Episode 26: Confidence Starts With Trust: Leadership Lessons I Learned the Hard Way

Nov 19, 2025

In this episode of The Joy CEO Podcast, I’m diving deep into one of the most important foundations of leadership, relationships, and joy: trust.

Through stories from my years as a corporate VP and moments from my personal life, I share how trust is created, how it crumbles, and how we can rebuild it with intention.

From accountability to boundaries to assuming positive intent, I walk you through the exact principles I’ve used to lead teams, raise my family, and build confidence within myself.

If you’ve struggled with over-giving, being disappointed by others, or doubting your own leadership—this conversation is for you.

πŸ”‘ Key Takeaways:

Trust Is the Ground I Lead From

For me, trust shapes everything—how I show up at work, how I parent, how I build relationships. Leadership works only when trust is present.

Audience follow-up → Where in your life is trust strong, and where might it need repair?

Keeping My Word Builds My Confidence

Every time I honor a commitment—especially to myself—I strengthen my own leadership. When I don’t, it chips away at my confidence.

Audience follow-up → What promise can you keep to yourself this week?

Positive Intent Changes Everything

I share how choosing to believe the best in someone instantly shifts the tone of a conversation. It softens defenses and builds connection.

Audience follow-up → The next time you feel frustrated, can you pause and ask: “What if they meant well?”

Clear Boundaries Are Love + Leadership

Trust requires clarity. I talk about the moments when I’ve stepped in too much and robbed someone of the chance to grow—and how stepping back is sometimes the most loving choice.

Audience follow-up → Where are you taking responsibility for something that isn’t yours?

My Self-Esteem Grows When I Trust Myself

When I trust my instincts, my decisions, and my voice, I lead with more confidence and peace. Self-trust is the root of all leadership.

Audience follow-up → What’s one way you can strengthen trust with yourself today?

What Happens at Home Shows Up at Work

The way I build trust with my family mirrors the way I lead in my professional life. The principles are the same—boundaries, reliability, and integrity.

Audience follow-up → Which trust habit can you carry into both your personal and professional worlds?

πŸ”Ž Mentioned in the Episode:

  • My breakdown of the “Trust Thread”: Boundaries, Reliability, Accountability, Integrity
  • Real experiences from my corporate leadership career
  • Parenting moments that shaped how I think about trust
  • This week’s Joy Instructions—simple steps to practice trust daily

✨ Reflection Prompts:

  • Where have I broken trust with myself—and how can I begin to repair it?
  • Am I leading from fear or confidence?
  • Where can I assume positive intent more often?
  • Which boundary do I need to reinforce to protect my energy?

 

🧠 Who This Episode Is For:

  • Leaders working through team trust issues
  • Parents and partners wanting healthier, more open communication
  • Professionals ready to feel more confident in their leadership
  • Anyone rebuilding trust—in themselves or with others

 

πŸ“© Want to Go Deeper?

Follow Lori on LinkedIn to continue the conversation

 

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πŸ“² Share this episode with someone who’s navigating pressure and wants to do it with more grace

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