From Curiosity to Confidence: Taking Risks, Leading with People, and Building a Life That Grows With YouHost: Christine HummelGuest: Kam (Kathy Anne) McManus, Chief Customer Officer at CDK Global🌱 Episode OverviewIn this episode of Root to Rising, host Christine Hummel sits down with Kam McManus—global leader, mentor, and Chief Customer Officer at CDK Global—for an honest and powerful conversation about career pivots, leadership, risk-taking, and redefining success on your own terms.From starting her career in media and entertainment in Australia to leading customer experience organizations across multiple industries and continents, Kam shares how curiosity, connection, and courage shaped her professional journey. This episode is a must-listen for women navigating career transitions, leadership roles, and the realities of balancing ambition with family life.✨ What You’ll LearnWhy skills and characteristics matter more than industry experienceHow taking risks—even when they feel uncomfortable—can unlock unexpected growthThe importance of listening as a leadership skillHow to build confidence when stepping into roles you don’t feel “fully ready” forWhat it really looks like to balance career, motherhood, and partnershipWhy mentorship isn’t something you wait for—it’s something you practice earlyHow resilience and adaptability shape long-term success🔑 Key TakeawaysLeadership is a privilege, not a rite of passageYou don’t need to check every box to be qualified—growth happens in the gapsConfidence often comes after courage, not beforeStrong partnerships—at work and at home—are game changersListening deeply creates stronger teams, better outcomes, and meaningful connectionFailure isn’t the end of the story; it’s part of the process🌍 Kam’s Journey HighlightsBorn and raised in Sydney, Australia; now based in the U.S.Career spanning media, technology, telecommunications, and automotive industriesLed global teams across Asia-Pacific, Australia, and the United StatesFormer entrepreneur who built and ran her own consulting practicePassionate mentor and advocate for women in leadershipProud mom of three adult children and proof that there’s no single “right” path💬 Memorable Quotes“Leadership is a privilege, not a rite of passage.”“If someone offers you an opportunity, it’s because they see something in you—believe them.”“You can have both a career and a family, but you can’t be perfect at both—and that’s okay.”“Listen more than you speak. That’s where real connection happens.”

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