Welcome to the Polished Podcast, your go-to destination for empowering conversations that embolden women in both their faith and work. At Polished Network, we believe your work matters, and we're here to provide the connection you crave, the professional development you deserve, and the Gospel you need.
Join host Jane Doerman and our inspiring guests in each episode as we take a deep dive into the themes resonating within the Polished community. Our diverse range of guests, all Christian working women, generously share their unique perspectives and experiences, creating a space where meaningful conversations unfold.
Whatever brought you here today, we're thrilled to have you as part of the Polished community. Each episode is crafted to resonate with you, sparking a renewed sense of purpose and emboldening you to flourish on your leadership journey. Tune in for stories that inspire, encourage, and empower as we navigate the intersection of faith and work together.
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Ep 41: Why Joy is a Leadership Strategy with Catrina Ballard
Season 1 · Episode 41
Monday, December 23, 2024 • Duration 01:06:48
In this heartfelt and inspiring finale of The Polished Podcast, host Jane Doerman sits down with Catrina Ballard, founder and owner of Happy Teams, to explore how joy can be a transformative leadership strategy. Wrapping up the Leading Joyfully series, this conversation dives into Catrina’s journey of building Happy Teams—a business consulting firm rooted in creating thriving workplace cultures—and her belief that joy is not just a feeling, but a practice of intentional leadership.
Catrina shares her winding road to success, from her background in psychology and counseling to the challenges of entrepreneurship during a pandemic. Through personal anecdotes and practical insights, she highlights how joy shapes team dynamics, fosters trust, and creates workplaces where individuals can truly thrive.
This episode also marks a pivotal moment for the Polished Podcast. As we transition to 4word, we invite you to continue the journey with us on the Work Love Pray Podcast, where we’ll keep amplifying stories of women who are leading with faith and purpose.
Don’t miss this reflective and uplifting conversation that will leave you inspired to embrace joy as a cornerstone of leadership—just in time for Christmas. Join us as we celebrate this season of joy and look ahead to a new chapter with 4word.
Key Takeaways:
Joy is more than holiday cheer—it’s a leadership strategy that can transform workplace culture.
Building joy starts with creating trust, valuing team members, and fostering meaningful connections.
Catrina’s journey reminds us that joy is a choice we cultivate, even in challenging seasons.
Tune in to this final episode of The Polished Podcast and stay connected with us on the Work Love Pray Podcast in 2025. Until then, keep leading boldly, joyfully, and faithfully!
Subscribe to the Work Love Pray Podcast on 4wordwomen.org to stay inspired!
Move 4word with Polished!: Have you heard the news?! Polished Network and 4word Women are merging and you’re invited to join us! Learn more and stay up to date on this exciting transition at https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether
Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories
Ep 40: Choosing Joy Amidst Adversity with Debora Grandison
Season 1 · Episode 40
Wednesday, December 18, 2024 • Duration 57:46
In this powerful episode of The Polished Podcast, host Jane Doerman sits down with Debora Grandison, founder of She Speaks From a Joyful Heart, LLC, to explore what it truly means to lead joyfully—even in the face of life’s toughest challenges.
Debora’s story is one of resilience, faith, and an intentional choice to embrace joy amidst adversity. As a heart disease and diabetes survivor, she has faced overwhelming struggles that could have easily derailed her path. Instead, Debora chose to root her identity in Christ and allow her trials to shape her purpose. From her journey of healing to her mission of inspiring others through writing, poetry, and speaking, Debora reminds us that joy isn’t the absence of hardship—it’s a decision we make, even when circumstances feel impossible.
If you’ve ever wondered how to find joy in your leadership journey or personal life, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped to lead boldly, faithfully, and joyfully. Tune in now and discover how to turn trials into triumphs—and why joy is always worth the fight.
Episode 39: Leading Joyfully in a Divided World: Faith, Politics, and Curiosity with Kaitlyn Schiess
Season 1 · Episode 39
Wednesday, December 11, 2024 • Duration 01:00:25
In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of The Polished Podcast, host Jane Doerman sits down with Kaitlyn Schiess—author, writer, podcaster, and Duke Divinity School student—to explore what it means to lead joyfully in a politically divided world. With a heart for integrating faith and politics, Kaitlyn shares how timeless Christian traditions, deep theology, and spiritual practices can guide us to engage the world around us without losing our convictions—or our joy.
As we navigate a post-election landscape, Kaitlyn offers a fresh perspective on how faith can shape our approach to politics, not through force or division, but by modeling curiosity, hospitality, and a spirit of hope. Together, Jane and Kaitlyn unpack the complexities of living out our beliefs in a fractured political system while staying grounded in faith.
Questions to Ask Yourself While Auditing Your Media Consumption
Ep 38: Singleness with Purpose: Leading Joyfully in EVERY Season
Season 1 · Episode 38
Wednesday, December 4, 2024 • Duration 01:02:44
In this episode of The Polished Podcast, host Jane Doerman sits down with Kelly Werner, founder of Mission Single, to explore what it means to lead joyfully as a single Christian woman. The conversation centers on finding purpose, building community, and embracing God’s calling in every season of life—particularly for those navigating singleness.
Kelly shares her personal journey, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of being a single woman in both the church and the workplace. She speaks passionately about how Mission Single seeks to mobilize single women to live with wisdom, purpose, and joy. Drawing on stories from scripture and history, Kelly underscores the value of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of single women, challenging societal and cultural norms that often minimize their impact.
Whether single, married, or somewhere in between, this episode inspires all listeners to lead with joy, purpose, and faith in every season of life.
Episode 37: Leading Gratefully through Embracing Adversity with Ellie Nieves
Season 1 · Episode 37
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 • Duration 56:19
In this episode of The Polished Podcast, host Jane Doerman sits down with Ellie Nieves—attorney, speaker, women’s leadership coach, and faith-filled road warrior—to explore the powerful theme of leading gratefully through adversity.
Ellie shares her journey from navigating the pressures of New York City politics as a young lawyer to finding resilience and purpose through her faith, particularly during challenging seasons. From leading a political campaign amidst the chaos of 9/11 to empowering women leaders today, Ellie’s story is a testament to the transformative power of gratitude and grace, even in life’s toughest moments.
Key takeaways include:
How adversity can be a refining process that shapes us for greater impact.
Practical ways to cultivate gratitude, even in the midst of challenges.
The importance of aligning success with integrity and faith.
Ellie challenges us to embrace every experience as part of God’s greater plan, reminding us that setbacks can be stepping stones toward growth and leadership.
Ep 36: Embracing My Voice with Gratitude with Elaine Lin Hering
Season 1 · Episode 36
Wednesday, November 20, 2024 • Duration 01:07:21
In this episode of The Polished Podcast, host Jane Doerman and special guest Elaine Lin Hering explore what it means to Lead Gratefully by embracing our voices. Elaine, author of Unlearning Silence, shares her journey of breaking free from silence in the workplace and encourages women to speak up, bringing their full selves to the table. Elaine’s insights remind us that silence may feel safer in fast-paced environments, but it comes at a cost—to ourselves and the impact we can make. She shows that true leadership requires not just a seat at the table, but the courage to use our voices with gratitude and intention.
Listen in to learn how you, too, can lead gratefully by embracing your unique voice—and start making an impact where you are. Connect with us on social media to share your journey toward finding your voice in the workplace.
EP 35: Moving Forward Together: The Story of the Merger of Polished Network and 4word with Melissa Harrison
Season 1 · Episode 35
Wednesday, November 13, 2024 • Duration 55:49
Episode Show Notes: Melissa Harrison
In this special episode of *The Polished Podcast*, host Jane Doerman takes a moment to pause from the usual format to introduce Melissa Harrison, the Executive Director and President of 4word. Fresh from the announcement at the BOLDLY Conference 2024, Polished Network and 4word are set to merge in January 2025, creating a united front to support and empower working women of faith. Jane and Melissa delve into the story behind this merger, discussing the vision to combine strengths, amplify missions, and create a lasting impact through collaboration.
Melissa shares her journey, from her early days in broadcast journalism to her leadership at 4word, and reflects on the “divine connections” that brought her to this pivotal moment. This merger represents more than just an organizational shift; it’s a powerful collaboration driven by purpose. Melissa’s reflections highlight her excitement about this new chapter, as she and Jane discuss what this partnership means for women striving to integrate faith and work.
Tune in for this inspiring conversation and discover what’s next as Polished Network and 4word come together to lead boldly in this new chapter.
Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review to stay connected with our mission to embolden women in every aspect of life.
Connect with Melissa and 4word:
Ep: 34 Inviting Holy Spirit Into Your Workplace with David Silko
Season 1 · Episode 34
Wednesday, November 6, 2024 • Duration 01:10:41
In this episode of The Polished Podcast, hosted by Jane Doerman, guest David Silko, a retiree turned refiree, AND Polished Network board member, shares how gratitude can be a game-changer in leadership. With decades of experience in accounting and operations, David reveals how leading with gratitude transformed his approach to work—and how it can transform yours, too.
David tells the story of how a simple Bible study at work inspired him to make gratitude a core leadership practice, paving the way for deeper collaboration and trust. In a world where expressing thanks can feel risky, David shows how gratitude, empowered by the Holy Spirit, can build thriving teams and genuine connections.
If you’re ready to learn how gratitude can impact your workplace, don’t miss this inspiring conversation. David’s journey will challenge you to lead with appreciation and create a culture of trust wherever you are.
Move 4word with Polished!: Have you heard the news?! Polished Network and 4word Women are merging and you’re invited to join us! Learn more and stay up to date on this exciting transition at https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether
Ep 33: Bold Leadership- Embracing Your Identity in Christ
Season 1 · Episode 33
Wednesday, October 30, 2024 • Duration 01:00:06
Have you ever felt torn between the demands of leadership and the question of your identity in Christ? In this powerful episode of The Polished Podcast, hosted by Jane Doerman, we dive into this critical theme with Nadya Dickson, National Director of The Master Program for Women.
Nadya shares her journey of embracing her kingdom identity and how it has shaped her mission to empower women to lead boldly. She highlights the importance of knowing who we are in God’s eyes, encouraging listeners to root their leadership in faith and purpose.
Join us for an inspiring conversation that reminds us that true leadership begins with understanding our identity in Christ. Tune in and discover how to lead confidently and authentically, even amid challenges!
Polished Chapter Gatherings are meeting once a month. Join a chapter near you! Learn more here:
Ep 32: Bold Leadership as a Faith Driven Leader with Ann Eileen Thompson
Season 1 · Episode 32
Wednesday, October 23, 2024 • Duration 01:01:09
Are you ready to lead with courage and faith? In this powerful episode of The Polished Podcast, host Jane Doerman welcomes Ann Eileen Thompson, coach, advisor, and host of the Faith Driven Leader Podcast, to dive deep into what it means to lead boldly.
Ann shares her inspiring journey from corporate leadership at Procter & Gamble to stepping out in faith and launching her own ventures. She opens up about the pivotal moments when God called her to take bold steps—leaving the comfort of a secure career for the unknown, all while trusting His greater plan. Ann's story is a reminder that true boldness is about following God's lead, even when the path ahead feels unclear.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
How to navigate career transitions with faith-driven boldness.
What it looks like to trust God's plan over worldly success.
Ann’s practical advice on integrating faith into your leadership every day.
You won’t want to miss this conversation as Jane and Ann uncover the deeper meaning of bold leadership—rooted in faith, courage, and surrender to God’s guidance. Whether you’re at a crossroads in your career or looking to lead with more intentionality, this episode will embolden you to step into the leadership God has called you to.
Move 4word with Polished!: Have you heard the news?! Polished Network and 4word Women are merging and you’re invited to join us! Learn more and stay up to date on this exciting transition at https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether
Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories
What is this media source teaching me to fear or hate?
Who does this media encourage me to see as my neighbor?
Who does it tempt me to view with suspicion, fear, or condescension?
What general story does this media tell about what’s ultimately wrong in the world?
According to this media, what will ultimately fix the problem?
Where does this media's narrative align with the story of Scripture?
Where does it conflict with the story of Scripture?
What story from Scripture can remind me of God’s truth when I’m tempted to believe an untrue narrative?
How can I integrate prayer and Scripture reading to counteract false or harmful stories?
Learn more about:
Move 4word with Polished!: Have you heard the news?! Polished Network and 4word Women are merging and you’re invited to join us! Learn more and stay up to date on this exciting transition at https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether
Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories
Move 4word with Polished!: Have you heard the news?! Polished Network and 4word Women are merging and you’re invited to join us! Learn more and stay up to date on this exciting transition at https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether
Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories
Move 4word with Polished!: Have you heard the news?! Polished Network and 4word Women are merging and you’re invited to join us! Learn more and stay up to date on this exciting transition at https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether
Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories
Move 4word with Polished!: Have you heard the news?! Polished Network and 4word Women are merging and you’re invited to join us! Learn more and stay up to date on this exciting transition at https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether
Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories
Move 4word with Polished!: Have you heard the news?! Polished Network and 4word Women are merging and you’re invited to join us! Learn more and stay up to date on this exciting transition at https://polishednetwork.org/cometogether
Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories
Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories
Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories
Polished Collaboratories: Level up your leadership through our peer facilitated faith based leadership development for women who want to level up their work. Learn more here: https://polishednetwork.org/collaboratories
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