What If Courage Was Just One Small Step?
Have you ever hesitated to speak up, go after a promotion, or say yes to an opportunity, because deep down, you were afraid?
You’re not alone. In fact, you’re in powerful company.
In this episode of From a Woman to a Leader, I sat down with Jenn Donahue, a retired U.S. Navy Captain, engineer, and leadership speaker who’s led thousands in combat zones—and who still wrestled with self-doubt and imposter syndrome, just like so many of us.
We went deep on what it really takes to lead with confidence—even when fear, inner criticism, or uncertainty are shouting the loudest.
Here’s what we unpacked:
The sneaky fears women don’t talk about enough
It’s not just fear of failure. Sometimes, it’s fear of success. What if I get the job and everything changes? What if it puts pressure on my family? Jenn shares powerful stories of women holding themselves back—not because they weren’t capable, but because success felt too risky.
How to quiet the “mean little voice” in your head
We all have it—that inner critic that whispers, You’re not good enough. Jenn introduces her method for building a new, empowering voice: the inner warrior. It starts with a simple practice of writing down your wins—and grows into real, unshakable self-belief.
Why courage isn’t about leaping—it’s about stepping
If you’ve been stuck in hesitation, this one’s for you. We talk about taking one small step that feels bold—but not terrifying. Leadership isn’t about knowing everything up front. It’s about moving forward anyway—and trusting you’ll figure it out along the way.
The mindset shift that helps you speak, lead, and stretch outside your comfort zone
From rethinking risk to building new neural pathways, Jenn gives you science-backed, battle-tested tools to stretch your leadership muscle—without burning out or faking confidence.
A Quote I Can’t Stop Thinking About:
“Just take one small step. One move that feels bold, but not terrifying.” — Jenn Donahue
Whether you’re navigating self-doubt, stepping into a new leadership role, or simply trying to find your voice—this episode will remind you that you’re not alone and you’re more powerful than you think.
👉 🎧 Listen to the full episode here
You’ll walk away feeling inspired, equipped, and ready to take your next brave step.
About Jenn Donahue
Jenn Donahue, PhD is a retired U.S. Navy Captain, engineer, speaker, and leadership coach who spent 27 years leading teams in some of the world’s most high-stakes environments—including combat zones in Iraq and Afghanistan. As a commander in the Navy Seabees, she was responsible for an 1,800-person regiment, often leading in situations where her life—and the lives of others—were on the line.
Today, Jenn helps individuals and organizations overcome fear, imposter syndrome, and self-doubt so they can lead with courage and clarity. She blends scientific insight with real-world experience, offering a powerful framework for rewiring your brain and stepping into your full potential.
Her upcoming book dives deeper into the mindset shifts and strategies that helped her build inner strength, lead through chaos, and now—help others do the same.
🔗 Website
About Me
I’m Limor Bergman Gross, a former Director of Engineering who has become an executive coach for women in tech. I help women rise into leadership roles with confidence without burning out or compromising their identity.
🎙️ From a Woman to a Leader is where I bring you honest, powerful conversations with women who’ve been there—and want to help you get there too.
Let’s connect:
🌐 Website
▶️ YouTube
Want to Step Into Executive-Level Leadership?
If you’re a mid-to-senior woman in tech leadership who’s tired of being overlooked and ready to be recognized, respected, and promoted—without changing who you are—join the waitlist for my Strategic Influence & Executive Presence Accelerator. It’s a 12-week coaching experience designed to help you show up with clarity, confidence, and influence.
- Speak up with confidence
- Get invited into strategic conversations
- Position yourself for VP or executive roles—without burnout
👉 Join the waitlist today: https://limorbergman.com/accelerator/
Let’s get you the recognition you already deserve
