What true women leaders teach you

I was probably 17, eating a snack after school, more than likely in a dance team uniform, and sitting on the kitchen island when the phone rang. That was the first time someone from the White House called. It was “no big deal” and for being caught off guard it was a good conversation. But it left an impression, and a lesson. The woman on the other end of the line was an absolute listener, questioner, and cheerleader.

The women that surrounded me then and those that center me now taught me what real women leaders do.

Be real, be true, and be brave.

I’ve been around strong women my entire life. Some with serious power and passion. Some of those leaders have been great examples, and others have been examples of what not to be.

Some have taught me hard lessons with a lot of heart, others have been nothing short of snotty. Some have pushed and guided me to places I never thought it possible to go. Some have grown with me. Still some have disappointed and disappeared.

When I consider the women who have been true blessings they all have something in common.

They aren’t about the bullshit.

Believe me, throughout my life I’ve seen a lot of bullshit. Being a young, smart, well educated, and passionate female wasn’t always fun. The women…