Tales from a Wing Woman: Why We All Need Someone in Our Corner What if the secret to getting unstuck isn’t doing more—but having the right person beside you? In this episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, Liz Brohan sits down with Jen Anderson to explore the power of having a “wing woman” in business and in life. Jen shares how a career disappointment ultimately pushed her toward a new kind of work—one built around collaboration, accountability, strategy and helping other women move forward. This conversation goes beyond traditional mentoring or coaching. A wingwoman doesn’t just offer advice; she rolls up her sleeves, asks the hard questions, makes connections, helps turn ideas into action and reminds you that you don’t have to figure everything out alone. Liz and Jen also tackle the importance of visibility, meaningful networking, trusting your instincts and knowing when it’s time to walk away from relationships or opportunities that aren’t the right fit. Most importantly, they challenge the idea that success is a competition. There is room for all of us to succeed—and sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is open a door for another woman. Listen in for an inspiring reminder that when women stop competing and start championing one another, everybody moves forward.
Tales from a Wing Woman: Why We All Need Someone in Our Corner
What happens when the job you thought was yours disappears—and instead of staying stuck, you build something entirely new?
In this episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, Liz Brohan talks with Jen Anderson, a self-described “wing woman” who has turned her natural talent for collaboration, strategy, networking and getting things done into a profession.
Jen’s journey began with a painful career setback. After more than 20 years in fitness leadership, she was passed over for a promotion she expected to get. That rejection became the catalyst for a new chapter—and ultimately helped her discover that her greatest strength was helping other business owners succeed.
So what exactly does a wing woman do? Jen describes herself as a collaborator, strategist, accountability partner, communications resource, business-development partner and sounding board. She helps clients identify gaps, create capacity, become more visible, make introductions, find opportunities and—most importantly—take action.
The conversation also tackles the messy realities of entrepreneurship: recognizing when a client relationship isn’t working, trusting your gut, finding your people and accepting that you don’t have to be everyone’s cup of tea.
Networking gets a major spotlight, too. Jen encourages women to get curious, ask questions, make introductions and step outside their usual circles. Visibility doesn’t require attending every event—it requires being intentional and consistent. And sometimes, the best networking move is simply bringing a wing woman with you.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway? There is enough success to go around. Don’t gatekeep your connections, knowledge or opportunities. Share your gifts, lift other women up and give yourself grace along the way.
Because none of us has to do it all alone. Sometimes we just need someone willing to say, “I’ve got you. Let’s do this together.”
Resources & References Mentioned
Highlight Quotes
“There is enough for everyone. When you share what your gifts are, you're elevating others. I’m not a fan of being a gatekeeper. Share what you’ve got—because it’s going to come back to you.” — Jen Anderson
“Wing woman sounds like action. We’re doing it together. We come away with action items—and sometimes I’ll take a couple of those this week. Let me do those.” — Jen Anderson
“You have to continue to stay visible because people can’t buy from you if they can’t find you. Start small, but be consistent.” — Jen Anderson