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Stand Tall & Own It - Empowering Purpose-Driven Women to Lead with Authenticity and Impact
"Just be you!" they say. But for high-performing women, "just being you" hasn’t always felt safe or practical—whether it’s at work, school, church, or even at exclusive networking events. For purpose-driven women and founders, holding back can limit your impact and undermine your authenticity.
Even in a world that’s more welcoming to strong female leaders, feeling truly "safe" in your own skin is still a challenge. To lead with clarity and confidence, you must first understand your value, embrace your individuality, and recognize that the solutions you need are as unique as you are.
This podcast is for modern women who lead with purpose and are ready to embrace their full potential and create an impact that aligns with their vision and values. It’s time to find the clarity and confidence to lead in a way that’s authentic to you. Join me as we explore how to navigate challenges, honor your unique path, and make a lasting difference.
If you're ready to explore your Core Values, check out my Core Values Course and Core Values Coaching for tools and support to help you grow. Subscribe now and start owning your journey today!
To learn more about Andrea Johnson and Intentional Optimism, visit www.theintentionaloptimist.com/Links.
Stand Tall & Own It - Empowering Purpose-Driven Women to Lead with Authenticity and Impact
Joyful Defiance: Leading With Conviction
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1 BIG IDEA
What does resistance really look like in leadership? It’s not rebellion or rage — it’s conviction anchored in joy. In this episode, Andrea Johnson, The Intentional Optimist, explains how joyful defiance helps women leaders resist conformity, lead with authenticity, and protect their humanity in high-pressure environments.
3 WAYS TO APPLY THIS
- Hold firm to one Core Value this week, even if it costs you comfort or approval.
- Practice joy as resistance — choose humor, gratitude, or curiosity instead of cynicism.
- Pair clarity with compassion in your leadership. Conviction + humanity = influence.
3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF
- Where in my leadership am I tempted to conform instead of stand in conviction?
- How could I embody joyful defiance — leading with both steadiness and celebration — in one situation this week?
- What boundary or value is worth holding firm, even if it costs me comfort or approval?
Resources & Next Steps
- Free Core Values Blueprint: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/corevaluesexercise
- Core Values Coaching Program: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/core-values-beta
Live2Lead 2025 — Thrive in ’25
Join Andrea LIVE in Virginia this October to recharge, refocus, and rise. Two events designed for purpose-driven leaders who want conviction, courage, and clarity in their leadership.
- Charlottesville: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/live2lead-charlottesville-2025
- Lynchburg: https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/live2lead-lynchburg-2025
Let’s Connect
- Instagram + LinkedIn: @theintentionaloptimist
- Email: andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com
- Podcast Hub: www.theintentionaloptimist.com/podcast
Enjoying the Show? Leave a Rating & Review
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Podchaser (Android): https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/stand-tall-own-it-empowering-p-1406762
Share This Episode
If this encouraged you, share it with a fellow leader who’s ready to resist conformity and lead with courage, conviction, and joy.
Prefer to Watch Instead?
Catch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ik3b27Y2VG8
Listen & Subscribe: www.theintentionaloptimist.com/podcast
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