Courage, Authenticity, and Collective Support in Career Growth

Susan Barry shares how pivotal moments in her career taught her the value of taking risks, acting before feeling fully ready, and trusting her ability to adapt. She explains that moving alone across the country early in her career and later launching her business during the Financial Crisis strengthened her confidence in navigating uncertainty.

She also credits both formal and informal support systems for offering guidance, accountability, and honest advice. She stresses the power of surrounding oneself with people who share entrepreneurial drive and understand the challenges of leadership.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• “Sometimes you just have to build the parachute on the way out of the plane.”
• “My tolerance for risk and uncertainty gets greater and greater . . . the older I get.”
• “The less separate that my business and real personas are, the more genuine and fun . . . connections that I make.”
• “Practice putting your entire income and financial security on the line enough times, and you'll get great at it.”
• “We can’t outperform our way to equity…collective solutions to collective problems are the only way we can make change.”

Closing Reflection

Susan’s reflections encourage listeners to embrace discomfort, lead with authenticity, and invest in supportive communities. Her insights remind us that growth comes from bold action, honest relationships, and collective progress shaped through shared commitment.