If I’m honest, I used to roll my eyes at this skill.
It felt fake, like politicking, campaigning, or trying to be the “teacher’s pet.”
For years, I believed results alone should speak for themselves. Just do your job, deliver, follow through, and be a good human.
And for a long time, that worked. I built strong teams, kept clients happy, had amazing retention rates, and hit results that multiplied our business.
But when I got into the boardroom, I realized something important: even the people at the top didn’t have it all figured out.
Leaders often acted like they did outside the room, but behind closed doors it was a different story. There is always a new problem to solve or decisions to be made.
That’s when I understood: results alone weren’t enough. If I wanted to create real change, I had to find my voice and learn influence — in a way that felt authentic and true to me.
I had to learn how to speak up, shape conversations, and influence decisions.
And that changed everything. Not only did I grow my impact and results, but I came into my own as a leader and now as a business owner.
And here’s why this matters for you today:
Influence has changed.
What worked 10 years ago (or even 5) isn’t enough anymore. Today’s leaders need influence that’s:
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Authentic (no games, no politics, just real influence that earns trust)
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Collaborative (spanning across multiple generations and perspectives)
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Energized (so you can lead with clarity instead of exhaustion)
Without this shift, leaders end up stuck — overlooked in the room, frustrated with results, exhausted, or quietly pushed aside.
But with it? There’s massive opportunity to grow your business, your team, and your own leadership.
3 ways to build authentic influence today:
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Bring curiosity into every room. Don’t assume you need the answers — ask better questions.
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Share your value out loud. Results matter, but people need to hear and see how you’re creating impact.
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Build across generations. Influence today means knowing how to connect and collaborate with different styles, not just your own or people similar to you.
👉 These are the kinds of tools and conversations we’re digging into all month in the Modern Leaders Collective.
And here’s the thing:
This isn’t a sea of faces where you’ll get lost. The Collective is built intentionally small, supportive, and here to make a real difference. You’ll be seen, challenged, and supported to make real progress — not just collect more good ideas.
This month, we’re focused on authentic influence as part of our Modern Leadership Roadmap. You’ll also get access to resources on wellness (so you have the energy to lead) and innovation (so you stay ahead, not stuck).
✨ Enrollment is open now .....but spots are limited on purpose. If influence is the skill you know you need to grow, this is the moment to jump in.
Back-to-Routine Meals
As summer winds down, many of us are shifting from looser, spontaneous schedules back into more structured routines. That transition can feel draining - especially when it comes to food. The good news: a little planning goes a long way in keeping meals both energizing and stress-free.
Tips for a Smooth Transition:
- Batch the Basics: Cook a grain, a protein, and a tray of roasted veggies on Sunday - then mix and match all week long.
- Smart Shortcuts: Pre-washed greens, frozen veggies, and rotisserie chicken make balanced meals doable on busy nights.
- Portable Energy: Think wraps, overnight oats, or snack boxes with nuts, fruit, and cheese for grab-and-go fuel.
- Keep it Colorful: A variety of colors usually means a variety of nutrients - plus meals feel more exciting.
- Anchor Meals Around Protein + Produce: Instead of overthinking, start with one protein and one vegetable, then layer in flavor with sauces, spices, or whole grains.
A Mindset Shift
Back-to-routine eating doesn't have to mean strict meal plans or giving up flexibility. Think of it as creating a steady foundation that supports your energy, focus, and well-being - so you can handle the demands of your schedule with ease.
Why it Matters for Leaders
How we fuel ourselves directly impacts how we show up for others. Balanced meals sharpen focus, stabilize mood, and sustain energy - all of which strengthen leadership presence. By making food choices that support your well-being, you're also modeling balance for your team and creating space for them to do the same.
Energy-Forward Mason Jar Burrito Bowls
Struggling to find fun, simple, recipes to help you get back into your routine? Try these Mason Jar Burrito Bowls - perfect for prepping ahead. These bowls are colorful, portable, and easily customizeable.
Ingredients (makes 4 jars):
2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken (you may also opt to keep these vegetarian)
1/2 cup shredded cheese
1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo
1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional)
Fresh cilantro, lime wedges
Assembly
1. In 4 large mason jars, layer in this order:
Salsa
Beans + corn
Rice or quinoa
Chicken + cheese
Bell peppers + tomatoes
2. Seal and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
3. When ready to eat, shake into a bowl, top with yogurt, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Why It Works for Back-to-Routine
- Prep in 20 minutes
- Easy to grab-and-go
- Balanced with protein, fiber, and color
- Totally customizable - swap in whatever's on hand
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