This is part 2 of my wonderful conversation with Eileen Collins, retired U.S. Air Force colonel and first American woman commander of a space shuttle.

In this episode, she discusses her leadership style, especially post-Columbia tragedy. Eileen also emphasizes the significance of setting personal mission statements, learning from mistakes, and staying focused despite external distractions.

The episode concludes with practical advice for aspiring leaders, highlighting the value of reading, mentoring, and maintaining humility.

Episode Minutes:

Minute 1: Pursuing the Dream of Becoming an Astronaut

Minute 5: Overcoming Self-Doubt and Finding Mentorship

Minute 9: Adapting Leadership After the Columbia Tragedy

Minute 14: Balancing Family and Astronaut Life

Minute 18: The First American Woman to Command a Space Mission

To find out more about my work, please visit www.danawilliamsco.com

My Book The Internal Revolution: Lead Authentically and Build Your Personal Brand from Within

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Email: hello@danawilliamsco.com

The Strengths Journal™ is the only Gallup-certified, purpose-driven daily planner that helps you actively use your strengths to plan your days. Get Your copy here

Your Leadership GPS Check—Which Element Needs Attention First?

Most leaders are navigating their biggest challenges without any internal guidance system. They're leading by reaction instead of intention. By external pressure instead of internal compass.

The result? Scattered energy across random priorities instead of focused impact on what matters most. You wouldn't drive across the country without GPS, yet most leaders are navigating their careers without any internal direction system.

Today, I share a way to perform a 60-second leadership GPS check.

To find out more about my work, please visit www.danawilliamsco.com

My Book The Internal Revolution: Lead Authentically and Build Your Personal Brand from Within

LinkedIn

Instagram

Email: hello@danawilliamsco.com The Strengths Journal™ is the only Gallup-certified, purpose-driven daily planner that helps you actively use your strengths to plan your days. Get Your copy here

In honor of National Space Week, we’re excited to bring you part 1 of this two-part interview series with Eileen Collins, retired U.S. Air Force colonel and first American woman commander of a space shuttle.

Our conversation dove deep into what it really takes to lead with authenticity, push through barriers, and stay focused on your personal mission, even when the odds are stacked against you. Eileen shared how embracing her true self — not trying to fit a mold or mimic others — helped her stand out and succeed in one of the most high-pressure careers imaginable.

Eileen shares insights from her book, 'Through the Glass Ceiling to the Stars,' discussing authenticity, overcoming hurdles, and the importance of being true to oneself. She provides a detailed account of her internal journey, mentorship experiences, handling high-stress situations.

To find out more about my work, please visit www.danawilliamsco.com

My Book The Internal Revolution: Lead Authentically and Build Your Personal Brand from Within

LinkedIn

Instagram

Email: hello@danawilliamsco.com

The Strengths Journal™ is the only Gallup-certified, purpose-driven daily planner that helps you actively use your strengths to plan your days. Get Your copy here