**Speaker 1:**
Welcome back to another episode of the *Style and Strategy* podcast. Today I have a very special guest, Julie Seery, who is a leader in helping women unlock their unique potential through human design and the Gene Keys. Julie is an expert at showing how self-awareness can actually fuel success. So whether you're leading in the boardroom or growing your business, this is an episode you're going to want to listen to.
We're going to be covering how you can use these powerful frameworks to break through what might actually be holding you back in your career or business, whether you’re looking for more visibility, seeking recognition, or ready to elevate your brand. Today's conversation is packed with actionable insights to help you step into your next level. Julie's personal journey from corporate exec to entrepreneur thought leader will leave you inspired, as her approach to clarity and breakthrough is a game changer. So grab a coffee, take a walk, and listen in to these strategies you'll be able to use going forward.
Welcome, everyone, to another episode of the *Style and Strategy* podcast. I am so excited to have Julie Seery here with me. As you know, there’s no fluff, so we’re going to get straight into it. Julie, thank you so much for being on the show with me. It’s about 6:30 a.m. here, and you’re based in New York, right?
**Speaker 2:**
I am. It’s 3:30 in the afternoon here.
**Speaker 1:**
Amazing. Okay, so let’s get into it. I really want to talk about a key turning point in your life where you realized that your personal brand or identity needed to change. What was the catalyst for that shift?
**Speaker 2:**
I love to talk about this. When you posed this question, it came back to me so clearly, like it just happened yesterday, but it was really eight years ago. I was a vice president of marketing and sales at IBM, had been there for about 16 or 17 years, and in corporate for 20 years. I knew for a long time that I wasn’t in the right career. I wasn’t doing what I was meant to do in this world, but I kept it buried for years.
Then I read a book called *The Top Five Regrets of the Dying* by Bronnie Ware, and it was a powerful moment for me. I remember being partway through the book, sitting in my son’s nursery. He was about 18 months old at the time, and I just knew I was in the wrong career. I wasn’t living authentically, and I knew I had to change. That realization sparked a complete shift in how I was showing up in the world. It was a pivotal moment where I knew if I didn’t change, I’d have regrets when I was older.
**Speaker 1:**
Yeah, amazing. How do you think that shift started to show up in your work and life?
**Speaker 2:**
Something shifted instantly. I call it when you take a "someday goal" and bring it into the "now goal." It was about making a decision. I didn’t know the how or what the end result would be, but I made the decision, and it changed me. I became a different version of myself. The Julie before the decision and the Julie after were two different people. Nothing happens overnight, though; it took me two years to fully leave IBM. But it all started with that one decision, and everything began to unravel from there.
**Speaker 1:**
That’s incredible. A lot of women hit that point of reinvention and don’t know who they are anymore. What were some of the memorable moments during your reinvention?
**Speaker 2:**
When I was at IBM, the real me was trying to push through. I never wanted to dress like everyone else. I felt like an outsider and a bit of a rebel. When I left and started my businesses, I brought a lot of that corporate mindset into the entrepreneurial world. It was a balance I had to find. In corporate, I was used to quick promotions and bonuses, but entrepreneurship was different. I had to realize that my thinking, feeling, and showing up had to change.
I also had a coach who helped me recognize that my corporate experience was still valuable. I tend to move on to the next thing without pulling the pieces of who I really am into my new chapter. I’ve learned that reinvention is about integrating the authentic parts of yourself from the past and bringing them forward.
**Speaker 1:**
That’s so true. Many women focus on their gaps instead of recognizing their gifts. You work a lot with businesses and individuals using Human Design and Gene Keys. How did you discover these tools, and how have they evolved your business?
**Speaker 2:**
When I started my coaching business, I was helping women with marketing because that’s what I knew well. I have a master’s in marketing and was a vice president at IBM. But as I worked with more women, I noticed that while some could take the strategies and run with them, others struggled. That led me to explore tools like the Enneagram and eventually Human Design and the Gene Keys. These tools helped me realize that success isn’t just about strategy; it’s about how people see themselves.
Human Design and the Gene Keys gave my clients insight into their gifts and potential in a way I couldn’t just explain to them. It was like an MRI for their talents, and it allowed them to have breakthroughs on their own. The beauty of these tools is that they help people understand themselves deeply and align their business strategies with who they really are.
**Speaker 1:**
I love that. Entrepreneurs and leaders often struggle with self-confidence and self-doubt. What advice would you give to someone looking to take the next step?
**Speaker 2:**
I think we’ve been taught that we need confidence before we act, but really, it’s courage that comes first. Confidence comes after you take action. When I started my podcast six years ago, I had no idea if anyone would listen, but I had the courage to put it out there. The confidence came after people responded to it. So, when you’re unsure, just focus on having the courage to take the next step, and the confidence will follow.
**Speaker 1:**
That’s so true. And as women reach midlife, there’s often a shift in identity. What advice do you have for women in their 50s looking to reinvent themselves?
**Speaker 2:**
I love this question. Midlife is such an exciting time because it’s not the end; it’s the beginning of something new. Women in their 50s have spent decades building wisdom, skills, and knowledge. Now is the perfect time to go after that big legacy dream. I recently spoke to a woman who started a billion-dollar company in her mid-50s, and she told me that investors should be funding women over 50 because they have the energy, knowledge, and passion to succeed. I couldn’t agree more. Life begins again at 50, and it’s an incredible time to create something meaningful.
**Speaker 1:**
That’s so inspiring. Reflecting back, how has your personal brand and style evolved over the years?
**Speaker 2:**
I’ve always loved experimenting with my hair. I’ve had every color and length you can imagine. Hair has always been something I’ve been willing to change. Three years ago, at 47, I decided to embrace my natural silver-gray hair, and I love it. It felt like a big decision, but I trusted my inner authority. In terms of style, I’ve always wanted to wear something unique that no one else would wear. I love variety and mixing things up, whether it's a jumpsuit, jeans, or something completely different.
**Speaker 1:**
It’s great to see that evolution. Quick-fire question: What’s your signature style piece today?
**Speaker 2:**
Jeans! I love jeans, especially flared jeans with heels and a standout shirt or blouse tucked in. It’s my go-to look.
**Speaker 1:**
Amazing! Last question: What’s one mindset ritual that helps you feel empowered?
**Speaker 2:**
Walking. It’s a simple routine, but getting outside for a walk clears my head and gives me a creative boost. It’s my favorite way to shift my mood and mindset.
**Speaker 1:**
Thank you so much for being on the podcast, Julie. Where can our listeners find you?
**Speaker 2:**
You can find me on my website, JulieSeery.com, or connect with me on Instagram. I also offer a personalized Human Design report that simplifies everything for you, so make sure to check that out.
**Speaker 1:**
Amazing. Thank you so much for this incredible conversation, Julie. I’ll include all the links in the show notes!
**Speaker 2:**
Thank you! It’s been a pleasure.
