Empowering Women to Lead

In our debut episode, we dive into the quiet but powerful force that affects so many women in leadership: imposter syndrome. Together, we unpack why even the most capable women question their worth, how these doubts show up in our personal and professional lives, and what it looks like to lead with confidence anyway. This episode sets the tone for the journey ahead—one rooted in authenticity, courage, and the belief that you belong in every room you step into.

Elizabeth shares her journey from starting in a call center to leading major technology projects, and the pivotal moment when she realized leadership meant not just identifying problems but stepping forward with solutions.
She opens up about navigating male-dominated spaces, the importance of raising your hand and using your voice, and the need for women to step into decision-making with confidence. We also dive into the challenges of mentorship in IT, how the pandemic reshaped opportunities for women, and the ways Elizabeth is mentoring the next generation of women in STEM.
Her story is both practical and inspiring—a reminder that leadership grows when we step up, speak out, and support others along the way.
“In the last 10 years, the idea that you can be your authentic self—and that the world needs your authentic self—means everything to me. Show up as you, because you are important.”
To find out more about Elizabeth and the Purpose Journey, go to www.rutheasterling.org/purposecoaching

In this episode, I sit down with architect and entrepreneur Kristen Becker, founder of Mutuus Studio in Seattle. Kristen shares her powerful journey from childhood adversity to a career in professional dance, and ultimately to becoming a successful female business owner in the male-dominated field of architecture.
We dive into how her background in teaching dance has shaped her unique communication style as a leader, how she built a holistic, people-first studio model that supports families and promotes work-life balance, and why mentorship—especially for women—is essential to creating change. Kristen also opens up about the moment she realized she didn’t need to hide motherhood to be professional and how bringing her whole self to work became a game-changer.
“Our biggest challenge is often ourselves holding us back… You don’t have to have it all figured out to take the first step.” – Kristen Becker
She leaves us with a nautical mantra: “Sailing full and by”—a beautiful metaphor for pushing to the edge of your potential and staying open to the wind of life, even when it doesn’t take you in a straight line.
Key Topics:
Leading in male-dominated industries
Embracing authenticity in business and leadership
Work-life integration, not just balance
The power of mentorship and modeling leadership
Starting before you're ready
This episode is a must-listen for any woman navigating leadership, entrepreneurship, or the decision to step fully into who she is, without compromise.
🎧 Listen now, share with a friend, and don’t forget to subscribe to empower more women to lead boldly and authentically.

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Dr. Ndidi Musa, pediatric cardiac intensive care specialist, professor at the University of Washington, and director of the new internal coaching program at Seattle Children’s Hospital. We dive into her powerful journey through medicine, leadership, and her calling to build a coaching culture in healthcare.
Dr. Musa opens up about breaking barriers as a woman and minority in academic medicine, the critical role of mentors, sponsors, and coaches, and how cultivating a growth mindset transformed her career path. She shares eye-opening insights about the gender gap in surgery and leadership, the importance of deliberate effort, and how women can advocate for themselves and others.
Whether you're in medicine, leadership, or simply looking for motivation to step into your own potential, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and real-world strategies for growth.
Key Takeaways:
Why every leader needs a coach, mentor, and sponsor
The power of sponsorship and speaking names in rooms where others aren’t yet invited
How gratitude and a growth mindset create lasting transformation
How women can rise—and help others rise—with confidence and purpose
Quotes:
"You have to have a coach, a mentor, and a sponsor to thrive in medicine—and in life." – Dr. Ndidi Musa
 "Sometimes we underestimate our potential. But when we write down what we’ve actually accomplished, we surprise ourselves." – Dr. Ndidi Musa
"Gratitude fuels growth. When you’re thankful for the small steps, the next opportunity reveals itself." – Dr. Nidi Musa
Contact:
Dr. Musa website: https://www.seattlechildrens.org/directory/ndidi-musa/
Purpose Journey: www.rutheasterling.org
Tune in and be empowered to lead—wherever you are.