Empowering Women to Lead with Katherine Caffrey

Raise Your Hand for the Hard Stuff: Leading with Courage with Katherine Caffrey

In this episode, Ruth speaks with City Manager Katherine Caffrey about her journey into public service and leadership in a traditionally male-dominated field. From discovering city management in college to leading transformational community projects, Katherine shares how mentorship, courage, and raising her hand for the tough assignments shaped her path. She opens up about the challenges women face in local government, the importance of modeling leadership for the next generation, and why boundaries matter. Her reminder? “You have to raise your hand for the hard stuff. That’s where the growth is.”

Whether you’re new to leadership or already paving the way for others, this episode will inspire you to lead boldly—even when it feels uncertain.

Want to connect with Katherine and start living with purpose?

If you want to connect with Katherine, you can find her on the Des Moines City Website.  Also, you can connect at [e-mail]

Visit the website www.rutheasterling.org/purposejourney to get in touch and learn more about The Purpose Journey — a powerful six-month coaching program designed to help you discover who you are, why you’re here, and how to live it out with confidence and clarity.

If you want to be on our podcast or you know someone who would make a great guest please let us know.