096 Leadership Lessons from the Rapids with Michelle Riddell
Wed Feb 04 2026
What can white-water rafting in the Grand Canyon teach us about leadership and life? In this episode of The Life You’re Made For, host Dr. Heather Penny sits down with Michelle Riddell to explore how leadership begins within and is shaped through clarity, courage, and connection.
Drawing from a rafting trip that became a lived leadership lesson, Heather and Michelle talk about caring for yourself, honoring the signals of your body, and choosing peace over striving. They unpack why anxiety can be a gift, how mindset shapes the energy we bring into every space, and why leadership development is never a solo journey.
With a deep heart for the next generation, Michelle shares how mentors helped her believe she could design her life—and how she now walks alongside Gen Z and young professionals, helping them ask better questions, clarify their dreams, and take meaningful next steps.
This episode is an invitation to slow down, listen inward, and step boldly into the life you’re made for.
Step into The Life You're Made For, I'm cheering you on!
heatherpenny.com
@heatherpennyphd
Music & Production by Jason Squires
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What can white-water rafting in the Grand Canyon teach us about leadership and life? In this episode of The Life You’re Made For, host Dr. Heather Penny sits down with Michelle Riddell to explore how leadership begins within and is shaped through clarity, courage, and connection. Drawing from a rafting trip that became a lived leadership lesson, Heather and Michelle talk about caring for yourself, honoring the signals of your body, and choosing peace over striving. They unpack why anxiety can be a gift, how mindset shapes the energy we bring into every space, and why leadership development is never a solo journey. With a deep heart for the next generation, Michelle shares how mentors helped her believe she could design her life—and how she now walks alongside Gen Z and young professionals, helping them ask better questions, clarify their dreams, and take meaningful next steps. This episode is an invitation to slow down, listen inward, and step boldly into the life you’re made for. Step into The Life You're Made For, I'm cheering you on! heatherpenny.com @heatherpennyphd Music & Production by Jason Squires