Women Changing Leadership with Stacy Mayer

40 Episodes
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By: Stacy Mayer

We are entering a new dawn of executive leadership. A new era where inclusivity, diversity, empathy, and compassion are both welcomed and expected at the leadership table. On Women Changing Leadership, we believe women are the leaders who are bringing about this change, and each week we share strategies and insights to help women like you advance to the executive suite on your terms. Your host, Stacy Mayer, is a bestselling author, a certified executive coach, a promotion strategist, and the creator of Executive Ahead of Time, a life-time access group coaching program for corporate women leaders. In each episode...

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Stop Knowing. Start Leading.
Stop Knowing. Start Leading. episode artwork
Yesterday at 4:00 PM

Executive Coaching in the AI-Era

Ep. 6: Stop knowing. Start leading.

That's the shift I'm inviting you to make in this episode — and I'll be honest, it's one I'm still making myself.

We're living in a moment where AI is moving faster than any of us can keep up with, and the instinct is to double down on expertise. Know more. Certify more. Prove more. But that strategy? It's running out of road.

What I've seen in my work with senior leaders is that the executives who are ac...


The Only AI-Proof Career Move in Corporate
The Only AI-Proof Career Move in Corporate episode artwork
Last Friday at 3:00 PM

Executive Coaching in the AI-Era

Ep. 5: The Only AI-Proof Career Move in Corporate


The only AI-proof career move isn't the one you think. While everyone's racing to out-skill the algorithms, I'm telling my clients something different: subject matter expertise — the thing you've spent your whole career building — is becoming replaceable. What's not replaceable is executive leadership. In this episode, I break down why leadership roles offer the real job security in the AI era, and what separates the leaders who thrive from the experts who get automated out. We get into the relational and...


The Cheat Code for Executive Credibility
The Cheat Code for Executive Credibility episode artwork
06/12/2026

Executive Coaching in the AI Era

Ep. #4: The Cheat Code for Executive Credibility


Your executives don't know what you're doing — and that's on you.

In this episode, I share the cheat code for building real executive credibility when AI is reshaping how companies operate and make decisions. We're talking about why speaking the language of your leadership matters, how to "show your work" instead of hiding behind confidence, and the difference between true executive presence and simply faking it.

I also get into practical ways to celebrate your wins, co...


Bottling Your Mother with Mrs. Myers Clean Day Founder Monica Nassif
06/04/2026

Ep. #318: Bottling Your Mother with Mrs. Myers Clean Day Founder Monica Nassif

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I sit down with Monica Nassif, the trailblazing founder behind Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day and Caldrea, to talk about what it really takes to build an iconic brand from the ground up. Monica shares her unconventional path to entrepreneurship, the lessons she learned growing up in a large family, and the grit required to challenge an entire industry. We discuss the realities of fundraising as a woman, navigating bias, building a brand rooted in authenticity, and...


Hard Work Won't Save You in the AI Era
Hard Work Won't Save You in the AI Era episode artwork
05/26/2026

Executive Coaching in the AI Era

Ep. #3: Hard Work Won't Save You in the AI Era


Hard work won't save you in the AI Era — and if you're still betting your career on output alone, we need to talk. In this episode, I'm making the case that promotions have never actually been about how much you produce. They've always been about relationship capital: the connections you've built across your executive team, the high-level conversations you're already in, and whether your ideas feel indispensable to the people making decisions. Yes, staying current with AI ma...


The Currency That AI Can't Replace
The Currency That AI Can't Replace episode artwork
05/19/2026

Executive Coaching in the AI Era

Ep. #2: The Currency That AI Can't Replace


In this episode, I'm diving into one of the most underrated career strategies out there — building relationship capital — and why it matters more right now than it ever has. Whether you're navigating layoffs, economic uncertainty, or the very real disruption AI is bringing to the workplace, the truth is that your network isn't just your net worth, it's your safety net. I'll walk you through exactly how to approach both internal and external career conversations in a way that feels genu...


What Would You Do If You Got Laid Off Tomorrow?
What Would You Do If You Got Laid Off Tomorrow? episode artwork
05/12/2026

Executive Coaching in the AI-Era

Ep. 1: What Would You Do If You Got Laid Off Tomorrow?


Here's the hard truth: if a layoff hit you tomorrow, online applications would be the least effective thing you could do. And yet, that's where most leaders start.

In this innaugural episode of Executive Coaching in the AI Era, I'm walking you through exactly what I'd tell a client in crisis — how to use AI and tech to get your assets ready, how to build the kind of network that actually moves the needle, and wh...


How Promotable Leaders Own Their Process and Not Their Projects
05/05/2026

Ep #315: How Promotable Leaders Own Their Process and Not Their Projects

In this week's episode, I'm celebrating the first graduates of my Executive Promotion Process Facilitation Certification — and using their journeys to dig into something I believe is the real differentiator for senior leaders: having your own process. Not projects. Not instincts. A repeatable, articulable system for how you lead. I share the stories of Jennifer, Shari, and Thelma to show what shifts when you stop operating on gut feel and start owning a defined leadership approach — one that makes you promotable, transferable, and indispensable no m...


Take Back Your Power with former Ancestry.com CEO, Deb Liu
04/28/2026

Ep #313: Take Back Your Power with former Ancestry.com CEO, Deb Liu

In this episode, I sit down with Deb Liu — founder, investor, advisor, former CEO of Ancestry.com, and creator of Facebook Marketplace — for a conversation about building relationships that actually matter, making sure your voice is heard in leadership rooms, and what it really takes to go from a small town in the South to leading some of the biggest names in tech. Deb breaks down the four types of allies every woman needs in her corner, why diverse viewpoints are a competitive adva...


The Game Behind the Game: Politics, Power, and the C Suite
04/21/2026

Ep 312: The Game Behind the Game: Politics, Power, and the C Suite

In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on the multiple pathways to securing and sustaining a C Suite role — drawing on real stories from women who've succeeded and faced unexpected challenges at the executive level. I'll tell you why the C Suite isn't always the dream job it appears to be, how to navigate the political landscape once you're there, and why building strong alliances — with your peers and your CEO — is what actually determines your long-term success. I also share my signat...


The C-Suite Reality: Why Success Still Feels Unfulfilling
04/15/2026

Ep #311: The C-Suite Reality: Why Success Still Feels Unfulfilling

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I’m pulling back the curtain on what really happens after you reach the C-suite—because for so many women, it’s not the relief or fulfillment they expected. I walk through the patterns I see with my executive clients: overworking at the highest levels, feeling underutilized, and struggling to create real impact despite having the title. We dive into the challenges of navigating organizational structure, managing dysfunctional executive peers, and regulating your emotions in high-stakes environments. I also break down the cr...


Buy-In vs Permission: Why Your Work Isn’t Getting Recognized
03/31/2026

Ep. #310: Buy-In vs Permission: Why Your Work Isn’t Getting Recognized

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I explore why hard work alone often goes unnoticed in corporate environments, especially for high-achieving women. I share real-life examples and coaching insights to show you how to align your contributions with executive priorities and secure genuine buy-in from leadership—instead of just seeking approval or overdelivering on projects no one is championing. You’ll learn practical strategies to stop pouring energy into unrecognized work, start positioning yourself for visible impact, and confidently claim your place at the le...


Amplifying Your Voice in Biotech with former CEO Christine Miller
03/26/2026

In this inspiring episode of Women Changing Leadership, I sit down with Christine Miller, former President and CEO of Melinta Therapeutics, to explore her purpose-driven journey from aspiring problem solver to transformative industry leader. Christine Miller opens up about finding her passion for problem-solving early on, navigating the unique challenges of women in biotech, and the intentional path that led her to the C-suite. She shares valuable insights on building a people-first culture, the impact of strong leadership on organizational success, and the importance of amplifying diverse voices at every level. You will walk away motivated to embrace their...


The Promotion Readiness Test: Find Out in 20 Questions
03/17/2026

Ep #308: The Promotion Readiness Test: Find Out in 20 Questions

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I’m walking you through the five essential steps of my executive promotion process—the same process I’ve used over the past eight years to help women move from subject matter experts to trusted executive leaders. Drawing from my coaching experience and insights from my “Ready to Be Promoted” assessment, I break down the critical skills you actually need to advance, including building trust, thinking strategically, regulating your emotions under pressure, creating a long-term vision, and communicating with authentic...


How Executive Women Are Using AI to Make a Bigger Impact at Work
03/10/2026

Ep #307: How Executive Women Are Using AI to Make a Bigger Impact at Work

Ready to use tech as your edge in the leadership game? In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I share actionable ways to leverage artificial intelligence for your next promotion and stand out as an executive leader. I also walk through practical ways executive-level women can use AI tools to strengthen their job search, from improving their resume and LinkedIn profile to researching companies, preparing for interviews, and refining their executive presence. I break down how to use AI...


The Promotion Strategy for Smart Women Who Think Differently
#306
03/03/2026

 Ep #306: The Promotion Strategy for Smart Women Who Think Differently

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I dive into the power of embracing your unique qualities as a woman in leadership, exploring the tension between fitting in and standing out. Drawing from recent coaching experiences and my own personal journey, I share practical strategies for navigating career transitions, celebrating wins big and small, and mastering the art of communicating "same, same, but different" to gain trust and drive real impact at the executive table. If you’re ready to bring your whole self to wor...


Reform Your Inner Mean Girl with Amy Ahlers
#305
02/24/2026

Ep #305:  Reform Your Inner Mean Girl with Amy Ahlers  

In this inspiring episode of Women Changing Leadership, I’m joined by executive and leadership coach Amy Ahlers, who specializes in empowering high-achieving women to tune into their inner wisdom and break free from toxic patterns of self-criticism. Together, we dive into the subtle ways our inner critics—like the “achievement junkie,” “comparison queen,” “perfectionist,” and “good girl” archetypes—can hold women back in their careers and lives. Amy shares practical strategies for recognizing and overcoming these voices, advocating for yourself and others, and redefining success on your own terms. We al...


5 Pieces of “Good” Career Advice That Cost You Promotions
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02/17/2026

 Ep #304: 5 Pieces of “Good” Career Advice That Cost You Promotions

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I share five common pieces of workplace advice you should rethink—and what to do instead—to take true ownership of your career advancement. Drawing from real client conversations and my leadership intensives, I explain why traditional actions like sending blurbs for introductions, applying blindly online, waiting for hiring freezes to lift, and following passive promotion advice often hold women back from executive leadership. I offer practical strategies to advocate for yourself, forge valuable connections, and proactively showcase your lead...


Get Paid for Your Ideas (Not Just the Hours You Work)
#303
02/10/2026

Ep #303: Get Paid for Your Ideas (Not Just the Hours You Work) 

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I break down the real impact of showing up as a thought leader at work—and how it leads to more recognition, greater career satisfaction, and promotions that don’t require constant pushing. Drawing on nearly a decade of experience, I walk you through why thought leadership isn’t about posting on LinkedIn or being visible for the sake of it. It’s about clarifying your leadership voice, communicating your ideas clearly, and being intentional about what you want to b...


What If Being “Presumptuous” Is Exactly What Your Career Needs?
#302
02/03/2026

Ep #302: What If Being “Presumptuous” Is Exactly What Your Career Needs?

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I break down the concept of being “presumptuous” at work and why taking initiative is actually a key leadership move—not a flaw. Drawing on live coaching with my clients, I challenge common fears around advocating for yourself, networking with senior leaders, and negotiating salaries. I explain how to reframe what seems presumptuous into proactive strategies that set you up for long-term career success, from creating meaningful connections early on to confidently negotiating what you deserve. If you’re rea...


I Forgot to Celebrate My 300th Episode. Here’s What That Says About Self-Advocacy
#301
01/27/2026

Ep #301: I Forgot to Celebrate My 300th Episode. Here’s What That Says About Self-Advocacy 

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I reflect on what it really means to celebrate milestones and advocate for yourself as a woman leader. I share my own journey—from nervously launching this podcast in 2019 to reaching 300 episodes—and how my relationship with self-advocacy has evolved along the way. I break down how building confidence in sharing your achievements can change how you show up as a leader, and I offer practical ways to start owning your wins—whether that’s po...


Behind Closed Doors Part 3: What No One Tells You About Titles and Impact
#300
01/20/2026

Ep #300: Behind Closed Doors Part 3: What No One Tells You About Titles and Impact

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I explore the real meaning behind promotions and titles in executive leadership. Drawing on candid conversations from my Leadership Table Mastermind, I break down why focusing solely on job titles misses the bigger picture of impact and influence. I share why promotions both matter and don’t, how to reshape your career goals for long-term success, and why your voice deserves to be heard at the highest levels. If you’re ready to redefine your...


Behind Closed Doors Part 2: What No One Admits About Women and Promotions
#299
01/13/2026

Ep #299: Behind Closed Doors Part 2: What No One Admits About Women and Promotions

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I dive into part two of my Behind Closed Doors series, offering a refreshingly honest look at the challenges—and opportunities—women face when advancing into higher-level leadership roles. I share real success stories from women who landed new roles and promotions, even in the middle of self-doubt and setbacks, and I unpack the true value (and frequent shortcomings) of company-sponsored women’s leadership programs. I also talk candidly about the so-called “ambition gap,” shifting expectatio...


Behind Closed Doors Part 1: The Career Advice You Need to Rethink in 2026
#298
01/06/2026

Ep #298: Behind Closed Doors Part 1: The Career Advice You Need to Rethink in 2026

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I kick off my three-part Behind Closed Doors podcast series and pull back the curtain on what it actually takes to move into higher-level leadership—and gain real influence and authority in your career. Drawing from real client experiences, I break down the biggest challenges women face, from navigating mixed advice and corporate “facades” to identifying who truly holds power inside an organization. I share practical, actionable strategies for building influential relationships, trusting your i...


The End-of-Year Reset: Using This Downtime to Create Clarity in 2026
12/30/2025

Ep #297: The End-of-Year Reset: Using This Downtime to Create Clarity in 2026

In this episode, I’m diving into the power of reflection and what it really takes to embrace change as we head into 2026. I break down why so many high-achieving women get stuck in confusion—and how that confusion often shows up as chaos, overthinking, or feeling like there are too many moving pieces to make a clear decision. I share the practices I use with my clients (and in my own career) to create space for clarity, uncover our strongest leadership assets, and buil...


How Authentic Leaders Build High-Performing Teams with Tantri McGinnis and Leah Edwards
12/23/2025

Ep. #296: How Authentic Leaders Build High-Performing Teams with Tantri McGinnis and Leah Edwards

In this inspiring final installment of my December Doing It series, I’m joined by extraordinary leaders Tantri McGinnis and Leah Edwards for a powerful conversation about leading with authenticity, bridging organizational gaps, and empowering others to succeed. We talk candidly about what real leadership looks like in practice—Tantri shares her radically candid leadership style and deep commitment to psychological safety, while Leah breaks down the importance of aligning teams with organizational goals and creating inclusive spaces where every voice truly matte...


How Coachable Leaders Create Lasting Impact with Pooja Agrawal and Catheryne Hasley
12/16/2025

Ep #295: How Coachable Leaders Create Lasting Impact with Pooja Agrawal and Catheryne Hasley

In this inspiring episode of Women Changing Leadership, I sit down with Pooja Agrawal and Catheryne Hasley to unpack the lessons behind their remarkable careers and authentic leadership styles. Together, we dive into what it really means to be coachable, how to embrace feedback—even when it’s hard to hear—and how to lead teams with transparency, curiosity, and empathy. We talk candidly about navigating challenging transitions, from moving between industries to stepping into unfamiliar roles, and why having a seat at the...


Shaping the Future of Leadership with Amanda Clark and Karen Riddell
12/09/2025

In this inspiring episode of Women Changing Leadership, I sit down with powerhouse leaders Amanda Clark and Karen Riddle to dive into the real secrets of career success, empowering leadership, and the impact women make when we claim our seat at the table. Together, we share honest reflections on transforming weaknesses into strengths, the critical role communication and stakeholder management play in executive success, and why humility and adaptability matter so much on the path to advancement. Join me for memorable stories, actionable insights, and a motivating conversation about why using your voice as a leader isn’t just im...


12 Days to Your Next Promotion: A Holiday Career Challenge
12/02/2025

In this energizing episode of Women Changing Leadership, I share exactly how I’m helping women set themselves up for higher-level leadership roles using my “12 Days of Christmas” career strategy—yes, the one inspired by OrangeTheory Fitness. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion or a brand-new role, I break down the actions that actually move the needle, from bold conversations with your boss and re-engaging with recruiters to building powerful 15-minute ally meetings and positioning yourself as a thought leader. Dive in with me to learn the sprints and steady endurance practices that will help you manage your career del...


3 LinkedIn Strategies to Land an Interview Before the New Year
11/25/2025

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I’m sharing practical strategies to help you keep your leadership momentum going—especially during the busy end-of-year season. I talk about how to tap into second-degree connections and request fresh LinkedIn recommendations so you can unlock hidden job opportunities, even when your motivation dips or it feels like everyone else is slowing down. I also break down how to stay inspired, set achievable goals, and use your network in smarter, more intentional ways. Whether you’re actively job searching or simply wanting to future-proof your career, you’ll walk away with actionab...


The Secret to Getting Promoted: Make It About Them, Not You
11/18/2025

Ep #291: The Secret to Getting Promoted: Make It About Them, Not You

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I dive into the real secret behind advocating for your next promotion—and it’s probably not what you think. Instead of piling on more work or hustling for recognition, I show you how to shift your mindset toward the value and impact you bring to your organization. I share inspiring client wins, debunk the biggest misconceptions around promotions, and teach you how to build strategic relationships through my signature “ally meetings.” If you’re ready to get unst...


The Power to Choose Your Wealth (and Your Life) with Dr. Latifat
11/11/2025

In this inspiring episode of Women Changing Leadership, I sit down with Dr. Latifat—a GI doctor, certified life coach, and founder of the Money Coaching School for Badass Women Physicians—to talk about her transformative yearlong journey traveling the world with her family. Dr. Latifat opens up about the profound lessons she learned from stepping away from her medical career, embracing rest, and reconnecting with what truly matters. We dive into how deepening her roots shifted her entire approach to life, money, and leadership, and explore what it really means to live intentionally—with your words, your finances, and yo...


Mastering the Art of the Follow-Up
11/04/2025

Ep 289: Mastering the Art of the Follow-Up

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I dive into the art of strategic follow-up—and why mastering this one skill can completely change the game for your career growth and promotion opportunities. I share real-life examples and practical strategies to help you break free from the mindset that “the ball is in their court.” Instead, you’ll learn how persistence, intentional communication, and authentic follow-ups can build trust, deepen your relationships, and make you stand out as a powerful leader. Whether you’re following up with recruiters, senior executives, or colleag...


Unlock the Energy of the Season: Career Lessons from Diwali, Halloween, and Beyond
10/28/2025

Ep 288: Unlock the Energy of the Season: Career Lessons from Diwali, Halloween, and Beyond

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I explore the power of stepping out of reaction mode and intentionally managing your career to unlock new opportunities. Drawing from my own experiences with Halloween, Diwali, and my spiritual practices—like drawing Oracle cards—I share both practical and reflective strategies for recognizing the doors that are already opening in your professional life, even when you feel stuck or overwhelmed. You’ll learn how to tap into the magnetic energy of the season, trust your inner...


How to Evaluate Companies While Job Hunting (Without Overthinking!)
10/21/2025

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I’m sharing practical strategies for women who are interviewing for higher-level leadership roles or navigating a major career transition. You’ll learn how to evaluate organizations and positions with confidence while keeping your integrity and negotiating power intact. I also break down how to balance passion with career growth, avoid over-analyzing companies too soon, and understand why aiming for the right title can shape your entire career path.

Before you go — if you haven't subscribed to this podcast yet, do it now. And head over to stacymayer.com/youtube and su...


Unlock Your Signature Leadership Style with Susana Perczek
10/14/2025

In this empowering episode of Women Changing Leadership, I sit down with corporate stylist Susana Perczek to explore how your personal style can become one of your most powerful leadership tools. Susana shares her journey from her creative roots to helping women leaders use style as a strategic advantage—offering practical tips for dressing for interviews, building your signature look, and staying authentic while aligning with your company culture. Together, we bust the myth of “dressing to impress,” talk about the real difference between showing up on Zoom versus in person, and unpack how to use style for connection—not just...


Turning Your Promotion from a 'Promise' into Reality
10/07/2025

Ep #285: Turning Your Promotion from a 'Promise' into Reality

In this empowering episode of Women Changing Leadership, I share the exact strategies I use to help women finally get their promotions across the finish line. After years of coaching women to get promoted, I’ve seen one thing clearly: doing great work isn’t enough. I dive into what actually moves the needle—building powerful allies beyond your boss, communicating your impact at the highest levels, and taking ownership of your advancement. You’ll hear real success stories from women who’ve used these shifts to land long-promi...


How to Stop External Factors from Derailing Your Interviews
09/30/2025

Ep #284: How to Stop External Factors from Derailing Your Interviews

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, I share the interview strategies every woman needs to fast-track her career. You’ll learn why it’s essential to always be interviewing, how to treat each opportunity as a stepping stone to the role you really want, and how to block out the outside forces—friends, family, even the media—that can sabotage your job search. Most importantly, I’ll show you how to stay confident, proactive, and in control of your career path.


Before you...


The 5 Interview Killers That Are Costing You Higher-Level Job Offers
09/23/2025

Ep #283: The 5 Interview Killers That Are Costing You Higher-Level Job Offers

In this episode of Women Changing Leadership, host Stacy Mayer dives into the five key ways women might be unknowingly sabotaging their job interviews—and what you can do to stand out and secure the offer you truly want. Stacy shares practical strategies, from tailoring your responses to your audience, moving beyond reciting your resume, using the STAR method more effectively, focusing on your core stories, and stepping away from the trap of "perfect" answers. With honest insights and actionable advice, this episode is designed to he...


Humanize(ing) Her with Former LinkedIn Exec Erica Lockheimer
Humanize(ing) Her with Former LinkedIn Exec Erica Lockheimer episode artwork
09/18/2025

Ep #282: Humanize(ing) Her with Former LinkedIn Exec Erica Lockheimer

In this conversation, Stacy Mayer and Erica Lockheimer discuss the inception and mission of the HumanizeHer podcast, which is to elevate women's stories and experiences. Erica shares her journey from a corporate career at LinkedIn to launching her own media platform, emphasizing the importance of in-person connections and authentic storytelling. They explore the impact of networking, leveraging platforms like LinkedIn, and the significance of empowering women in various industries. The discussion also touches on the challenges of transitioning to entrepreneurship and the value of mentorship and community...