Embracing Vulnerability: A Journey of Growth, Faith, and Resilience

Embracing Vulnerability: A Journey of Growth, Faith, and Resilience

In this engaging episode of Thriving in the Messy Middle, host Amy P Wilkins speaks with Kenetta Bailey, a respected marketing leader, about navigating uncertainty and transitions in both professional and personal life. Kenetta shares her journey from thriving as a high-level marketer for renowned brands like Pepsi and Sony to overcoming personal trials. She emphasizes the importance of remaining open to new opportunities and how her career path has been shaped by unexpected yet fortuitous challenges. With experience across diverse industries, Kenetta highlights her adaptability and strategic leadership style that have propelled her success. Amidst the backdrop of career transitions, Kenetta recounts a pivotal messy middle moment involving personal upheaval when her father's health declined. She speaks candidly about stepping away from her professional life to take care of her aging parents, an experience that was both challenging and growth-inducing. Throughout this personal story, Kenetta underscores the significance of prioritizing what truly matters, learning from experiences, and being unapologetically true to oneself. As the conversation evolves, the focus shifts to adapting in dynamic professional landscapes, like adopting AI technologies and navigating organizational changes, and how these instances underscore the necessity of continuous learning and flexibility in the workplace. Discover insights on career agility, the importance of vulnerability, and embracing change with courage and resilience. The conversation touches on leadership, the evolving landscape of AI, and finding balance in life's messy middle moments. Key Takeaways * Adaptability in Career Transitions: Kanetta discusses the importance of being adaptable and open to seizing new opportunities while turning challenges into stepping stones for career growth. * Prioritizing Personal Responsibilities: The episode delves into Kanetta's decision to take a professional hiatus to care for her parents, illustrating the importance of prioritizing family and well-being. * Leading Through Change: Insights into leading teams through organizational shifts, focusing on transparency and the transferability of skills to navigate transitions effectively. * Unlearning and Relearning: Emphasis on the necessity to continuously evolve in the face of technological advancements such as AI, highlighting the importance of being proactive and adaptive. * Personal and Professional Support Systems: The significance of building a robust network, or a 'personal board of directors,' for guidance in both personal and professional spheres. Kenetta Bailey Quotes I've never been afraid of a challenge. If you challenge me, I'm taking you up on it.We've got to be comfortable being uncomfortable.Taking care of the people who took care of me made me a better and more compassionate leader.You can't take yourself too seriously all the time. You've got to protect your mental health.Be yourself, but always be true to who you are and what's important to you.I love to give people advice if they are seeking it, but I don't mean that my advice is the only way that something could be done. Mentioned in this Episode About Kenetta Bailey Kenetta Bailey [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenettabailey/] is a global marketing, communications, and growth executive with 25+ years of experience building and transforming B2B and B2C brands across advertising, media, consumer packaged goods, and entertainment. Known for driving revenue and building high-performing teams, she has a track record of delivering measurable results, from audience growth and digital innovation to product launches and P&L management, for some of the world's most recognized companies. Most recently, Kenetta served as SVP, Marketing at Clear Channel Outdoor Americas, where she led a high-performing team to create data-driven content, enterprise storytelling, and integrated ad sales and product marketing materials, generating multi-million-dollar revenue growth through a full marketing mix including SEO, paid search, and AI-powered search strategies across the company's 28-market footprint. She transformed and relaunched the company's social and digital presence into lead-generating platforms, co-championed CSR and partnership marketing with national nonprofit organizations, and was selected by the CEO to define and implement the company's Mission, Vision, and Values, then led the cross- functional effort to cascade them through the culture, driving measurable improvements in employee engagement and retention. Prior to Clear Channel, Kenetta held senior marketing leadership roles at CBS Radio, WPP/GroupM, Comcast/TV One, AMC Networks, NBC Universal, and Sony Music, and began her career in consumer packaged goods at PepsiCo and Kraft. Across these roles, she drove brand reinventions, launched new networks, won major global accounts, and delivered double- and triple-digit growth. Today, Kenetta is the Founder of The Marketing Den, a consultancy delivering strategy, AI- powered MarComms, growth marketing, media, and digital services to B2B, B2C, and nonprofit clients. Beyond her executive career, Kenetta has served on the boards of the Alliance for Women in Media, Arts Horizons, New Classrooms, and Planned Parenthood Federation of America, and taught persuasive and crisis communications to MBA students at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Kenetta holds a bachelor's and master's degree in journalism from Northwestern University's Medill School and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern. Kenetta Bailey LinkedIn Profile [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenettabailey/]

It's a Fine Line: Not All Discomfort Signals Growth

In this episode of Thriving in the Messy Middle, hosted by leadership coach Amy P Wilkins, listeners are invited to explore the often-overlooked phases of discomfort and uncertainty in their leadership journeys. Inspired by the conversation with Viktoria Degtar [https://chooseawe.com/the-truth-about-leading-through-uncertainty/], Amy addresses the inevitable moments in life when things seem messy and unclear, offering insights into how distinguishing among types of discomfort can lead to personal growth. This solo episode stands out as it delves into the nuanced differences between expansive and depleting discomfort, urging listeners to carefully assess their emotions and energy to understand which path they are on. Throughout the discussion, Amy unravels the complex emotions tied to discomfort, a necessary part of growth and change, and the courage it takes to assess whether such discomfort is truly pushing one forward or simply a signal of misalignment. As she reflects on personal experiences, she notes key triggers that helped her discern when to embrace challenges and when to recognize situations that were detrimental to her well-being. This theme resonates heavily with women leaders striving to reconcile personal empowerment with professional growth in unpredictable environments. Join her in understanding how to identify and move through these pivotal moments, leading with awareness and choice. Key Takeaways * Understanding Discomfort: Recognize that not all discomfort signals growth; distinguish between expansive and depleting discomfort to navigate life's challenges effectively. * Energy as a Signal: Use your energy levels as an indicator: expansive discomfort energizes and motivates, while depleting discomfort drains and disconnects. * Reflection and Awareness: Stay reflective and aware in the 'messy middle' to discern the lessons or signals your discomfort may be sending you. * Growth vs. Harm: Growth can be uncomfortable, but it's crucial to identify when discomfort is actually harmful rather than constructive. * Self-trust: Build self-trust and awareness to make informed decisions that honor your personal and professional well-being. Quotes If you're feeling uncomfortable, you're probably right where you need to be.Not all discomfort is the same…some can feel like expansion, some like depletion.The hardest part isn't being uncomfortable; it's knowing which kind you're in.Expansive discomfort might feel scary, but there's still a sense of possibility.Because this is the messy middle, the part of the journey where things aren't clear where you're in it, but you don't yet know what it's here to teach you.For me, it comes down to energy. Expansive discomfort might feel scary, but there's still a sense of possibility. Mentioned in this EpisodeThriving in the Messy Middle E26 The Truth About Leading Through Uncertainty [https://chooseawe.com/the-truth-about-leading-through-uncertainty/] with guest Viktoria Degtar [https://www.linkedin.com/in/viktoria-degtar-a5b1474/]

Balancing Motherhood, Marketing, and Professional Success in a Changing World

In this episode of Thriving in the Messy Middle, host Amy P Wilkins engages in a vibrant conversation with Michele Fino, a strategist renowned for her ability to bridge the realms of marketing and entertainment. Michele sheds light on her unique journey transitioning from corporate roles to running her own consultancy where she helps brands, nonprofits, and tech companies convey their stories through innovative content strategies. Michele's experience as a seasoned storyteller and consultant provides a window into the blend of creativity, leadership, and adaptability needed to succeed. Key topics include navigating the intersection of motherhood and career, the revolution in professional environments brought about by AI, and the importance of authenticity and making meaningful connections. With a particular focus on work-life balance, personal growth, and professional development, Michele offers practical advice for thriving during chaotic times and how meaningful storytelling can drive change and engage audiences. Through this episode, Amy creates a thoughtful space to explore pivotal moments and the challenges of the "messy middle" that women leaders often navigate. Key Takeaways * Balancing Roles: Michelle shares the intricate balance between being a mom and a marketing leader, illustrating the unique challenges and strategies in managing diverse responsibilities. * Career Transitions: Her leap from structured employment to establishing a consultancy highlights adaptability and creativity—keys to mastering the transition from employee to entrepreneur. * Navigating AI: The episode delves into how AI is transforming marketing, offering insights into leveraging technology while mitigating associated workforce challenges. * Storytelling & Strategy: Michelle emphasizes the power of storytelling in marketing, illustrating how purpose-driven strategies can bring brands to life. * Valuable Networking: Personal connections and remembered details about others can significantly enrich professional relationships and open doors to new opportunities. Michele Fino Quotes I like working for myself and helping as many companies as I possibly can.The definition of insanity is doing the same thing and expecting different results.Get out there and meet people. Remember something about them.The value of a firm handshake, eye contact, and a smile. You don't get that from staying in a cube all day for nine hours.It's important to know what you're good at and what you're not good at. Mentioned in this EpisodeBeth Comstock [https://bethcomstock.info/] About Michele Fino Michele Fino [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelefino/] is the principal of her own minority owned, woman-run Branded Entertainment strategy consultancy. She is a Creative & Connected Strategic StorySeller. She helps brands, non-profits, production companies, media companies, tech companies, and networks with their content strategy and their StorySelling. She speaks at major conferences, runs thoughtful roundtables at events, & jumps in for creative ideations at agencies & brands. She believes that great storytelling can elicit behavior change. . . but people have to see it first. She is an idea generator that also plans, makes the right connections & writes deal terms for branded content, distribution, and marketing. She lives on the UES of NYC, has three kids, and owns a lot of gym shoes, but does not belong to an actual gym. Michele Fino Website [https://fino.marketing/] Michele Fino LinkedIn Profile [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelefino/]

The Hidden Grief Behind Career Transitions and New Beginnings

In this Messy Middle Moment, host Amy P Wilkins shares a deeply personal journey through professional challenges. With a history as a leadership coach and former media executive, Amy unravels a story many women encounter: a dramatic career transition that shook her confidence. The episode sheds light on the toll of toxic work environments and the slow erosion of self-belief, culminating in a profound session with an industrial psychologist. The conversation evokes a reflection on the values of resilience, validation, and self-awareness in overcoming professional setbacks and finding one's true path. The narrative continues with Amy's strategic career pivot, choosing a seemingly smaller role that prioritized her mental well-being and self-healing. This decision defies conventional wisdom but highlights the importance of safety and groundedness in rebuilding confidence. Amy eloquently articulates the necessity of grieving career losses and how processing these emotions is crucial to thriving in new opportunities. Her insights cater to women leaders facing transitions, encouraging them to pause, reflect, and embrace the winding road to leadership. Through compelling storytelling and actionable advice, the episode resonates with those navigating their messy middle while striving for growth and authenticity. Key Takeaways * Toxic work environments can significantly undermine self-worth and confidence, often without immediate realization. * Validation from external observers can act as a catalyst for self-reflection and change. * Embracing career transitions, even if they seem like a step back, can offer a crucial space for healing and personal growth. * Grieving the loss of a professional identity or role is essential, even when the departure was beneficial. * Leadership is a winding path, demanding pauses and reflection to truly thrive in uncertain times. Quotes Thriving isn't about having it all figured out. It's about learning how to grow, lead, and move forward, even when things feel messy.You've just described a morally bankrupt organization. You need to ask yourself why you're still here.Whenever something ends, even something that needed to end, there is still a loss.Not a straight line forward, but moments where something ends, and you're asked to pause, process, and begin again.You rebuild it by honoring what was. Thriving in the Messy Middle Podcast Mentioned In This EpisodeA Redirection: The Truth About the Right Path for You [https://chooseawe.com/a-redirection-the-truth-about-the-right-path-for-you/], [https://chooseawe.com/a-redirection-the-truth-about-the-right-path-for-you/]with featured guest Adrienne Valencia Garcia [https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriennevalenciagarcia/], a lawyer and transformational career coach.

Value Recognition: The Foundation for Stronger, More Empowered Women Leaders

In this riveting episode of Thriving in the Messy Middle, host Amy P. Wilkins invites Joh Morris Benichou, a powerhouse in personal transformation, to share her insights and experiences. Joh, CEO of Sensory Leadership, reflects on her transformative journey from losing her job and visa to becoming a prominent leadership coach. They discuss the inevitable messiness of life's transitions and how to navigate them with grace and resilience. Amy and Joh delve into the importance of trusting one's instincts and recognizing personal power, especially for women leaders who often juggle multiple responsibilities and societal expectations. Joh recounts a deeply personal and challenging period in her life that emphasized the importance of listening to her intuition and believing in her worth. Through Joh's story, the episode emphasizes that transformation doesn't happen in solitude but through community, resources, and self-awareness. As the conversation unfolds, Amy and Joh explore the value of guidance, the often hidden narratives of women's ambition, and the shift needed in corporate culture to truly honor women's multifaceted roles and potential leadership contributions. Key Takeaways * Trust Your Instincts: Joh emphasizes the power of listening to one's inner voice, especially during uncertain phases of life. * Value Yourself: Recognizing personal worth is crucial for women to step into leadership roles and invest in their development. * Community and Support: Transformation is communal; leaning on others and seeking guidance are vital steps toward personal growth. * Courage to Evolve: Moving forward through messy transitions requires courage and openness to see and improve upon our perceived limitations. * Corporate Culture Shift: A discussion on how the corporate world must adjust its metrics to better appreciate women's true contributions and challenges. Joh Morris Benichou Quotes Most people meet you once you have succeeded. They don't see you before the success.I was a woman on a mission. I just didn't know what the mission was.Thriving isn't about having it all figured out. It's about learning how to grow, lead, and move forward, even when things feel messy.Women only take themselves on when they realize that they are of value.You have the full range of being available. You just haven't accessed the full range.It took me a lot of courage to be an entrepreneur. Mentioned in this EpisodeWomen in the Workplace: McKinsey and Lean In Report [https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/people-and-organizational-performance/our-insights/women-in-the-workplace] (discussed in relation to women's leadership and ambition) About Joh Morris Benichou Joh Morris Benichou [https://www.withjoh.com/about] is a leadership activation speaker [https://www.speakingwithjoh.com/] and the founder of With Joh [https://www.withjoh.com/], where she works with executives, founders, and organizations to transform how leaders sustain performance under pressure. With over 30 years of experience and having worked with more than 50,000 leaders globally, Joh is known for creating powerful in-the-room shifts that restore clarity, energy, and presence. Trained directly by Werner Erhard, Joh spent years leading large-scale transformational programs before evolving her own methodology, Sensory Leadership—a practice that goes beyond mindset and strategy to fundamentally change how leaders experience themselves in high-stakes environments. Today, she works directly with executives, leads leadership activations, executive immersions, and private retreats, and is the creator of Tirtha [https://www.experiencetirtha.com/], a global community for women in leadership. Her work focuses on helping high-performing leaders sustain results without burnout and lead with greater impact, resilience, and authenticity. Joh's Website [https://www.withjoh.com/] Experience Tirtha [https://www.experiencetirtha.com/] Joh Morris Benichou [https://www.linkedin.com/in/joh-morris-31036622/] LinkedIn Profile