In this episode, Laura sits down with Shaquanna Chappelle, executive presence consultant and speaker, to break down what executive presence really is and what it isn’t.

While executive presence is often framed around image, polish, or performance, Shaquanna invites us into a deeper understanding: true presence is built from the inside out. Drawing from her journey from wardrobe stylist to confidence and presence expert, she shares how she realized that what many leaders were struggling with wasn’t how they looked, but how they felt about themselves.

Together, Laura and Shaquanna explore the often-unspoken confidence gap, how insecurity, fear, and limiting beliefs can quietly undermine even the most capable leaders. They discuss the critical role of self-trust in leadership and how rebuilding that trust can transform how we show up, communicate, and influence others.

Shaquanna also introduces her approach to helping leaders define their unique executive presence positioning, emphasizing that presence is not about imitation, but about alignment: understanding who you are, how you lead, and how you communicate your value authentically.

Aligned with Season 8’s theme Leaning Into Joy, this episode invites listeners to release performative expectations and step into a more grounded, confident, and empowered version of leadership.

About Shaquanna

Shaquanna is a sought-after speaker and executive presence consultant trusted by Forbes School of Business & Technology, Georgia Association of Women Lawyers, Sentara Health, and more. Known for her high-energy keynotes on fear, insecurity, and self-imposed limits, she empowers professionals to tap into their confidence and show up in their full power.

As an in-demand image and style expert, she believes confidence starts within. Her book, Get Up and Get Dressed, guides women to eliminate self-doubt and embrace their full potential.

Through her Pursuing A Powerful Presence method, Shaquanna creates safe, engaging spaces that help leaders build self-trust and accelerate career success. After hearing Shaquanna speak, professionals are able to combat insecurities and reach a new level of confidence that commands the room.

Connect with Shaquanna

Website :http://www.shaquannachappelle.com/presence

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaquannachappelle/

BWL Resources:

Credits:

Learn about all Black Woman Leading® programs, resources, and events at http://www.blackwomanleading.com

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Podcast Music & Production: Marshall Knightshttps://marshallknights.com/

Graphics: Dara Adams

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