What does it really look like to lead without losing yourself?
In this episode of The Grit & Grace Podcast, Dana talks with executive coach Lucy Escobar about emotionally intelligent leadership, faith, family, and building a life that actually works.

Most women aren’t trying to build a brand—they’re trying to build a life that works.

In Episode 5 of the Grit & Grace Podcast, Dana sits down with Lucy Escobar, former banking executive, executive coach, and founder of the Oregon Book Fair, for a powerful conversation about leadership, faith, family, and purpose.

Lucy shares her journey from a 20-year career in banking into coaching leaders, mentoring women, and building community spaces rooted in belonging and literacy. She opens up about motherhood, becoming a grandmother, releasing expectations, and how to lead with heart while carrying real responsibility.

This episode is for women who are already doing a lot—and want to do it with more clarity, confidence, and peace.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Why leadership begins with emotional intelligence and self-awareness
• How to support adult children without controlling or resenting
• The simple 90-day practice Lucy uses to stay grounded (The Wheel of Life)
• Why persistence matters more than perfection
• How the Oregon Book Fair was built—and why community still matters
• What to do when discouragement shows up

If you’re leading at home, at work, or in your community—and wondering how to keep going without losing yourself—this conversation will remind you that you don’t have to do it alone.

Follow, rate, and review The Grit & Grace Podcast for more real conversations with women leading real lives.