Lead to Soar: Career Advice and Guidance for Ambitious Women Leaders

In this episode, Michelle Redfern discusses the Hour of Power, a weekly group coaching call within the Lead to Soar network. This session provides a safe and consistent space for women to share their career challenges and insights, offering practical advice, support, and a strategic network that empowers women to thrive. Michelle highlights the importance of psychological safety, the value of women supporting each other in their careers, and the real-world outcomes participants experience through Hour of Power.

Key Takeaways:

What is Hour of Power?

Hour of Power is a weekly, one-hour online session where Lead to Soar members come together to share challenges, receive support, and engage in meaningful, action-oriented discussions. It's a safe space where women can show up, whether in strength or vulnerability, to receive practical and constructive advice.

Consistency and Psychological Safety:

The power of Hour of Power lies in its consistency and the psychological safety it provides. One participant describes it as, "The consistency of the experience and the psychological safety of the space. I can turn up in my robustness or my vulnerability, and both are met with honest, practical, and kind reflection." This safe, non-judgmental space enables women to explore career challenges and take meaningful risks.

The Power of Women Supporting Women:

Research, such as McKinsey’s Women in the Workplace report, highlights the importance of strong professional networks in advancing women’s careers. In Hour of Power, women support each other strategically, providing mentorship, sponsorship, and emotional support. One member noted, "Even if you don’t feel confident or want to talk, there is so much gold in this hour. The key takeaways are always—you are far from alone, the knowledge bank is next level, and the women in this community always help."

Real-World Impact:

Participants in Hour of Power have shared numerous success stories, from landing remote roles to negotiating promotions. As one participant said, "Hour of Power is my energy boost and a chance to engage my brain with brilliant, intelligent, supportive women." The session offers both tangible takeaways and a renewed sense of motivation and community.

Call to Action for Leaders:

Michelle challenges leaders to create similar safe spaces in their workplaces, ensuring that underrepresented and marginalized individuals have the opportunity to share their ideas and concerns. These spaces foster innovation, growth, and progress for both individuals and organizations.

Resources Mentioned:

Harvard Business Review: The Key to Inclusive Leadership

McKinsey & Company: Women in the Workplace 2023

Join the Lead to Soar Network:

If you’re a Lead to Soar member and haven’t yet participated in Hour of Power, this is your invitation to join us. And if you’re not a member yet, visit Lead to Soar Network to learn more about how you can become part of this powerful community of women supporting women. leadtosoar.network/landing

Lead to Soar is a podcast for ambitious women and the leaders who support them. Hosted by Michelle Redfern and Mel Butcher, it delivers evidence-based, practical advice on leadership, career progression, and closing the gender gap. Join the Lead to Soar Network at leadtosoar.network or get Michelle’s book The Leadership Compass at michelleredfern.com/book.