Breaking Through Glass Means Bleeding First and leaving Scars; The Hidden Cost of Authentic Leadership

Everyone loves the highlight reel—the promotions, the polished panels, the power moves. But we rarely talk about the emotional cost of getting there. The behind-the-scenes reality that comes with being the first, the only, or the one challenging the norm.

This is for you—the one breaking through without a roadmap.

Because here’s the truth: Breaking through glass means bleeding first.

When you lead in spaces not designed for you, when you speak truth to power, or carry the weight of representation, it comes with bruises, resistance, and often, invisible scars.

You’re not just doing the job. You’re fighting for visibility, pushing for equity, and leading with conviction in spaces that sometimes ask you to shrink.

And that takes a toll.

My Story: The Bruises Behind the Breakthroughs

I’ve walked into rooms where I was expected to perform but not be fully present. I’ve smiled through resistance, bit my tongue in meetings, and carried the burden of “getting it right” because I knew I couldn’t afford to be wrong.

I’ve been the one mentoring others while healing myself in silence.

And yet, I showed up. I kept showing up. Because every breakthrough—every crack in that ceiling—matters.

Leadership Isn’t Always Polished—But It’s Always Powerful

Authentic leadership demands more than performance. It requires:

• Courage to lead with truth, even when it's uncomfortable

• Emotional intelligence to navigate resistance and complexity

• Self-awareness to stay grounded in who you are

• Resilience to keep going, even when you’re exhausted

• Vulnerability to admit when you're bleeding, not just succeeding

This is the kind of leadership that transforms cultures and leaves legacies.

You’re Not Just Leading—You’re Trailblazing

If you're carrying silent wounds behind visible wins, you’re not alone. And you don’t have to keep doing it alone.

I work with leaders who are ready to stop performing and start leading with clarity, authenticity, and strength. Together, we focus on:

• Reconnecting with your values and purpose

• Leading without losing your voice or identity

• Healing from the cost of breaking through

• Building a leadership style that is both powerful and sustainable

Let’s Talk About Your Journey

You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need a safe space to be real.

Your scars don’t disqualify you from leadership. They are the evidence that you’ve done the hard work. They are the marks of a trailblazer.

With respect and belief in your journey,

Latisha B. Russell

Leadership Coach