What if the key to your next level isn’t a strategy — but the story you’re not telling yet?

Amy Gutman’s story is anything but ordinary. From journalist to lawyer to storyteller and executive coach, she’s navigated multiple reinventions — and in this episode, she breaks down how embracing your story can unlock your leadership potential. We talk about the myths of personal branding, what “authenticity” really means in high-stakes environments, and how to use narrative as a tool for transformation.

If you’ve ever wondered how to lead with your full story — the messy, the meaningful, and the powerful — this episode is for you.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Amy’s unconventional career path — from newsroom to courtroom to coaching C-suite leaders
• How storytelling can be your most underutilized leadership tool
• The real meaning of authenticity (and why it’s often misunderstood)
• Why the “perfect personal brand” can backfire
• How to turn career pivots into power plays
• Imposter syndrome and the internal narratives that hold leaders back
• The difference between telling a story about yourself vs. for your audience
• What Amy sees in her coaching clients — and how even the most successful leaders hide
• Practical ways to embrace vulnerability without oversharing
• How to build a narrative that resonates in rooms that matter
• Why your “seams” are your strongest connection point

Chapters:

00:00 Intro: “Your story is your strategy.”

03:02 Amy’s origin story: From Memphis to Manhattan

08:45 The messy middle: Career pivots & self-doubt

13:30 Why storytelling matters more than ever

18:40 Redefining authenticity in leadership

24:50 Coaching execs: What’s really holding them back

29:15 Personal branding vs. personal truth

35:00 Imposter syndrome in high-achievers

40:10 The power of letting people “see the seams”

44:30 Rapid-fire reflections: Books, mentors, and reinvention

47:00 Outro: What’s the one story you’re not telling?

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Connect with Amy:

Website: www.ToughLoveMD.expert

Website and speaker services are live: www.ToughLoveMD.expert

Book is coming this spring: Powerhouse Living: Lead Your Life Like A Resuscitation

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-gutman-md-facep-a4190890/

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