Episode 37: Leading Gratefully through Embracing Adversity with Ellie Nieves

Ep 41: Why Joy is a Leadership Strategy with Catrina Ballard

In this heartfelt and inspiring finale of The Polished Podcast, host Jane Doerman sits down with Catrina Ballard, founder and owner of Happy Teams, to explore how joy can be a transformative leadership strategy. Wrapping up the Leading Joyfully series, this conversation dives into Catrina’s journey of building Happy Teams—a business consulting firm rooted in creating thriving workplace cultures—and her belief that joy is not just a feeling, but a practice of intentional leadership. Catrina shares her winding road to success, from her background in psychology and counseling to the challenges of entrepreneurship during a pandemic. Through personal anecdotes and practical insights, she highlights how joy shapes team dynamics, fosters trust, and creates workplaces where individuals can truly thrive. This episode also marks a pivotal moment for the Polished Podcast. As we transition to 4word, we invite you to continue the journey with us on the Work Love Pray Podcast, where we’ll keep amplifying stories of women who are leading with faith and purpose. Don’t miss this reflective and uplifting conversation that will leave you inspired to embrace joy as a cornerstone of leadership—just in time for Christmas. Join us as we celebrate this season of joy and look ahead to a new chapter with 4word. Key Takeaways: * Joy is more than holiday cheer—it’s a leadership strategy that can transform workplace culture. * Building joy starts with creating trust, valuing team members, and fostering meaningful connections. * Catrina’s journey reminds us that joy is a choice we cultivate, even in challenging seasons. Tune in to this final episode of The Polished Podcast and stay connected with us on the Work Love Pray Podcast in 2025. Until then, keep leading boldly, joyfully, and faithfully! Subscribe to the Work Love Pray Podcast on 4wordwomen.org [https://www.4wordwomen.org] to stay inspired! Connect with Catrina:   Website: http://www.happyteams.net [http://www.happyteams.net] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happy.teams [https://www.instagram.com/happy.teams]  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/catrinadballard [http://www.linkedin.com/in/catrinadballard]  Learn more about:   Move 4word with Polished!: Have you heard the news?! Polished Network and 4word Women are merging and you’re invited to join us! Learn more and stay up to date on this exciting transition at https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether [https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether]    Polished Chapter Gatherings are meeting once a month. Join a chapter near you! Learn more here: http://www.polishednetwork.org/chapters [http://www.polishednetwork.org/chapters]    Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories [https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories]  Connect with us on our Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polishednetwork/ [https://www.instagram.com/polishednetwork/]  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/polished-network/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true [https://www.linkedin.com/company/polished-network/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true]  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PolishedNetwork.online [https://www.facebook.com/PolishedNetwork.online]  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIcl9WlSPbhK8d8UPieJrdQ [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIcl9WlSPbhK8d8UPieJrdQ]

Ep 40: Choosing Joy Amidst Adversity with Debora Grandison

In this powerful episode of The Polished Podcast, host Jane Doerman sits down with Debora Grandison, founder of She Speaks From a Joyful Heart, LLC, to explore what it truly means to lead joyfully—even in the face of life’s toughest challenges. Debora’s story is one of resilience, faith, and an intentional choice to embrace joy amidst adversity. As a heart disease and diabetes survivor, she has faced overwhelming struggles that could have easily derailed her path. Instead, Debora chose to root her identity in Christ and allow her trials to shape her purpose. From her journey of healing to her mission of inspiring others through writing, poetry, and speaking, Debora reminds us that joy isn’t the absence of hardship—it’s a decision we make, even when circumstances feel impossible. If you’ve ever wondered how to find joy in your leadership journey or personal life, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped to lead boldly, faithfully, and joyfully. Tune in now and discover how to turn trials into triumphs—and why joy is always worth the fight.   Connect with Debora Grandison and her work:   Find Debora Grandison’s book - His Poetry, Her Story and other book recommendations from this episode in our Amazon store front: https://www.amazon.com/shop/polishednetwork/list/128UA9GV0PKNP?tag=onamzpolinetw-20&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfpolishednetwork_KKZAX2MW72ZE1ESYV1YR [https://www.amazon.com/shop/polishednetwork/list/128UA9GV0PKNP?tag=onamzpolinetw-20&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfpolishednetwork_KKZAX2MW72ZE1ESYV1YR]   American Heart Association: https://www.heart.org/ [https://www.heart.org/] National Coalition of Women with Heart Disease: https://www.womenheart.org/ [https://www.womenheart.org/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debora.grandison [https://www.facebook.com/debora.grandison]  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fromajoyfulheart/ [https://www.instagram.com/fromajoyfulheart/]  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debora-grandison-99812727/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/debora-grandison-99812727/]  Website: https://fromajoyfulheart.com/ [https://fromajoyfulheart.com/]  Learn more about:   Move 4word with Polished!: Have you heard the news?! Polished Network and 4word Women are merging and you’re invited to join us! Learn more and stay up to date on this exciting transition at https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether [https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether]    Polished Chapter Gatherings are meeting once a month. Join a chapter near you! Learn more here: http://www.polishednetwork.org/chapters [http://www.polishednetwork.org/chapters]    Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories [https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories]  Connect with us on our Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polishednetwork/ [https://www.instagram.com/polishednetwork/]  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/polished-network/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true [https://www.linkedin.com/company/polished-network/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true]  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PolishedNetwork.online [https://www.facebook.com/PolishedNetwork.online]  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIcl9WlSPbhK8d8UPieJrdQ [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIcl9WlSPbhK8d8UPieJrdQ]

Episode 39: Leading Joyfully in a Divided World: Faith, Politics, and Curiosity with Kaitlyn Schiess

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of The Polished Podcast, host Jane Doerman sits down with Kaitlyn Schiess—author, writer, podcaster, and Duke Divinity School student—to explore what it means to lead joyfully in a politically divided world. With a heart for integrating faith and politics, Kaitlyn shares how timeless Christian traditions, deep theology, and spiritual practices can guide us to engage the world around us without losing our convictions—or our joy. As we navigate a post-election landscape, Kaitlyn offers a fresh perspective on how faith can shape our approach to politics, not through force or division, but by modeling curiosity, hospitality, and a spirit of hope. Together, Jane and Kaitlyn unpack the complexities of living out our beliefs in a fractured political system while staying grounded in faith. Connect with Kaitlyn Schiess:   Find Kaitlyn Schiess’ books - Liturgy of Politics and The Ballot and the Bible in our Amazon store front: https://www.amazon.com/shop/polishednetwork/list/128UA9GV0PKNP?tag=onamzpolinetw-20&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfpolishednetwork_KKZAX2MW72ZE1ESYV1YR [https://www.amazon.com/shop/polishednetwork/list/128UA9GV0PKNP?tag=onamzpolinetw-20&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfpolishednetwork_KKZAX2MW72ZE1ESYV1YR]   Kaitlyn’s Website: http://www.kaitlynschiess.com [http://www.kaitlynschiess.com]  Kailtiny’s X: https://x.com/KaitlynSchiess [https://x.com/KaitlynSchiess] Kaitlyn’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaitlynschiess/ [https://www.instagram.com/kaitlynschiess/] Holy Post Podcast: https://www.holypost.com/ [https://www.holypost.com/]  Curiously Kaitlyn Podcast: https://www.holypost.com/curiously [https://www.holypost.com/curiously]  Katilyn’s article on Common Good Magazine: https://commongoodmag.com/do-we-have-a-political-vocation/ [https://commongoodmag.com/do-we-have-a-political-vocation/]  Questions to Ask Yourself While Auditing Your Media Consumption 1. What is this media source teaching me to love? 2. What is this media source teaching me to fear or hate? 3. Who does this media encourage me to see as my neighbor? 4. Who does it tempt me to view with suspicion, fear, or condescension? 5. What general story does this media tell about what’s ultimately wrong in the world? 6. According to this media, what will ultimately fix the problem? 7. Where does this media's narrative align with the story of Scripture? 8. Where does it conflict with the story of Scripture? 9. What story from Scripture can remind me of God’s truth when I’m tempted to believe an untrue narrative? 10. How can I integrate prayer and Scripture reading to counteract false or harmful stories?   Learn more about:   Move 4word with Polished!: Have you heard the news?! Polished Network and 4word Women are merging and you’re invited to join us! Learn more and stay up to date on this exciting transition at https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether [https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether]    Polished Chapter Gatherings are meeting once a month. Join a chapter near you! Learn more here: http://www.polishednetwork.org/chapters [http://www.polishednetwork.org/chapters]    Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories [https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories]  Connect with us on our Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polishednetwork/ [https://www.instagram.com/polishednetwork/]  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/polished-network/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true [https://www.linkedin.com/company/polished-network/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true]  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PolishedNetwork.online [https://www.facebook.com/PolishedNetwork.online]  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIcl9WlSPbhK8d8UPieJrdQ [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIcl9WlSPbhK8d8UPieJrdQ]

Ep 38: Singleness with Purpose: Leading Joyfully in EVERY Season

In this episode of The Polished Podcast, host Jane Doerman sits down with Kelly Werner, founder of Mission Single, to explore what it means to lead joyfully as a single Christian woman. The conversation centers on finding purpose, building community, and embracing God’s calling in every season of life—particularly for those navigating singleness. Kelly shares her personal journey, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of being a single woman in both the church and the workplace. She speaks passionately about how Mission Single seeks to mobilize single women to live with wisdom, purpose, and joy. Drawing on stories from scripture and history, Kelly underscores the value of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of single women, challenging societal and cultural norms that often minimize their impact. Whether single, married, or somewhere in between, this episode inspires all listeners to lead with joy, purpose, and faith in every season of life. Connect with Kelly Werner:   Find Kelly Werner’s book recommendations in our Amazon store front: https://www.amazon.com/shop/polishednetwork/list/128UA9GV0PKNP?tag=onamzpolinetw-20&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfpolishednetwork_KKZAX2MW72ZE1ESYV1YR [https://www.amazon.com/shop/polishednetwork/list/128UA9GV0PKNP?tag=onamzpolinetw-20&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfpolishednetwork_KKZAX2MW72ZE1ESYV1YR]   Kelly Werner LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyrwerner/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyrwerner/] Mission Single LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/90694632/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/90694632/] Mission Single Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/missionsingle.inc/ [https://www.facebook.com/missionsingle.inc/] Mission Single Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinmissionsingle/ [https://www.instagram.com/joinmissionsingle/] Mission Single Website: https://missionsingle.com/ [https://missionsingle.com/]  Mission Single YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MissionSingle [https://www.youtube.com/@MissionSingle]  Learn more about:   Move 4word with Polished!: Have you heard the news?! Polished Network and 4word Women are merging and you’re invited to join us! Learn more and stay up to date on this exciting transition at https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether [https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether]    Polished Chapter Gatherings are meeting once a month. Join a chapter near you! Learn more here: http://www.polishednetwork.org/chapters [http://www.polishednetwork.org/chapters]    Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories [https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories]  Connect with us on our Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polishednetwork/ [https://www.instagram.com/polishednetwork/]  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/polished-network/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true [https://www.linkedin.com/company/polished-network/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true]  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PolishedNetwork.online [https://www.facebook.com/PolishedNetwork.online]  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIcl9WlSPbhK8d8UPieJrdQ [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIcl9WlSPbhK8d8UPieJrdQ]

Episode 37: Leading Gratefully through Embracing Adversity with Ellie Nieves

In this episode of The Polished Podcast, host Jane Doerman sits down with Ellie Nieves—attorney, speaker, women’s leadership coach, and faith-filled road warrior—to explore the powerful theme of leading gratefully through adversity. Ellie shares her journey from navigating the pressures of New York City politics as a young lawyer to finding resilience and purpose through her faith, particularly during challenging seasons. From leading a political campaign amidst the chaos of 9/11 to empowering women leaders today, Ellie’s story is a testament to the transformative power of gratitude and grace, even in life’s toughest moments. Key takeaways include: * How adversity can be a refining process that shapes us for greater impact. * Practical ways to cultivate gratitude, even in the midst of challenges. * The importance of aligning success with integrity and faith. Ellie challenges us to embrace every experience as part of God’s greater plan, reminding us that setbacks can be stepping stones toward growth and leadership. Connect with Ellie:   Ellie Nieves Website: https://ellienieves.com/ [https://ellienieves.com/]  Ellie’s Contact Page: https://ellienieves.com/contact/ [https://ellienieves.com/contact/]  Ellie’s Podcast: https://ellienieves.com/podcasts/ [https://ellienieves.com/podcasts/]  Ellie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellienieves/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellienieves/]    Scriptures Ellie Nieves References:   Isaiah 41:10: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2041%3A10&version=NIV [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2041%3A10&version=NIV]  Philippians 4:6-7: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians%204%3A%206-7&version=NIV [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians%204%3A%206-7&version=NIV]  Romans 8:28: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208%3A28&version=NIV [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208%3A28&version=NIV]  Learn more about:   Move 4word with Polished!: Have you heard the news?! Polished Network and 4word Women are merging and you’re invited to join us! Learn more and stay up to date on this exciting transition at https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether [https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether]    Polished Chapter Gatherings are meeting once a month. Join a chapter near you! Learn more here: http://www.polishednetwork.org/chapters [http://www.polishednetwork.org/chapters]    Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories [https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories]  Connect with us on our Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polishednetwork/ [https://www.instagram.com/polishednetwork/]  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/polished-network/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true [https://www.linkedin.com/company/polished-network/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true]  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PolishedNetwork.online [https://www.facebook.com/PolishedNetwork.online]  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIcl9WlSPbhK8d8UPieJrdQ [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIcl9WlSPbhK8d8UPieJrdQ]