POWER with Casey and Julie: Old models, rule-breakers, and taking space

In this special series, Julie and Casey sit down together to look at the elements of executive presence: Polish, Poise and Power . . . what they are, what they represent, and where they go wrong. They also look at new tools and alternate pathways as we work toward a more inclusive definition of leadership.

EPISODE 3: POWER

Julie and Casey sit down in their first live recording to talk about all things power, what we can control vs. what we can't, and ways to find your own kind of power that doesn't require anyone's permission.

Power is not only demonstrated through external presentation, of course . . . but the way we’re judged for whether or not we have it is often via cultural or surface-level standards.

Power is measured by:

Your effect on others: Do people listen to you and take you seriously? Are people willing to be led by you? If they are unwilling, can you convince them, accomplish your goals, or manifest your will anyway? How do you handle obstacles? When you encounter them, can you overcome them, destroy them, or ignore them . . . or are you weak? Confidence — do you have it? Do other people think you have it? Charisma — are people drawn to you?

Translation: Power is about pretending that “real leaders” don’t get scared or feel unsure of themselves or their ideas. It’s knowing how to gain buy-in and/or control over others by any (socially acceptable) means necessary, whether that’s positive (charm, charisma, confidence) or negative (force, dominance).

Top Takeaways:

Power is about whose voices get heard and whose perspective matters Clinging to politeness or manners to avoid the friction of your edges has limits for how far it can take you We don't have control of other's perceptions of us, but we do have some agency in setting up our own conditions for success. Spend your time there to find the power that doesn't require anyone else's buy in.  

Thank you to our Season 3 sponsor, Armoire! If you're ready to try a new look, Armoire's high-end clothing rental service (full of amazing women-owned brands) will hook you up! For 50% off your first month's rental + a free item, go to http://armoire.style/voiceis and use VOICEIS in the referral box!