Mother-Daughter Leadership Dynamics

What makes a great leader? Is it innate talent or learned skills passed down through generations? In this heartwarming and insightful conversation with mother-daughter duo Kari and Jennae from Sherman Builders, we explore how leadership philosophies transcend family relationships and create thriving workplace environments.

Kari shares how her leadership journey began with bosses who recognized potential she couldn't yet see in herself. Rather than micromanaging, these mentors encouraged her voice and ideas, setting a foundation for her own leadership approach. Meanwhile, Jennae reveals how her mother's unwavering support empowered her to become an advocate for teammates on the hockey rink—volunteering to go first in drills to shield more vulnerable players from potential embarrassment. This protective instinct directly connects to her mother's philosophy of "having her kids' back," creating a secure foundation from which they could take risks.

The conversation takes fascinating turns through work-life balance strategies, the importance of accountability, and even a childhood letter Jennae wrote at age 11 that eerily predicted her future—complete with the Jeep she now drives and her career path. When discussing difficult leadership situations, Carrie emphasizes the power of trusting your team, particularly in crisis moments. Her belief that "people who do the work are the experts" has guided her to involve team members in critical decisions, creating buy-in and leveraging their practical experience.

Whether you're navigating family relationships, building workplace teams, or developing your own leadership style, this episode offers valuable perspectives on creating environments where people feel secure enough to take risks, make mistakes, and grow from them. As they note, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." Subscribe now for more leadership insights that blend professional expertise with authentic human connection.

0:00 Meeting Carrie and Janae

8:52 Leadership Origins and Confidence

13:50 Work-Life Balance Strategies

23:38 Hockey Lessons and Speaking Up

32:52 Trust in Leadership

41:30 Battle Scars and Family Stories