125. From Adversity to Influence: Redefining Women's Leadership

What if the toughest challenges you face are the key to your leadership growth? Adversity has a unique way of shaping the strongest leaders, proving that the hardest times often lead to the most remarkable victories.

In this episode of the Leading with Power & Purpose Podcast, Sabine sits down with Erin Sumner, who shares her transformative journey through the Meta layoffs of November 2022. Balancing the whirlwind of raising Irish twins with leading HR at the innovative startup Delete Me, Erin's story highlights the power of resilience and the critical role of a supportive network and role models in building leadership confidence.

Listen in to learn how combining self-confidence with empathy can significantly boost your leadership effectiveness and foster stronger connections with your team. You will also learn about the importance of creating and maintaining supportive networks for personal and professional growth.

Key Takeaways: 

• How resilience through tough times can transform you into a stronger, more effective leader
• How having a diverse group of mentors can aid in your professional development and help you navigate complex leadership challenges.
• The benefits of integrating practices like meditation, journaling, and exercise into your daily routine to enhance overall leadership effectiveness.
• The significance of women creating opportunities for fellow women to drive collective success and leadership advancement.

What You Will Learn in This Episode: 

• [01:44] A transformative experience during the Meta layoffs of November 2022 and its impact on resilience.
• [02:38] The journey to Meta, early career challenges, managing a global team during COVID, and the impact of the layoffs.
• [13:46] How power, authority, and influence are manifested in leadership roles.
• [18:58] The importance of building a supportive network and having role models who reflect positive beliefs and confidence.
• [26:09] The benefits of daily meditation and journaling practices for maintaining focus and mental grounding.
• [28:44] The role of mentorship in professional growth and the value of having multiple mentors with diverse perspectives.
• [35:37] Strategies for women to create opportunities for each other and foster support rather than competition.
• [38:30] The significance of creating opportunities and recognizing others, even if outcomes are uncertain.

Connect with Erin:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinssumner/ 
• Website: https://joindeleteme.com/ 
• DeleteMe Discount - ERINFIFTY to receive 50% off 12 months of DeleteMe

Books Recommendations:

• Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World
• The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch

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HOST INFO:

Sabine Gedeon is a dynamic force in the world of leadership and personal development. As the Founder of Transformed Leadership Institute and CEO of Gedeon Enterprises, Sabine leverages nearly 20 years of experience to guide clients in both startups and Fortune 500 companies. Her unique approach combines human-centered principles with tech-enabled solutions, delivering customized programs for leaders at all levels to tackle crucial leadership and talent development challenges.

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ADDITIONAL SUPPORT:

Download Free Resources - https://sabinegedeon/gifts
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