#212 Don’t Opt Out: Leanne Caret on Building Courage and Taking the Jobs That Scare You

Welcome to the second interview in our six-part Board Director Series, where we explore the mindset and pathways of the world's most accomplished leaders. Leanne Caret made history as the first woman to lead Boeing Defense, Space and Security, overseeing 30,000 employees and $30 billion in revenue, but her path there was built on one core principle: never opting out of opportunities because of what might happen someday.

From being told she "laughed too much" to be management material to developing her four G's framework (grit, gumption, grace, and gratitude), Leanne shares the strategic career moves that transformed her from an entry-level hire into a Fortune 500 CEO and now board director for Deere Company and RTX.

This is a conversation about taking the jobs that make you want to "throw up," building authentic relationships across all levels, and why the hardest assignments are often your best teachers. Leanne proves that you don't have to choose between being effective and being human, and shows exactly how to build a career on genuine courage rather than perfect preparation.

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Inside My CEO Calendar: How I Led A Team of 5k+ Without Getting Pulled Back Into the Weeds

A behind-the-scenes private podcast for senior female leaders and CEOs who don’t need fluff—just sharper thinking, smarter moves, and more time for what matters.

You don’t have time for another 60-minute webinar.
But you do have 15 minutes while you’re driving into the office or grabbing your mid-day coffee. Listen here: https://www.bravefeminineleadership.com/BFL-Private-Podcast

 

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Access Your Free Clarity Tool
Between the endless to-do lists, competing priorities, and decisions piling up, it’s easy to lose sight of what matters most. But here’s the truth: you can’t give more if you’re running on empty. That’s why we created Balance Your Brave—a free 15-minute diagnostic tool to help you regain control and clarity.

In just 15 minutes, you will:
✅ Pinpoint energy drains holding you back.
✅ Identify where to focus for the biggest impact.
✅ Walk away feeling calmer and more confident in your next steps.
Think of it as your personal roadmap to balance and alignment.

⬇️ Click here to access your free Balance Your Brave diagnostic tool.
https://www.bravefeminineleadership.com/Balance-Your-Brave

 

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