523: Worthy: From Cornfields to the Corner Office of Microsoft with Jane Boulware
12/10/24 • 34 min
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
________
📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast <...
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
________
📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast <...
Previous Episode
522: Love, Trust, and Influence: Leadership Insights from Dr. Sam Adeyemi
How do we unleash our leadership potential and transform the world around us?
In this heart-centered episode, we explore the principles of love, leadership, and influence with Dr. Sam Adeyemi, a distinguished leader, author, and speaker. Dr. Adeyemi has inspired millions through his transformational leadership approach and deep understanding of human behavior, bible truths, and how to balance rational thinking with emotional intelligence.
Throughout the conversation with host Nicole Jansen, Dr. Adeyemi shares his journey, including his paradigm shifts in church management, the significance of love, and trust in building effective leadership. This episode offers listeners invaluable insights on creating an environment where individuals feel empowered and valued through heart-centered and systematic leadership.
What We Discuss in this Episode
- How did implementing love and trust influence the success of your church during your three-year absence?
- Can you describe the transformation from a stage-centric ministry to a purpose-driven model?
- What does your "SHIFTS" model entail, and how does it foster transformation?
- Why is building emotional bank accounts crucial in leadership?
- How does intuition integrate with rationality in your leadership approach?
- How can leaders navigate global changes through cultural shifts?
- What are the core elements of heart-centered leadership?
- How do you define and balance character and competence in leadership?
- How can continuous exposure to ideals influence an individual's subconscious?
- What role do training programs play in creating a cohesive organizational mindset?
Favorite Quotes
"Leadership grounded in love builds trust, care, and a sense of belonging." - Dr. Sam Adeyemi
"Creating emotional bank accounts is crucial for building strong relationships within an organization." - Dr. Sam Adeyemi
"Adaptation to cultural shifts is vital for navigating global changes and ensuring sustainable leadership." - Dr. Sam Adeyemi
Episode Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/leadership/522-love-trust-and-influence-leadership-insights-from-dr-sam-adeyemi
Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com
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Next Episode
524: What You Need to Know When Buying a Business with Richard Parker
How do the most successful entrepreneurs buy good businesses at a great price?
In this episode, host Nicole Jansen sits down with Richard Parker, a seasoned expert in Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) who has acquired 14 companies and advised on transactions worth over $2 billion. Richard shares the secrets behind his successful program, How to Buy a Good Business at a Great Price, and underscores the essential knowledge needed for buying a business successfully.
Throughout the conversation, Richard offers profound insights into business acquisitions, the importance of an advisory team, and the virtues of methodical decision-making. Together, Nicole and Richard explore key strategies for growth, the significance of leveraging an existing customer base, and the often-overlooked need for creativity and curiosity in entrepreneurship.
Join us for this enlightening discussion filled with actionable takeaways, whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner looking to expand.
What We Discuss in this Episode
- Key steps involved in the "How to Buy a Good Business at a Great Price" program.
- How Richard Parker has maintained his childlike imagination throughout his career.
- The crucial role of having a business coach or advisor for business success.
- Common mistakes that entrepreneurs should avoid when looking to buy or run a business.
- Why leveraging your current customer base can be more effective than seeking new markets.
- The risks that entrepreneurs face when entering unfamiliar industries.
- The impact of misinformation on social media on new entrepreneurs.
- The biggest mistakes Richard made in his business career and the lessons learned from them.
- The current hot industries for business acquisition.
- The importance of relationships and trust in business transactions.
Podcast Highlights
0:00 - Lower market business stays steady, active, flourishing.
3:53 - Institutional investors make competition difficult for individuals.
8:19 - Experience highlights risks; business advisers offer guidance.
12:33 - Maximize existing clients by upselling additional products.
15:00 - Grow by adding products/services for customers.
17:26 - Quick decisions often hide incompetence or overconfidence.
20:11 - Successful entrepreneur faced losses after shifting focus.
26:30 – Why likability and trust are crucial for deals.
28:41 - Address business vulnerabilities; ensure operational continuity.
33:38 - Ego hindered hiring; realized teamwork improves success.
34:25 - Surrounding with smarter people improves business success.
40:44 - Intellectual curiosity trumps not attending university.
45:29 - Explore entrepreneurship resources.
Favorite Quotes
"Having someone to guide you, to point out potential pitfalls you can't see on your own, is invaluable in navigating through business acquisitions."
"Imagination is so critical in this game of entrepreneurship. It fosters innovation and helps you look at common problems through a novel lens."
"The 23 steps in our program are designed to simplify the complex process of business acquisitions, making it accessible for both novices and seasoned entrepreneurs."
Episode Show Notes and Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/business/524-what-you-need-to-know-when-buying-a-business-with-richard-parker
Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com
________
📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast
👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media
▶︎ YOUTUBE
▶︎ INSTAGRAM
▶︎ FACEBOOK
▶︎ LINKEDIN
▶︎ X/TWITTER
Leaders Of Transformation - 523: Worthy: From Cornfields to the Corner Office of Microsoft with Jane Boulware
Transcript
Welcome to the leaders of transformation podcast. The number one show for business leaders and entrepreneurs passionate about uplifting others and making a greater impact in the world. Now here's your host, transformational coach, speaker, and business advisor, Nicole Jansen.
Where does your self worth come from? Our guest today is Jane Boulware. She is a global business leader and former Microsoft VP, and she's the author of the book,
If you like this episode you’ll love
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