What happens when you realize the walls that have protected your success might also be limiting your potential? In this captivating episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, Kelly Fanning, SVP and General Manager of Clinique North America, reveals the moment that changed everything – a simple lunch with friends that forced her to question whether her success was truly her own or simply a product of her environment.

After fifteen years of climbing the corporate ladder at Johnson & Johnson, Kelly found herself at a crossroads during her maternity leave. While her peers had navigated multiple career shifts, she had flourished within the same corporate walls. It took the perspective of motherhood and a dash of courage to make her ask the question many successful leaders fear: "Is it me, or is it the system that's made me successful?"

In this intimate conversation, Kelly shares the three pillars of leadership that shaped her own success: true empowerment, active coaching, and helping others envision their future. Her story reminds us that sometimes the bravest thing we can do is step outside our comfort zone, even when – especially when – we're at the top of our game.

Kelly’s journey serves as an important reminder that leadership is not about self-preservation or staying safe within the confines of past successes. It's about taking calculated risks, mentoring with purpose, and empowering others to see beyond what they think is possible.

Tune in to this episode for an inspiring conversation about leadership, growth, and the courage to step beyond the familiar. And don’t forget to follow us @wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcast for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and more!