Momentum Matters
Momentum Matters is the official podcast of Momentum, Alabama’s premier leadership organization advancing women in leadership. Hosted by April Benetollo, Katie Hannah, and Raven Holloway, this podcast raises awareness about the barriers women face on the path to leadership—and the skills, stories, and strategies that help move past them.
Each episode features courageous conversations with changemakers across industries, sharing insights on leadership, equity, purpose, and personal growth. Whether you're navigating your own leadership journey or working to build a more inclusive workplace, Momentum Matters offers inspiration and tools to lead with impact.
Tune in, turn it up, and lead with Momentum.
Momentum Matters
Closing the Confidence Gap to Build Resilience with Kelli Thompson
Closing the Confidence Gap—at work and beyond.
In this episode of Momentum Matters, CEO/cohost April Benetollo sits down with Kelli Thompson—award-winning author of Closing the Confidence Gap, TEDx speaker, and executive coach—to unpack how high achievers become influential leaders.
Kelli shares:
- Her path from banking & HR to entrepreneurship and executive coaching
- Why confidence is a side effect of action—and how to swap “but first” for “while also”
- The difference between achiever and strategic leader (and how to make the jump)
- A practical framework to speak up with authenticity (not a one-size “executive presence”)
- Navigating systemic barriers: non-promotable work, the “helper’s high,” and delegation that sticks
- Insights from her TEDx “Pedestal Problem” on authority bias and trusting your own voice
About Kelli Thompson
Kelli is an award-winning author, keynote speaker, and executive coach whose work appears in Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, MarketWatch, Quartz, and Business Insider; she’s been profiled in Forbes and is a Stevie Award winner for Women in Business (Coach of the Year).
Resources & Next Steps
- Book: Closing The Confidence Gap: Boost Your Peace, Your Potential & Your Paycheck
- Watch her TEDx by searching “Kelli Thompson TEDx”
- Learn more about Momentum Leaders: momentumleaders.org
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Credits & Partners
Produced by Social U.
Brought to you by America’s Thrift Stores, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, Protective Life, and Regions Bank. A full list of corporate partners is at momentumleaders.org.
Special thanks to our Momentum members, donors, and volunteers.
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