Welcome to Crossroads + Catalysts: Leadership & Career Strategy for Directors and Managers!
Crossroads + Catalysts Leadership Podcast
Crossroads + Catalysts Leadership Podcast
Leadership gets more complicated the higher you go—and too often, you're expected to figure it out as you go. Crossroads & Catalysts is a leadership podcast for managers, directors, emerging leaders, and experienced professionals who want practical strategies for becoming more effective and thoughtful leaders. Hosted by Shenita Brown, financial executive, leadership strategist, and speaker, each episode tackles the challenges that come with actually leading people: difficult conversations, accountability, team performance, communication, decision-making, executive presence, managing up, leading through change, and the transition from individual contributor to leader. But great leadership isn't only about how you manage others. It's also about how you manage yourself. That's why we explore the judgment, self-awareness, discipline, courage, and strategic thinking required to lead well—especially when the answer isn't obvious. You'll hear practical leadership advice, real-world experiences, and perspectives designed to help you think more critically about how you lead and what you can do differently. Whether you're a new manager learning how to lead a team, a director preparing for executive leadership, or an experienced leader sharpening your skills, you'll find conversations here that meet you where you are—and challenge you to keep growing. Because becoming a better leader isn't a destination. It's a practice. New episodes every week.
Jan. 5, 2026

When Leadership Finds You - But you didn’t Choose it: Circumstantial vs Deliberate Leadership

When Leadership Finds You - But you didn’t Choose it: Circumstantial vs Deliberate Leadership

Not everyone who becomes a leader actively pursues the role. In this episode, we explore the critical difference between circumstantial leadership and deliberate leadership—and why understanding which path you're on matters for your success and satisfaction.

If you were promoted into management because of your technical skills, seniority, or simply because a position opened up, you might be a circumstantial leader navigating challenges you never anticipated. From people management struggles to identity shifts, we discuss the unique disadvantages circumstantial leaders face—and the hidden strengths they bring.

Whether you're questioning your leadership role, feeling drained by responsibilities you didn't seek, or wondering if management is right for you, this episode offers clarity and actionable choices to move forward with confidence.

Perfect for new managers, accidental leaders, team leads, and anyone reconsidering their leadership journey.

Download your free Leader Self-Audit at crossroadsandcatalysts.com to assess where you are and what you truly want from your leadership role.

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Leadership Behaviors Worth Leaving Behind, free download.

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