Since graduating from the CLT Alliance Emerging Business Leader’s program, I’ve been filled with a deep sense of gratitude and anticipation. Each of our leaders and organizations poured into us with trust to represent our organizations to the city of Charlotte and an expectation to gain tools to grow as leaders. And if you poured back into the program, I am sure you share my sentiment—that completing the last seven months was more than just a professional milestone to add to your LinkedIn profile or CV, but it was a transformative journey both personally and as a leader.
Posting airport codes on social media from my work travels and using the hashtag “#latenightsearlymornings” had been my playful yet boastful mantra of hard work for most of my career. And while I’d reached director level, in 2020, I was exhausted, and I decided to walk away from a 13-year tenure. In addition to climbing the corporate ladder, I was a single mother to a pre-teen and a caregiver for my mom—my No. 1 cheerleader, role model of resilience, and best friend who passed away that year. This break was much needed, as I felt like I was failing at everything and had no more emotional or mental capacity to give.
But my story is not unique—we are all juggling so much while trying to advance, or sometimes just hold on to our careers.
Not knowing what was next, two pieces of advice continued to resonate for me: “Do you want to be known as a doer, or a leader?” and “If you don’t play the game, the game will be played for you.” My career journey has not always been easy, and while I’ve been blessed to have mentors, cheerleaders, sponsors, and advocates, these words really hit hard as they challenged my ways of operating. It challenged my thoughts of what being an authentic and vulnerable leader meant. I didn’t want to “play the game,” and hard work helped get me here, so shouldn’t I be rewarded and recognized for that?
Taking that break really provided space to reflect. I was exhausted because I wanted more than “#latenightsearlymornings” and “attaboys”; I craved purpose and didn’t know how to achieve it in my work life. So I dug deep and became very intentional about not just defining, but articulating what that higher level of leadership looked like for me—beyond unlimited hard work. Showing vulnerability, serving others, never compromising my character, and remaining authentic in my own definition were non-negotiables in that quest. But I wanted the opportunity to influence organizational decisions, lead and develop people, and ultimately have a bigger impact on the community. After a year, my journey led me to Coca-Cola Consolidated in Charlotte.
Four years later, the CLT Alliance EBL program gave me another opportunity to take a break—to step away from my day-to-day demands for just a few hours a month, to revisit the kind of leader I am and the kind of leader I aspire to become. I learned new frameworks, challenged my assumptions, engaged in real and sometimes uncomfortable conversations, and most importantly, learned a lot about myself. It is easy to fall back into old patterns, but this experience reignited my own leadership definition in several ways.
Vulnerability
The BigFive profile assessment read deep into my soul, and sharing the results with a room full of strangers was uncomfortable. But it provided insight into how I am received as a leader, and had tools for adapting intention versus perception. It also began the journey of bonding with my group and cohort as we were uncomfortable and vulnerable together. This experience reminded me that leadership is not just a destination or title—it is constant practice. And just like any craft, it takes continuous learning, humility, and commitment. Feedback can be a gift, and I treasure all I have learned.
Character
One of the most powerful takeaways for me was that leadership isn’t about having all the answers or working the most. It is about asking the right questions. It’s about listening with intent, acting with courage, and leading with purpose. We are not just responsible for results—we are responsible for culture, clarity, empowering others, and ensuring our teams can thrive in complexity.
I returned to my role with sharper skills and with deeper conviction – and the focus to lead with empathy, curiosity, to build inclusive spaces, to make bold decisions, have difficult conversations, and create value that lasts. I will continue to remain curious—to limit judgment and lead with integrity when no one is looking.
Community
Let’s always remember what Dr. Tehia Starker Glass shared: “We are here to deposit – not just withdraw.”
Cooking and serving lunch for the staff and gentlemen at the Charlotte Rescue Mission with my group was one of the highlights of this journey. Learning the inspiring story of the president and CEO, Trina Fullard, reminded me that being a leader comes from showing up every day—with or without a title, with or without direct reports. While she was called to serve, her daily leadership led to her being selected by her peers and community to lead in a bigger capacity.
Volunteerism is a personal pillar in my life, and I am blessed to work for a company that is extremely generous with giving and stewardship. But this experience provided a new opportunity for connection to the community that I will foster beyond this day of service.
Authenticity
“Your leadership will rise and fall based on your ability to communicate.” The Roadmap
It is in my blood to work hard, so that will not change. But working smarter and realizing that “playing the game” does not mean compromising your character or backstabbing—it is leveraging communication, empowering teams, building authentic connections—not just networking. It is the ability to articulate your career desires, accept feedback, and be humble, not just work hard or know the most.
While I wish I could have realized this sooner or taken a break sooner, I know that every multi-city work trip and all of the “#latenightsearlymornings” were preparation for where I am today and what is to come in my leadership journey.
These days, I am grateful to visit amazing places through work, but my airport code posts are more about my passion for culture, learning, service, and taking breaks on beaches when needed.
Thank you!
To my fellow EBL Cohort #13 – thank you for your honesty and the strength of your perspectives. It has been a privilege to learn with you and from you. Let’s honor what we have gained here—not just in words, but in the way we lead, inspire, and develop others around us every single day in our organizations, personal lives, and for the city of Charlotte. Let’s maintain these connections and our engagement with the CLT Alliance with intentionality.
To the CLT Alliance, our program facilitators, mentors, and program leads—your support and guidance have left a lasting impact that I will carry forward with appreciation as my leadership journey continues.
To my Coca-Cola Consolidated leaders, thank you for selecting and trusting me for this experience. I will continue to share these learnings across the organization and remain open and intentional as I continue to grow as a leader, develop and inspire teams – bringing more impact and value.
Thank you all for the break!
