Today we are going to dismantle a myth - the myth that leadership is reserved for those with perceived backgrounds and clear past stories that fit neatly into little success templates.  If you're somebody that's ever felt alienated by the traditional leadership discourse, this episode is for you because of our guest and the unique background and insight she brings.  Our guest, Dr. Jesse Piper, is a living counterexample to the conventional leadership narrative. She was raised by her grandmother after a turbulent early childhood marked by her parents’ struggle with substance abuse. And her story isn't about linear progression, but really a journey through complexity, adversity and resilience.  Jessie obtained her PhD in Family Science from Kansas State University. Her professional interests surround grandfamilies, early childhood development, family dynamics and relationships. She has been with her husband for just over a decade, built a new home, and has two small children. Jessie currently works for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment as the Bureau Director of Family Health where she provides leadership to improve and support children and family health across the lifespan.  In today’s episode we cover everything from Jessie’s professional opinions leadership to how she’s dealt with the trauma in her life, including: The importance of acceptance in the recovery process (12:40 and throughout) How the way we define our identity affects our ability to deal with life transitions (16:10) The line between being someone’s superior and their friend (31:55) The B.S advice to someone struggling to establish their relationship with themselves (42:15) How to connect with Dr. Jessie Piper: Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: Jessie Gardiner - Piper Referenced Resources: Quiz: What Drives You?  Our Newsletter - stay up to date on our newest resources and events, including our new Family & Relationships course!  We’d love to see you there! BRAND BUILDER WORKSHOP EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT COMING TO AN END! In Phoenix, AZ October 7th & 8th, 2023, this interactive event will give you access to myself and other members of the Art of Coaching team. We will give you the time, attention, and resources you need to vet your ideas and feel confident in the next steps you need to take to be successful.  You won’t get this kind of experience anywhere else.  The early bird discount ends August 7th, so sign up today to take advantage of the savings! Today’s episode was brought to you by: BetterHelp - Therapy is a powerful tool for enhancing self awareness and understanding. Sometimes we can be unaware of our own desires and motivations, our wants and needs, and talking to a professional can help us gain valuable insights. We all know that leadership and coaching can be incredibly fulfilling, but it can also be challenging. It can lead to compassion fatigue and moments where we feel overwhelmed trying to help so many people to the best of our ability. When you're constantly giving yourself to others, it's easy to forget you also need to take care of your own needs. Luckily BetterHelp is here to help.  Go to betterhelp.com/aoc today. AG1 - A powder that contains 75 high quality vitamins, minerals, whole foods, sourced superfoods, probiotics and adaptogens - all of which support gut health, your nervous system, your immune system, recovery, and focus. So whether you're on the road and you know that you're not going to have access to great nutrition, you're heading out the door and you need to ensure you have your bases covered, or you just want to minimize the chances of getting sick or worn down, be sure to check them out   For a free one year supply of immune supporting vitamin D and five free travel packs with your first purchase, all you have to do is visit drinkAG1.com/coach. Take ownership over your health!