Defying the Odds: Shellye Archambeau’s Journey to Becoming Unapologetically Ambitious

Welcome back to Fifth Dimensional Leadership! I’m your host, Ginny Clarke.    In this second episode, I’m joined by my guest, Shellye Archambeau! Shellye is the former CEO of MetricStream; a governance, risk, and compliance software company based in Palo Alto, California. Under Shellye’s leadership, MetricStream was built into a global market leader with over 1200 employees that served customers around the globe. Shellye also serves on four corporate boards: Verizon, Nordstrom, Roper Technologies, and Okta; and is a Strategic Advisor to the Royal Bank of Canada, Capital Markets Group.   Shellye is such a great example of a truly ambitious woman who has ascended the ranks and created a name for herself in the technology industry. She’s incredibly purposeful, intentional, and driven and has a powerful story to share on defying the odds.    In this episode, you will hear how she propelled herself into becoming a fabulous leader, how she became the CEO of a company, how she positioned herself to serve on corporate boards, and why she decided to write her new book, Unapologetically Ambitious. Shellye also shares some invaluable tips and advice regarding how to manage imposter syndrome, how we can nurture and grow our inner leader during this time of disruption due to COVID-19, and how to turn your ambitions into every-day decisions (which is the key to achieving your dreams).   Key Takeaways: [:38] About today’s episode with my guest, Shellye Archambeau! [1:05] Welcoming Shellye to the podcast. [1:12] How Shellye and I first met. [1:28] Shellye shares about her background and how it has propelled her into becoming a fabulous leader. [4:57] Why Shellye chose to go to Wharton as an undergrad. [7:24] Why Shellye decided to join IBM and how the experience of working there set her up for the future. [11:40] Shellye speaks about her incredible family and reflects on balancing her family and career. [12:35] Shellye shares some touching words about her late husband, the pact they made, and what he taught her. [15:07] About Shellye’s new book, Unapologetically Ambitious; what it is about, when it will be out, and what inspired her to write it. [18:14] Imposter syndrome: why it is an important topic, Shellye’s personal experience with it, and how we begin to manage it and not let it take control. [23:06] Shellye speaks about the four corporate boards she is currently serving on and how she came to be a part of them. [25:46] What Shellye foresees in terms of how people are going to work going forward due to the impact of COVID-19.  [29:26] Shellye’s tips and suggestions on how people can nurture and grow their inner leader during this time where many are feeling disempowered, trapped at home, and disenfranchised. [33:18] Why Shellye came to be the CEO of MetricStream and how she transformed it from the brink of failing to a top innovative software company. [38:55] Where to find, follow, and get in touch with Shellye online! [39:42] Shellye leaves the podcast with a few words of wisdom. [40:09] Thanking Shellye for joining the podcast!   Mentioned in this Episode: Shellye Archambeau Unapologetically Ambitious: Take Risks, Break Barriers, and Create Success on Your Own Terms, by Shellye Archambeau — Pre-order today! Shellye Archambeau’s LinkedIn Articles Shellye Archambeau’s Twitter: @ShelArchambeau   About Fifth Dimensional Leadership & Ginny Clarke Fifth-Dimensional Leadership is a podcast about leadership - knowing yourself, speaking your truth, inspiring love, expanding your consciousness and activating your mastery. As an executive recruiter and career expert currently leading executive recruiting at a Fortune 20 tech company, Ginny Clarke is a passionate and authentic thought leader with a unique and deliberate perspective on work and life. She synthesizes aspects of her life as an African-American single mother who has successfully navigated corporate America for over 30 years. She has inspired, uplifted, and changed the lives of thousands and is intentional about bringing conscious awareness to the people of all ages and stages.   Every other week, a new edition of Fifth-Dimensional Leadership will include fascinating guests, covering a variety of topics: power, personal branding, self-awareness, networking, fear, and career management   Stay Connected! To find more episodes or learn more, visit: ginnyclarke.com Connect with her on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Youtube