Fearless Female Leadership Blog - Mental Toughness & High Performance

Latest Blog Article: Culture Transformation for High Performing Teams with Brenda Dysinger, CHRO

Super Human Growth - an Interview with Shanna Goodell, Senior Director of Enterprise Learning & Talent Development at Druva

curiosity growth influence mentorship passion trust Aug 27, 2025

In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the pleasure of speaking with Shanna Goodell, Senior Director of Enterprise Learning and Talent Development at Druva, about her inspiring career journey and her vision for “superhuman growth.”

Shanna’s path was shaped by mentors who believed in her potential and opened doors that might otherwise have stayed closed. From her best friend’s parents encouraging her to pursue college, to mentors who introduced her to organizational psychology, to leaders who gave her early opportunities, Shanna embodies the ripple effect of empowerment.

Her career reflects resilience and innovation—especially when she pioneered flexible work arrangements to balance motherhood with professional growth. At Druva, she now champions learning strategies that integrate cutting-edge AI with the human connection that truly drives growth. Shanna believes that curiosity, trust, and vision are the key ingredients for creating “superhuman teams” that achieve beyon...

Mastering the Art of the Ask for Women in the Workplace

curiosity empathy mindset optimism Mar 06, 2024

Growing up, I used to go with my dad to drop off and pick up the clothes at the neighborhood laundromat. Whenever he lost his ticket to claim his clothes, the laundromat owner would say: ‘No ticket, no wash.’ And she was not kidding!

When it comes to building visibility, impact, and the support from your leadership, if you don’t ask, you’re likely not going to get.

This is a double whammy because our male counterparts tend to be 4 times more likely to make an ask for a raise or a higher salary when initially hired according to Women Don't Ask by Linda Babcock and Sara Laschever.

If this sounds familiar, the good news is that you’re certainly not alone. The not so good news is that you could be losing out on $1,000,000.00 during the course of your career according to the recent UC Davis study, titled Women Don't Ask: Negotiation and the Great Gender Divide.

The ability to effectively make an ask is a valuable skill that can open doors, forge partnerships, and propel careers forward...

Mental Preparation Prior to Influencing Under Pressure

curiosity empathy optimism Jan 17, 2024

Navigating high-pressure situations in the corporate world demands more than just skill - it requires mastery in the art of influence. As leaders, especially women leaders, it’s essential to communicate with clarity and impact.

Introducing the "ECO" Mindset Model – a transformative approach to influencing under pressure:

"E"mpathy: Step into their shoes. Understand their pressures and motivations.
"C"uriosity: Cultivate genuine interest in their perspective, wrapped in compassion.
"O"ptimism: Envision the best outcome. Let positivity guide your decisions.

Interested in refining your influence skills or seeking guidance on your leadership journey? I’m here to support and guide you. Feel free to send me a message for insights on leadership and influence – let’s elevate your leadership together.

Enjoy the video, or you can listen in on my podcast here.