Many of us think the style of leadership taught and practiced in the military is fairly rigid and uniform. Debunking this myth today, is Dr. Janet Polach, retired marine, executive coach, speaker, expert in developing new managers, and now author. Janet talks us through why she entered the marines, and how the leadership skills she learned through this have set her up for success throughout life. We hear what the difference is between being a leader and being a manager, and why Janet feels stereotypically feminine traits that benefit leaders are not unique to women. We tackle what’s driving the Great Resignation, the role of leaders in it, and why communication between leaders and employees will be crucial in addressing this movement. Janet also gives some great advice on toeing the line between being a friend and a manager, and the qualities (and how to learn them) that a good leader needs. Don’t miss out on this exciting episode!
Sn. 3, #21 Janet Polach (Ph.D.): Learning to be a Leader
Emily Soloby
Emily received her BA in Women’s Studies and JD from Temple University. Early on, she worked as a legal advocate for women in domestic violence cases. After practicing law, Emily began working on the business side of things. She is the co-owner of AAA School of Trucking, a truck and heavy equipment safety training firm, which she has spent the last 10 years growing into a thriving national business through government and military contracting and corporate partnerships.
As an executive in the transportation industry, darting from client meeting to trucking range required safety boots that met her style standards, and when she couldn’t find them anywhere, she created Juno Jones Shoes. Emily trained in shoemaking in Cuernavaca, Mexico and at the Brooklyn Shoe Space, and assembled a powerhouse team of designers, consultants, and industry experts to bring Juno Jones to life. Through Juno Jones Shoes, Emily is fulfilling her dream of not only providing women with safe, stylish footwear options for their jobs but of helping to normalize and empower women in traditionally male-dominated fields.
For more information go to junojonesshoes.com.
Janet Polach, Ph. D.
Janet Polach, Ph.D. is an experienced executive coach and leadership development professional. She has coached leaders in the US, China, South Korea, Singapore, Puerto Rico, Ireland, and the Netherlands. She asks thoughtful questions, summarizes what she hears, and allows silence for reflection. Dr. Polach holds her Ph.D. in organizational leadership and development from the University of Minnesota and is a retired U.S. Marine Corps officer. She recently published The Seven Mistakes New Managers Make: How to Avoid Them and Thrive.
