138. The Transformative Power of Adversity in Building Resilient Leaders

Do you believe that adversity can reveal a person's true character? Challenges often peel back the layers we put on in everyday life. Whether it's dealing with personal loss, facing setbacks at work, or navigating unexpected crises, these tough times force us to look inward and reflect on who we truly are.

In this episode of the Leading with Power & Purpose Podcast, Sabine speaks with Letitia Clark about her journey of resilience and leadership. From overcoming personal hardships to guiding her community through challenging times like COVID-19, Letitia discusses the impact of adversity on her leadership style and how it shaped her approach to serving her community. Letitia is currently serving on Tustin City Council as the Mayor Pro Tem and served as the city's mayor in 2021. She was first elected to the council in 2016, becoming the first Black woman elected in the city's 90-year history.

Listen in to learn how experiences like Hurricane Katrina and personal trials shaped her ability to stay calm during crises, making her a steady, dependable leader. You will also learn how true leadership is revealed not during success, but in adversity, where one’s real values and strengths emerge.

Key Takeaways:

• How to use adversities, personal challenges, and professional crises to shape your leadership approach.
• Understanding that influence is about how people respond to your actions and is earned through trust and consistency.
• How to create and maintain a small circle of supportive people and distance yourself from negativity as a leader.
• The value of teaching the younger generations to get comfortable with discomfort and embrace challenges to heal and grow.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

• [02:18] Letitia’s upbringing, decision to attend an HBCU, passion for service, and inspirations and accomplishments.
• [10:37] The importance of using setbacks as opportunities for leadership growth to show others how to rise during tough times.
• [14:37] Defining power as something internal, authority as an external validation, and influence as the impact one has on others.
• [23:27] How she maintains a small, positive support circle and avoids letting others' fears influence her decisions.
• [31:40] The importance of embracing discomfort and difficult challenges early on in life for personal growth.
• [37:10] A quick blitz session with Letitia: the lessons, legacy, and book recommendations.
• [41:18] Letitia’s book Mommy is the Mayor – the inspiration behind it and who it was written for.

Connect with Letitia:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/letitiaclark
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letitiacclark

Book Mentioned:

• How Are You, Really?: Living Your Truth One Answer at a Time? By Jenna Kutcher
• Mommy is the Mayor by Letitia Clark

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HOST INFO:

Sabine Gedeon is a dynamic force in the world of leadership and personal development. As the Founder of Transformed Leadership Institute and CEO of Gedeon Enterprises, Sabine leverages nearly 20 years of experience to guide clients in both startups and Fortune 500 companies. Her unique approach combines human-centered principles with tech-enabled solutions, delivering customized programs for leaders at all levels to tackle crucial leadership and talent development challenges.

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