UNMUTED: Leaders Discover Their Voice to Speak Up and Stand Out

Featured Author in Unmuted:
Leaders Discover Their Voice to Speak Up and Stand Out
Insights from 8 women leaders redefining growth, leadership, and impact.
Chris Lankford-Grow’s chapter offers an honest look at the path to leadership, one built through persistence, strategy, and self-belief. From navigating male-dominated environments to learning how to speak up and stand out, she shares the real experiences that shaped her rise from middle management to executive sales leadership. This is not theory; it is a reflection on what it takes to earn influence, build credibility, and lead with intention.
What It Really Takes to Earn Your Seat at the Table
Chris shares the real moments, decisions, and lessons that shaped her journey into senior sales leadership, offering a candid look at what it takes to grow, lead, and stay in the room.
In this chapter, you’ll learn how to:
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Build influence and credibility in high-pressure environments
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Find and confidently use your voice in critical moments
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Move beyond work ethic and develop true leadership presence
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Identify and leverage your unique leadership strengths
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Navigate setbacks and continue moving forward with clarity
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Lead others by creating space, opportunity, and advocacy

“Showing up is just the beginning
—staying in the room and being taken seriously
takes awareness, strategy, and courage.”
Eight Women. Eight Perspectives. One Powerful Book.


What it is
A collection of real stories and insights from eight women business leaders, each sharing her journey, lessons, and perspective on leadership and growth.
Who it’s for
Ambitious professionals, entrepreneurs, and emerging leaders—especially women—who are ready to step into their next level with clarity and confidence.


Why it matters
Because leadership isn’t one-size-fits-all. These stories offer honest, real-world guidance to help you find your voice, build influence, and lead in a way that’s authentic to you.
Meet the Authors

Chris Lankford-Grow
Accelerated Growth Strategies

Becca Berkenstadt
Worldly Strategies

Natalia Duarte
Evanston Professional
Moms

Angela Kesting
AJK Coaching
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Kim Kleeman
Accelerate Successfully
Inner Circle
Professional Moms Community Network

Simona
Pappalardo
Coaching with Simona
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Joy Poli
Accelerate Successfully
Inner Circle
Strategic Talent Resources

Michelle Valiukenas
The Colette Louise Tisdahl Foundation
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