Leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about trusting yourself enough to make the decision anyway.
In this rewind episode, leadership coach and author Marisa Santoro returns to Lead Into It to talk about her book, Own Your Authority, and one of my favorite leadership topics: learning to trust your instincts.
So many leaders second-guess themselves. They wait for permission, hesitate to speak up, or question whether they've earned a seat at the table. Marisa reminds us that authority isn't something someone else gives you. It starts with how you lead yourself.
We also dive into influence, boundaries, relationship building, and why some of the best leadership lessons come from the moments when your advice isn't followed.
If you've ever questioned your decisions, struggled with confidence, or wondered how to lead with more conviction, this conversation is one you'll come back to.
In this episode, we discuss:
- What inspired Marisa to write Own Your Authority and why intuition became the foundation of the book
- Why self-leadership is the first step to leading others well
- How to trust your instincts without ignoring facts or feedback
- What happens when leaders stay silent instead of speaking up
- Why influence is built through relationships, not titles
- How to navigate situations where your recommendations aren't accepted—and why you're still leading
- The leadership lessons Marisa learned from her immigrant family about asking for and offering help
- Practical advice for newer leaders looking to build confidence and stronger decision-making skills
- Why your personal brand should evolve as you grow, while staying rooted in your values
- How to promote yourself authentically without feeling like you're bragging
About Marisa
Marisa Santoro is a former Wall Street technology executive, leadership coach, and founder of In Our Shoes, where she helps leaders develop confidence, communicate with intention, and lead authentically. She is the creator of the Gutsy Leadership System and author of Own Your Authority, a practical guide to leading yourself first so you can lead others with greater confidence and purpose.
Let’s keep the conversation going—connect with me on Instagram and LinkedIn, subscribe to my weekly newsletter, or reach out at hello@leadintoit.co.
Excited to be with you!