What Happens When Life Takes a Turn You Didn’t See Coming?
In this episode of Women Leaders on the Move, host Natalie Benamou talks with COO and Board Director Liesl Schmidt about her journey and the lessons she shares in Power of What’s NEXT: Bold Moves by Design.
Liesl’s story shows why the choices you make today—building relationships, finding your voice, and staying resilient, create the foundation you’ll need when change comes unexpectedly.
What you will discover in this interview is the arc of learning how to be prepared and how to plan for the unexpected.
“You don’t always see the challenges coming, but you can prepare by building relationships that will carry you through.” – Liesl Schmidt
🌟 Key Insights:
Liesl walks us through what happens when we put all of our trust into a leadership team and what to do if there is a sudden change.
5 Lessons from Liesl Schmidt on Building Your Network
1. Why invest in your network now?
The connections you build today become the people who support you tomorrow when challenges or opportunities appear.
2. How does courage help you ask for what you want?
Asking positions you to receive opportunities. Liesl reminds us that clarity and courage open new doors.
3. What role does resilience play in career transitions?
Navigating unexpected changes requires strength. Resilience helps you move forward with perspective.
4. When is the right time to embrace a new chapter?
Oftentimes before you feel ready. Growth happens when you take the first step, even without all the answers.
5. Why is your story so important?
Your lived experience can open doors you never imagined. Sharing your story creates trust, visibility, and influence.
FAQs from This Episode
Q: What’s the best way to start growing my network?
A: Begin by reaching out to people you admire or who share your interests. Start small, build consistency, and focus on authentic connections.
Q: How can I build resilience during career transitions?
A: Resilience comes from perspective. Lean on your network, stay open to new possibilities, and remember that challenges often lead to growth.
Q: Why should I share my story?
A: Your experiences inspire others and demonstrate the unique value you bring. Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for building influence.
This interview includes insights into writing Power of What's NEXT: Bold Moves By Design.
ACTION STEP
"Sometimes you have to step forward without all the answers, because clarity often comes in the doing.” – Liesl Schmidt
📖 Read Wendi’s chapter in the new hardcover of Power of What’s NEXT: Bold Moves By Design, releasing October 14th.
Special thanks Liesl Schmidt for being on the podcast, a featured author in Power of What's NEXT: Bold Moves By Design
Keep Shining Your Light Bright. The World Needs You!
About Liesl Schmidt
Liesl Schmidt is a financial executive, board leader, and transformation strategist with over 20 years of experience. As COO of River Valley Community Bank and former EVP at U.S. Bank, she has led finance, operations, HR, IT, and risk. She also serves on several nonprofit boards and is a passionate advocate for women and community impact.
Beyond her executive leadership, Liesl is a wife, mother, and grandmother, and a proud member of the HerCsuite® Women on Boards Mastermind Program.
Connect with Natalie Benamou
Natalie Benamou is the visionary behind Women Leaders on the Move, a Top 10 Women’s Leadership podcast by Feedspot. As the Founder of HerCsuite®, she leads a powerful leadership network for women navigating board service, portfolio careers, and entrepreneurship—especially in the second half of their professional lives. Work 1:1 with Natalie as a strategic advisor or fractional Chief Growth Officer.
Natalie also serves as President and CEO of HER HEALTHX, a nonprofit revolutionizing women's healthcare navigation and bridging the healthcare communication gap with agentic AI.
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This podcast is brought to you by HerCsuite®’s programs Land Your Next Board Role. Explore curated programs, real conversations, and experiences designed for women shaping what’s next—for themselves and the organizations they lead. Find out about our newest program Women Leaders on the Move AI.
