Confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s built through effort, resilience, and a relentless commitment to growth. In this episode, you’ll hear how Leah Emkin, Chief Client Officer at Wilshire, went from not knowing what an RFP writer was to leading client teams at one of the most respected financial firms. Her story is proof that when you show up, stay curious, and do the hard work, you don’t just survive—you thrive.
Leah shares the mindset shifts and daily habits that helped her grow into a trusted leader, the power of staying in your lane while playing to your strengths, and how to handle rejection without losing momentum. If you’ve ever questioned whether you belong in the room or wondered how to lead with both empathy and grit, this conversation will give you the real talk—and reassurance—you need.
Key Takeaways:
- Confidence Through Competence – How mastering your craft fuels resilience and earns you a seat at the table.
- Open, Curious, and Consistent – Why staying flexible and showing up every day drives long-term success.
- Leading with Empathy – The power of authenticity, connection, and empowering others to succeed.
- Navigating Risk and Rejection – How to handle setbacks, take smart risks, and build a career that lasts.
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Highlights
The key moments in this episode are:
[00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers Podcast
[00:27] Building Confidence Through Competence
[01:07] Meet Leah Emkin: A Journey of Hard Work and Curiosity
[03:48] Leah's Role and Responsibilities at Wilshire
[05:16] Embracing Openness and Curiosity
[12:42] Navigating Challenges and Building Resilience
[16:48] Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Imposter Syndrome
[21:39] Gaining Perspective with Age
[22:41] Daily Habits for Success
[24:52] Navigating Parenthood and Flexibility
[25:32] Building Strategic Relationships
[26:49] The Importance of Mentorship
[28:28] Women Supporting Women in Investments
[29:44] Leveraging Community and Networks
[30:51] Embracing Discomfort for Growth
[33:23] Advice for Job Seekers
[34:52] Lightning Round and Final Thoughts -
Lightning Round
Q: What book has greatly influenced you?
A: I don't have a specific book. I have the concept of reading overall.Q: What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?
A: Be kind whenever possible. It's always possible. - Dalai Lama XIVQ: What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?
A: Open and Intense.Q: What is one change you've implemented that made your life better?
A: Waking up early in the morning.Q: What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?
A: The Man - Taylor Swift -
Quotes
I have mentees, both within Wilshire and within other organizations that I'm a part of, they're oftentimes struggling with confidence. And I like to remind them that I get nervous all the time, that's never gone away. I'm just very good at forcing myself to do things that I'm scared of, and we have to do that all the time.
Leah Emkin
People forget how much people like to be asked for help. People love it. It makes people feel really good. However much you're getting out of this, it's equal or more for me. It makes me feel so happy to be able to help someone else.
Leah Emkin
Wilshire has never asked me to be or act like anything other than what I am… I’ve been really consistent in how I present myself internally and externally. And I think that resonates with people… it makes me a leader that people trust.
Leah Emkin
There are some people who are just incredible networkers—they go into a room and socialize with everyone, and it feels so natural. That is not my natural personality, but it's important for me to be able to do that, so I force myself to. You get better with it and feel more comfortable as you do it more and more.
Leah Emkin
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About
Leah Emkin is Chief Client Officer at Wilshire and is responsible for overseeing Wilshire’s client facing and marketing teams.
Leah has more than 15 years of industry experience and has been with Wilshire since 2008. She focuses on bringing client teams together to create a more cohesive working environment, to deliver a consistent client experience and to ensure all client teams can speak to Wilshire’s holistic capabilities. Leah’s roles and responsibilities have changed significantly over the years but delivering for Wilshire’s clients has always been her biggest focus.
She is also a member of the Wilshire Executive Committee and is co-founder of Wilshire’s Gender Diversity Awareness Committee. Within these positions, Leah has been integral in the development of Wilshire’s annual Diverse-Owned Manager Initiative, which helps the firm meaningfully promote equal access and opportunity for asset management firms owned by people from underrepresented groups.
Leah has been a board member of the Women in Institutional Investments Network (WIIIN) since 2018, a Los Angeles-based forum that focuses on supporting and empowering women in institutional investments. In this role, she aids in strengthening relationships and facilitating a dialogue to advance and empower women.
Leah received her B.A. from Lewis & Clark College and her MA and MBA from Claremont Graduate University.