profile

Catalyst Coaching & Transformation

Issue 15

Published 5 days ago • 4 min read

Dear Reader,

Subscribe to The Leadership Catalyst newsletter:

The Power of Women’s Voices in Protecting Democracy

The Catalyst Perspective

The weight of leadership often falls heaviest on those bold enough to speak truth to power.

The world doesn’t just reward strong leadership—it challenges it.

We’ve seen this play out in real-time as women in Congress step up to defend democracy.

Whether it’s Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett’s fiery rebuke, US Senator Amy Klobuchar’s relentless push for election security, or Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal’s sharp questioning, these women are demonstrating a fundamental truth: Leadership isn’t about being liked. It’s about being effective.

Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

But let’s be honest—when women speak with strength, they’re judged differently.

A man who holds his ground is "confident."

A woman? "Too aggressive."

A man who challenges the status quo is a “visionary.”

A woman? “Difficult.”

A man who asserts his authority is a “leader.”

A woman? “Intimidating.”

You know this double standard because you’ve lived it.

Maybe you’ve been in a room where your expertise was questioned—despite having more experience than half the people at the table.

Maybe you’ve spoken with clarity and conviction—only to be told to soften your tone.
Maybe you’ve made a strategic decision—only to be met with resistance that wouldn’t exist if you were someone else.

The question is: How do you lead with power when the world wants you to shrink?

The answer: You own the room, the conversation, and your authority. And you do it without apology. The women in Congress aren’t waiting for permission. And neither should you.

The Power Move - Strategies, Tools & Tips

If you’re serious about leading with confidence and authority, here’s how to command respect, control the conversation, and set the tone:

1. Own Your Expertise—Before They Question It.

If you don’t position yourself as the authority, someone else will define you—and not in your favor.

  • Instead of: “I think we should consider…”
  • Say: “The data shows that the best course of action is…”

Walk into every room knowing you belong there. No permission needed.

2. Reclaim Your Ideas When They’re Ignored.

When you propose a solution and it’s dismissed—only for a male colleague to repeat it later—take back control.

  • “I’m glad this is resonating—since I first introduced this, I’ve been thinking about how we can implement it.”
  • “Thanks for reinforcing my point. As I shared earlier, my focus was on…”

3. Shut Down the “Aggressive” Narrative—Without Playing Small.

When someone critiques your tone instead of your message, shift the focus:

  • “It’s interesting that my delivery is the concern rather than the urgency of the issue.”
  • “Let’s redirect to what’s actually important—the outcome.”

Your leadership is not up for debate.

The Leadership Catalyst for Male Leaders: How You Can Lead the Change

To the men in this community, leadership isn’t just about how you show up—it’s also about how you support the women on your teams, in your networks, and in your organizations.

If you want to be an effective ally and leader, consider these three power moves:

1. Amplify Women’s Voices in Meetings

When you see a woman’s idea being dismissed, reinforce it:

  • “That’s exactly what [her name] mentioned earlier—let’s build on that.”
  • “I’d love to hear [her name] expand on her original idea.”

2. Challenge the Double Standard in Real-Time

When a woman is called "too aggressive" for the same behaviors that earn men praise, say:

  • “Would you say that if a man delivered the same message?”
  • “I actually see this as strong leadership—what’s making you view it differently?”

3. Sponsor Women for Leadership Roles

Allyship is action, not intention.

  • Recommend women for high-level opportunities.
  • Ensure they’re in the rooms where decisions happen.
  • Invest in their leadership as much as you invest in men’s.

The Leadership Catalyst Spark - Call to Action + Downloadable Resource

This week, I want you to own your power.

You’ll face moments where people try to challenge, dismiss, or silence you. How you respond will define your leadership presence.

Download this week’s free resource:

This script will help you take back control of conversations, assert your authority, and navigate high-stakes moments with confidence. Use it, practice it, and step into your power.

Because leadership isn’t just about being in the room, it’s about making sure your voice shapes the future.

Exclusive Private Coaching

Enrollment Now Open
Taking 3 Clients During March & April

Power isn’t given. It’s taken. The most successful leaders don’t wait for permission—they move with strategy, precision, and confidence to position themselves at the top.

You’re already leading. But ask yourself:

Are you commanding the room—or just being heard?

Are you leading with full authority—or adjusting to outdated expectations?

Are you strategically positioned for your next-level opportunity?

The women I coach aren’t looking for motivation. They’re looking for the strategic advantage—a leadership edge that ensures they are respected, heard, and positioned at the highest level.

Your Leadership Edge: What You Gain

This isn’t another leadership program. This is an elite, high-level coaching experience for ambitious women who are ready to elevate their leadership, amplify their influence, and secure top-tier opportunities with confidence and strategic precision.

  • Master executive presence—so you’re the one setting the tone, not just contributing.
  • Build high-impact networks—connecting you to the right rooms, opportunities and decisions.
  • Set non-negotiable boundaries—so your leadership thrives without burnout.
  • Navigate power dynamics with precision—so you remain in control of the conversation and influence the outcomes.
  • Expand your influence and financial positioning—ensuring your leadership is rewarded, not just recognized.

Limited Availability

I only take private coaching clients from February – April.

I do not take private clients in November and December—these months are dedicated to restoration, quality time with family and friends, and high-level strategy planning for the year ahead.

The next time I open my calendar for private coaching will be February 2026.

If you’re ready to step into next-level leadership, this is your only opportunity to work with me privately this year.

Secure Your Private Coaching Spot

The opportunity to elevate your leadership at this level doesn’t come often. The time is now.

Final Thoughts

Powerful women make people uncomfortable. That’s not a reflection of you. That’s a reflection of them.

You’re not here to fit in—you’re here to lead

I’d love to hear from you—which women leaders are inspiring you right now? Hit reply and let me know.

Until next time, keep leading boldly.

​

Chasity Wells-Armstrong
​Founder, Catalyst Coaching & Transformation

2 Plaza Drive, PO Box 5555, Woodridge, IL 60517
​Unsubscribe · Preferences​

Catalyst Coaching & Transformation

Read more from Catalyst Coaching & Transformation

Dear Reader, Subscribe to The Leadership Catalyst newsletter: Subscribe Now IT’S TIME TO STAND ON BUSINESS: EXPOSE THEM & FIGHT BACK Let me be very clear—this is personal for me, and I am pissed. I am outraged, and you should be too. What we are witnessing in our federal government is not just bad leadership—it is an outright attack on democracy and the American people. There are deliberate attempts to dismantle our institutions, silence the people, and strip away the rights of everyday...

19 days ago • 5 min read

Dear Reader, You show up. You advocate. You fight for your community. But when was the last time you fought for yourself? The Women Mayors Collective Retreat is your space to: Sharpen your crisis communication skillsso you stay in control when the next media storm hits. Strategize against political attacks on DEI & funding because the challenges aren’t stopping. Connect with women mayors who understand the weight of leadership no explanations needed. Let’s Talk About What Might Be Holding You...

about 1 month ago • 1 min read

Black History & Brilliance: An Undeniable Legacy Black History Month is not just about looking back—it is about standing in our power today. It is about acknowledging the truth that Black Americans, whose ancestors were stolen from their homeland and enslaved for centuries, built this country. And despite every systemic barrier constructed to keep us from self-actualization, we have persisted. We have innovated. We have led. Yet in 2025, we are still battling efforts to erase our...

about 2 months ago • 3 min read