In this “Unplugged” episode, we explore the concept of “future self” and how it can guide everyday decisions and long-term leadership choices.

Sparked by a New York Times piece comparing people who back into parking spots versus pulling in, we discuss the idea of doing the harder thing now for an easier, more rewarding outcome later, and connect that mindset to executive life—especially exit strategies.We reflect on how leaders can stay engaged, keep learning, build strong bench strength, and proactively shape succession rather than being “managed out.”

Susan shares what drove her own planned departure, including a desire for new life experiences and fatigue with recurring, poorly researched organizational problems, while Juliet describes knowing it’s time to move on when frustration outweighs joy and learning stops. We also touch on ageism, practical financial considerations, and the importance of staying relevant—especially by building AI fluency and grounding decisions in values.

** Enjoyed this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Subscribe and leave us a 5-star rating to help others discover the podcast. We’re so grateful to each and every listener!

——— Connect with Your Hosts ———

Email Juliet: JulietClothier@gmail.com
Follow her on socials: LinkedIn / Instagram
Her website is www.JulietClothier.com

Email Susan: Susan@SusanASutherland.com
Follow her on socials: LinkedIn / Instagram
Her website is www.SusanASutherland.com

Secrets of the C-Suite is both a podcast AND a leadership consultancy. Learn more about our offerings.

In this 'Best of Season 1' episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Melissa Hurrington, an unapologetic leader who has mastered the art of balancing personal and professional life. When her company turned to her for guidance during the pandemic in 2020, Melissa realized that no one truly has all the answers. This pivotal moment allowed her to show up authentically and highlight the often-unrecognized leadership roles women take on in times of crisis.

Today, Melissa is a sought-after speaker and panelist, an influential voice on LinkedIn, and continues to inspire others through her work with the Bold Leaders Collective and as President of the Omaha Chapter of the CFO Leadership Council. As a mentor, she empowers emerging leaders to embrace their potential.

Melissa's journey illustrates her belief that skills learned in dance—such as discipline, teamwork, and creativity—translate seamlessly into the business world. Her commitment to fostering a culture of lifelong learning stems from her own experiences, driving her to continuously grow and encourage others to do the same.

Thank you for tuning in! We hope you found inspiration in Melissa’s story and insights.

You can follow Melissa on LinkedIn and can read more about her in this article.

** Enjoyed this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Subscribe and leave us a 5-star rating to help others discover the podcast. We’re so grateful to each and every listener!

——— Connect with Your Hosts ———

Email Juliet: JulietClothier@gmail.com
Follow her on socials: LinkedIn / Instagram
Her website is www.JulietClothier.com

Email Susan: Susan@SusanASutherland.com
Follow her on socials: LinkedIn / Instagram
Her website is www.SusanASutherland.com

Secrets of the C-Suite is both a podcast AND a leadership consultancy. Learn more about our offerings.

In this episode of Secrets of the C-Suite, we’re joined by Pippa Parfait, strategist, business coach, and founder of The Disobedient Business Co—a business built for humans who don’t fit neatly into traditional models of work or leadership.

Pippa shares her winding, unconventional career journey, from leaving formal education at 16 to senior leadership roles in the public sector, before “noping out” of bureaucracy and retraining as a coach. She reflects on following the energy, recognizing when it’s time to leave a role, and how years of performing what leadership was “supposed” to look like eventually led her to build something radically different.

We talk candidly about neurodivergence, including Pippa’s later-in-life ADHD and autism diagnoses, how those realizations reshaped her understanding of her career, and why so many neurodivergent leaders and business owners are drawn to nontraditional paths. Pippa also shares thoughtful, practical guidance for leaders managing neurodivergent teams—centered on listening, flexibility, and meaningful accommodations.

The conversation also explores what it’s really like to run a business with family, the importance of boundaries and grace, and why having “a person” you can think out loud with can be transformational for leaders navigating complexity and change.

Honest, funny, and deeply insightful, this episode is an invitation to question the status quo, trust the breadcrumbs, and build work that actually fits who you are.

You can reach Pippa at pippa@disobedientbusiness.com, on Instagram @disobedientbusinessco, or on www.disobedientbusiness.com.

** Enjoyed this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Subscribe and leave us a 5-star rating to help others discover the podcast. We’re so grateful to each and every listener!

——— Connect with Your Hosts ———

Email Juliet: JulietClothier@gmail.com
Follow her on socials: LinkedIn / Instagram
Her website is www.JulietClothier.com

Email Susan: Susan@SusanASutherland.com
Follow her on socials: LinkedIn / Instagram
Her website is www.SusanASutherland.com

Secrets of the C-Suite is both a podcast AND a leadership consultancy. Learn more about our offerings.