Leadership Purpose with Dr. Robin

This week’s How She Finds Purpose insight comes from my own journey. I once believed that staying in a “good job” meant I was doing the right thing - even when I felt drained, disconnected, and unfulfilled. But I’ve learned that staying stuck comes at a cost.

"Every day, you ignore that inner voice. Every day, you tell yourself, well, this is just how it is, you are risking more than you realize. You are risking your health. You are risking your energy. You are risking your joy. You are risking your creativity, the spark that makes you feel alive, and you're risking the impact you were actually meant to make."

In this second episode of my special three-part series, I’m breaking down what you’re really risking when you stay in a role or life that no longer fits. If you’ve ever felt the Sunday night dread, if you’ve ever told yourself, “This is just how it is,” then this episode is for you.

Here are 3 reasons why you should listen to this episode:

1. You’ll learn why staying out of alignment isn’t as “safe” as it seems, and what it’s actually costing you.

2. I’ll share how I recognized my own misalignment, so you can start identifying it in your own life.

3. You’ll hear how to recognize the difference between exhaustion from overwork and exhaustion from being disconnected from your true purpose.

Here is the link to register for my free live online workshop on March 18. I really hope to see you there!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/when-success-isnt-enough-how-women-leaders-can-align-success-with-purpose-tickets-1259591866179

Would you prefer to watch or listen to the podcast on YouTube?
Head on over to https://www.youtube.com/@leadershippurposepodcast

Want to connect? Connect with Dr. Robin on 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinlowensphd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robinlowensphd

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/robinlowensphd/

Email: Robin@LeadershipPurposePodcast.com

Thank you for listening! Rate, review, & follow on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast player. Talk to you soon!

This episode was produced by Lynda, Podcast Manager for GenX Creative Entrepreneurs at https://www.ljscreativeservices.co.nz

This week’s How She Finds Purpose insight comes from me, Dr. Robin. I say -

"This is so common. We climb the ladder. We get the quote "good job". We do everything we were told would make us happy. But then when we look around, we feel empty. We feel numb, like we're just going through the motions because we built our success on other people's expectations not our authentic self. And when we are out of alignment with our authentic self no amount of success will ever feel like enough."

If you’ve ever thought, I should be happy - I’ve done everything I was supposed to - but why do I feel this way? then this episode is for you. I’m kicking off a three-part series on why success alone isn’t enough, starting with my own story. I’m sharing how I followed the “right” path, checked all the boxes, and still found myself feeling empty - until one simple question changed everything.

Here are 3 reasons why you should listen to this episode:

1. You’ll hear how I went from a leadership role at a major bank, where I looked successful but felt disconnected, to discovering what truly fulfills me.

2. I’ll introduce two key principles from my Purpose Maker Alignment Framework that help women leaders align success with purpose.

3. You’ll get details on my upcoming free online workshop, where I’ll walk you through how to find purpose without risking everything you’ve built.

Register for the free online workshop here:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/when-success-isnt-enough-how-women-leaders-can-align-success-with-purpose-tickets-1259591866179

Would you prefer to watch or listen to the podcast on YouTube?
Head on over to https://www.youtube.com/@leadershippurposepodcast

Want to connect? Connect with Dr. Robin on 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinlowensphd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robinlowensphd

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/robinlowensphd/

Email: Robin@LeadershipPurposePodcast.com

Thank you for listening! Rate, review, & follow on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast player. Talk to you soon!

This episode was produced by Lynda, Podcast Manager for GenX Creative Entrepreneurs at https://www.ljscreativeservices.co.nz

This week’s “How She Finds Purpose” insight comes from Jeanne Sparrow. She says –

"Remember that you are the gift. Plain and simple. You are the gift that the world has been waiting for, and all of us are the gift. And when we can see that in ourselves, then we can see it in other people and see where we fit, because I feel like this whole world, I don't know about you, it's like this big puzzle and we're all these little pieces trying to fit somewhere. And when we find where we fit, and if you do puzzles, you know how satisfying it is when you find that one weird little shaped puzzle piece that has all those weird angles, and it snaps right into place. And then all of a sudden, the picture falls into place and you see what it's gonna be, not just because it's on the box. You are the gift. You are that piece, and the world is waiting for you to figure out your right edges so that you snap into place. Know that."

Jeanne Sparrow is an award-winning speaker, author, Fortune 500 consultant, and seven-time Emmy winner. She is the author of Fearless Authenticity: Lead Better, Sell More, and Speak Sensationally and has spent three decades in media, reaching over 500 million people. She has hosted her own daily TV talk show for seven years, co-hosted radio shows with Steve Harvey and George Wallace, and interviewed stars like Kevin Costner, Halle Berry, and Jamie Foxx. Now, she helps people own their voice, communicate with confidence, and step fully into who they are.

Here are 3 reasons why you should listen to this episode:

1. Learn how to trust your gut – Jeanne shares why listening to your intuition, even when fear is present, can lead you to the right opportunities at the right time.

2. Discover how to recognize when it’s time for change – If you’re feeling stuck or unfulfilled, Jeanne’s story will help you understand the signs that it’s time to move on.

3. Get practical advice on showing up authentically – She breaks down how to uncover your unique voice and use it to lead, sell, and speak with impact.

Connect with Jeanne at:

Website: https://jeannesparrow.com/
Instagram" https://www.instagram.com/jmsparrow/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZGddIVJLZ7-L4NsBulwOhQ

You can purchase her book from her website here at https://jeannesparrow.com/book/

Would you prefer to watch or listen to the podcast on YouTube?
Head on over to https://www.youtube.com/@leadershippurposepodcast

Want to connect? Connect with Dr. Robin on 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinlowensphd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robinlowensphd

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/robinlowensphd/

Email: Robin@LeadershipPurposePodcast.com

Thank you for listening! Rate, review, & follow on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast player. Talk to you soon!

This episode was produced by Lynda, Podcast Manager for GenX Creative Entrepreneurs at https://www.ljscreativeservices.co.nz

This week’s “How She Finds Purpose” insight comes from Leezel Ramos. She says:

"There is no one right way, but there is an intentional way. Right? So sometimes, like, the best advice I like to offer is to utilize a both and approach. Do the internal work of discernment and be in community with trusted mentors and peers who can offer insight you might not be aware of, like when you light up or how you've grown over time. Identify your strengths and understand which of them brings you joy and which don't. Just because you're good at something doesn't mean you want to do it all the time. And be unwavering in your values and honor changes to your life priorities."

Leezel Ramos is the Executive Director of Career and Professional Development at Mount Saint Mary’s University in Los Angeles. With a deep commitment to career formation, leadership development, and social justice, she has spent her career helping students—especially first-generation and underrepresented students—turn their passions into meaningful careers. Through her work in higher education, she ensures students have the tools, guidance, and support they need to build a future that aligns with their values and aspirations.

Here are 3 reasons why you should listen to this episode:

1. If you’re struggling to figure out your next career move, Leezel shares how to recognize the purpose clues in your life and work.

2. Learn why career development is leadership development and how to take an intentional approach to your career path.

3. Find out why your career path doesn’t have to be linear and how embracing change can lead to unexpected opportunities that align with your purpose.

Connect with Leezel at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leezelramos/

Would you prefer to watch or listen to the podcast on YouTube?
Head on over to https://www.youtube.com/@leadershippurposepodcast

Want to connect? Connect with Dr. Robin on 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinlowensphd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robinlowensphd

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/robinlowensphd/

Email: Robin@LeadershipPurposePodcast.com

Thank you for listening! Rate, review, & follow on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast player. Talk to you soon!

This episode was produced by Lynda, Podcast Manager for GenX Creative Entrepreneurs at https://www.ljscreativeservices.co.nz

This week’s “How She Finds Purpose” insight comes from what I truly believe -

“For many women, these same markers of success can, paradoxically, begin to feel like a cage, trapping them in a life that no longer aligns with their authentic selves. This misalignment isn't a failure. It's a signpost. Recognizing these signs is an important step for moving forward and finding fulfillment and true purpose.”

In this episode, I share a personal story about how I discovered my own misalignment. My body was giving me stress-induced signs, and then my father’s passing brought on a deeper emotional wake-up call. As I reflect on that experience, I talk about how so many high-achieving women, like me, define success by external markers—even when those accomplishments start to feel hollow or out of step with who we really are.

Here are 3 reasons why you should listen to this episode:

1. Discover how to recognize subtle signs of misalignment in your life, from physical symptoms like stress and fatigue to emotional detachment.

2. Learn actionable steps, like journaling and self-reflection, to uncover areas where you might be going through the motions instead of living authentically.

3. Find encouragement to prioritize alignment with your true self and embrace a life of fulfillment, meaning, and purpose—without discarding your achievements.

If there’s been a nagging feeling that something is missing—or a quiet sense that you’re meant for more—this episode offers encouragement and clarity for taking the next small step toward living in alignment with your authentic self.

I’d love to hear your thoughts and reflections on this episode! Connect with me over on LinkedIn or at the links below.

And if this episode resonates with you, don’t forget to share it with a friend or leave a review.

Would you prefer to watch or listen to the podcast on YouTube?
Head on over to https://www.youtube.com/@leadershippurposepodcast

Want to connect? Connect with Dr. Robin on 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinlowensphd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robinlowensphd

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/robinlowensphd/

Email: Robin@LeadershipPurposePodcast.com

Thank you for listening! Rate, review, & follow on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast player. Talk to you soon!

This episode was produced by Lynda, Podcast Manager for GenX Creative Entrepreneurs at https://www.ljscreativeservices.co.nz

This week’s “How She Finds Purpose” insight comes from Twanda Young. She says:

“Turn fear on its head. Be ferocious about your goals. Be energetic and enthusiastic about what you're going after. Make sure that you align yourself with people that are going in the direction you're going, and then be resilient. Be dogmatic in your resiliency that you know in your heart of hearts, this is my purpose. This is what I'm meant to do. This is the value I'm meant to bring to society and those around me. And don't let anyone tell you that you cannot do it.”

Twanda Young is a celebrated leader, coach, speaker, and author of the book Dare to Lead Differently: Chew on This . . . 16 Bites for Bold Leaders. With over three decades of military service, she’s a decorated brigadier general—a rank achieved by less than 1% of service members. Twanda is also the founder of LT3 Leadership Solutions, where she empowers others through leadership development, career coaching, and conflict management. Her influence has earned her numerous accolades, including the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and inclusion in the Library of Congress.

Here are 3 reasons why you should listen to this episode:

1. Get inspired by a bold career journey – Twanda shares her story of rising through the military ranks and starting her own leadership coaching business, offering practical insights on finding fulfillment and purpose.

2. Learn how to avoid burnout – hear Twanda's advice on investing in yourself, creating balance, and staying true to your values while supporting others.

3. Pick up leadership nuggets you can use right away – Twanda shares tips and real-life wisdom on staying persistent, managing challenges, and staying grounded as you work toward your goals.

Connect with Twanda at:

Website: https://lt3leads.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/twanda-young/

You can purchase her book here at https://www.amazon.com/Dare-Lead-Differently-Bites-Leaders/dp/B0D29QNN3V

Would you prefer to watch or listen to the podcast on YouTube?
Head on over to https://www.youtube.com/@leadershippurposepodcast

Want to connect? Connect with Dr. Robin on 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinlowensphd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robinlowensphd

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/robinlowensphd/

Email: Robin@LeadershipPurposePodcast.com

Thank you for listening! Rate, review, & follow on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast player. Talk to you soon!

This episode was produced by Lynda, Podcast Manager for GenX Creative Entrepreneurs at https://www.ljscreativeservices.co.nz

This week’s “How She Finds Purpose” insight comes from Dr. Tracy Powell. She says:

“Be still, continue to show up as the best you. But while you're being still, listen. Go back to that childhood experience. Identify those things that were compassionate, loving, fun for you. Use that to be intentional about your next step. Never move for money. Always move with purpose and intention because of self-love for yourself and for those around.”

Dr. Tracy Powell is an internationally known, award-winning author, speaker, and practical leadership expert. She’s the author of Practical Leadership: Lessons Learned from Mickey and brings over 15 years of experience as an executive coach, empowering women to discover their purpose with self-compassion.

With a career spanning active duty service as a scientist officer, public health expertise, and leadership development, her journey exemplifies resilience, intentionality, and growth.

Here are 3 reasons why you should listen to this episode:

1. Discover how to reconnect with your childhood passions and use them as a guide toward a purposeful career.

2. Learn why staying still and intentional, even in moments of frustration, is essential for creating meaningful change.

3. Gain insights into leading with compassion and the practical ways it fosters productivity and fulfillment in the workplace.

Connect with Tracy at:

Website: https://www.drtracypowell.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtracypowell/
Email: drtracypowell@gmail.com

You can find Dr. Tracy's book here at https://www.drtracypowell.com/shop

Would you prefer to watch or listen to the podcast on YouTube?
Head on over to https://www.youtube.com/@leadershippurposepodcast

Want to connect? Connect with Dr. Robin on 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinlowensphd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robinlowensphd

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/robinlowensphd/

Email: Robin@LeadershipPurposePodcast.com

Thank you for listening! Rate, review, & follow on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast player. Talk to you soon!

This episode was produced by Lynda, Podcast Manager for GenX Creative Entrepreneurs at https://www.ljscreativeservices.co.nz

This week’s "How She Finds Purpose" insight comes from Lida Lida Citroën. She says –

"So my advice: take a chance. Take a chance. We have to have the courage to speak up and take a chance. Will people judge us? Yes. But that's human nature. They'll judge us even if we don't speak up. Does it make us feel vulnerable? Absolutely. And we gotta work through that because the world doesn't get better if we don't get our voice out there."

Lida Lida Citroën is the author of The New Rules of Influence: How to Authentically Build Trust, Drive Change, and Make an Impact. She’s an executive coach, personal branding consultant, and reputation management expert.

Lida works with leaders in over 30 countries, helping them clarify who they are and position themselves for success in high-stakes environments. Her career journey includes a bold pivot from corporate branding to starting her own company, a move that reconnected her to her purpose. Today, she also serves military veterans transitioning into civilian careers, a calling that she embraced after an unforgettable moment at a football game.

Here are 3 reasons why you should listen to this episode:

1. Discover the power of courage to claim your voice—even if it feels vulnerable or risky—and why speaking up is essential to creating a better world.

2. Learn how to realign your career with purpose through Lida’s personal story of leaving a "check-the-box" life and building a business she truly loves.

3. Get practical insights on building influence authentically and breaking away from rigid definitions of what leadership is "supposed" to look like.

Connect with Lida at:

Website: https://lida360.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lida360/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lida_citroen/

Find her book The New Rules of Influence here at https://lida360.com/store/

Would you prefer to watch or listen to the podcast on YouTube?
Head on over to https://www.youtube.com/@leadershippurposepodcast

Want to connect? Connect with Dr. Robin on 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinlowensphd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robinlowensphd

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/robinlowensphd/

Email: Robin@LeadershipPurposePodcast.com

Thank you for listening! Rate, review, & follow on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast player. Talk to you soon!

This episode was produced by Lynda, Podcast Manager for GenX Creative Entrepreneurs at https://www.ljscreativeservices.co.nz

This week’s How She Finds Purpose insight comes from a belief I hold close:

“True purpose isn't about a specific job, a specific title, or career. It's not something you find out there. Purpose is about being true to your authentic self. It's about knowing who you are at your core and expressing that truth through the decisions you make, the work you do, and the life you live."

In this solo episode, I share a personal story about how witnessing my mother’s unfulfilled dreams shaped a lifelong promise to pursue work that aligns with purpose.

That restless search for meaning—so familiar to many high-achieving women—led to a liberating realization. Purpose isn’t tied to a job title or career path. Instead, it comes from staying true to who we are at our core.

Here are 3 reasons to tune in:

1. Discover why purpose isn’t something to “find” and what that shift in thinking could mean for your life and work.

2. Find out why so many high-achieving women feel unfulfilled, even with success, and how external expectations can get in the way.

3. Learn about the PurposeMAKER Method, a practical framework I developed to help women reconnect with their true selves and make decisions that align with what matters most.

If there’s been a nagging feeling that something is missing—or a quiet sense that you’re meant for more—this episode offers encouragement and clarity for taking the next small step toward living in alignment with your authentic self.

I’d love to hear your thoughts and reflections on this episode! Connect with me over on LinkedIn or at the links below.

And if this episode resonates with you, don’t forget to share it with a friend or leave a review.

Would you prefer to watch or listen to the podcast on YouTube?
Head on over to https://www.youtube.com/@leadershippurposepodcast

Want to connect? Connect with Dr. Robin on 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinlowensphd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robinlowensphd

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/robinlowensphd/

Email: Robin@LeadershipPurposePodcast.com

Thank you for listening! Rate, review, & follow on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast player. Talk to you soon!

This episode was produced by Lynda, Podcast Manager for GenX Creative Entrepreneurs at https://www.ljscreativeservices.co.nz