Executive Presence Born from Crisis

Before everyone dives into fall planning, this month, we’re revisiting some of our favorite conversations that every executive should have fresh in their mind!

A terrifying moment of personal crisis can become the catalyst for reclaiming your sense of purpose. Many think that being courageous is an innate trait, when in reality, this is an ability born from resilience. Karla Yepez, HR Director for aerospace manufacturer Trio Manufacturing, embodies this truth. In this episode of the Speak in Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, Karla shares how she hit rock bottom and the mindset shift that not only brought her back but solidified her mission to lead with humanity.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The Power of a Pivot

“I had to take a really hard look in the mirror and remind myself who I am.”

Karla’s journey reveals that our deepest challenges often prepare us for our greatest callings. When fear paralyzed her, she drew strength from a lifetime of overcoming adversity, realizing, "I was not made to break."

The Effect of Curiosity

“I didn't just file the file, I would read.”

Long before her director title, Karla’s innate curiosity and willingness to ask questions transformed a simple filing job into a launching pad for her career. Her story is a testament to how a learning mindset can turn any role into an opportunity.

What Your Darkest Moment Reveals

“I was deteriorating, but inside I was still functioning.”

The crisis that forced Karla to confront who she was under pressure, was a leader who, despite crumbling internally, never abandoned her duty to her team.