Cross-Training Your Career vs Climbing the Ladder: Advice for Women with Kim Lanphear

Hey Trailblazers! Today’s episode is for anyone who’s ever felt stuck, burned out, or stressed about not being “up enough” in their career. Kim Lanphear, CEO of Apparo, joins Tiffany Benitez, and this conversation hits differently. It’s honest, real, and filled with the kind of insight you wish someone had shared years ago. From Citibank to theater management to serving over 1200 nonprofits, Kim’s path is anything but linear, and that’s exactly where the magic lives.

Right out of the gate, Kim breaks down what authentic leadership actually looks like in real life. And it’s not polishing your wins. “Authenticity is about integrity and transparency… being willing to be vulnerable builds trust,” she says. We don’t hear that enough, but it’s exactly what we need more of in leadership.

Then comes the part that will make every career-driven listener stop and think. We talk about the career jungle gym, why growth isn’t always “up,” and why some of the best moves are sideways. Kim reminds us that “A lot of opportunities happen when you explore new roles, not just move up the career ladder but grow sideways, climb around, and focus on personal and intellectual growth.” Not knowing what’s next doesn’t mean you’re lost. It might mean you’re finally paying attention.

And if you’ve ever questioned whether your title, skills, or seat at the table “measure up,” Kim drops the kind of advice you’ll want to repeat. She talks about advocating for her title change from Executive Director to CEO, not for ego, but because sometimes people only open doors when they recognize a title, not the person behind it. This episode makes you rethink how you show up, how you advocate, and how you lead.

Here are the key takeaways:

(4:59) Integrity, transparency, and authenticity

(7:03) The value of sideways career moves

(8:22) Why shame keeps us stuck

(11:28) Skills over ladders for real growth

(12:35) The truth about reaching the C suite

(13:39) Your career changes with your life

(16:08) When a title change opens doors

(17:49) Showing up as a peer, not a guest

(19:52) Focus on brand, not perception

(20:47) Follow what interests you next

(22:36) Let go of the ladder myth

(26:15) How to tell if company values are real

(30:47) It’s okay to move sideways

If you're ready to stop obsessing over the ladder and start owning the jungle gym, this one’s for you. Tune in, get inspired, and share this episode with someone who needs a permission slip to explore what’s next.

About Kim Lanphear

Kim Lanphear is the CEO of Apparo, a nonprofit that connects Charlotte-area nonprofits with technology and business expertise. She has spent over 25 years in leadership roles across finance, arts, and nonprofit sectors, including time at Citibank. Under her leadership, Apparo has supported more than 1200 nonprofits through partnerships with 250 companies and shifted to a pro bono model to make tech support accessible. Kim holds degrees from Duke University and Southern Methodist University and has been recognized as one of Charlotte’s Most Admired CEOs and Most Influential Women.

Connect with Kim:

LinkedIn

About Tiffany Benitez

Tiffany Benitez leads Data Governance at Compass Group USA, ensuring data quality, integrity, and compliance across all business units. She is passionate about driving data excellence and advancing women in tech and STEM.

Connect with Host:

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.