523: Worthy: From Cornfields to the Corner Office of Microsoft with Jane Boulware

Where Does Your Self-Worth and Resilience Come From?

This week, we had the privilege of speaking with Jane Boulware - a global business leader, former Microsoft VP, and now an inspiring author of the new book WORTHY.

From her humble beginnings in the cornfields of Iowa, Jane defied expectations to lead billion-dollar businesses and rise to the top ranks of Microsoft leadership. By the age of 52, she had launched three major ventures, navigated the largest corporate merger in U.S. history, and helped shape the careers of countless leaders along the way.

Driven by a deep passion for helping others recognize their inherent worth, Jane now dedicates her time to mentoring, serving on boards, and enjoying nature with her family. What’s more, all proceeds from her book WORTHY are being donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Youth of the Year scholarships, making her work a beacon of hope for the next generation.

In this episode, Jane opens up about her remarkable journey, sharing personal stories and professional lessons that emphasize the power of family support, self-acceptance, and the courage to ask for help. From navigating high-stakes corporate roles to overcoming personal struggles, her insights are invaluable for anyone seeking to grow as both a leader and an individual.

Together with host Nicole Jansen, Jane explores thought-provoking topics like turning differences into strengths, fostering positive self-dialogue, and embracing diversity as a critical element of leadership. Whether you’re building resilience, nurturing self-worth, or stepping into a new leadership role, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and encouragement to help you thrive.

Don't miss this empowering conversation with a leader who proves that no matter where you start, you are worthy of success and fulfillment.

What We Discuss in This Episode

• Turning setbacks into opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• Exploring how women and men often perceive and estimate their capabilities differently—and what we can learn from it.
• The invaluable role of family support in achieving balance between career aspirations and personal life.
• An unexpected lesson: how selling used carpet in university became a turning point in Jane's journey to success.
• Building self-worth and resilience through personal growth, embracing challenges, and learning from experiences.
• The transformation of Jane's leadership style over the course of her career and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
• Simple yet powerful daily habits Jane relies on to nurture and reinforce her sense of self-worth.
• Why diversity in leadership isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s a critical factor for business success.
• Practical strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome and stepping into leadership with confidence.

Podcast Highlights

0:00 – Imposter syndrome: A universal challenge across all experience levels.

5:30 – Why women often underestimate their performance and how to overcome it.

7:13 – The power of stepping into discomfort to unlock career growth.

9:57 – From selling homemade rugs to fund tuition: Lessons in grit and resourcefulness.

13:35 – Embracing risks and leading with courage in overseas roles.

18:02 – The importance of vulnerability in leadership and empowering others’ unique strengths.

19:46 – Building self-worth through collaboration and teamwork.

24:40 – Rewriting your internal dialogue to foster self-acceptance and resilience.

32:01 – Using self-reflection as a tool to boost confidence and recognize your worth.

33:18 – True transformation begins within: Renewing your mind for lasting change.

Favorite Quotes

On Self-Worth: "Self-worth comes from collaboration and accepting one's limitations rather than constantly proving oneself."

On Leadership: "Acknowledging and leveraging the strengths of your team is the real essence of effective leadership."

On Personal Growth: "Stepping out of your comfort zone and saying 'yes' to intimidating opportunities is crucial for personal and professional growth."

Episode Show Notes: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/mindset/523-worthy-from-cornfields-to-the-corner-office-of-microsoft-with-jane-boulware

Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com

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