Turning Adversity into Bold Leadership
When you meet Sterling Riethman today, what stands out isn’t just her courage in telling her story—it’s the way she has harnessed that courage to build a purposeful career and an unmistakably bold voice. As a guest on the Women In… podcast, Sterling shared how stepping into advocacy has shaped who she is professionally: how she makes decisions, how she leads, and how she chooses opportunities that align with her values.
From Surviving to Leading
Sterling’s public advocacy was born from a deeply personal experience. But rather than let that define her, she used it as a catalyst for change. In doing so, she’s developed a distinctive skillset that any leader can admire:
Speaking Up with Intention – Learning to tell her story publicly taught Sterling how to communicate clearly and courageously in high-stakes environments—skills that translate directly into workplace leadership, public speaking, and negotiations.
Aligning Career with Values – Instead of simply taking the next available job, Sterling began filtering opportunities through a “values first” lens. She now seeks work that lets her advocate for others, improve systems, and use her voice for positive impact.
Building Coalitions – Advocacy put Sterling in rooms with attorneys, legislators, nonprofits, and other survivors. Navigating those spaces honed her ability to build coalitions and partnerships—critical for anyone leading change in organizations.
Lessons for Any Career
Sterling’s journey highlights lessons that go far beyond one field or one story:
Own Your Narrative – When you define your story, you control how it informs your career. This can mean creating a personal brand statement, practicing your “why,” or simply writing out your values and goals.
Turn Pain into Purpose – Difficult experiences can sharpen your sense of mission. Ask: What problems do I most want to solve? Where can my experience make me a more empathetic, effective leader?
Practice Everyday Boldness – Boldness isn’t only in big moments. It’s also in small daily choices—asking a question in a meeting, applying for a stretch role, mentoring someone else.
Tools & Resources to Build Your Own Bold Career
Personal Values Exercise – Write down your top five values and test upcoming career moves against them. (Brené Brown’s free Values List is a helpful starting point.)
Public Speaking Training – Courses from organizations like Toastmasters International or Speaking Your Brand can help you develop a confident, authentic voice.
Mentorship & Peer Networks – Join women’s leadership groups or industry-specific associations to build supportive relationships. Being around others who model boldness can accelerate your own growth.
Therapy or Coaching – Professional coaching or trauma-informed therapy can help you reframe experiences, identify strengths, and set actionable career goals.
Why Sterling’s Story Matters
Sterling Riethman reminds us that you don’t have to be defined by what happened to you. Instead, you can decide how those experiences shape your leadership, your values, and your impact. By becoming an outspoken advocate, she’s also become a model of how to translate hard-won lessons into a powerful professional life—one rooted in purpose, courage, and community.
