Are You the King - or the Queen?

A Note from the CEO

A client asked me the other day, “Which chess piece do you think represents me?”

I responded with a question of my own: “Which piece do you think you are?”

Without hesitation, they said, “The king. I’m the leader. I’m a warrior. I’m the one people turn to for advice, support, and direction. As CEO, everything stops with me.”

I hear this all the time. 

In fact, 90% of my clients start our leadership sessions believing they are the king—at the center of it all, with the rest of the pieces working to protect them on the path to checkmate.

But here’s what surprises them: The king never delivers a checkmate. The other pieces do. The king supports, strategizes, and survives—but real progress happens when the whole team moves with purpose.

In chess, the king represents your mission—your values, your why. Your job as a leader isn’t just to sit at the center; it’s to make sure every move aligns with protecting that mission.

At Queenside, we focus on unleashing your inner queen. The queen is the most powerful piece on the board, moving in all directions, creating opportunities, and protecting others when needed. But true leadership also means knowing when to let your team protect you.

Because leadership isn’t just about standing at the top. It’s about empowering every piece on the board to play their best game.

Quote of the Week

“Every woman's success should be an inspiration to another. We're strongest when we cheer each other on.” – Serena Williams, one of the greatest tennis players of all time

We’ve Got Merch!

Shop Queenside

Check out our new merch line, now available at Queenside Ventures Store! From stylish apparel to unique accessories, our collection is designed to inspire and empower. Each piece reflects the essence of leadership, strategy, and community. Visit the store today and find the perfect addition to your wardrobe!

Coming Up in the Pod

Leveling the Playing Field: Leslie Flores on Supporting Players & Empowering Women in Sports

In this episode, Leslie Flores, Coordinator for Education and Cultural Programs with The Athletics, shares her inspiring journey as a first-generation Mexican-American woman thriving in the male-dominated sports industry. Leslie dives into her work helping international players adjust to life in the U.S., her passion for education and community service, and her mission to advocate for women in sports.

Puzzle Solution: A queen endgame - how surprising!

Qxg4+, Kxg4

Ke7 (Careful! You want that king close to the d-file), Kf5

Kd6 (Why not Kf6, you ask? Remember queen me! That pawn is moving up the board), Ke4

Kxe6