The inner journey to leadership | Leslie Stein | TEDxFremontEastWomen

A veteran of the military, Leslie shares her unconventional, wildly funny leadership lessons.
Leslie Stein is a speaker, trainer and coach focussed on helping individuals and organizations get to peak performance.
This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx

[@AllenTGregory]

I saw this video because I got an email from Motivating The Masses and saw you on The Speaker. You had me glued from the first 5 seconds. Your energy is infectious. Your honesty is eye-opening. And your vulnerability makes me feel like I can do it too. Thank you so much Leslie Stein. I am better because of your talk.

[@leadlikeagirl]

***** thank you so much for your kind words!! They mean more to me than you know!! I am happy the talk engaged you! But most importantly, happy you feel like you can do it to...because you CAN!!! I will be cheering for you, know that for sure!!! Thanks for taking the time to write your note...sign of a great leader in my book!!!

[@stephaniebailey6189]

One of the best motivational speeches. I'm also an empathetic goofball who's completely employee driven and on the brink of putting on that costume and doing my thing to help the employee see their value. I want to shed all the fear of a bruised ego in a corporate meeting. I have decided now I am a student of life and I am not afraid to look bad or get it wrong. So empowering. I've also had some thoughts about applying to give a TED talk on how to plug back into our own power. Thank you for this.

[@leslieriley88]

Oh my gosh!!! Just seeing this comment for some reason. I hope you dove in & did the dang thing! I love that you are a student of life...YES! Me too! And every day is a school day! Wishing you continued success!!!

[@LisaDAlessioTheHealer]

I literally started clapping at the end. Brilliant information, given with heart and innovation. Thank you for this, Leslie

[@leadlikeagirl]

+Lisa D'Alessio Hahaha!!! Best. Response. EVER!!!!! I feel like I just got a mini standing ovations! ;-)

[@melissaannecolors]

"Speaking up makes the environment safe." POWERFUL! I needed this inspiration! I used to wear Wonder Woman wristbands to work for a little added superpower. Thanks Leslie!!!

[@leadlikeagirl]

+Melissa McClain always happy to inspire!!! Especially when I get to inspire a fellow Wonder Woman! Keep rocking your awesomeness, girl!!!

[@barbaraglazier9498]

Leslie this talk is riveting. I hung on every single word. Your brilliance chutzpah authenticity and vulnerability are pure magic. When I think of a talk only you can deliver I will remember this talk

[@leslieriley2679]

OMG...I am just now seeing this comment (a year later)! Thank you for your kind words...I deeply appreciate them!

[@ruiaaperahama380]

Leslie Stein, you are not only a beautiful women, but your leadership message is even more beautiful...speak up..it creates the environment...at the risk of being called a liability, while being passionate, compassionate, empathetic and intelligent, never to chase what others are doing best, but doing what the inner leadership does best...thank you..the environment will adapt...brilliant..just brilliant!!

[@leadlikeagirl]

Ruia Aperahama just saw your comments...thank you so much for the kind words & encouragement! They are so very appreciated!!

[@larryrosen7633]

I love this talk. It inspiring. Vulnerable. Humble. Honest. And Leslie Stein was so natural, at ease, likeable. And funny! The title of the talk is IMO unfortunate - it does not convey what the talk is truly about (showing up as the real you). Im a TEDx speaker myself and KZbin must think that our talks are similar because each time I’d go to my own talk to see how the views were doing, youtube would recommend Leslie’s talk to me. The 30th time I finally gave it a look (despite the title). And wow. Such a warm feeling afterward. I wish I could speak with such ease, humor and presence. I wish I were as likeable! But mostly, I found the message touching and inspiring. Thank you Leslie Stein. And great recommendation KZbin!

[@leadlikeagirl]

Larry Rosen oohhh...what is your talk called?! I want to watch it now!!!! And thank you for the kind words...they mean a lot from a fellow speaker!!

[@donaldraysmith2008]

Leslie!!!! You have completely blown me away!!! I truly enjoyed this presentation. I remember that you had told every one at the WCSA that you would be presenting and I am extremely proud of you!!! Keep inspiring the world with your life !!! :)

[@leadlikeagirl]

Oh wow...thank you so much!! Always happy to hear I have blown someone away!! Big hugs, my friend!! :)

[@suzhappens7520]

What a great talk! It's so refreshing to be reminded we can just be ourselves and our environment will allow it and be forgiving. I have a horrible habit of taking one step forward then overthinking things to death and wanting approval from others before I go further. This is a reminder to just listen to myself and my hopes and dreams and where I'm guided, not where anyone else is guiding me.

[@leadlikeagirl]

Love your comment!! Sometimes it's so hard to get away from needing other people's approval. But in my experience, that's where all the magic happens!! Thanks for watching & your kind words!! ❤️🙏🏼

[@leadlikeagirl]

+Joe Haden tha is for the comment!! I haven't been doing regular videos recently but am thinking about getting back to them!! Your comment definitely ups my motivation to do that!! Have an awesome day!!

[@AkmalidinAlimov]

This video made my day! Thank you !

[@leslieriley88]

Well your comment makes my day!!! Thanks for listening!

[@teresahaering1311]

This is a pass on link to TED talks, which I love on so many levels! I wish I had been aware of Leslie's presentation sooner (however I expect today is when I was supposed to see it in my journey). Keep sharing! When women leaders speak & share, we empower the next generation and teach them to change their environments! -Teresa Haering, USMA '89 - Beat Navy!!

[@leadlikeagirl]

Thank you for your awesome comments...and yes, definitely BEAT NAVY!!!

[@kerrybray1754]

This is such a fantastic Ted Talk, really powerful! I loved the message of Leslie Stein. What an inspirational story

[@leadlikeagirl]

+Kerry Bray I am so happy it resonated with you!! Thanks for the kind words...anyone who takes time to make a positive comment is an asset in my book! :-)

[@daveagar5594]

I watch and learn each night. I will continue to do this. I hope I will find another that was this good.Thank you.

[@leslieriley88]

Just seeing your comment...thank you so much for your kind words. I hope you have found many good talks to inspire you!

[@andreabaker67]

Leslie, excellent and inspiring talk. Thanks for your vulnerability and authenticity. USMA '84

[@leadlikeagirl]

So happy you enjoyed the talk! And of course...BEAT NAVY! 😜

[@kathyloper330]

Bravo Leslie! You are so inspiring. Seriously consider supporting/facilitating at the 40 years of Women at West Point Conference next year!

[@leadlikeagirl]

So glad you enjoyed the talk! And oh my gosh...I would love to support the 40th anniversary celebration any way I can!! So proud to be part of the West Point Women sisterhood!!

[@ob312100]

So glad I discovered this today. What an inspiration to me. I needed to hear this. Thank you.

[@leadlikeagirl]

Just found your comment...it put a huge smile on my face! Glad you got the message when you needed it most. :)

[@darlenestein7882]

Love your down to earth style & stories! Everybody needs to know they are an asset!!

[@leadlikeagirl]

Darlene Stein Thanks for the kind words!! YOU are an asset in my book!! Love you!!

[@runninro]

Being a veteran myself....I can so relate to this. Had me giggling a few times...brings back some memories. Way to go Leslie!!!

[@leadlikeagirl]

runninro First of all...thank you for your service!!! So glad I could have you giggling! Grateful for my military service...those ups & downs shaped me into the person I am today! Thanks for taking the time to write a few kind words...much appreciated! :-)

[@KimTownsel]

Excellent! I so needed this encouragement right now.

[@billwong6077]

First of all, thank you for your service to our country. Second of all, great talk! I appeared on this stage twice myself. You have such a strong stage presence! I learned a lot from your talk and I have shared it with my peers... as I am an occupational therapist by trade and a leadership geek.

[@leadlikeagirl]

Bill Wong just stumbled across your comment & thank you for your kind words!! Have a great day!

[@hjonesok]

There are so many things about this Ted Talk that speak to my heart! Thank you so much!

[@leadlikeagirl]

So glad it resonated, Holly! Thanks for the kind words!!!

Oh yes, sista! Inspiring, daring and courageous.

[@leslieriley88]

Just saw your sweet comment...thank you, Olga!!!

[@youarea.]

This talk inspires positive change both in individuals and in the world! Thank you Leslie.

[@leadlikeagirl]

So glad I could inspire you a little Rachel!!

[@mlss131]

honesty and vulnerability! love that!

[@leadlikeagirl]

+Mary St Onge...thank you!! Glad the message resonates!!

[@MrChargerboy82]

Nailed it! People and now looking back waiting for the perfect chance is a big mistake.

[@leslieriley88]

Thank you!! Here's to jumping in and SHAPING the environment instead of waiting for one that feels right!

[@zzidaric]

Exactly! Be the best version of yourself. If you are good enough people will follow. BTW - you do not need to be best in everything, just in that thing that is important to the team. You are an asset when you are the best.

[@leadlikeagirl]

Zed Zidar exactly! Love your words here...don’t have to be the best at everything, just be an asset to the team! 👍🏼

[@SPualani]

EnJOY the journey, Leslie. You rocked it sister! So proud of you and grateful for all you are doing to empower others to rise to their potential and make the world a better place. With Pride We Defend '97!

[@leadlikeagirl]

Thanks so much for your support & encouragement, Susan!! So grateful for our West Point sisterhood!!

[@davidspangler2444]

Leslie, Great job classmate! I am proud to share this link at work and motivate my fellow Marines. Your talk reminds me of a conversation between BG St. Onge and myself at our graduation dance. Keep up the great work. David "Spanky" Spangler USMA 97

[@leadlikeagirl]

So happy you like talk enough to share!! And to be compared to BG St. Onge?! Wow...I'll take it!! Thank you so much for your kind words!! WPWD!!

[@colleenadams2162]

Enjoyed this very much. I am an asset and the environment will adapt-powerful words of encouragement to be honest and authentic. Attributes that seem to be missing in society.

[@leadlikeagirl]

Thanks for the kind words! Glad the message resonates...hopefully we can spread more honesty & authenticity in the world one person + one day at a time!!

[@MZZ0797]

Amazing TED talk!! I will be saving this!

[@leslieriley2679]

I appreciate your kind words...so glad it resonated!

[@StacyRein]

you are always such an inspiration! keep shining and keep sharing your journeys!

[@leadlikeagirl]

+Stacy Stutchbury you just put a huge smile on my face...thank you for your kind words!!! So lucky to have a friend like you!!!

[@CarolHowe]

I am so inspired. Thank-you!

[@leadlikeagirl]

You are so very welcome! Glad you enjoyed the talk!!

[@deadlydagger2836]

What a great and motivational talk! First of all, thank you Leslie for your service. Second, thank you for giving a new perspective on leadership and what it truly takes to be a leader. I was happy to hear of the take on vulnerability and using that as a strength, rather than a weakness. Keep up the fantastic work!

[@leadlikeagirl]

So glad the message resonated with you!! Vulnerability is a strength for sure!! Wish more people would try it!! Happy leading, my friend!!

[@ameertouma9968]

deadly dagger n M

[@nothumanaftrall2068]

terrific! Really inspiring, makes me want to find some courage to take risks.

[@doloresandrew1678]

A wonderful inspirational talk.

[@leadlikeagirl]

Dolores Andrew-Gavin Wow...thank you so much!! Always happy to inspire!!! :-)

[@billhiggins-ha4all795]

So wonderful...

[@Thiagarajah1]

I can absolutely resonate. I have been there. I retired from Army and thought corporate HR will listen.... I have worn the Superman outfit and often got it torn int pieces .... by superego bosses who think and behaved "god". But, I have no regrets because I value the integrity for which I stand for and speak the authentic truth.

[@leadlikeagirl]

Citizen love meeting fellow vets & superheroes!! Thanks for your kind words!!

[@shwaundizayee3306]

First, Thank You for your service Capt. I am actually using part of your Tedx Talk for part of my presentation, I am talking about a book that i read over the winter break called "Women Who Don't Wait In Line" by Reshma Saujani. I go to a 90% pop. off women college in Texas. Thanks for such a great Tedx Talk.

[@leadlikeagirl]

So happy my talk is useful to you!! Thank you for your kind words & good luck with your presentation!!

[@shwaundizayee3306]

Major. Gen. Saunders, told me to tell you hello. She saw my prezi, I was the only guy in the room when I did this presentation with two other girls. I used the first the part of the video to hit home about being a asset!

[@leadlikeagirl]

+Shwaun Dizayee you just made my morning!!! So glad part of the video could hit home...totally why I did it!!! Sending hellos + high-5s back to you, MG Saunders, & all those assets you were talking to!!!

[@pwaterbury]

Great content delivered in a very memorable way. Well done!

[@leadlikeagirl]

Invisible Partner thanks so much!! Glad it was a memorable talk!! Have an awesome weekend! :-)

[@donnatougas8563]

Empowering! Good empowering advice given in an entertaining way.

[@leadlikeagirl]

+Donna Tougas so glad you enjoyed the message & delivery!! Thank you!!

[@keitaaboubacarsidiki5627]

I enjoy it, very supportive.

[@earthstardevi3326]

Thank you!!

[@leadlikeagirl]

earthstardevi just noticed your comment! You are so welcome!

[@kristinbonilla9323]

This video speaks straight to my heart! I AM that soldier who stifles herself because its just not what they want to see in the Army.

[@leadlikeagirl]

Kristin Bonilla I hope the video gives you hope!! I stifled myself for too long...and as I was getting out, people asked why & said that the army needed what I had. REALLY?! Sending you lots of positive thoughts & wishes that you speak up when you know it is needed!! :-)

[@kristinbonilla9323]

Thank you! I have started the destifling process :) Kelly Kramer and I are taking a course together, and after I expressed my frustration, she suggested I look up your video! Very glad I did :)

[@leadlikeagirl]

So glad you are destuffing!! Give Kelly a big hug from me! Sure do miss my army family! :-)

[@AyubKhan-qx2sd]

When your good actions inspires to dreams More , Learn More , Develop More . Think More , do More , Become More , you are a great Leader with your Strong Motivational Leadership !!! Regards

[@emilydean2831]

Amazing video, interesting insight and great charisma. So powerful and beautiful spoken. Amazing!

[@leadlikeagirl]

Emily Dean thank you so much for your kind words!!

[@Beebspeas]

LESLIE, YOU ARE A WONDER WOMAN AND AN AMAZING ASSET!!!!! USMA '94

[@leadlikeagirl]

Thank you so much!! So glad you enjoyed the talk!! Beat Navy!! 🏈

[@user-zg8hc3in6y]

Brilliant 👏

[@joyhoran6617]

Les your amazing.

[@leslieriley2679]

I just saw this comment...brought a huge smile to my face! Love you, Joy!

[@raraavis7782]

Love this talk...made me think of "The Power of Vulnerability" right away - which is one of my favourite ted talks ever. I got to say though...this whole "speaking up" thing doesn't work very well on people who aren't too bright/self reflected/curious (which, sadly, are the majority of people you deal with unless you're very well educated, ambitious and/or wealthy. I'm a very outgoing, confident person and have rarely hesitated to propose change or ask for/offer help in the various jobs I did so far and yet I got so frustrated by people not wanting to improve even the most obvious flaws in work routines or dealing with each other that I finally became a freelancer. I get by quite well and haven't regretted taking that step but my main incentive wasn't self improvement of some kind but not having to deal with stupid bosses/colleagues anymore. Sighs. Still, I hope you're right and people/environments can change for the better when people speak up...

[@leadlikeagirl]

Rara Avis I so feel you on this! I also became a freelancer & in working with one company found the best piece of advice, “Go where you are wanted.” I may speak up 50 times & only 2 people are interested...those are the ones I focus on!! So hard to leave behind the other 48 opportunities...but if the time isn’t right or the people aren’t ready, I find it best to wish them well & move on! Huge hugs to you, my friend!!

[@AyubKhan-qx2sd]

well Appreciated and a great Motivational Talk all about the Inner Journey to Leadership . When your good actions inspires to dreams More , Learn More , Develop More . Think More , do More , Become More , you are a great Leader with your Strong Motivational Leadership ..If you want to be happy,set a goal that commands your thoughts, and inspires your-hopes in a right way and Liberates your Positive energy with your positive Thoughts by your strong Motivation and deep inspirations.I am sure "You will be having a lot of happiness and Peace of Mind in your Life. .

[@LifeCoachJen]

YOU'RE INCREDIBLE! :) :)

[@leadlikeagirl]

Jen Mavros, C.C. Oh my gosh...thank you so much!! I am soooooooo happy our paths crossed! Mucho awesomeness in our futures! Mwah!!

[@SolasDesigns]

Powerful, my friend! :-)

[@leadlikeagirl]

+Sandi Bohle Thank you!! I am so glad the message resonated!! Huge hugs to you...because YOU are most definitely an asset!!! :-)

[@tonysardjono2905]

In this talk , Leslie shares her unconventional, wildly funny leadership lessons. I have never been so entertained in my life before.

[@leadlikeagirl]

Tony Sardjono haha!! So glad I could entertain you!! Have a great day!

[@BluntlyBlondie]

Fabulous talk. Would’ve been better wearing a wonder woman cape.

[@leadlikeagirl]

Heather Walker isn’t everything better with a Wonder Woman cape?! 😜

[@jamieschiffer1258]

Fantastic, inspirational talk on the importance of being authentic - let that vulnerability shine and create the environment you want to live in. kzbin.info/www/bejne/e5KoooV8mpadqck

[@leadlikeagirl]

Jamie Schiffer I heart you, my friend!!! Authenticity + vulnerability ROCK! Let's keep on using them to create the world we want to live in!!! :-)