Being a CEO requires more than just strategy and experience—it takes grit. The kind that gets you through uncertainty, setbacks, loneliness at the top, and the pressure to always have the answers.
🎧 Listen to “Why CEOs Need Grit — And How to Develop It” now on Women Leaders on the Move.
Take a listen to host Natalie Benamou and featured guest Aviva Leebow Wolmer, CEO, Empower Leadership, LLC, executive coach and Vistage Chair. Aviva supports over 50 business leaders across different industries. Her story is full of unexpected turns—from the courtroom to the C-suite—and every step is grounded in a desire to make a meaningful impact.
“Being a CEO is hard. It’s not for the faint of heart,” Aviva says. “You need passion and perseverance. Grit is what keeps you grounded when things feel uncertain—and it’s something you can develop.”- Aviva Leebow Wolmer
The Secret to GRIT
Aviva explains that GRIT doesn’t mean pushing through without help. In fact, the strongest leaders she works with are the ones who ask the hard questions, seek out feedback, and keep going—even when it’s messy.
What makes her perspective so powerful is her authentic leadership style.
“There were moments I questioned myself. I had imposter feelings, even as a CEO and someone saw something in me—and that gave me the push to keep going.”- Aviva Leebow Wolmer
3 Key Takeaways for Women in Leadership
1. Grit Comes from Choosing to Stay in the Challenge
Aviva sees it every day. Leaders who grow the most are the ones who stay committed when things get tough. It’s not about doing everything perfectly—it’s about not giving up when the pressure builds.
2. Doubt Doesn’t Disqualify You—It Grounds You
Leadership is filled with high-stakes decisions. It’s normal to have moments of hesitation. What matters is having the tools—and the people—to help you move through it with clarity.
“I didn’t always know what I was doing, but I surrounded myself with others who helped me see what I couldn’t yet see in myself.”-Aviva Leebow Wolmer
3. You Don’t Need to Know Everything—Just Be Willing to Learn
“You’re not the only spot on the beach ball,” Aviva says, encouraging leaders to invite in different perspectives. Peer groups, coaching, and open feedback help leaders build stronger, more thoughtful solutions. Leadership is a team sport—even when you're at the top.
This episode is a reminder that real leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about having the courage to keep showing up, especially when things get tough. GRIT stays resilient when making difficult decisions.
✨ Learn more about HerCsuite® leadership retreats, peer circles, and Thrive in 2025 Women’s Conference at HerCsuite.com.
📩 Reach out to host Natalie Benamou on LinkedIn she loves hearing from you!
About Our Guest
Aviva Leebow Wolmer serves as a Chair in Georgia for Vistage, the world’s largest CEO coaching and peer advisory organization for small and midsize businesses. As a Vistage Chair, she leads two peer advisory groups of CEOs eager to accelerate toward their goals, along with a group of growth-oriented key executives committed to driving transformative change within their organizations.
Get in touch with Aviva:
Connect with Host Natalie Benamou, Founder HerCsuite®
Natalie is the host of "Women Leaders on the Move'', a top 25 Women's Leadership podcast by Feedspot. She is also the Founder of HerCsuite®, a powerful women's network with membership programs that advance women in the second half of their career. Natalie is also the President of HER HEALTHX, a nonprofit focused on improving health outcomes for women.
Natalie Benamou on LinkedIn
HerCsuite® on LinkedIn
Interested in being a guest on the show - Apply Here
Ready to Lead with Purpose and Make an Impact?
Join HerCsuite® and connect with inspiring leaders who are transforming businesses into forces for good. Gain exclusive access to insights, mentorship, and networking opportunities designed for women executives, entrepreneurs, and board directors.
🚀 Take the next step in your leadership journey today!
💡 Listen, Learn, and Lead with Purpose! Subscribe to Women Leaders on the Move and stay ahead with expert strategies for success.
