Living While Leading with Sharon Ehrlich
The Living While Leading Podcast is hosted by Sharon Ehrlich, an international coach who helps high-achieving professional women strategically build the lives and careers they desire. She firmly believes that we all have more power than we think to design our futures.This show offers practical guidance and inspiration to successful women who want to lead their lives with purpose and intention. Episodes cover topics such as overcoming imposter syndrome, strategies for career advancement, realistic approaches for setting boundaries, empowerment through saying 'no' to make time for what's important, asking for help, and more. The episodes explore solutions to common c...
72: Neuroinclusive Leadership: How to Unlock 30% More Innovation in Your Team

Unlock the power of neuroinclusive leadership in this episode of Living While Leading. Discover why designing for cognitive diversity boosts team innovation by up to 30%, learn a simple “Communication Preference Pulse” mini-challenge you can run tomorrow, and get expert tips on creating inclusive meetings, workspaces, and rituals. Ready to elevate every voice on your team? Tune in and transform your leadership today!
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71: Master Multigenerational Teams: 5 Proven Strategies for Cross-Gen Collaboration

Harness the power of age diversity in “Master Multigenerational Teams,” where leadership expert Sharon Ehrlich reveals five proven strategies to transform generational gaps into collaborative superpowers. Discover how simple shifts, like tailoring communication channels, reverse mentoring, and “Five-Word Friday” rituals, boost engagement by up to 50% and ignite innovation. Ready for a quick, 15-minute “Mixer Moment” challenge that turns your team into a powerhouse? Tune in now!
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70: 6-Step Career Clarity Blueprint: Crush Unspoken Expectations & Fast-Track Your Success

Discover how unspoken expectations are quietly sabotaging your success—and learn Sharon Ehrlich’s Six-Step Blueprint to Future-Proof Your Career to transform hidden assumptions into crystal-clear agreements. In this episode, you’ll get actionable strategies for high-performing women to set realistic deadlines, negotiate like a leader, and turn setbacks into credibility wins. Tune in now and start building the confidence, respect, and promotion-power you deserve!
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69: How High-Performing Women Transform Their Careers Using Communication “Dials” to Accelerate Growth

Master the Four Communication Dials and fast‑track your rise in today’s competitive workplace. In this episode of Living While Leading, we explore the four key communication styles every woman in leadership needs: Analytical, Empathic, Directive, and Visionary, and reveal the 90‑Second Dial Check, a quick‑start strategy to own any meeting. Perfect for high‑performing women, you’ll learn to break free from career stagnation, boost engagement, gain visibility, and amplify your impact without burning out. Tune in to shift from reliable contributor to indispensable leader, and start owning your staircase to success.
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68: The Silent Dream Killer: How Negative Thoughts Hold You Back

This episode addresses the pervasive issue of negative thoughts. From personal experience, Sharon explores how self-doubt can hinder professional growth, particularly for high-achieving women. She offers practical strategies to reframe negative thinking, including gratitude practices and affirmations, and emphasizes that success isn't about perfection but the willingness to learn and grow. The episode concludes with a challenge for listeners to identify and reframe a limiting belief.
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67: Social Media Strategies for Women Leaders

Sharon Ehrlich, host of Living While Leading, shares insights on leveraging social media for leadership impact.Â
She shares her LinkedIn success, including doubling her clients and winning speaking gigs. She advises leaders to prioritize authenticity over metrics, stay aware of audience reach, and avoid comparing themselves to social media stars. Consistency in posting, genuine engagement, and selecting the right platform are key. Sharon urges leaders to express their unique voices and view social media as a tool for connection, not perfection.Â
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66: Is Your Leadership Ready for 2025? The Great Work Reinvention

Sharon Ehrlich explores the evolving work landscape in 2025, addressing challenges leaders face in a rapidly changing environment.Â
She discusses the shift from traditional 9-to-5 models to flexible, outcome-focused approaches, emphasizing the importance of employee engagement and well-being.Â
Sharon offers strategies for maintaining team cohesion in remote settings, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and leveraging AI to enhance human potential.Â
The episode challenges leaders to adapt proactively, creating workplaces that attract and retain top talent by prioritizing flexibility, connection, and personal growth. Sharon encourages listeners to reflect on their leadership approach and take act...
65: Authentic Leadership Secrets: How Heart-Based Strategies Empower High-Performing Women

Are you a high-achieving woman feeling the pressure to balance performance with genuine connection?Â
This episode dives into the power of heart-based leadership, revealing how authenticity can drive meaningful success and create a thriving workplace. Discover practical strategies to move beyond metrics and lead purposefully, building trust, loyalty, and a culture where everyone brings their best selves.Â
Learn how active listening, vulnerability, and emotional support can transform your leadership style and unlock your next level of success. Perfect for women in leadership roles or aspiring to lead with impact and heart.
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64: Invisible Ladders: Career Strategies for Ambitious Women

Sharon Ehrlich, host of Living While Leading, explores the transformative power of networking for women's career advancement. She challenges the misconception that networking is self-serving by sharing a client's journey from reluctance to embracing meaningful connections.
Sharon offers strategies for effective networking at various career stages, emphasizing its significance in job acquisition and personal and professional growth. Her insights empower high-achieving professional women to leverage networking for personal and professional development, reclaiming what matters in their careers and lives.
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63: The Lunch That Launched a Career: Shocking Networking Secrets from a Global Tech Leader

Dorothee Ritz, Senior Vice President and Global Leader at Kyndryl, discusses networking mastery with Sharon Ehrlich, host of the Living While Leading podcast.
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With more than 30 years of digital transformation experience, Dorothee explores networks' crucial role in shaping her career path. She provides practical advice on building and maintaining professional relationships, highlighting the significance of authenticity and generosity.
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Dorothee challenges common misconceptions about networking, particularly for women, and presents strategies to overcome discomfort with self-promotion. The discussion examines how networking has evolved in the digital age, balancing traditional methods and modern platforms like LinkedIn. Dorothee's ex...
62: Redefining Success: How High-Achieving Women Can Uncover Hidden Victories

In this mini-episode, Sharon Ehrlich explores the concept of hidden victories. She shares a coaching experience with a high-achieving client who felt unsuccessful despite notable accomplishments and challenges listeners to redefine success by recognizing often-overlooked achievements and personal growth.
The episode encourages listeners to focus on the journey rather than just the destination, embrace setbacks as learning opportunities, and celebrate the person they've become.
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61: Women at the Top: Strategies for Professional Growth and Organizational Inclusion

In this episode, I speak with Sonja Aboulez, the Executive Vice President of the Parcel Business at Austrian Post (Ă–sterreichische Post AG)
She shares her journey from her early days at IBM to spearheading transformational initiatives for numerous multinational organizations.
We explore the challenges women face in leadership, including those they directly impose on themselves. We also discuss the importance of networking and the roles of mentorship and sponsorship.Â
You’ll also hear insights from Carina Berger, an Austrian Post Excellence Program participant who highlights the value of networking and leadership development.Â
Thi...
60: LinkedIn Secrets for Professional Women to Transform Your Network in Just 10 Minutes a Day

Host Sharon Ehrlich explores LinkedIn's transformative power for professional women in this episode.Â
She shares personal experiences demonstrating how regular engagement on the platform can create unexpected opportunities such as partnerships, collaborations, and new connections.Â
Sharon offers practical tips to enhance your LinkedIn presence, including updating your profile, engaging with content, and making purposeful connections.Â
With over one billion users, LinkedIn is a valuable tool for expanding your network and enhancing your career. Sharon encourages listeners to spend just a few minutes each day making a significant impact.Â
Tune in to disc...
59: CEO of Austrian Airlines on Authenticity, Transparency, and Organizational Culture

In this episode of the Living While Leading podcast, host Sharon Ehrlich engages in a compelling conversation with Annette Mann, CEO of Austrian Airlines.Â
The discussion centers on authentic leadership, particularly during challenging times. Annette shares her insights on maintaining authenticity and transparency within an organization, drawing from her experiences during the pandemic.Â
She emphasizes aligning personal values with organizational principles and the continuous self-calibration process. Annette also discusses the balance between transparency and managing expectations, especially in a volatile industry like aviation.Â
The episode offers valuable perspectives on leadership, organizational culture, and wom...
58: Craft Your Success Blueprint: A 7-Day Challenge

In this episode of "Living While Leading," host Sharon Ehrlich introduces the 7-Day Define Your Success Challenge, a transformative tool for women at various career stages.
Sharon shares her journey of aligning career goals with core values, emphasizing the importance of strategic decision-making and mentorship.
The challenge guides listeners through identifying core values, setting SMART goals, and overcoming limiting beliefs like imposter syndrome. Sharon highlights the power of networking and reflection, encouraging listeners to build meaningful relationships and regularly assess their progress.
This episode is a call to action for women to take...
57: Break the 'One More Thing' Habit to Elevate Your Executive Mindset

Unlock the secrets to effective leadership in this Living While Leading Podcast episode!
Explore the "one more thing" mindset that often challenges women executives. Discover practical strategies for navigating workplace pressures, enhancing work-life balance, and fostering resilience.
Tune in for expert insights that empower you to thrive in your career while maintaining your well-being. Perfect for aspiring leaders and seasoned professionals alike!
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56: Strategies for Women to Take Control and Achieve Their Goals and OWN THE ROOM

In this episode of the "Living While Leading" podcast, host Sharon Ehrlich takes the spotlight as a guest on Michelle B. Griffin's "Standout Women Live" show.
Sharon shares her insights on the empowering concept of "owning the room," a framework designed to help women take control of their time and strategically pursue their goals. The discussion centers around the OWN framework, which encourages women to critically assess how they spend their time and make impactful changes.
This episode is a call to action for women to prioritize their well-being and align their lives with their t...
55: 5 Powerful Strategies for Professional Women to Overcome the Need to Please

In this episode of Living While Leading, host Sharon Ehrlich explores the pervasive issue of people-pleasing among high-performing professional women.
She explores the cultural conditioning that drives this behavior and its detrimental effects on authenticity and career progression and offers five actionable strategies to break free from the cycle of perpetual agreeability.
Tune in to reclaim your autonomy and lead with confidence.
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54: How High-Performing Women Can Navigate Maternity Leave & Empower Their Career Transition

In this episode of "Living While Leading," host Sharon Ehrlich, a performance and empowerment coach for high-performing professional women, explores the complexities of navigating pregnancy and career transitions.
Tune in for practical advice and effective communication strategies for expecting and returning mothers, addressing common challenges and uncomfortable conversations about maternity leave.
Sharon emphasizes the importance of early discussions, setting clear expectations, and creating a supportive work environment. She also shares personal anecdotes and best practices for leaders to foster open communication and support their team members during this significant life transition.
Tune in...
53: Building Confidence: A Leader’s Approach to Empowerment

In this Living While Leading podcast episode, host Sharon Ehrlich explores overcoming imposter syndrome with guest Alex Gaudiani, Vice President of Global Marketing for Medtronic's Cardiac Surgery Operating Unit.
Alex shares her journey, discussing societal and cultural factors contributing to imposter syndrome, and offers strategies for balancing confidence and humility. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, mentorship, and authentic leadership.
This insightful conversation provides valuable advice for high-performing professional women striving to build confidence and lead with impact.
Tune in for this masterclass on navigating professional challenges and embracing your power.
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52: Public Speaking Tips Every Professional Woman Should Know

In this Living While Leading podcast episode, host Sharon Ehrlich welcomes Carol Cox, founder and CEO of Speaking Your Brand.
They discuss the importance of discovering and embracing your authentic voice, whether in the workplace or on a larger stage.
Carol shares her journey from technology and politics to founding her coaching company, emphasizing the significance of personal stories in professional settings.
The conversation highlights real-life examples of overcoming confidence gaps and the transformative power of public speaking.
Tune in to gain insights on building confidence, aligning communication with personal values...
51: Professional Women Can Master Assertive Speech Without Saying Sorry

In this episode of "Living While Leading," host Sharon Ehrlich discusses the common practice of over-apologizing among women executives.
Discover how frequent apologies can erode confidence and authority in the workplace. Explore the underlying reasons for excessive apologizing and gain practical strategies for transforming apologies into assertive communication.
Tune in to discover how to regain your authority and assert your power without resorting to unnecessary apologies.
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50: AI or Unemployment: The Stark Choice Facing Women Leaders

In this episode Sharon Ehrlich, Founder & CEO of Living While Leading, engages in a compelling conversation with Dominique Rose Van-Winther, CEO and Chief AI Evangelist of Final Upgrade.
They explore the critical topic of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on women leaders. Dominique shares her insights on the gender gap in AI adoption, emphasizing the importance of up-skilling and early adoption for women to stay competitive.
She provides practical tips on leveraging AI tools effectively and discusses the systemic changes needed to integrate AI into organizations. Dominique also highlights the future of AI in b...
49: Balancing Tech with Purpose: Insights from Siemens Austria’s CEO

In this episode of the "Living while Leading" podcast, host Sharon Ehrlich, an executive coach, engages in a compelling conversation with Patricia Neumann, CEO of Siemens Austria.
Patricia shares her journey from studying economics to leading a major tech company, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, passion, and purpose in technology. She discusses the challenges of leadership in a globalized, rapidly evolving tech landscape, and the significance of diversity and inclusion.
Patricia also reflects on her experiences with failure, the evolving nature of leadership, and the need for adaptability and open-mindedness.
This episode offers...
48: Top Strategies for Women Executives to Overcome Personal and Perceived Limits

In this episode, Belinda Jurisic and Sharon Ehrlich dive deep into their experiences and insights on navigating career growth and leadership roles as women in the tech industry.
Belinda shares her personal journey, highlighting the sacrifices she made along the way, such as moving to Singapore for her career.
They discuss the importance of resilience, mentorship, and networking and emphasize the need for women to support and uplift each other in their professional journeys.
They offer practical advice on overcoming self-doubt , managing expectations and maintaining personal and professional growth.
Key Takeaways:<...
47: Challenges and Opportunities for Men in Supporting Women's Leadership

This episode is a recording of a live broadcast of the Living While Leading Podcast. In this episode Sharon discusses the challenges and opportunities for men in supporting women's leadership and development with her guest, Ross McLean, Vice President of Aiven, a Finnish software start-up company.
They talk about personal experiences and strategies for men to actively support women in the workplace and how sponsorship is more effective than mentoring in propelling women’s careers. They also explore the impact of unchecked affinity bias in the performance appraisal process.Â
Keep listening to gain a deeper und...
46: Women Leaders Can Overcome AI Hesitation & Seize Opportunities for Growth

Join in as we explore the emotional and practical challenges that female executives face in integrating AI into their businesses. Despite AI's omnipresence in today's digital world, many leaders express a mix of curiosity and concern, feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to adapt to AI-driven strategies.
Sharon discusses why AI, despite its vast capabilities from enhancing e-commerce to powering major corporations, still causes hesitation among women leaders due to unfamiliarity, fear of disruption, and uncertainties about implementation.
This episode provides actionable guidance on how women leaders can shift their perspectives to view AI not as...
45: 15 Crucial Life and Career Lessons I'd Tell My Younger Self

This episode reflects on past lessons and is packed with actionable advice for women looking to enhance their professional and personal growth. These 15 lessons are crafted to inspire and challenge you to think differently about your journey.
Here’s a peek at what you’ll discover:
Learn why striving for progress rather than perfection is more fulfilling.Understand that you are more than your job title or role.Discover how simplifying your life can lead to greater clarity and satisfaction.Listen in and be encouraged to live boldly and with intention. Whether you're an emerging prof...
44: How Women Executives Define Success on Their Own Terms

Share in the transformative journey of my career from a hospital director in New York to a leader in the IT industry in Europe. I discuss the unique challenges and triumphs of adapting to a new culture and the critical importance of self-reflection for female leaders.
Hear how after relocating to Europe, I reinvented my career path multiple times, transitioning from healthcare to IT, then finally founding my own company, "Living While Leading" a company dedicated to helping women executives gain more control over their careers and live their lives on their own terms.
...
43: Balancing Kindness with Clarity for Effective Leadership

Dive into the intricacies of leadership with a focus on the crucial balance between kindness and clarity. Discover effective communication strategies that foster both respect and directness.
Explore the definition of kindness and clarity in leadership and how their integration is essential for impactful leadership.
Get insights on maintaining kindness in communication, the significance of active listening, and adapting leadership styles across different cultures.
Learn from personal anecdotes about navigating the fine line between perceived kindness and weakness.
Sharon and Leahanne share transformative personal experiences, from handling miscommunications to strategic approaches...
42: Stop the Silence and Gracefully Respond to Misogyny in Your Professional Life

This episode explores the persistent issue of misogyny and sexism that women face in their professional lives.Â
Listen in for a powerful reminder of the importance of using your voice to combat sexism in the workplace. Discover key strategies for women executives to effectively address and navigate misogyny, ensuring your contributions are valued and your professional environment is respectful and empowering.
Key insights include:
The reality of misogyny in professional settings and the importance of calling it out.Strategies for you to challenge sexist remarks with confidence.Practical tips for you to maintain your c...41: How to Reframe Setback, Accept No, and Get to Yes!

Sharon and her guest, Ann Jameson an executive at a Fortune 50 company discuss the importance of adaptability in navigating setbacks.
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Listen in for:
Insights on how resilience and adaptability can help propel someone forward in their leadership path.The importance of adaptability when faced with a setback.Techniques for supporting team members who struggle with change.The importance of cultivating reciprocal relationships with mentors and sponsors.When to stop fighting for a "yes" and just move on.Give advice to younger listeners on handling slower than expected career progression.This episode is for y...
40: Empowering Strategies for Women Executives to Harness Their Unique Identities for Success

In this enlightening episode you’ll explore the complexities of being the singular representative of your identity in professional settings - the isolation, the heightened scrutiny, and the unintended role of being a spokesperson for an entire group.
We’ll discuss the empowering aspects of being the 'only one,' from offering fresh perspectives to forging deeper connections.Â
Get practical tips for embracing your uniqueness and leveraging it for success.Â
Tune in to understand how to transform the experience of being the 'only one' from a burden to a badge of honor...
39: Take Action Now and Overcome the 'Not Ready' Barrier!

This episode is a deep dive into the common pitfalls of self-sabotage and the fear of taking risks that many professionals face. Sharon and her guest, Katie Brown, a sales executive in the IT sector, discuss the criticality of recognizing and surmounting these barriers for professional growth.
This conversation explores the nuanced challenges of self-doubt, particularly in career advancement and illuminates how a diverse network of advisors and overcoming the fear of imperfection have been instrumental in her journey. Katie reflects on a pivotal career moment and the revelations that followed, prompting a reevaluation of her metrics f...
38: Be Daring: Unlock Authenticity & Kick Fear to the Curb!

In this enlightening episode, Sharon Ehrlich and her guest, Ragna Ghoreishi, dive deep into the essence of authentic leadership for women executives, especially in male-dominated fields.
They explore the critical balance between embracing vulnerability and standing firm in one’s expertise.
Key discussions include strategies for overcoming fear in high-pressure situations, with anecdotes on preparation and the power of visualization.
They shed light on the pervasive issue of perfectionism and offer insights into personal and professional growth through boldness.
The conversation extends to the importance of leading by example, encouraging authenticity, an...
37: International Women's Day Strategies for Female Leadership Empowerment

This episode explores the significance of International Women's Day for women in leadership roles and the broader fight for gender equality.
As an executive coach dedicated to empowering women leaders, I share insights into why International Women's Day is more than a date on the calendar—it's a global call to action for equality, a celebration of women's achievements, and a moment for introspection on the journey toward gender parity.
Join me as we discuss practical strategies for sustaining empowerment beyond this day, the crucial role of men in the journey towards equality, and how eve...
36: What Keeps Women in Big Roles Playing Small – Encore Edition

Back by popular demand, this episode dives deep into the paradox of power and the cultural underpinnings of imposter syndrome affecting women leaders.
Through personal reflections and strategic insights, we unravel why women often minimize their successes and the systemic biases that contribute to this tendency.
Discover strategies to combat gender biases, embrace your achievements, and foster a culture of empowerment.
A must-listen for anyone ready to challenge the status quo and step into their power.
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35: 3 Strategies for Women Executives to Ensure Team Access and Foster Leadership Presence

This episode explore the challenges and solutions for women executives struggling with team accessibility and dives into common hurdles that distance leaders from their teams.
Discover the risks tied to leadership inaccessibility, such as eroding trust, missing mentorship opportunities, and stifling innovation and discover 3 actionable strategies to enhance accessibility and strengthen team bonds.
Listen in for a transformative conversation aimed at fostering a more connected, empowered team environment and take action towards becoming the accessible leader your team deserves.
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If there’s a topic you’d li...
34: How Women Executives Master Response Over Reaction for Strategic Leadership

This episode dives into the critical difference between reacting and responding.Â
As you navigate the high-stakes world of leadership, the pressure to act swiftly can often overshadow the wisdom of thoughtful decision-making. This show highlights how emotional reactions, especially when attached to specific outcomes, can derail the very success you strive to achieve.
Explore the long-term impacts of knee-jerk reactions and discover practical strategies for women leaders to master mindful decisions.
This episode is a must-listen for women executives seeking to lead with intention and empower those around them towards constructive behavior and st...
33: How Woman Leaders Leverage Insight and Self-Reflection for Professional Growth

In this episode, Sharon welcomes Stacy Scott, a seasoned strategic alliances leader from a global software giant, for an enriching conversation on leveraging insight and self-reflection for professional growth.
Stacy shares her journey of over 20 years in the tech industry, touching on her diverse roles and how introspection has played a pivotal role in navigating her career path.
Together, they delve into the significance of introspection in personal and professional development, offering listeners practical advice on making informed career decisions.
From discussing the challenges of achieving career mastery to exploring strategies for continued...