19/06/2026
Who knew that a discussion at a wireless company would have this type of impact? At the end of the day, titles are just titles. How we treat people is what matters most. I am grateful for the acknowledgment and opportunity to share my experiences on Lisa Pirinelli Coaching's platform. Hope you all enjoy this episode.
One of the most influential leadership lessons I ever learned came when I was a temporary employee.
Twenty years ago, I was working as a fill-in employee in a corporate office.
I wasn’t in a leadership role. I wasn’t part of the inner circle. Like many temp employees, there was an unspoken assumption that I was there to do the work, fill the gap, and move on—not necessarily to contribute ideas or be included in team experiences.
But one leader changed that experience for me.
She invited me into the conversation.
She asked for me to assist and gave me the opportunity to participate.
She treated me as though my contribution mattered—even when I was the newest person in the room.
That leader was Deneen Attard.
What neither of us could have known then is that those seemingly small interactions would stay with me for more than two decades. ⏳
They shaped how I think about leadership, influence, and the impact we have on people when we choose to truly see them.
This week, DeNeen joined me on Cupcakes & Clarity, and recording this conversation felt like a genuine full-circle moment.
As we talked, I realized so many of the lessons DeNeen shared weren't really about leadership titles at all. They were about everyday moments—speaking up when your voice matters, listening well, setting boundaries without guilt, and recognizing that influence often comes from how we treat people rather than the position we hold.
One insight that really stayed with me:
"You can have influence without a title."
In a world that often measures success by position, status, or credentials, this was a powerful reminder that the way we treat people may be our greatest legacy.
Looking back, I don't remember everyone's job title.
I remember how they made me feel.
If you've ever questioned your voice, your value, or whether you're ready for what's next, I think you'll find something meaningful in this conversation.
🎧 Listen to Episode 19 of Cupcakes & Clarity wherever you get your podcasts.
I'd love to hear from you:
Who is someone who made you feel seen early in your career or life—and what impact did that have on you?
