Unapologetic Workplace Leadership and Power with Nicole Johnston

In this episode, Mary is joined by Nicole Johnston, an executive and leadership coach, TEDx speaker, author, and founder of Innate Power, to explore workplace leadership, visibility, confidence, and the often-unspoken challenges women face during menopause. Nicole draws on 30 years of experience in major consumer brands including Procter & Gamble, Kimberly-Clark, Hershey, and Newell Brands, where she witnessed women being diminished, sidelined, and overlooked despite their experience and capabilities. She now helps women understand the unwritten rules of corporate environments, communicate their value, build stronger personal brands, and step into leadership without shrinking themselves. The conversation explores why women can be over-mentored but under-sponsored, how an “Atta Girl” folder can protect their accomplishments and strengthen career conversations, and why personal brand is ultimately shaped by how other people perceive your value. Nicole also discusses menopause in the workplace, the importance of removing shame from the conversation, asking for support, and giving yourself permission to use new tools and strategies when your needs change. She shares how openly acknowledging brain fog helped her maintain credibility rather than hide what was happening. Connect: • Innate Power  on Instagram— Nicole Johnston's leadership coaching and professional work. Resource: • Taboo Topics: Things Women Should Talk About But Don't — Nicole Johnston's book, available in hardcover, paperback, and audio formats. Let us know if you're liking the show! Hen's Den Yoga A serene and cozy home studio nestled in the Comox Valley offering a variety of wellness classes. Support the show Meet the host, Mary, a certified Menopause Doula and Women’s Coaching Specialist. Mary is also a corporate educator, helping forward-thinking organizations foster a menopause-friendly workplace and design policies and accommodations for employees.  Click to learn more https://emmeellecoaching.com/menopauseatwork Turn your menopause transition into a transformation with the Menopause Intelligence Course (MQ), an 8-module, self-paced learning experience, empowering you to take agency over your health and make informed decisions with your healthcare team.  Connect:  Instagram @menopausedisruptorpodcast LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/maryhelenlee/ Subscribe on Substack @emmeellecoaching Disclaimer: Information shared is for educational and entertainment purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional.