Thriving in Leadership and Family Life with Stephanie Chung - Part I

Jul 9, 2025

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Trying to have it all as an ambitious leader, a thriving career, a rich family life, and good mental health can seem impossible. This week, I sit down with world-renowned executive, author, and leadership powerhouse Stephanie Chung for a fireside chat about her personal and professional journey, as well as her trailblazing work in business, aviation, and human capital. Together, we get real about the hard-won lessons, mistakes, and wisdom that come from decades at the top—and how anyone can cultivate success and fulfillment, without sacrificing what matters most.

Stephanie Chung has over 30 years of experience as an innovator and leader in business growth and human capital development. She became the first African American (and woman) to helm a private jet company, worked across industry giants like American Airlines, Flexjet, and Bombardier, and is a #1 international bestselling author of Ally Leadership: How to Lead People Who Are Not Like You. Known for her sought-after expertise in sales, business management, and DEI, Stephanie’s lived experience and deep, practical wisdom have inspired leaders around the globe.

“Curiosity comes before empathy. Be curious about others, really ask questions you don’t know the answers to.” ~Stephanie Chung

Today on The Rising Leader:

· You can truly have it all—career, family, and health—but it requires intention, discipline, and learning from your mistakes.

· The modern workforce is radically diverse. To lead and to win, you must know how to lead people across generations, cultures, backgrounds, abilities, and perspectives.

· Making everyone on your team feel seen and heard isn’t just human—it’s a competitive edge.

· The best leaders ask questions with genuine curiosity, listen deeply, learn, and act on what they discover.

· Presence is more important than perfect balance—be 100% focused wherever you are, whether at work or at home.

· Set boundaries with your time and communicate expectations up, down, and across within your organization.

· For women, learning to say “no” firmly—but kindly—is an essential leadership skill, especially outside work.

· Practical tips (like gift routines for children) can ease family transitions and support work-life integration for working parents.

Get in Touch with Stephanie Chung:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thestephaniechung/
Website: https://stephaniechung.com/

Resources Mentioned:

Book: Ally Leadership: How to Lead People Who Are Not Like You by Stephanie Chung
Michael Bungay Stanier, How to Work With (Almost) Anyone
Harvard Business Review, Deloitte, McKinsey reports on diverse teams

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