Podcast Recap: Lessons in Courageous Leadership with Karli Sherman

Leadership coach Karli Sherman shares practical wisdom on confidence, communication, and courageous leadership.

Our debut episode of the Influential Women Podcast brought energy, honesty, and the kind of wisdom that stays with you long after the conversation ends. Leadership coach and speaker Karli Sherman joined host Jodie O’Brien to share practical insights on confidence, communication, and the courage it takes to show up as the fullest version of yourself.

Karli reminds us that leadership is not reserved for titles. It is built through daily actions that reflect clarity, confidence, and character. She breaks down what it looks like to lead boldly even when you are still learning, growing, or finding your footing. Her message is refreshingly simple. You can lead from anywhere. You can influence from any seat. All you need is the willingness to use your voice and trust your abilities.

Here are a few of the biggest lessons from Karli’s episode.

1. Confidence is a skill, not a personality trait.

Karli believes that women underestimate their potential because they believe confidence is something you are either born with or not. She encourages women to treat confidence like a muscle that grows with practice, consistency, and self trust.

2. Courageous leadership starts with speaking up.

You do not need to be the most experienced person in the room to offer valuable ideas. Women often hold back because they are afraid of being wrong. Karli challenges us to speak anyway. Your voice creates change when you choose to use it.

3. Stop apologizing for existing.

One of her strongest messages is about our tendency to over apologize. Women often say sorry when they have not done anything wrong. Replacing unnecessary apologies with gratitude and clarity strengthens your voice and your presence.

4. Professionalism and humanity go hand in hand.

Karli believes leaders become more effective when they embrace who they are. Humor, warmth, and honesty help people feel connected and create trust. You do not need to hide your personality to be taken seriously.

5. Leadership is built in everyday choices.

Small shifts, like making eye contact, offering support, or showing up prepared, create long term credibility. You do not need grand gestures to be a leader. You need consistency.

Karli’s episode is a reminder that women already have what they need to lead. Sometimes all we need is someone to help us see it.

For more conversations, inspiration, and leadership tools for women, visit InfluentialWomen.com.