What do you do when change is happening and you’re not in charge?
In this candid AMA-style conversation, Monique sits down with her husband and long-time tech leader, Ben Schafer to unpack what it means to lead through change, especially when you’re not in a formal leadership role.
Monique shares real stories from her own career pivots - from consultant to product leader to director, and breaks down what most people miss about internal transitions, leadership identity, and decision-making during moments of uncertainty. From soft power and emotional intelligence to tactical frameworks, this is the conversation most people wish they had earlier in their leadership journey.
If you’re ever found yourself asking: Why does this feel off? Am I outgrowing something? Am I still valuable here? This one’s for you.
In this episode:(02:57) - Defining and recognizing transitions (05:04) - The importance of the in-between period (08:17) - Monique’s real-life example of the true inner work of every career pivot (11:54) - How to lead when you’re not in a position of leadership (15:01) - Example of leadership in consulting (18:49) - Grounding people in the business objective (22:23) - Leadership is all about empowering people (24:09) - Decision-making frameworks that move teams forward (26:15) - Reconciling personal beliefs and emotions about change (35:52) - Navigating resistance and shutdowns with compassion (and boundaries)
Connect with Monique:- Website | https://www.thegreatlifeexperimentpodcast.com/
- Instagram - thegreatlifeexperiment_podcast | https://www.instagram.com/thegreatlifeexperiment_podcast
- Instagram - @itsmoniqueschafer | https://www.instagram.com/itsmoniqueschafer
- YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@GreatLifeExperiment
Got a question that's keeping you up at night? Need a new way to look at a problem?
'Ask Monique' is your chance to get personalized insights. Submit your questions about business, professional life, or personal development, and let's dive into the messy, beautiful, and ever-changing world together.
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