
Leadership Tea
On Leadership Tea, we talk about what it takes to reach the executive level, and how to thrive when you get there. Powerful leaders share their journeys, insights, and triumphs in conversations with hosts Shelby Smith-Wilson and Belinda Jackson Farrier.Join us every other Wednesday to be inspired by the unvarnished stories of amazing executives who know what it's like to be "the only" at the table and who have succeeded regardless. They have proven leadership experience in their respective fields, from international affairs to the private sector to academia, and want to help others create their own success stories.
Latest episodes

Jul 16, 2025 • 16min
Navigating Career Pivots and Layoffs: What Got You Here Won't Get You There | S3 EP13
Are you navigating a career pivot or a layoff? It’s not uncommon these days. If you’re looking ahead to what’s next, Shelby and Belinda want to remind you that times have changed, so what worked for you before won't necessarily get you where you want to go. In other words, the tools and mindset that brought you success in the past might need a serious overhaul. Whether you're facing a forced career pivot, adapting to a restructured team, or aspiring to higher levels of leadership, this episode is a call not just to let go of habits that no longer serve you, but also to uncouple your identity from your career.Watch episode 13 on YouTubeSend us a comment!We publish new episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast Subscribe to Leadership Tea on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights. Get your FREE copy of our Strategic Change WorkbookLearn more about us at stirringsuccess.com

Jul 2, 2025 • 15min
Leadership Lessons from a Gen-Z Grad | S3 Ep12
Recent high school grad Viola Wilson speaks with Shelby (her mom) and Belinda to share a fresh perspective on what leadership means to her. Viola speaks fluent Spanish and had lived in four countries by the time she was 9 years old. She graduated from high school with honors, earning a 4.3 GPA while excelling in varsity swim, varsity track and field, swimming on a year-round travel swim team, doing extra-curricular activities, community service, and working part-time as a lifeguard. She will enter Virginia Tech this fall as an engineering major.Watch Episode 12 on YouTube: https://youtu.be/J8Dsn8zCSQg Send us a comment!We publish new episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast Subscribe to Leadership Tea on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights. Get your FREE copy of our Strategic Change WorkbookLearn more about us at stirringsuccess.com

Jun 18, 2025 • 15min
Don't crash out or burn out! Reclaiming your peace in the chaos | S3 EP11
Belinda and Shelby acknowledge the current speed of change and wild news cycle, and the emotional toll that it can take. They share practical steps they are taking to prevent crashing out and to improve their well-being. They emphasize that while awareness of external events is important, protecting your inner peace and mental health is paramount to effectively show up for yourself and your teams.Embracing intentional self-care and a future-focused outlook can help you stay sane and lead with clarity, even when the world feels chaotic.What will you do this summer to avoid crashing out in a world that feels chaotic? Watch this episode on YouTubeSend us a comment!We publish new episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast Subscribe to Leadership Tea on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights. Get your FREE copy of our Strategic Change WorkbookLearn more about us at stirringsuccess.com

Jun 4, 2025 • 34min
Ambassador Robert Gilchrist: Leading with Integrity, Empathy & Ice Cream | S3 EP10
Join former diplomat Ambassador Robert Gilchrist, who has a rich background in advocating for democracy and human rights. He shares his unique approach to leadership, using "ice cream diplomacy" to foster team connections. Gilchrist emphasizes the importance of integrity and empathy, especially in challenging environments. He discusses the necessity of self-awareness and mental health in leadership, offering strategies to tackle toxic workplaces. With personal stories and reflections grounded in his Quaker faith, he provides invaluable insights for leaders at any level.

May 24, 2025 • 10min
Building Bravery & Community: An Invitation to Grow | S3 EP9
Join Shelby and Belinda as they dive into the power of self-belief and breaking free from limitations. Discover how authenticity can build a vibrant community, and get inspired by their upcoming live event focused on connection and growth. The hosts share their personal journeys of creativity and leadership, encouraging listeners to embrace their own transformative experiences. Prepare for real talk, live coaching, and strategies to empower you as you step boldly into your next chapter!

May 21, 2025 • 34min
Leadership & Risk Management: Empowering Others to Shoot Their Shot | S3 EP8
Belinda and Shelby dive into the art of empowering others through risk-taking in leadership. They share personal stories of when they took chances on team members, highlighting both successes and failures. The discussion emphasizes emotional intelligence, motivation, and trust as vital components in recognizing potential. They explore the delicate balance of accountability versus compassion and the significance of clear communication. Don’t miss their 'Shoot Your Shot' challenge, urging listeners to embrace discomfort and seize opportunities!

May 7, 2025 • 24min
Your Leadership Genius: Are You Born a Leader? | S3 EP7
Discover what sets exceptional leaders apart! The discussion revolves around essential qualities like calmness and empathy in leadership. The hosts share personal experiences that shaped their styles and challenge the notion of whether leadership skills are born or developed. Drawing parallels with sports and military figures, they emphasize self-awareness and practice. Plus, there's an exciting 'Shoot Your Shot' Challenge to inspire listeners to take action and embrace new opportunities in their leadership journeys!

4 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 18min
Shoot Your Shot: Ask for What You Want | S3 EP6
This discussion dives into embracing boldness and taking calculated risks to achieve personal and professional goals. Belinda shares her journey of asking for what she wants in business, noting the surprising positive outcomes. Shelby reflects on her confident 'unconstrained self' from boarding school and how that energy fuels her current aspirations. Together, they challenge listeners to identify a goal where they need to advocate for themselves in the next 30 days, complete with a motivating playlist to energize the journey!

6 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 16min
For Middle Managers: Finding Your Power in the Messy Middle | S3 EP5
Middle managers grapple with the unique pressure of balancing team needs and upper management expectations. The hosts share personal experiences and practical strategies for adapting management styles during challenging times. They emphasize the importance of self-care, resilience, and open communication in navigating crises. With a focus on embracing reality, listeners are encouraged to remain committed to their team's mission while fostering supportive environments. This insightful discussion is a must for anyone looking to thrive in the messy middle of leadership.

5 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 22min
What’s holding you back? Two coaches coach each other | S3 EP4
Two coaches engage in a revealing coaching session, tackling professional hurdles and networking frustrations. One shares struggles with closed circles and the weight of established connections. The other confronts imposter syndrome while trying to launch her own coaching business. They explore the power of community support and actionable strategies for growth. Emphasizing the need for confidence, they urge each other to break free from constraints and aim bigger, transforming fears into empowering opportunities.