EP40: Strategically Real on Socials

2025-10-07

Authentic leadership online means showing up as yourself rather than hiding behind corporate polish. Karin Reed sits down with Jess Jensen, the founder of Co-Pilot Communications, to talk about what it really takes for executives to build a digital presence that feels genuine and earns trust. After two decades leading digital strategy for global brands like Microsoft, Nestlé, Qualcomm, and Adidas, Jess has seen firsthand how the landscape has shifted. People no longer want polished brand statements - they want to hear from leaders d...

Authentic leadership online means showing up as yourself rather than hiding behind corporate polish.

Karin Reed sits down with Jess Jensen, the founder of Co-Pilot Communications, to talk about what it really takes for executives to build a digital presence that feels genuine and earns trust. After two decades leading digital strategy for global brands like Microsoft, Nestlé, Qualcomm, and Adidas, Jess has seen firsthand how the landscape has shifted. People no longer want polished brand statements - they want to hear from leaders directly. So how do you decide who you’re really speaking to? What values do you want to be known for? And how can you use your story to spark connection in a way that feels true to you?

Jess shares a framework that helps leaders find clarity on their audience, their voice, and the platforms where they can make the most impact. She also explains why the comments section is where relationships are actually built and why leaning into your own experiences is the key to lasting influence. This conversation is an invitation to think differently about your presence online and to step into it with honesty, confidence, and purpose.

For Speaker Dynamics podcast listeners, Jess is offering a free 25-minute LinkedIn audit. Quick, practical reviews for business owners and senior executives who think their profile might be holding them back. Go to copilotcommunications.com and under contact, book time with me. Mention this podcast and you’ll get a real-time audit, and a handful of actionable next steps.

No cost. No catch. Just clarity. And a thank you for listening to the show.

Book here: https://calendly.com/jessjensen-copilotcommunications/25min

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Authenticity Over Perfection in Leadership

01:39 The Mission Behind Co-Pilot Communications

05:52 From Corporate Brands to Human Voices on Social Media

10:06 Five Steps to Building an Authentic Digital Brand

21:27 Why Relationships Are Built in the Comments

27:38 Your Story as the Most Powerful Differentiator

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