The Inner Circle: "You're not leadership material" | Jenna Cavelle (Fmr. Walt Disney Television - Hulu)


Peak Performers by Tiffany Uman


April 25, 2025

Welcome to my Friday issue of Peak Performers, sharing my latest podcast episode and practical insights to help you stand out, lead with confidence, and land better opportunities.

As always, a big thank you for all of your support 🙌


Let’s be real. Adversity at work can feel personal.

A dismissive comment. A project that falls apart. A boss who doesn’t see your value.
It’s easy to shut down, question yourself or continually replay it in your head.

When things get tense, these example scripts can help you stay grounded, regain control, and move forward with clarity.

Example #1: When you're receiving unexpected criticism

“Thanks for sharing that. I’d like to better understand where this is coming from. Can you walk me through more specifically what led you to that conclusion?”

Why this works: It transforms defense into curiosity. It pauses the emotional response and invites specifics, which makes feedback feel fair, even if it’s tough to hear.

Example #2: When your ideas are getting shut down repeatedly

“I sense some hesitation around my proposal. Would you be opposed to exploring what might make it stronger from your perspective?”

Why this works: It reframes pushback as collaboration. It positions you as a partner, not a threat, making it harder for others to dismiss you outright.

Handling adversity isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about choosing the right response in the moment.

You've got this!

🌟 High-impact highlights

🎧 New podcast episode

​EP. 11 What to do if you're told you're not leadership material I Jenna Cavelle​
​Former VP Production & Operations, Walt Disney Television and Hulu​
​
Thriving in a boys' club takes more than grit.

In this week's podcast episode, we sit down with Jenna Cavelle, Former VP Production & Operations, Walt Disney Television (20th Digital for Hulu), to uncover what it really takes to lead in tech and entertainment as a woman, even when told you're not leadership material.

From early experiences in film school to building her own AI strategy firm, Jenna shares how she's overcome gender bias, led with impact, and championed other women in a traditionally male-dominated field.

If you’ve faced these obstacles in your career and want to be equipped to approach this head-on, this episode is a must-watch. Be sure to drop a comment with your favorite takeaway and hit subscribe for weekly insights on career and leadership!

​Watch now on YouTube.​

​
What you’ll takeaway from
my episode with Jenna Cavelle:

  1. How Jenna entered the world of film by accident - and never looked back.
  2. How to take harsh leadership feedback and use it as fuel for growth.
  3. Why AI and tech leadership need more female creative and operational voices.
  4. The tools, mindsets, and strategies to show up with confidence, even when faced with adversity.
  5. Jenna's advice for young women navigating bias in their industries.

And so much more!

​

Tiffany Uman

Career Strategy Coach & Workplace Expert • LinkedIn Learning Instructor • Former Fortune 500 Senior Director • Forbes Coaches Council member

​Say hi 👋 on Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok​
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Book a free 1:1 Clarity Call​

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Peak Performers

Join 27K+ high-achievers to become the top 1% in their careers. Every Monday, I teach actionable career tips to master crucial workplace and performance topics. 👋 Hi, I’m Tiffany, ex-L’Oréal Senior Director turned globally recognized career coach. Join my community of 169K followers on Instagram, 95K on Tiktok, & 870K+ learners on LinkedIn. $3M+ in client salary raises. Subscribe at the link below!

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