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The Courage to Lead Yourself First Podcast
Conversations about leadership, faith, personal growth, and the courage to become who you were created to be. Join me as I share leadership insights, personal experiences, and conversations that help leaders lead from a place of wholeness, purpose, and conviction.
Episode 1
The Courage to Lead Yourself First: A Conversation on Calling, Leadership, and Leaving Corporate
Published: August 2026
Watch on YouTube
https://youtu.be/DcyM396XJYA
Listen on Spotify
https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/csdRo5ZVd5b
Episode Description
In this premiere episode of The Courage to Lead Yourself First, leadership coach and consultant Sarai VanderWood shares her personal journey from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship, revealing how faith, courage, and purpose guided her through one of the biggest decisions of her life.
Interviewed by longtime friend and fellow entrepreneur Julie Schwallier, the conversation explores what it means to recognize when something is no longer aligned, trust God's calling, and take a leap into the unknown. Julie, who left corporate leadership to build a thriving home staging business of her own, brings a unique perspective to this honest and heartfelt discussion.
Together, they discuss leadership, mental and emotional well-being, faith, coaching, and the belief that great leadership begins by leading yourself first. Whether you're navigating a career transition, feeling called to something more, or simply seeking encouragement on your leadership journey, this episode will inspire you to take the next courageous step.
Key Takeaways
Leadership starts with leading yourself.
Courage often begins with a small step of faith.
Coaching is a leadership lifeline.
Great leaders lead from wholeness, not hustle.
Purpose matters more than position.
Guest Interviewer
Julie Schwallier
Longtime friend, former colleague, and entrepreneur Julie Schwallier interviews Sarai VanderWood in this inaugural episode. Julie left corporate leadership to build a thriving home staging business and brings a unique perspective to the conversation.
Ready to Lead Yourself First?
If you're navigating a leadership transition, seeking greater clarity, or looking to develop yourself and your team, I'd love to connect.
Leadership Tools and Resources
Grow with Confidence, Courage, and Purpose
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Beyond Thank You™ Leadership Affirmation Toolkit
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Courageous Leadership Workbook
A practical guide filled with reflection prompts and exercises to help you strengthen self-awareness, build confidence, and lead with greater intention.
