Jen Porter's "Lioness Conversations" podcast typically features her interviewing other inspiring women, but in this uniquely heartfelt episode, the tables are turned. Her friend and former spiritual coach, Michelle Mullins, takes the helm to interview Jen herself, offering listeners a rare and intimate look into Jen's own "Lioness story." This powerful conversation reveals the profound journey Jen has undertaken to become the confident and purpose-driven leader she is today.

Jen shares how her collaboration with Michelle began three years ago during a "dry, hard, sad season" where she felt called to integrate her faith more deeply into her work but didn't know how. Michelle became her trusted spiritual coach, guiding Jen through a period she describes as a "cocoon" — a dark and scary metamorphosis. From this transformative period, Jen emerged, much like a "soaring butterfly," with crystal-clear purpose: to empower women to fulfill their God-given purpose in this world.

The episode highlights several key aspects of Jen's journey and her philosophy:

• The Power of Retreat and Deep Listening: Jen emphasizes her need for silence and solo retreats to engage in deep listening, both to herself and to God. This intentional practice helps her quiet external noise and discern her next steps, embodying a "counter-cultural" approach to productivity.
• Leading with Love and Excellence: Jen passionately articulates her belief that true leadership is an honor and should be rooted in love and care for people, rather than solely on metrics or performance. This "counter-cultural" perspective, deeply influenced by her faith, seeks to avoid burnout and foster deep, soul-satisfying impact.
• Trusting Self and Spirit: Jen discusses how a foundation of micro-decisions and trusting her inner peace has built confidence, allowing her to take risks and make decisions, even when the path isn't fully clear. She views trusting her instincts, intuition, and the Holy Spirit as one and the same.
• A Legacy of Faith and Community: Jen's heritage of strong, joyful women of faith, particularly her grandmother who embodied selfless care and purpose, profoundly shaped her. This lineage, coupled with her belief that "we're not designed to do life alone," underscores the vital role of community and mutual support in navigating life's challenges.
• The Lioness Within: Ultimately, Jen's mission is to help women recognize the "Lioness" within themselves – an inner strength that perseveres through trials and pushes past societal barriers. Her podcast and upcoming book serve as a mirror, inviting women to see themselves as brave, worthy, and capable of making their unique impact on the world, acknowledging the challenges and fears along the way to ensure relatability and genuine inspiration.

The episode culminates with Jen revealing her current "brave stretch": finishing her book and launching live coaching sessions on the podcast. These vulnerable steps, shared with the support of her community, exemplify her commitment to walking the talk and continuing to inspire women to embrace their own powerful purpose.

Find out more about Jen's work: https://www.jenportercoach.com/

And Michelle Mullins' work: https://www.spiritledvoice.com/

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Lioness Conversations

00:57
The Journey of Faith and Leadership

05:55
Empowering Women Through Coaching

09:53
The Importance of Deep Listening

15:03
The Power of Retreats for Reflection

18:52
Leading with Love and Excellence

25:02
Finding Peace in Decision Making

30:00
Trusting Yourself and Taking Risks

34:12
Defining Personal KPIs for Life

38:29
Heritage of Faith and Purpose

42:29
Navigating Life's Battlefield

46:06
The Power of Community

53:54
Embracing the Lioness Within

58:55
Being Brave in Vulnerability

Krista Tan, co-founder of Talent Collective, has built a truly remarkable global community for women in talent acquisition (TA). In a landscape riddled with isolation and rapid industry shifts, Krista’s vision offers a vital lifeline. Her brave leap from a stable job, in the midst of personal upheaval, was fueled by the powerful conviction that "the whole is better than any of us individually."

Talent Collective tackles the loneliness of remote work head-on, fostering genuine connections, driving career advancement through networking and a dedicated job board, and keeping members ahead of crucial industry trends. It's a space where women can find mentorship, support, and tangible opportunities, all built on a reciprocal cycle of generosity. Krista’s journey is an inspiring testament to the power of trusting one's gut and the profound impact of intentional community building, proving that when women in TA come together, they are an unstoppable force.

This isn’t just a network. It’s a movement fueled by generosity, courage, and connection.

👉 If you’re in TA—or simply believe in the power of women supporting women—Talent Collective is a model worth watching.

Check out Talent Collective: https://www.talentcollectiveco.com/

Join the Lioness Community: https://www.jenportercoach.com/

Chapters

00:00

Introduction to Lioness Conversations

01:08

Building Talent Collective: The Vision and Mission

03:20

The Leap of Faith: Quitting the Day Job

06:00

Navigating Financial Risks and Backup Plans

10:53

Adapting the Business Model for Success

13:30

The Impact of Talent Collective on Women

18:35

Trusting Yourself: A Journey of Self-Discovery

22:48

Listening to Your Body: Trusting Intuition

27:26

The Power of Journaling and Reflection

32:54

Building Meaningful Connections in Your Career

36:32

The Future of Talent Collective: Intentional Growth

Are you living in your "zone of excellence" but secretly dreaming of your "zone of genius"?

This was a key theme in a powerful discussion between leadership coach Jen Porter and neuroscience expert Kristin Graham on the Lioness Conversations podcast. They dove deep into why so many high-achievers feel unfulfilled and how to break free from the "velvet rut."

Kristin Graham, founder of Unlock, explains that our brains are wired for safety, which often means sticking with what we're good at, even if it doesn't bring us joy. Making the leap to what you truly desire requires courage because you're starting with no proof of success.

The solution?
✨ Borrow Belief: Surround yourself with people who believe in you until you can build your own evidence.
✨ Listen to Your Words: Are you constantly feeding your brain negative self-talk? Actively replace it. Say your strengths and goals out loud.
✨ Savor the Joy: Intentionally pause to notice and feel moments of beauty and happiness. This creates a deeper imprint in your memory and combats your brain's natural negativity bias.

This conversation is a must-listen for any ambitious, heart-centered woman ready to lead with more confidence and joy.

Connect with Kristin Graham: https://unlockthebrain.com/

Connect with the Lioness Community: https://www.jenportercoach.com/

Chapters

00:00
Unlocking the Brain: An Introduction

02:58
The Power of Fewer Things Better

05:58
Desire and Identity: Finding Your True Self

09:04
The Science of Happiness: Gut-Brain Connection

12:11
Joy Deficiency: Rediscovering Fun

15:06
Navigating Grief: Embracing Duality

18:06
The Brain's Predictive Nature: Confirmation Bias

21:09
The Power of Words: Speaking Out Loud

23:55
Neuroplasticity: Rewiring Your Brain for Positivity

39:12
The Power of Receiving and Identity

44:06
Bravery and the Lioness Within

49:07
Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship

54:11
Borrowing Belief and Building Confidence

01:02:39
Legacy Work and Impact

01:05:07
Connecting and Collaborating for Growth

In a world saturated with noise, how do we learn to truly communicate and lead from a place of humanity? On this episode of Lioness Conversations, I was absolutely honored to sit down with the brilliant Kibi Anderson, a leadership strategist and Emmy award-winning storyteller who is on a mission to bring humanity back to business.

Kibi, who I've had the pleasure of getting to know for my upcoming book, introduced me to the powerful concept of being a "vocal doula"—helping leaders birth the messages they are meant to share with the world. She argues that effective, human-centered communication is the single most important survival skill in today's landscape of constant change and technological advancement.

We dove deep into the difference between survival-based communication, which is rooted in fear and assumption, and human-based communication, which is driven by curiosity. Kibi shared her brilliant "OAQ framework" (Own your emotions, Assess your tone, and Question to understand) as a practical tool to shift our conversations from reactionary to intentional, fostering connection and trust even in the most challenging situations.

What truly resonated with me was Kibi's raw and inspiring personal story of becoming a "Rested Rebel." A recovering workaholic who nearly lost her life to the hustle culture, Kibi's journey from a hospital bed to redefining rest as an act of trust and joy is a powerful testament to the fact that, as Kibi attests, “you will never get what you want by working harder, but by resting more”.

Join us for a conversation that will challenge you to trade worry for curiosity, embrace rest as a superpower, and learn how to co-create a more human world, one conversation at a time. This is an episode you don't want to miss if you're ready to lead with more confidence, joy, and profound impact.

Lioness Community: https://www.jenportercoach.com/
Connect with Kibi: https://www.kibianderson.com/

Nominate a Lioness for this show: https://www.jenportercoach.com/contact#NominateaLioness

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Leadership and Communication

02:49
Bringing Humanity Back to Business

06:00
The Importance of Effective Communication

09:00
Survival vs. Human-Based Communication

12:05
The OAQ Framework for Communication

15:03
Creating Safety and Curiosity in Conversations

18:00
The Outcomes of Effective Communication

21:02
Co-Creation and Curiosity in Leadership

26:20
Trusting the Process

28:43
The Rested Rebel: A Journey of Healing

32:48
Redefining Rest and Productivity

36:59
Joy as a Form of Rest

40:49
From Self-Care to We-Care

43:45
Empowering Others Through Rest

46:36
Innovation Amidst Chaos

48:45
Journey to Global Citizenship

53:00
The Impact of Cultural Immersion

56:30
Curiosity Quotient: A New Approach to DEI

01:01:02
CLAP: Communicate Like a Pro

01:05:40
Finding Joy and Purpose

01:10:06
Empowering Others Through Storytelling

From Social Worker to Steel Innovator: Rory Rubin is Reshaping Communities with Recycled Shipping Containers! ️

Ever wonder what happens to the millions of shipping containers sitting idle globally? Rory Rubin, founder of SI Container Builds, saw an opportunity for profound impact. In the latest Lioness Conversations, Rory joins Jen Porter to share her incredible journey from management consulting (and clinical social worker roots!) to leading a company that transforms these steel giants into fire, hurricane, and tornado-resistant homes, affordable housing, wellness pods, and even landmark commercial spaces like the new amenities building at Chicago's Navy Pier!

Discover how Rory's "do-good mantra" drives partnerships with nonprofits and community leaders to deliver purposeful, low-maintenance structures that people feel good living and working in. She gets real about the challenges of being a female founder in manufacturing, the drive to leave a legacy, and the shift from people-pleasing to intentional, world-changing impact.

Tune in to hear about:
* The surprising scale of unused shipping containers.
* Innovative solutions for affordable housing & resilient communities.
* From yoga studios for HBCUs to group homes for trafficked girls.
* Rory's personal evolution and leadership insights.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Innovative Housing Solutions

02:54
The Impact of Repurposing Shipping Containers

05:59
Affordable Housing and Community Needs

09:12
Partnerships and Collaborative Efforts

11:55
Navigating Challenges as a Female Founder

15:01
The Journey of Starting a Business

18:04
Legacy and Making an Impact

21:04
The Significance of the Navy Pier Project

24:01
Embracing Emotions in Leadership

30:40
Intentional Parenting and Leadership

32:32
Finding Meaning in Work

34:20
Transforming People-Pleasing into Impact

37:27
Innovative Projects and Community Impact

40:18
Building Generational Wealth through Housing

43:15
The Importance of Multi-Generational Living

49:20
Collaboration in Solving Housing Issues

51:43
Encouragement for Aspiring Change-Makers

Have you ever stopped to consider the incredible power of investing in others? How have you been changed by those who invested in you? In this powerful episode, Jen Porter and Stephanie Granato spark a vital conversation that goes straight to the heart of empowering women through investing.

Stephanie's story is a testament to courageous career evolution. She shares her personal leap from a traditional law career to the dynamic realm of entrepreneurship after motherhood. You'll hear her candidly discuss confronting fear and embracing risk, revealing how these challenges ultimately paved the way for the freedom to harmonize her work and family life.

But this isn't just Stephanie's story. It's about the broader impact of investing in women and championing their ambitions. You'll discover the critical role of informed decision-making and the inspiration drawn from role models in navigating the investment landscape. Jen and Stephanie explore the transformative power of even small investments, the enriching experience of ventures like house swapping, and the profound significance of preparation and practice in building unwavering confidence.

This episode isn't just a discussion; it's a compelling call to action, inviting you to envision a future where women entrepreneurs truly thrive, fueled by empowerment and strategic support.

Stephanie Granato's Tedx Talk:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7SEW7kpWItA

Join the Lioness Community:
https://www.jenportercoach.com/

Stephanie's work:
https://www.founderverse.ai/

Chapters

00:00 Empowering Women in Investment

03:02 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Risk

05:55 The TEDx Experience: Preparation and Delivery

09:09 Building Confidence Through Preparation

12:01 The Importance of Small Investments

15:06 Navigating the Investment Landscape

17:55 Learning from Experience and Role Models

20:55 The Future of Women Entrepreneurs

23:54 Making Informed Investment Decisions

30:11 The Transition to Motherhood and Career Choices

36:39 Embracing Entrepreneurship and Freedom

39:52 Taking Risks and Overcoming Obstacles

45:25 The Power of Sharing Dreams

46:46 Exploring the Joys of House Swapping

50:31 The Rewards of Investing in Women

This week on Lioness Conversations, I had the immense pleasure of interviewing the truly inspiring Bola Gbadebo. Bola is a visionary artist and former news anchor who now uses film and poetry to build bridges of empathy. Her documentary, Confidence, deeply moved me, showcasing her incredible gift for helping people share their raw, unfiltered stories.

What truly shines through is Bola's courageous lioness energy in confronting fear and self-doubt head-on. She made a daring career pivot during COVID, teaching herself journalism and moving across the country to become a news reporter with no prior experience! Thrown into the deep end, she embraced being uncomfortable and learning in public, proving that her ability far outstripped her initial lack of confidence.

Bola's story is a powerful reminder that bravery isn't about the absence of fear, but the willingness to act despite it. Don't miss this captivating conversation about overcoming challenges and finding your unique path!

Support her work:
https://www.bolafilms.com/

Join the Lioness Community:
https://www.jenportercoach.com/

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Empowerment and Connection

02:58
The Journey of Confidence and Vulnerability

05:58
Transitioning to Journalism: A Leap of Faith

09:02
Building a Portfolio and Gaining Experience

11:55
Facing Challenges in a Competitive Field

15:02
Navigating Public Perception and Self-Doubt

17:59
The Role of Faith in Overcoming Obstacles

20:59
Understanding Confidence and Competence

24:06
The Importance of Empathy in Storytelling

26:59
Finding Your Voice in a New Environment

30:01
The Impact of Community Support

32:59
Conclusion: Embracing Growth and Connection

35:52
The Challenge of Short News Stories

37:39
Transitioning from News Reporting to Documentaries

39:14
Childhood Influences and Personal Growth

44:19
Breaking Free from Limitations

49:29
The Evolution of a Writer

50:54
Exploring Love Through Documentary

56:02
Engaging the Community Through Film

She survived by grace and undeniable miracles. Purpose emerged with every stroke of the brush. Prepare to be moved by the deeply personal narrative of Meaghan Troup, an artist whose vibrant canvases are born from the crucible of childhood leukemia. Discover how her lifelong passion for art became a vital lifeline during years of intense treatment and unimaginable challenges. Meaghan shares how the act of creation offered an essential escape and a profound connection to her faith in God. This episode explores the remarkable capacity of art to heal, not only the artist but also those who view her work, offering solace and a reminder of life's inherent beauty. Meaghan's resilience underscores the importance of gratitude and the inspiring impact of sharing one's story to foster hope and community.

Find Meaghan's work here: https://www.refugefineart.com/

Connect with me, and the Lioness Community here: https://www.jenportercoach.com/

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Lioness Conversations

00:57
Megan Troup: The Artist's Journey

03:06
Art as Healing: Megan's Impact on Medical Centers

06:01
Childhood Passion: The Early Signs of an Artist

10:01
Facing Adversity: Megan's Battle with Leukemia

15:53
The Reality of Cancer Treatment

21:57
Miracles and Challenges: Overcoming Health Crises

25:57
Art as an Escape: Finding Solace in Creativity

29:59
Faith and Art: A Spiritual Connection

34:08
Resilience: Defying the Odds

40:03
Conclusion: The Power of Storytelling

40:30
Finding Strength Through Faith

43:06
Overcoming Adversity and Self-Identity

46:09
The Journey of Healing and Recovery

47:53
Art as a Healing Tool

53:07
The Impact of Art on Healing

57:03
The Power of Perspective and Gratitude

01:01:00
Legacy and Purpose Through Art