SPOTLIGHT: Leading with Heart: Katie Smetherman Holmes On the Power of Authentic Women’s Leadership
In her Authority Magazine interview, “Leading with Heart: Authentic Women’s Leadership”, Katie Smetheman Holmes (Founder & CEO of Brand Studio Creative) shares how leading with empathy, authenticity, and values has been the game-changer in her work and her leadership style. If you’re interested in what it takes to lead differently, especially as a woman entrepreneur, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
Here are some key takeaways from her interview that highlight why leading with heart isn’t powerful; it’s truly essential.
Lead with empathy
Katie reminds us that leadership isn’t about control, it’s about connection. In a world where business often prioritizes speed and growth, she believes the best leaders create space for others to thrive by listening, supporting, and fostering creativity. Empathy builds stronger teams, strengthens trust, and ultimately fuels innovation. When people feel valued as humans first, they show up with more passion, commitment, and confidence.
“My goal has always been to cultivate a creative space where everyone feels seen and heard while maintaining their passion and drive for the work they do.”
– Katie Smetherman Holmes
What Katie means is that when people feel supported, their passion shines through. Empathy builds trust, and trust is what transforms a group of individuals into a team driven by purpose. By creating an environment where feedback is welcomed, mistakes are treated as learning opportunities, and accomplishments are celebrated, leaders empower their teams to do their best work while feeling valued and understood.
Redefining Success
Katie challenges the outdated idea that leadership must fit a rigid, traditional mold. Instead, she advocates for a leadership style that reflects personal values, passion, and purpose. For her, success isn’t about the hierarchy or titles; it’s about authenticity. By embracing a leadership approach that aligns with who you truly are, you not only feel more fulfilled but also inspire others to bring their authentic selves to work, creating a culture of trust and genuine impact.
“Leadership isn’t about following a prescribed path; it’s about writing your own.”
– Katie Smetherman Holmes
What Katie says here is that the strongest leaders don’t try to fit someone else’s mold; they embrace their individuality and lead in a way that aligns with their values. Authenticity not only builds trust and loyalty among teams and clients, but it also inspires others to step into their own power. Following a prescribed path may bring temporary recognition, but true influence comes from being yourself.
Lift Others Up
For Katie, leadership is about more than individual achievement; it’s about empowering others to rise alongside you. By creating opportunities, sharing knowledge, and encouraging collaboration, she models a leadership style that’s inclusive and sustainable. Supporting others’ growth doesn’t stop your own; it strengthens the entire team, builds loyalty, and promotes a positive environment where everyone can thrive together.
“True leadership is about creating a legacy of impact, not just for yourself, but for those around you.”
– Katie Smetherman Holmes
Here, she means that leadership isn’t a solo endeavor. Real leaders don’t just chase personal milestones; they cultivate environments where everyone can grow. By investing in the success of others, they create a ripple effect: teams feel valued, motivated, and inspired, which drives collective achievement.
Katie’s interview reminds us that leadership is more than getting things done; it’s about how we show up. Leading with heart, being true to your values, and allowing yourself ot be human isn’t just courageous, is what makes you unforgettable.
Read the full article: Leading with Heart: Katie Smetherman Holmes On the Power of Authentic Women’s Leadership on Authority Magazine to dive deeper into Katie’s practical strategies and stories from her leadership journey.
XOXO, Katie
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