In this insightful episode of Telling Stories That Matter, host Carlos Cruz engages in a captivating conversation with Denise Brosseau, a renowned thought leadership strategist, speaker, and CEO of Thought Leadership Lab. Denise offers a rare glimpse into her transformative journey from an unknown nonprofit executive to a recognized thought leader who has spoken at national and international conferences and even received an invitation to the White House.
Listeners can expect to be inspired by Denise’s candid reflections on the process of writing her book, Ready to Be a Thought Leader, published by Wiley. She recounts how an unexpected email from an acquisitions editor reignited her long-held dream of authoring a book—a journey she describes as a “labor of love” for the subject of thought leadership. Denise delves into the mechanics of her writing process, sharing practical advice for aspiring authors, such as envisioning a specific reader (or “avatar”) while writing, and the importance of building a supportive community to navigate the challenges of the writing journey.
Denise also touches on the often-overlooked emotional hurdles of writing, such as overcoming perfectionism and silencing the “Itty Bitty Shitty Committee”—those nagging self-doubts that can derail even the most motivated writers. Her insights into resilience and persistence offer valuable lessons not just for writers, but for anyone striving to achieve their goals in the face of adversity.
For those interested in the intersection of thought leadership, writing, and personal growth, this episode is a must-listen. Denise’s story is a testament to the power of persistence, community support, and the courage to take bold steps towards realizing one’s potential. Whether you’re an aspiring author, a business leader, or simply someone looking to make a meaningful impact in your field, this episode offers a wealth of wisdom and practical tips to help you on your journey.
