How to Start a Project from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide for New Managers

How to Start a Project from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide for New Managers

In this solo episode, Clara breaks down her go-to, battle-tested framework for launching any new project or program—from billion-dollar acquisitions to scrappy product rollouts. If you’ve ever been handed a vague assignment and wondered, “Where do I even start?”—this one’s for you. You’ll learn: * The 5 essential steps for kicking off a successful project * How to define the “why,” “what,” “who,” “when,” and “how” of your work * The underrated power of delivery structures and how to create one * Why timelines should start high-level—and how to pressure test them * The only meeting you really need to succeed and tools to keep everything on track Plus, Clara shares a consulting story that started on the back of a napkin, the surprising value of a giant paper timeline, and her favorite project planning tools (spoiler: Excel still wins sometimes). ✨ New: Submit your leadership or work-life questions anonymously at www.sheisbossy.com [http://www.sheisbossy.com] for a future AMA episode! — 👉 Follow @she.is.bossy on Instagram for weekly highlights and behind-the-scenes 💻 Check out the website at sheisbossy.com [http://www.sheisbossy.com] ⭐ Like what you hear? Subscribe and leave a review—it helps others find the pod!

From Broadway to AI: Kyra Atekwana on Pivoting with Purpose

In this episode of She Is Bossy, Clara sits down with the multitalented Kyra Atekwana—AI consultant by day, Broadway producer by night. Kyra takes us on a journey through her eclectic and passion-led career, from studying anthropology and music at Harvard to auditioning for Broadway, scaling an education startup in Dubai, launching a food tech business, leading at HelloFresh, and now transforming teams through AI at Section. We explore how Kyra blends her creativity with analytical thinking, what it’s like co-producing Tony-nominated Broadway shows, and why AI should be in every manager’s toolkit. Plus, Kyra shares practical advice for pivoting careers, navigating corporate cultures as a woman of color, and using AI to become a more thoughtful, self-aware leader. 🔥 Topics Covered: * Kyra’s nonlinear career path from performing arts to AI and startups * Lessons in cultural relativity from working in the Dubai government * What it actually means to be a Broadway producer—and how Kyra is diversifying who gets a seat at the table * How to use AI as a management tool for better feedback, clarity, and communication * Strategic advice for women navigating corporate leadership while staying true to their voice * Why building small, passion-fueled side projects can lead to your next big move

Navigate your Career with Confidence & Clarity: Lauren Michie on Resumes, Interviews and Reinvention

This week on She Is Bossy, Clara reconnects with her former roommate and longtime friend Lauren Michie for a candid conversation on switching careers, managing rejection, and building confidence from scratch. Lauren Michie’s career path is anything but typical—she’s gone from the State Department to investment banking to wealth management, and now she’s helping women land their dream jobs through her coaching business, The Prep Room. In this episode, Lauren shares how to make bold career pivots, craft a resume that actually sounds human, and walk into interviews with real confidence. Together, Clara and Lauren unpack: * Why it’s okay if your career path looks like a zigzag * How to reframe “I don’t belong here” into “I have something to offer” * The subtle but real challenges women face in male-dominated industries * Why “you don’t look like a ___” is a phrase we all need to retire * Tangible ways to humanize your resume and own your story in interviews * How to stay motivated and grounded through rejections and uncertainty Whether you’re job hunting, mid-pivot, or just figuring out your next move, this conversation is full of practical advice, inspiring moments, and reminders that your story is your superpower. 💻 Learn more about The Prep Room at preproomcareers.com [https://preproomcareers.com] 🎧 Subscribe on Spotify 📲 Follow @she.is.bossy on Instagram

AMA: Bossing When Busy, Giving Upward Feedback & Leading without Direct Reports

In this special Q&A episode, Clara answers real listener questions with tactical advice every aspiring and current boss can use. Whether you’re swamped at work, struggling to speak up to your manager, or trying to build leadership skills without managing a team—this one’s for you. Clara also shares exciting news: the brand-new She Is Bossy website is now live! Submit your questions, listen to past episodes, and grab free tools to help you lead with confidence. 💬 Topics Covered: 1. How to Be a Great Boss When You’re Really Busy * Why delegation is your #1 long-term time-saver * How quick stand-ups keep your team on track (and reduce 1:1 overload) * Creative ways to share leadership while building team capacity 2. How to Give Upward Feedback to Your Boss * Framing feedback in terms of what you need * Scripts for navigating unsolicited feedback respectfully * Building trust and visibility through consistent 1:1s 3. How to Gain Management Experience Without Direct Reports * Three core leadership skills to build today * Ways to take initiative and lead projects from any seat * Practicing feedback by starting with positive recognition Want Clara to answer your question on a future episode? Submit it directly at www.sheisbossy.com [http://www.sheisbossy.com]!

Failing Forward, Authentic Leadership, and Winning Championships with Julianne Sitch

In this inspiring episode of She is Bossy, Clara sits down with trailblazing soccer coach Julianne Sitch — the first woman to lead a men’s team to an NCAA championship. From her early days as the only girl on an all-boys soccer team to coaching at the collegiate level, Julianne shares her journey of resilience, authenticity, and leadership. We dive into how to build trust as a new leader, why failing forward is essential for growth, and how to stay mentally tough when setbacks happen. Julianne also opens up about pursuing her professional dreams after personal loss, finding strength in vulnerability, and leading by being her authentic self. Whether you’re stepping into a leadership role, chasing a big dream, or building mental toughness in your own life, this conversation will leave you feeling energized and ready to own your journey. 🎙 We cover: * Building team trust through vulnerability and connection * How failure fuels growth * Leading authentically in male-dominated spaces * Creating a strong, resilient team culture * Finding balance and protecting your personal wellbeing Hit play and get ready to be inspired by Julianne’s story of grit, growth, and leadership.