Game Changer: How to Speak Up and Win with Jen Mueller

On this episode of The Breakout, we sit down with Emmy-winning sports broadcaster and communication strategist Jen Mueller, founder of Talk Sporty to Me, to explore what it takes to speak up, break in, and win in male-dominated spaces. If you’ve ever struggled with confidence, imposter syndrome, or knowing when to advocate for yourself, this episode offers a playbook for self-leadership and professional growth.

Jen’s story is one of persistence, presence, and power. For six years, she showed up without being paid, just to learn and observe, before finally earning her role as sideline reporter for the Seattle Seahawks. Her approach to leadership and communication blends decades of sports broadcasting experience with a mindset that champions small wins and daily self-advocacy.

Showing Up and Speaking Out: Jen’s Breakout Approach

Jen Mueller didn’t wait for permission, she showed up. Her breakout came after six years of volunteering in NFL locker rooms, building trust, listening carefully, and understanding the rules of the game, literally and figuratively. That commitment paid off when the Seahawks hired her as their sideline reporter, launching her into a top-tier media career.

But her strategy isn’t just for broadcasters. Jen developed her Talk Sporty to Me method to help professionals bring the clarity, confidence, and strategy of athletes into the boardroom. Her communication philosophy? Prepare like an athlete. Celebrate like an athlete. And own your story like one, too.

Jen’s personal success came from building small daily habits: journaling, changing routines, and finding her voice in rooms where women were often silenced. She shows us how consistency, not charisma, is the real MVP.

Leadership Lessons from the Locker Room

Jen shares that early in her career, she was told to “make sure nobody knows you’re there”, a shocking bit of advice for someone in broadcasting. Rather than take it to heart, she developed her own mantra: show up and stand tall. Her belief in the power of consistency shaped her role in the industry and set the foundation for the coaching she offers today.

Drawing parallels between athletic and professional performance, Jen highlights the importance of post-game reflection, self-acknowledgement, and deliberate communication. Her signature strategies, like the “five hellos” rule and “success statements”, help clients overcome imposter syndrome and articulate their worth without apology.

Strategies from Jen Mueller: Confidence in Action

Jen’s actionable strategies are rooted in clarity and simplicity. Here are just a few from the episode:

• Don’t settle for vague language. Always finish the sentence with a purpose (“Call me so we can discuss X”).
  
• Practice small moments of advocacy. Don’t wait for review season, speak up daily.
  
• Create “success statements.” When asked how you’re doing, say something that communicates your achievements: “I’m doing great, I just wrapped a workshop in Denver.”
  
• Use sports conversations as connection builders. It’s not just about the game, it’s about showing up in small talk and building trust.
  

Jen also recommends journaling, trying new routines, and adopting an athlete’s mindset of deliberate practice. You can explore more tools and training on her Talk Sporty to Me YouTube channel.

Guest’s Inspiring Takeaways

• “Nobody’s going to give you permission. You have to find the small ways to speak up.”
• “Confidence comes from seeing yourself follow through, over and over again.”
• “Stop looking for huge wins. Your breakout comes from small, daily victories.”

Jen’s most powerful lesson? Speak up, even if your voice shakes. You’re not just talking. You’re building trust, visibility, and momentum.

Summary & Reflection

In this episode of The Breakout, Jen Mueller shares what it means to be “deliciously competitive,” how to speak like an athlete, and why consistency beats confidence when it comes to success. Her story is a masterclass in leadership, perseverance, and professional communication.

Whether you’re an emerging leader, a seasoned executive, or someone still finding their voice, Jen’s strategies are a reminder that we can all build the skills to speak up, own our value, and break through.

Listen to The Breakout for more with Jen Mueller.

Hear how Jen:

• Turned locker room silence into career-defining strategy
  
• Handles confidence slumps before live broadcasts
  
• Coaches corporate leaders to communicate like athletes
  

About The Breakout

Dive into transformative tales of personal growth with The Breakout podcast by Abbracci Group’s thought leaders, Dr. Keri Ohlrich and Kelly Guenther. Join them bi-weekly as they chat with inspiring guests who offer practical insights on breaking boundaries, boosting confidence, and living boldly. Subscribe today to listen to our upcoming episodes filled with inspiration, motivation, and practical advice to help you unleash your full potential! Join our Breakout community.

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