EP 245 - From Too Much to Powerhouse: KJ Blattenbauer on Embracing Ambition and Visibility
Welcome to another episode of the You Can Call Me “Bossy" podcast. In today’s conversation I sit down with powerhouse publicist KJ Blattenbauer, a champion for bold brands and especially female founders. With nearly three decades of PR experience, KJ shares her unapologetic approach to visibility, reframing the word “bossy” as a badge of leadership, credibility, and empowerment rather than an insult. Together, KJ and I dive into the challenges women face around judgment, fear of being “too much,” and the conditioning that encourages us to shrink instead of shining in our ambition.
This episode is packed with real talk about embracing your power, the importance of claiming authority, navigating corporate dynamics, and why being your own hype woman is not just okay—it’s essential. From stories about corporate America to advice for women wanting to blaze their own path, KJ offers inspiration, tangible strategies, and a big permission slip to be visible and authentic—bossiness and all. If you’ve ever worried about being called “too bossy,” this conversation will help you see it as your superpower. Let’s get into it!
Key Takeaways:
- The distinction between hard work out of alignment vs. hard work that fuels passion
- Importance of “brand words” and consistently owning one’s narrative
- The importance of lifting each other up and breaking the cycle
Key Timestamps
[1:05] – Permission to Be Yourself
[9:26] – Share Your Creation Boldly
[19:33] – Reprogramming Leadership for Women
[33:08] – Hard Work and Midlife Joy
[37:30] – Visibility Advice for Ambitious Women
[41:06] - Defining and Showcasing Brand Identity
Episode Quote
- "Why am I apologizing for who I am? Why am I apologizing that my clients are like family? Like, I'm gonna defend you and cheer for you like a mob wife. I truly believe there's something about loyalty and being there. And I saw that missing in corporate America and my corporate roles." - KJ Blattenbauer
Episode Resourcers
- Instagram: @kjblattenbauer
- Linkedin: @in/kjblattenbauer
- Official Website: www.hearsaypr.com
- Pre Order Book: Pitch Worthy
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