Small Brave Moves

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we're discussing one of the most relevant challenges in leadership today—how to lead remote and hybrid teams without falling into the trap of micromanagement.

Because let’s be honest: working from anywhere can quickly turn into disconnected everywhere if we’re not intentional.

We explore:

• How to create real connection without constant check-ins
• Why micromanagement is fear in di...

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast,  we dive into one of the biggest reasons leaders avoid hard conversations—the fear of emotional reactions. 

Whether it’s tears, silence, deflection, or defensiveness, these responses can make even the most seasoned leaders second-guess themselves. But brave leaders don’t avoid the discomfort—they prepare for it.

We explore:

• The four most common emotional reactions during tough talk...

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast we’re diving into a non-negotiable for building high-performing, innovative teams: psychological safety.

You’ve probably heard the term before, but let’s get one thing straight—it’s not just an HR thing. It’s a leadership thing. In fact, it’s the foundation of every courageous, collaborative, and high-impact team Nicole has ever worked with.

Nicole breaks down exactly what psychologica...

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we challenge the hustle culture myth that faster is always better—and explore why the bravest leaders are the ones who dare to slow down. 

We explore why brave leaders aren’t the ones burning the candle at both ends—but the ones carving out time to think deeply, act intentionally, and lead with clarity. You’ll learn how constant motion leads to misalignment, burnout, and poor decisio...

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we tackle a challenge that many powerhouse women in leadership quietly face: the constant tug-of-war between being seen as too much or not enough.

We unpack the double standards women leaders often navigate—where authority can be labeled as “aggressive,” and warmth mistaken for weakness—and offer a new model: one where you don’t have to choose between being respected or relatable.

Fro...

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we explore one of the hardest but most necessary parts of leadership—recovering from failure. Whether it’s a misstep, a missed deadline, or a moment you wish you could take back, failure is inevitable for every leader.

But here’s the truth: what defines your leadership isn’t the mistake—it’s how you respond.

We break down the three types of leadership failures—slips, trips, and falls—...

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we tackle the hidden leadership habit that’s sabotaging your confidence and credibility—negative self-talk.

Whether it’s those quiet, critical thoughts or the self-deprecating jokes you make to be relatable, the way you speak about yourself matters. It shapes how others see you and how you show up as a leader.

From real-life stories to powerful mindset shifts, we’ll explore how negati...

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we're stepping into a different kind of brave leadership—the leadership of your health. I'm joined by Julie Griffin, executive health coach, certified functional medicine health coach, and former corporate HR leader with over 30 years of experience. 

Julie brings a powerful blend of executive-level insight and deep knowledge of functional medicine and lifestyle behavior cha...

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we explore what it really takes to
detoxify a workplace and lead with courage and grace.

I'm joined by Alan Utley, keynote speaker, certified leadership coach, and the HR pro behind the concept of fanatical grace. With 25 years of experience in senior HR roles, Alan shares powerful stories about the small brave moves that helped him shift from perfectionism to auth...

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we explore the concept of butterfly moments—those seemingly small but powerful shifts in thought or behavior that spark meaningful transformation in your leadership journey. 

From quiet realizations to courageous decisions, these moments often arrive during times of discomfort, clarity, or reflection. Learn how to recognize, embrace, and create more of these transformative turning po...

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we tackle one of the most misunderstood elements of leadership: conflict. While most leaders shy away from it, the truth is that conflict—when handled well—can be a powerful catalyst for trust, innovation, and accountability.

We'll discuss the costly impact of conflict avoidance and share how reframing conflict as an opportunity can strengthen both leadership and team culture. 

Y...

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we dive into one of the most challenging aspects of leadership—working with toxic people. Whether it's a difficult colleague, boss, or client, toxic behaviors can chip away at your energy, confidence, and clarity. But here's the truth: you may not be able to change them, but you can control how you show up.

We explore:

• How to reclaim your power in toxic environments
• Bound...

Are you leading your team through disruption—or waiting to be disrupted?

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we explore what it really takes to lead through disruption and embrace innovation, especially in the age of AI. 

I’m joined by Trent Gillespie—former Amazon executive, AI strategist, and creator of the AI Sprint framework—who shares how leaders can navigate change, unlock innovation, and use AI to drive real resu...

If I stopped you in the hallway and asked, ‘What’s your leadership philosophy?’—would you have an answer?

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we explore why having a personal leadership philosophy is one of the most important tools for leading with clarity and confidence.

 We break down how a clear, personal leadership philosophy can:
 ✅ Build trust through consistency and clarity
 ✅ Guide your decision-making d...

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we unpack one of the most underrated leadership tools: boundaries. Setting them isn’t selfish—it’s a bold act of self-respect, clarity, and effectiveness. 

If you’re an executive leader, team builder, or high performer constantly feeling pulled in a million directions, this one’s for you. We explore why boundaries are essential to your leadership success, how to communicate them clea...

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we explore the transformative power of mindset, resilience, and reframing failure. I’m joined by the unforgettable Cam F. Awesome—12-time national boxing champion, former captain of Team USA, and now a dynamic speaker on positive self-talk, confidence, and resilience. 

Cam’s story is one of extraordinary reinvention. From being bullied as a child and later suspended from the Olympic ...

Uncertainty is inevitable—but how you handle it defines your leadership.

In this episode of Small Brave Moves, we explore the power of embracing uncertainty in leadership and life. From navigating unexpected challenges to making bold decisions when the path ahead is unclear, I share personal stories (including my first time driving my dad’s semi-truck! 🚛) and practical strategies for building resilience in the face of the unknown.

W...

Brave leaders don’t just imagine a better world—they take action to create it. 

In this episode of the Small Brave Moves podcast, we explore what it truly means to be a hope-driven leader. Leadership isn’t just about strategies and decisions—it’s about inspiring resilience, creating pathways to success, and instilling belief in a better future. 

I share a deeply personal story about how a simple yet powerful reminder from my mom shap...

Leadership isn’t just about guiding others—it’s about navigating your own journey with bravery, resilience, and purpose.

In this episode of Small Brave Moves, I sit down with Jesse Cody, founder of Hike the Good Hike, to explore the leadership lessons hidden in nature’s toughest challenges. Nearly a decade ago, Jesse found himself at a crossroads, struggling with mental health and questioning his future. Instead of staying stuck, he...