This episode of Winning Season features a real lesson from Jacqueline V. Twillie, originally delivered live to a group of mid-career professionals. In it, Jacqueline unpacks the moment she cracked a high-stakes global project stalemate by identifying the single metric and timeline that mattered most to a senior leader.

She walks listeners through her signature L.A.T.T.E. Framework—Look, Anticipate, Think, Talk, Evaluate—and shows how to use it to translate your solution into the language of decision makers. You’ll learn how to pinpoint priorities, anticipate objections, and present your ideas in a way that earns approvals faster.

Whether you're preparing for a big pitch or navigating shifting priorities, this lesson gives you a repeatable playbook to get a clear yes.

This podcast episode is an actual lesson taught by Jacqueline V. Twillie, founder of ZeroGap and creator of the L.A.T.T.E. Framework. You’ll hear her teaching in real time, not a scripted studio segment, so grab a notebook and get ready to apply these strategies immediately.

📌 Note

Summary

In this episode of the Winning Season podcast, host Jacqueline Twillie interviews Alair Castro, a Director of Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Marketing at Northwestern Mutual and founder of the AC Consultancy. Alair shares her journey and passion for addressing the racial wealth gap, advocating for Black women, and creating inclusive marketing strategies. The conversation explores the importance of building trust within communities, measuring success beyond traditional metrics, and the significance of maintaining authenticity in consultancy work. Alair emphasizes the need for multiple streams of income and the value of unplugged family time for personal and professional growth.

Takeaways

• Alair Castro is a Director of Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Marketing.
• Her career is dedicated to advocating for Black women.
• The racial wealth gap is a significant issue affecting the Black community.
• Building trust within the Black community is crucial for financial services.
• Inclusive marketing can drive business goals and community impact.
• Success indicators should go beyond clicks and impressions.
• Maintaining authenticity is key in consultancy work.
• Monetizing your skills can create additional income streams.
• Unplugged family time is essential for mental well-being.
• Effective communication of boundaries is vital in leadership.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Alair Castro

01:40 Passion for Racial Wealth Gap

03:48 Understanding the Racial Wealth Gap

05:14 Building Buy-In for Inclusion

06:44 The Business Case for Inclusive Marketing

07:42 Cultural Insights in Marketing

09:23 Measuring Success Beyond Clicks

10:40 Overcoming Analysis Paralysis

12:15 Monetizing Your Genius

14:05 The Importance of Unplugged Time

16:00 Turning Conflict into Collaboration

17:56 Marketing and Money Rules for Change Makers

18:24 Fun and Personal Insights with Alair Castro

Connect with Alair

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaircastro/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/acoutoftheoffice/

Online https://www.theacconsultancy.com/

Winning Season Podcast - Mini Episode Show Notes

Host: Jacqueline Twillie
Episode Type: Mini Episode - Career and Negotiation Inspiration
Duration: ~3 minutes

Episode Overview

A quick-hit episode sharing actionable career and negotiation tips from two of Jacqueline's current projects, designed to give listeners a boost in their professional journey.

Main Tip: Highlight Your Unique Value

• Identify what makes you stand out from other candidates
• Lead confidently with your unique strengths in your job search
• Implementation strategies:

When: August 21st
Where: Maven.com
Cost: Free

Core Concept: Going from "Almost" to "Absolutely"

A 5-step method for building a negotiation strategy:

• L - Look
• A - Anticipate
• T - Think
• T - Talk
• E - Evaluate

Framework Benefits:

• Preparation for challenges and questions from the other party
• Addresses potential objections that typically arise early in negotiations
• Builds confidence and prevents being thrown off your game
• Leads to faster, mutually beneficial agreements

• Small tweaks can create significant impact in career development
• Preparation is crucial for successful negotiations
• Confidence comes from being ready to address challenges
• The power to shape your career is in your hands

• The Table: 30-day pop-up career strategy group
• Instant Negotiation Strategy Class: Free class on Maven.com (August 21st)

"The power to shape your career and own your negotiation - it only takes a few tweaks."

Keep winning!

Chapters

00:00 - 00:15 - Welcome & Introduction
Host introduction and episode overview

00:15 - 01:30 - The Table: Career Strategy for Black Women
30-day pop-up group supporting those impacted by 2025 job market

01:30 - 02:45 - The LATTE Framework for Negotiation
5-step method from the Instant Negotiation Strategy class

02:45 - 03:00 - Wrap-up & Closing Thoughts

Summary

In this episode of the Winning Season podcast, Lexie Mendelson shares her extensive experience in building partnerships and launching innovative products like Google Pay. She emphasizes the importance of values such as truth and loyalty in partnerships, the need for adaptability in international rollouts, and the significance of aligning diverse stakeholders. Lexie also discusses the challenges of navigating regulatory environments, the importance of modeling realistic workloads, and the value of genuine relationships in professional networks. She offers valuable advice for emerging leaders on building authentic connections and understanding the needs of others.

Takeaways

Lexie's journey spans art history to tech and finance.

Building infrastructure for new market categories is key.

Truth and loyalty are essential in partnerships.

Understanding success for all parties is crucial.

Adapt products for different markets to succeed.

Meetings enhance communication and stakeholder alignment.

Leaders should model realistic workloads for teams.

Genuine care for colleagues fosters strong relationships.

Empathy is vital in professional conversations.

Emerging leaders should focus on authentic connections.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Lexi's Journey

02:16 Connecting Career Chapters

04:27 Values-Driven Leadership

07:45 Launching Google Pay Internationally

09:58 Aligning Stakeholders for Success

12:50 Navigating Regulations in Banking

15:10 Normalizing Workloads for Team Performance

19:54 Building Authentic Relationships

22:13 Foundational Skills for Emerging Leaders

24:03 Rapid Fire Fun Questions

Summary

In this episode, Jacqueline Twillie discusses the intricacies of navigating difficult conversations and negotiations. She introduces the Latte Framework, which consists of Look, Anticipate, Think, Talk, and Evaluate, providing practical strategies for each stage. The conversation covers how to observe tension, anticipate derailments, address bad behavior, maintain composure in power imbalances, know when to walk away, and reflect on negotiation outcomes. Jacqueline emphasizes the importance of preparation, emotional intelligence, and continuous evaluation in becoming a successful negotiator.

Takeaways

• The real negotiation begins before the first word is even uttered.
• Successful negotiators expect derailments to happen.
• Observing the environment and your internal state is crucial.
• Address behavior, not character, to maintain psychological safety.
• Using power phrases can help redirect conversations effectively.
• Maintaining composure in high-stakes situations is essential.
• Knowing your walk-away points is critical for negotiation success.
• Reflection after negotiations helps in learning and improvement.
• Every difficult conversation is an opportunity for growth.
• Practice one technique at a time to build negotiation skills.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Difficult Conversations

01:59 Understanding the Latte Framework

06:39 Navigating Tension in Conversations

09:56 Keeping Conversations on Track

10:47 Addressing Bad Behavior

13:46 Maintaining Composure Under Pressure

17:30 Knowing When to Walk Away

21:28 Reflecting on Negotiations

Summary

In this episode of the Confidence Rewired series, Jacqueline Twillie explores the science of self-trust and the mental skill of confidence. She emphasizes that confidence can be trained through neuroplasticity, which allows the brain to rewire itself based on experiences. Jacqueline introduces the 90-day confidence circuit plan, which includes identity anchors, micro actions, and reflection to build lasting confidence. The episode concludes with a final leadership lab challenge, encouraging listeners to map their next 90 days and commit to intentional actions that reinforce their values.

Takeaways

• Confidence is a mental skill that can be trained.
• Neuroplasticity allows the brain to rewire itself based on experience.
• True change happens through intention and repetition.
• The 90-day confidence circuit plan combines identity, micro actions, and reflection.
• Choose one identity anchor to guide your actions.
• Set up weekly challenges to align with your values.
• Track your progress visibly to reinforce learning.
• Reflect on your actions with data, not drama.
• Confidence is built through consistent, intentional decisions.
• Your brain learns through repetition and visibility.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Confidence Rewired

01:00 Understanding Neuroplasticity and Confidence

03:56 The 90-Day Confidence Circuit Plan

07:01 Final Leadership Lab Challenge and Conclusion

Keywords: confidence, neuroplasticity, self-trust, leadership, mental skills, personal development, emotional regulation, identity anchors, micro actions, habit formation

This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or mental health treatment.

Summary

In this episode of the Confidence Rewired series, host Jacqueline Twillie explores the intersection of breath work and confidence, emphasizing the importance of breath in high-stress situations. She introduces cyclic sighing as a powerful technique for reducing anxiety and enhancing leadership presence. The episode also outlines practical steps for incorporating breath work into daily routines, particularly through a 2 p.m. reset routine, and highlights the significance of building resilience and introspective awareness for effective leadership.

Takeaways

• Confidence can be cultivated through breath work.
• Cyclic sighing is an effective anxiety-reduction technique.
• Breath work activates the parasympathetic nervous system.
• The vagus nerve plays a crucial role in stress regulation.
• Slowing your breath enhances decision-making under stress.
• Daily routines can help maintain confidence levels.
• Pairing breath with affirmations boosts self-trust.
• Introspective awareness is a superpower in leadership.
• One minute of breath work can shift your mood.
• Building resilience is essential for leading through challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Confidence and Breath Work

01:46 The Science of Breath and Anxiety Reduction

03:34 Implementing the 2 PM Reset Routine

06:02 Building Confidence Through Practice

Keywords

confidence, breath work, leadership, anxiety reduction, resilience, cyclic sighing, mindfulness, self-trust, neuroplasticity, personal development

This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health treatment.

Summary

In this episode of the Winning Season Podcast, the Confidence Rewired Series, host Jacqueline Twillie discusses the importance of dopamine in building confidence and motivation. She introduces the concept of the 'confidence comeback loop' and emphasizes the significance of tiny wins in stimulating dopamine release. Jacqueline provides a practical framework called the 'Tiny Win System' to help listeners identify small, achievable goals that can lead to greater emotional resilience and motivation. The episode concludes with encouragement to track progress and celebrate wins, reinforcing the idea that consistent, small achievements can lead to significant growth in confidence.

Takeaways

• You need dopamine, not just any kind.
• Dopamine is the brain's reward chemical.
• Tiny intentional wins matter for motivation.
• Small achievements can stimulate dopamine release.
• Breaking down goals into smaller steps trains the brain.
• Create small, doable moments for dopamine hits.
• Big confidence comes from consistent wins.
• Celebrate wins out loud to reinforce the dopamine loop.
• Track your wins to build momentum.
• Tiny wins are powerful for personal development.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Confidence Rewired

00:23 Understanding the Dopamine Comeback Loop

01:41 Implementing the Tiny Win System

04:35 Looking Ahead: Breath-Powered Reset

Summary

In this episode of the Confidence Rewired Series of the Winning Season Podcast, host Jacqueline Twillie explores the concept of the 'messy middle' where life and work pressures collide, leading to a dip in confidence. She discusses the neuroscience behind confidence, emphasizing how chronic stress affects the brain's ability to function effectively. Jacqueline introduces the BLAST method, a five-step process designed to help individuals reset their confidence and manage stress effectively. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to implement the BLAST method in their daily lives.

Takeaways

• When life and work pile on, confidence can take a hit.
• Chronic stress affects the brain's decision-making abilities.
• Confidence is not just a mindset; it's rooted in neuroscience.
• Performance-based confidence can falter under pressure.
• Identity anchors help maintain confidence during chaos.
• The BLAST method is a practical tool for resetting confidence.
• Breathing techniques can calm the nervous system.
• Movement is essential for boosting brain function.
• Tracking responses to stress helps in understanding triggers.
• You can train your brain to rise above chaos.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding the Messy Middle of Confidence

03:23 The BLAST Method: Rewiring Confidence

06:24 Looking Ahead: Dopamine Loops and Tiny Wins

This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health treatment.

Summary

In this series of Confidence Rewired, Winning Season Podcast host Jacqueline Twillie delves into the intricacies of confidence, particularly how it can be affected by setbacks and stress. She introduces the concept of the brain's confidence center, the ventral medial prefrontal cortex, and discusses the importance of an identity anchor in maintaining self-assurance. Through personal anecdotes and scientific insights, Jacqueline emphasizes the significance of grounding oneself in individual values and experiences to combat self-doubt and enhance resilience.

Takeaways

• The ventral medial prefrontal cortex is crucial for confidence.
• Identity anchors help stabilize confidence under pressure.
• Self-doubt often arises from internal alarms, not external validation.
• Grounding in personal values is key to overcoming self-doubt.
• Confidence can be affected by environments outside of one's expertise.
• The brain-body connection plays a significant role in confidence.
• Reflecting on purpose strengthens resilience and confidence.
• Performance-based confidence is less stable than identity-based confidence.
• Understanding your values can lower threat responses in stressful situations.
• Deep reflection on identity leads to more sustainable confidence.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Confidence and Setbacks

00:58 Understanding the Confidence Center

06:28 The Brain-Body Connection and Resilience

Winning Season Podcast: Confidence Rewired Series

Episode 1: The Neuroscience of Confidence Crashers

Host: Jacqueline Twillie

In this episode of Winning Season, Jacqueline Twillie explores the science behind confidence crashes and provides practical tools to rewire your response to setbacks. Drawing from her personal experience with imposter syndrome during Zero Gap's first enterprise rollout, Jacqueline breaks down the neuroscience of why our confidence can unravel so quickly and offers research-backed strategies to bounce back stronger.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand how your brain's error detection system (dorsal ACC) triggers when performance doesn't match self-image
• Learn how stress responses are amplified in high achievers who build identity around excellence
• Discover how cortisol disrupts connections between strategic thinking and memory during pressure moments
• Master two practical frameworks for rewiring confidence: the R4 Framework and the AHA Framework
• Implement immediate tools to reset your nervous system after a confidence hit

Episode Timestamps:

• 00:01 - Introduction and personal story of confidence crash during Zero Gap's enterprise rollout
• 02:11 - Explanation of the neuroscience behind confidence crashes
• 03:15 - How stress response impacts high achievers specifically
• 05:13 - Introduction to the R4 Framework (Risk, Resilience, Reward, Reset)
• 06:39 - Introduction to the AHA Framework (Attitude, Habits, Actions)
• 01:22 - Practical tools to calm your nervous system
• 01:32 - Tool #1: 60-second error download exercise
• 03:20 - Tool #2: 30-second psychological sigh breathing technique
• 04:20 - Preview of next episode on activating your "internal hype coach"

Resources Mentioned:

• Free Download: Confidence Reset Worksheet (limited access through June 2025) https://learn-zerogap.thinkific.com/products/digital_downloads/resilientleadersprogram2025
• Book Reference: "Dear Resilient Leader" by Jacqueline Twillie https://amzn.to/4j7yI6j

Research Referenced:

UCLA studies on "affect labeling" - how putting language to emotion shifts brain activity

• University of Michigan research on self-distancing to lower stress and improve decision-making
• Stanford research on the effectiveness of the psychological sigh breathing technique

Connect with Jacqueline:

• Visit zerogap.co for more information on programs and resources
• Follow the Winning Season podcast for the full Confidence Rewired series

Legal Note: The neuroscience and psychological content shared is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or therapeutic support.

Program: Resilient Leaders Program at zerogap.co

• Available for individual contributors/ high performers, job seekers
• Entrepreneur version
• Corporate training for Fortune 500 companies

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Winning Season, host Jacqueline welcomes talent executive and inclusion strategist Fadjanie Cadet to discuss revolutionary approaches to performance management, talent development, and creating psychologically safe workplaces. Fadjanie shares insights from her career, including practical frameworks for identifying high-potential talent, building effective feedback cultures, and leading organizational change. The conversation covers common misconceptions about performance management, emerging trends in organizational development, and strategies for nurturing future leaders in volatile environments.

Guest Bio:

Fadjanie Cadet is a talent executive, inclusion and transformation strategist, certified organizational development and DEI leader known for blending heart and strategy to create workplaces that both feel good and perform optimally. A Top 100 Under 50 Emerging Leader, she has expertise in performance management, leadership development, and cultural transformation, with experience building systems and programs from scratch in her last three roles.

Notable Quotes:

• "Performance management is holistic. It's coaching, it's continuous feedback. It's not just ratings in the traditional sense."
• "Development drives performance. The two have to be connected."
• "People need to feel heard before they can be led."
• "High performance alone does not equate to high potential."
• "We need leaders who can't just perform today but can perform tomorrow regardless of what tomorrow looks like."
• "Make feedback normal. Weave feedback into everyday interactions."
• "If our people are walking away from performance reviews feeling defeated instead of motivated and with a plan, then our process has failed."

Resources Mentioned:

• Dr. William Kahn's research on drivers of employee engagement
• Textio's study on gender and racial bias in performance feedback
• "The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership" by John C. Maxwell

Chapters

• 00:03: Introduction and welcome
• 02:26: Fadjanie's career journey in the HR and talent space
• 04:09: Common misconceptions about performance management
• 07:13: Exciting emerging trends in organizational development
• 09:31: Indicators of effective performance management processes
• 11:24: Aligning individual goals with organizational objectives
• 13:46: Identifying and nurturing high-potential talent
• 19:45: Strategies for getting people on board with organizational change
• 22:15: Establishing a healthy feedback culture
• 24:19: Common pitfalls to avoid in performance reviews
• 27:18: Key skills that shaped Fadjanie's success
• 29:44: Case study on improving diversity in leadership development
• 34:45: Rapid-fire questions with Fadjanie

In This Episode In this revamped episode of The Winning Season Podcast, host Jacqueline Twillie introduces a new "professional girlfriend" format, offering candid advice on navigating VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) environments when the chaos feels overwhelming including when we're contributing to it ourselves. Drawing from personal experience, Jacqueline shares actionable strategies for finding clarity, making decisions without complete information, recognizing your value, and creating plans aligned with your core values.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Winning Season Podcast

02:21 Navigating VUCA Environments

10:08 Overcoming Personal Chaos and Self-Doubt

12:37 Strategic Planning in Uncertain Times

13:59 Resilience and Adaptability in Action

Key Takeaways

• Podcast Evolution: Jacqueline explains her decision to shift the podcast format to focus on "finding the win in any season" with a more conversational, girlfriend-to-girlfriend approach
• Understanding VUCA: Breaking down what VUCA means and why we're experiencing another VUCA moment globally
• Self-Assessment: How to recognize when you're contributing to the chaos through overthinking, procrastination, or perfectionism
• Decision-Making Framework: Practical steps for making decisions when you don't have 100% of the information
• Value Alignment: Creating strategies that honor your personal values while remaining flexible

• When faced with chaos, first ask yourself: "Is this facts or feelings?" to combat overthinking
• Use Byron Katie's "The Work" framework with four questions to gain clarity
• In VUCA environments, you rarely have 100% of information—make decisions with what you have
• Perfectionism often masquerades as high standards but can actually be self-sabotage
• Create a Professional Achievement Portfolio to remind yourself of your value and capabilities
• Identify your top 5 values and ensure they align with your strategic plans
• Have both Plan A and Plan B ready, accounting for the information you don't yet have
• Resilience isn't always about bouncing back quickly—sometimes it's "inching forward" consistently

Resources Mentioned

• Professional Achievement Portfolio - Free resource available on Jacqueline's website
• Byron Katie's "The Work" - Four-question framework for mental clarity

Connect With Jacqueline

Have a question for a future episode? Reach out to Jacqueline:

• LinkedIn
• Instagram

Quote of the Episode

"Remember who she was and the game changed." - Lalah Delia

The Winning Season Podcast: Finding the Win in Any Season

In this episode, Jacqueline Twillie breaks down how to navigate Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous (VUCA) situations using the science-backed AHA framework—Attitude, Habits, and Actions.

Key Topics:

• Understanding VUCA: Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity defined
• The neuroscience behind uncertainty and decision-making
• The AHA Method: Attitude, Habits, and Actions explained
• Practical techniques for each component of the framework
• Real-world examples of successful VUCA navigation

Books:

• "Dear Resilient Leader" by Jacqueline Twillie
• "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" by Dr. Carol Dweck
• "Tiny Habits" by B.J. Fogg
• "Atomic Habits" by James Clear

Action Steps for Listeners:

1. Identify one VUCA challenge you're facing and reframe it as a growth opportunity
2. Choose one high-impact habit to implement daily
3. Commit to taking one small action on a postponed project

About Jacqueline:Jacqueline Twillie is the creator of the Resilient Leaders Program at Zero Gap. With over a decade in training and development, she helps leaders build resilience through evidence-based approaches.

Connect:

• Learn more about the Resilient Leaders Program: www.zerogap.co
• Connect with Jacqueline on LinkedIn
• Use code "AHALUNCH" for 15% off program enrollment

Episode 2 in the VUCA Series: Understanding Uncertainty & Building Powerful Habits

In this powerful episode, Jacqueline Swilley breaks down why uncertainty isn't your weakness—it's potentially your greatest competitive advantage. Discover how consistency trumps certainty in leadership and learn practical habits that create clarity during wildly unpredictable times.

🎙️ Episode Highlights

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Leaders with structured self-regulation habits report 37% lower stress levels and 42% improved decision confidence
• The most successful leaders aren't those who know the most, but those with habitual ways of processing new information
• Elite performers don't reinvent their process with each new challenge—they build consistent mental models that create a foundation for agility

⚡ The Morning Momentum Method (5-Minute Daily Practice)

1. Emotional Weather Check (1 min): Name your emotional state to improve cognitive function
2. Contain Uncertainty (1 min): Write down one specific uncertainty you're facing
3. Control Center (1 min): Identify one thing you can absolutely control today
4. Purpose Alignment (1 min): Choose one micro-action that aligns with your core values
5. Vocal Affirmation (1 min): Say your intention out loud to activate different neural pathways

📚 Research Spotlight

• American Psychological Association's 2023 Work and Wellbeing Survey: Leaders with consistent self-regulation habits show 37% reduction in stress and 42% improvement in decision confidence
• McKinsey Study (Harvard Business Review, 2023): Leaders with continuous learning habits adapt 2.5 times faster to disruptive changes

👉 Real Talk Resilience: Aaron's Story

Follow how Aaron, a project lead in biotech and one of the only Black men in his division, navigated a massive company merger using his "Top Three Anchors" approach:

• Gratitude focus: "What am I genuinely grateful for in this moment?"
• Team-centered thinking: "What does my team actually need from me today?"
• Progress mindset: "What progress can we make, even if it's small?"

❓ Ask Jacqueline

Q: How do I lead my team when I don't have clear answers from senior leadership?A: Use the Known-Unknown-Next framework to be transparent without transferring anxiety

Q: What's one habit that helps with executive presence during uncertainty?A: Continuous learning with strategic sharing using the 3-2-1 method

⏭️ Next Episode Preview

Coming up next: How to take clear action when everything seems interconnected and chaotic. Jacqueline will share insights from the LATTE Framework that's helped hundreds of leaders cut through the noise.

"Emulate excellence and eliminate excuses because this right here, it's your winning season."

In this first episode of a 4-part series on leading through VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity), Jacqueline explores how to transform volatility from your biggest stressor into your competitive advantage using her AHA Framework: Attitude, Habits, and Actions. This episode specifically focuses on the "Attitude" component and provides practical strategies for staying grounded when everything around you is changing rapidly.

Introduction (0:00-2:45)

• Introduction to the 4-part VUCA series using the AHA Framework

• Today's focus: Volatility and transforming it from stressor to advantage

  
  

Main Topic Discussion (3:15-11:30)

• Definition of volatility beyond market fluctuations (3:15)

• Research highlights (4:00):

• American Management Association's 2023 "Leading Through Disruption" study surveying 1,200+ executives found 70% list "rapid change" as their top stressor

• Harvard Business Review found leaders who regulate their response to volatility outperform peers by up to 45% in decision-making effectiveness

• Key insight: Emotional regulation was a stronger predictor of success than technical expertise

• Introduction to the Attitude component of AHA Framework (5:15)

• Quote from Jacqueline's book "Dear Resilient Leader": "Resilience isn't about ignoring the storm—it's about learning how to dance in the rain."

Leadership Lab (11:30-15:00)

• Introduction of the "Reframe Ritual" practice

• 7-day challenge with daily reflection component:

1. Set a reminder for the same time each day

2. Take 3 minutes to write down ONE volatile moment

3. Complete: "This challenge is showing me..."

• Example from Jacqueline's own experience (13:00)

Real Talk Resilience (15:00-18:30)

• Engineering manager case study using a "Volatility Protocol"

• Three key questions in the protocol:

1. What facts do we actually know today?

2. What remains aligned with our team purpose?

3. Where can we make progress despite the chaos?

Ask Jacqueline (18:30-22:00)

• Q1: Staying optimistic during volatility (18:30)

• "Anchor Statement" Method:

1. Write down the volatile situation

2. List three previous times you've navigated significant change

3. Identify one skill you used in each situation

4. Craft your statement: "I've led through [similar challenge]. I have [specific skills]. I am not facing this alone."

• Based on science-backed brain rewiring, not just positive thinking

Winning and Learning (22:00-24:00)

• Success story from a Minneapolis listener in manufacturing

• Applied the AHA Framework to successfully pitch a new initiative to C-suite using just 3 clear data points

A special thanks to ZeroGap.co for sponsoring this episode! Your support enables us to continue providing valuable leadership insights and strategies to our Winning Season community. Visit ZeroGap.co to learn more about their commitment to helping professionals close the gap between where they are and where they want to be.

Closing Remarks (24:00-25:30)

• Key takeaways:

• Volatility is inevitable. But your attitude is your anchor.

• The Reframe Ritual turns chaos into clarity by creating a consistent response pattern.

• Real leadership isn't about avoiding the storm—it's learning to move with purpose through it.

• Next steps and resources:

• Try the 7-day Leadership Lab Reframe Challenge

💪 "Resilience isn't about ignoring the storm—it's about learning how to dance in the rain." (7:00)

💪 "I realized I couldn't control the change, but I could control how I showed up in it." (15:00)

💪 "The clarity I got from the AHA structure made me feel like I deserved the seat at the table—not like I was begging for one." (22:00)

💪 "Real leadership isn't about avoiding the storm—it's learning to move with purpose through it." (24:00)

In this episode, Jacqueline V. Twillie introduces what VUCA really means Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity and why it’s showing up in your work life more than ever. Whether you have a formal leadership title or not, this series will give you practical tools to stay grounded, clear, and confident.

🧭 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Why work feels so chaotic lately (and how VUCA explains it)

• A breakdown of the VUCA framework—what each piece means and how it shows up

• The philosophy behind Jacqueline’s AHA Framework (Attitude, Habits, Actions)

• A preview of the full 4-part series and what you’ll learn in each episode

• 00:01 – Welcome + why work feels so unpredictable right now

• 00:42 – What is VUCA and why it matters now more than ever

• 01:04 – Breakdown of each part: Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity

• 01:55 – Who this series is for and why it’s personal

• 02:04 – What is the AHA Framework? (Attitude, Habits, Actions)

• 02:50 – What you’ll get from each episode in the series

• 03:50 – Leadership in the middle: honoring informal leaders

“When the world around us is uncertain, we need internal certainty.”

📚 Mentioned in This Episode:

• Book: Dear Resilient Leader

• Website: ZeroGap.co

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacquelinetwillie

• Podcast: Winning Season (Available on Apple + Spotify)

• Threads: @jacquelinetwillie

Episode Summary

In this mini-pod episode, Jacqueline shares a practical seven-question framework to transform your one-on-one meetings from basic check-ins into meaningful growth opportunities. She explains how to apply her LATTE method (Look, Anticipate, Think, Talk, Evaluate) to create more intentional and empowering conversations with your team members.

The Seven Question Framework

1. What are you working on and what's going well?
2. What challenges are you anticipating?
3. What does success look like this month?
4. Who do you need support from and how can I help?
5. What have you learned recently and how can we apply it?
6. What progress have you made on your goals since our last meeting?
7. Is there anything else you'd like to discuss?

Common Problems with One-on-Ones

• Lack of structure
• Too much focus on tasks rather than growth
• Missed opportunities for coaching and development
• Meetings getting canceled or postponed repeatedly
• Turning into status updates that duplicate team meetings

The LATTE Method Applied to One-on-Ones

L - Look

Question: What are you working on and what's going well?Purpose: Builds momentum, trust, and psychological safetySuggested phrasing: "Let's kick off with a win. What's something you're proud of this week?"Caution: Don't skip celebrating wins and jump straight to problems

A - Anticipate

Question: What challenges are you anticipating?Purpose: Encourages proactive thinking and builds coaching relationshipSuggested phrasing: "Is there anything that might create friction over the next week or so?"Focus: Help team members strengthen their ability to foresee potential issues

T - Think

Question: What does success look like this month?Purpose: Centers conversation on their goals, not just yoursSuggested phrasing: "Imagine it's the end of the month and you crushed it - what happened?"Tip: Be comfortable with pauses; don't define success for them

T - Talk

Question: Who do you need support from and how can I help?Purpose: Builds leadership voice, emotional intelligence, and a support mindsetSuggested phrasing: "Who else needs to be in the loop? How can I back you up?"Reminder: Empower your team member rather than taking on all responsibility

E - Evaluate

Question: What have you learned recently and how can we apply it?Purpose: Promotes reflection, celebrates growth, and improves decision-makingSuggested phrasing: "What's one lesson you've picked up recently? How can we use that?"Tip: Focus on insights, not just outputs

Additional Resources

• LinkedIn Lunch and Learn: Additional tools and dashboard for leveling up one-on-ones
• Visit zerogap.co for details
• Check out the Resilient Leaders Program by ZeroGap

Episode Summary

In this episode, Jacqueline Twillie shares a simple yet powerful three-word phrase that can transform your leadership, elevate your negotiation skills, and help you navigate workplace dynamics with greater confidence: "Tell Me More."

Jacqueline reveals how this simple language shift led to a breakthrough in a challenging negotiation situation and provides practical guidance on how to use this power phrase in various professional scenarios.

Chapter

• 00:00 - 01:30 Introduction and Episode Overview
• 01:31 - 03:45 Host's Personal Check-in and Beverage of the Day
• 03:46 - 06:20 Backstory: How "Tell Me More" Saved a Negotiation
• 06:21 - 09:15 Three Key Ways to Use "Tell Me More" in Professional Settings
• 09:16 - 12:30 Real Talk Resilience Segment: Additional Applications
• 12:31 - 14:05 Listener Q&A on Using the Phrase Effectively
• 14:06 - 15:45 Leadership Spotlight: Kelly Walton at Snipes USA
• 15:46 - 16:20 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

Key Takeaways

• The phrase "Tell Me More" can unlock clarity and help navigate difficult moments in professional settings
• When used authentically, this power phrase can save relationships, negotiations, time, money, and prevent hurt feelings
• Simple language shifts can lead to powerful breakthroughs in communication

How to Use "Tell Me More" in Three Key Scenarios

1. In Negotiations
2. When Leading a Team
3. When Facing Pushback

Real Talk Resilience Segment

• Resilience is about the words we choose, not just the actions we take
• Additional ways to use "Tell Me More"

Listener Q&A

Q: "I've tried to use 'tell me more' in meetings, but sometimes people shut down or give vague answers. How do I navigate that without pushing too hard or seeming intrusive?"

A:

• Try rephrasing: "I'd love to understand more about your perspective"
• Give people space and silence to gather their thoughts
• Show appreciation for input already given
• Be mindful of your tone to avoid seeming condescending
• 
  
• Leadership Spotlight

Celebrating Kelly Walton's appointment as Chief Marketing Officer at Snipes USA. Her career spans global giants like Amazon Music, NBA, Under Armour, and LVMH. In her new role, she will oversee all marketing activities and lead Snipes Serves, an initiative focused on community engagement.

Remember: Small language shifts create powerful career moves. When you use "Tell Me More" intentionally, you'll deepen conversations, strengthen leadership, and open new doors.

In this mini-episode, Jacqueline shares insights about building a strong inner circle of female peers for professional success. Harvard Business Review found women with strong female-dominated inner circles are 2.5x more likely to land executive positions.

• Women with strong female networks are 2.5x more likely to reach executive positions
• Your inner circle provides insights on navigating workplace challenges unique to women
• Male professionals' advancement isn't affected by the gender composition of their networks
• Networking doesn't require money - meaningful connections can be built through simple actions

• Attitude: Approach networking with a mindset of mutual growth, not clout
• Habits: Consistently pour into your circle with small, meaningful actions
• Actions: Share resources and create spaces for others to rise with you

1. Share the wealth: Pass on valuable articles and resources
2. Go beyond the boardroom: Connect on personal interests and wellness
3. Take action now: Share a resource, check in with a peer, introduce women who should know each other

"When we lift each other up, we do not just rise, we thrive."

Harvard Business Review • "Dear Resilient Leader" book • Resilient Leaders Program at Zero Gap

Reach out on LinkedIn or Threads to share how you're expanding your table with intention.