a thriving business, including handling rejection and the importance of showcasing your work.Strategic Partnerships: Learn how collaborations with high-profile brands and local cafes propelled Candice's career, emphasizing the power of networking and word-of-mouth.Navigating Client Expectations: Gain insights into managing diverse client demands while maintaining artistic integrity and fostering collaborative relationships.Personal Growth: Explore the personal journey of growth and innovation that underpins Candice's success, including daily rituals, self-reflection, and the critical role of mental well-being.Creative Abundance: Uncover the mindset shift required to tap into endless creativity, ensuring a constant flow of innovative ideas.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative looking to scale your project, or simply intrigued by the intersection of design and business, this episode offers a treasure trove of lessons on perseverance, creativity, and the importance of nurturing a growth-oriented mindset.Follow Candice on InstagramLearn more about Candice Kaye Designs at https://www.candicekayedesign.com/For us for actionable tools & tips for your leadership journey Instagram @Grit.Grace.PodcastFollow our LinkedIn PageWebsite: www.thegritandgrace.co
Lead Under Pressure Without Burning Out with Heather Watt
Feb 18 2024
Lead Under Pressure Without Burning Out with Heather Watt
When faced with the unimaginable, how do leaders navigate through the storm and avoid burnout?This episode dives into Heather Watt's tenure as Chief of Staff to the Deputy Premier of Ontario and Minister of Health during the pandemic, showcasing the critical blend of resilience, strategic foresight, and adaptability required at the forefront of government during an unparalleled global health crisis. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to strengthen their leadership skills and emerge stronger from adversity. We'll delve into practical strategies for avoiding burnout and prioritizing well-being amidst intense leadership demands. Heather also shares her profound belief in the power of daily discipline over fleeting motivation, offering a refreshing perspective on sustained leadership excellence.What You'll Learn:Strategies for Decision-Making Under Pressure: Discover how to master the art of making prompt, informed decisions when the stakes are highest.Building Resilience Against Burnout: Uncover key strategies for maintaining well-being and preventing burnout, even under intense leadership demands. Heather shares her approach to stress management, effective delegation, and avoiding burnout. Navigating Complex Communication: Learn the importance of clear, empathetic communication for managing expectations and leading in crisis situations. Heather reveals her tactics for honest dialogue and building mutual trust.Understanding the Dunning-Kruger Effect in Leadership: Delve into how recognizing and mitigating cognitive biases, like the Dunning-Kruger Effect, can enhance self-awareness and team performance, fostering a culture of continuous learning and humility.Stay Connected!Follow Heather Watt on InstagramConnect with Heather on LinkedInFor us for actionable tools & tips for your leadership journey Instagram @Grit.Grace.PodcastFollow our LinkedIn PageWebsite: www.thegritandgrace.co
Master Confidence & Achieve Unshakeable Self-Worth with Dr Bimpe Ayeni
Feb 12 2024
Master Confidence & Achieve Unshakeable Self-Worth with Dr Bimpe Ayeni
Empower your leadership journey with Dr. Bimpe Ayeni, an Ivy League-educated plastic surgeon turned entrepreneur.  Dr. Ayeni shares key strategies to cultivate confidence and achieve unshakeable self-worth.  From leading in the operating room to founding the men's skincare line Blair & Jack, her story embodies confidence, bravery, resilience, and success.  This episode offers actionable advice and inspiration for anyone looking to elevate their leadership skills and make a lasting impact.Discover strategies for mastering confidence: Gain insights into how Dr. Ayeni cultivated a deep sense of self-confidence throughout her career, along with practical advice for viewers to apply in their own lives.Explore the building of unshakeable self-worth: Learn about Dr. Ayeni's journey to develop a strong sense of self-worth, both professionally and as a mother.Understand the importance of bravery and resilience: Learn valuable lessons on navigating challenges from the operating room to entrepreneurship and discover tips for overcoming daily uncertainties.Impart values to the next generation:  Find out how she shares the lessons she's learned and instills these values in her children, offering viewers insights into passing on lessons of confidence, bravery, and resilience to their kids.Subscribe for more empowering insights, and share your thoughts and experiences.  Connect with Dr. Ayeni and explore Blair & Jack further:Follow Dr. Bimpe Ayeni on Instagram: Learn more about Blair & Jack -  WebsiteJoin us in becoming an influential leader who shapes the future. Connect with us on Instagram and LinkedIn!For us for actionable tools & tips for your leadership journey Instagram @Grit.Grace.PodcastFollow our LinkedIn PageWebsite: www.thegritandgrace.co
Revolutionizing TV & Empowering Women: Leadership Insights from Vibika Bianchi
Jan 29 2024
Revolutionizing TV & Empowering Women: Leadership Insights from Vibika Bianchi
Dive into the captivating world of entertainment production with our distinguished guest, Vibika Bianchi, an esteemed award-winning Executive Producer with over three decades of industry experience. Discover how she has masterfully brought to life both her own visions, and those of others. From pioneering hit shows like 'Property Brothers' and 'Love It or List It' to her latest production, Carolyn Taylor's 'I Have Nothing' on Crave, Vibika’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.Listeners will be captivated by:The challenges and breakthroughs in her journey, including the production of the Gemini-winning 'David Milgaard Story.'Her insights on advocating for innovative projects like 'Love It or List It' and 'Property Brothers.'The evolution of decision-making in the industry, blending creativity with business acumen.Vibika’s current focus on empowering women in content creation, highlighting her work with Catalyst and the Docs for Change initiative.This episode is a goldmine for anyone interested in media production, leadership, and the empowerment of women in the entertainment industry. Join us as we explore Vibika's remarkable career and her profound insights on navigating and leading in the world of entertainment.Follow Vibika on InstagramLearn more about Catalyst: https://www.catalystforcreators.com/Learn more:  aftermetoo.com For us for actionable tools & tips for your leadership journey Instagram @Grit.Grace.PodcastFollow our LinkedIn PageWebsite: www.thegritandgrace.co
From Pitch to Profit: Melissa Belbeck’s Guide to Venture Capital
Nov 26 2023
From Pitch to Profit: Melissa Belbeck’s Guide to Venture Capital
Discover how to conquer the venture capital world with Melissa Belbeck, a Principal at Whitecap Venture Partners, in this captivating episode. Get an insider's look into the high-stakes selection process as Melissa unveils the secrets behind choosing successful startups from a sea of entrepreneurial pitches. She shares her wisdom on what makes founders stand out and be successful in building high-growth companies.Key Takeaways:Behind-the-Scenes Look: Discover the critical factors in selecting startups for investment in the competitive venture capital environment, as revealed by Melissa Belbeck.Founder Success Secrets: Understand the qualities and strategies that make founders stand out in the eyes of venture capitalists and lead to the building of high-growth companies.Shifting Market Strategies: Gain insights into the shift towards balanced growth in venture capital and how it influences company strategies and market dynamics.Venture Capitalists' Influence: Learn about the pivotal role of venture capitalists in guiding companies through these strategic shifts.Empowerment for Women Leaders: Receive targeted advice and inspiration for women aiming to make their mark in the startup and venture capital fields.To learn more about Melissa visit:https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-belbeck-5829bb42/For us for actionable tools & tips for your leadership journey Instagram @Grit.Grace.PodcastFollow our LinkedIn PageWebsite: www.thegritandgrace.co
Kids & Business: Lauren Francis on Empowering the Next Generation Through Entrepreneurship
Oct 29 2023
Kids & Business: Lauren Francis on Empowering the Next Generation Through Entrepreneurship
Ever wondered how a woman entrepreneur juggles multiple ventures while fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship in her child? Tune into a compelling dialogue with Lauren Francis, the dynamic founder of Superfin Aquatics and Lo &Co.  Lauren spills the tea on her business journey, the value of trusting instincts, and how she adeptly learnt to let go of the reins, allowing her team to take over the day-to-day operations. Her unique mantra of 'let it go and let it flow' has not only liberated her to follow her creative pursuits but also offers a fresh perspective to budding entrepreneurs navigating their own paths. In this conversation, Lauren unveils her insightful vision for the future of Lo & Co and the importance she places on cultivating creativity and ambition in her daughter. You'll hear her share first-hand tips for aspiring entrepreneurs and parents alike, with a resonating theme - follow your passion, face your fears, and learn from every experience. From her collaboration with big brands to her approach in nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs, Lauren's story is a testament to the power of courage and creativity. Listen in for an inspiring dose of entrepreneurial spirit, and a fascinating peek into Lauren's ventures - it's a conversation you won't want to miss!Learn more about Lo & CoFollow on instagramVisit WebsiteFor us for actionable tools & tips for your leadership journey Instagram @Grit.Grace.PodcastFollow our LinkedIn PageWebsite: www.thegritandgrace.co