Episode 343: The People Plug: Leading Through Community and Connection

03/12/25 • 51 min

Success isn’t a solo journey—it’s built through relationships, opportunities, and the courage to show up for others. In this episode, Corinne Milien, Founder & CEO of WRK, shares how she built a career rooted in impact, connection, and leadership.

A first-generation American, military veteran, and four-time founder, Corinne’s journey has taken her from the Air Force to working with legendary coach Pat Summitt, from managing high-profile events at ESPN to launching businesses that elevate people. Whether she’s advocating for diversity in sports, creating mentorship pipelines, or building an inclusive golf community, she’s proving that the right connections can change everything.

Tune in to learn how to harness the power of relationships, why community is the ultimate leadership advantage, and how to step into your own influence—no matter where you are in your career.

Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.

The key moments in this episode are:

[00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers Podcast [00:27] The Power of Community [01:27] Meet Corinne Millen: A Journey of Determination [06:08] Leadership Lessons from Pat Summit [07:52] Military Service and Leadership [09:57] Navigating Corporate and Military Cultures [15:57] The People Plug: Building Connections [18:48] Golf and Networking: Breaking Traditions [23:11] Overcoming Imposter Syndrome [28:22] The Importance of In-Person Connections [29:40] Daily Rituals and Habits [35:36] Setting and Achieving Goals [42:33] Building and Relying on Community [45:56] Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

Tune in to learn how to harness the power of relationships, why community is the ultimate leadership advantage, and how to step into your own influence—no matter where you are in your career.

Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.

The key moments in this episode are:

Previous Episode

Episode 342: Beyond Boardrooms: The Real Value of Community in Venture Capital

For decades, venture capital has been built around financial returns and rapid growth—but what if the true measure of success was the strength of the community behind it? In this episode, KT McBratney, General Partner and Head of Community at Renew Venture Capital, shares how they are challenging the traditional VC model and proving that impact and investment can go hand in hand.

KT’s career has been anything but traditional. From journalism to marketing to launching startups, they have navigated multiple industries by embracing curiosity, leading with empathy, and building networks that empower people. Now, they’re bringing that same mindset to venture capital—reshaping how firms operate, prioritizing inclusive investing, and ensuring that founders get the support they need beyond just funding. She also hosted Founded on Purpose, a podcast that spotlighted entrepreneurs proving that business can be a tool for change.

Find out why the best businesses are shifting toward trust, inclusion, and collaboration for long-term success. KT breaks down how investors, founders, and leaders can embed community into their work, and why the best businesses are the ones that put people first.

Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.

The key moments in this episode are:

[00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers Podcast [00:27] The Importance of Communication in Relationships [01:07] Revolutionizing Venture Capital with KT McBrandtny [02:58] KT McBrandtny's Nonlinear Journey [04:39] The Role of General Partner and Head of Community [06:51] Leadership and Management: A Personal Perspective [10:56] Founders and Leadership in Modern Times [12:55] Personal Branding and Authenticity [16:01] Resilience and Confidence in Entrepreneurship [17:52] Celebrating Wins and Rewards [19:10] About the Founded on Purpose Podcast [20:26] The Importance of Team Dynamics [20:41] Balancing Founder and Investor Mindsets [21:39] Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Imposter Syndrome [23:16] The Power of Taking Breaks and Reflection [25:24] Daily Habits and Finding Rhythm [28:34] Building and Maintaining Relationships [31:17] Innovating in Venture Capital [33:50] Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

Next Episode

Episode 344: Confidence Through Competence: Navigating Risk with Resilience

Confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s built through effort, resilience, and a relentless commitment to growth. In this episode, you’ll hear how Leah Emkin, Chief Client Officer at Wilshire, went from not knowing what an RFP writer was to leading client teams at one of the most respected financial firms. Her story is proof that when you show up, stay curious, and do the hard work, you don’t just survive—you thrive.

Leah shares the mindset shifts and daily habits that helped her grow into a trusted leader, the power of staying in your lane while playing to your strengths, and how to handle rejection without losing momentum. If you’ve ever questioned whether you belong in the room or wondered how to lead with both empathy and grit, this conversation will give you the real talk—and reassurance—you need.

Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest.

The key moments in this episode are:

[00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers Podcast [00:27] Building Confidence Through Competence [01:07] Meet Leah Emkin: A Journey of Hard Work and Curiosity [03:48] Leah's Role and Responsibilities at Wilshire [05:16] Embracing Openness and Curiosity [12:42] Navigating Challenges and Building Resilience [16:48] Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Imposter Syndrome [21:39] Gaining Perspective with Age [22:41] Daily Habits for Success [24:52] Navigating Parenthood and Flexibility [25:32] Building Strategic Relationships [26:49] The Importance of Mentorship [28:28] Women Supporting Women in Investments [29:44] Leveraging Community and Networks [30:51] Embracing Discomfort for Growth [33:23] Advice for Job Seekers [34:52] Lightning Round and Final Thoughts