When it comes to leadership in entrepreneurship, Jen Cochrane, CEO of Gifted Travel Network, shares advice that’s both real and relatable. During a recent Young + Gifted call (that’s GTN’s networking group for advisors and team under 40) she opened up about her leadership journey, how her style has evolved, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

In her early days, Jen led with a sense of urgency and personal efficiency. “I’m a fast processor and can get a lot done in a day,” she shared. But she quickly learned that expecting everyone to match that pace - and style - wasn’t sustainable or effective. Jen’s first real leadership role – at a high-stakes setting at the Federal Reserve - taught her that leadership isn’t just about high personal performance. It’s about how you support others through pressure and help them succeed alongside you.

Over time, Jen’s leadership style has matured. She emphasized that leadership is not just a natural trait - it’s a skill you can refine. “I think we all can improve and get better at it all the time,” Jen said. “A lot of it is experience, and some of it is just leadership maturity.”

One of the biggest shifts Jen made as she stepped into senior leadership? Learning to let go. Delegation, she explained, is a process - and a powerful one. It’s not just about handing off tasks, but about trusting your team and focusing your energy where it matters most.

She also spoke to the reality that growth in business often demands a change in mindset. That includes letting go of control, embracing systems, and being okay with not doing everything yourself. It’s not just about being productive - it’s about being strategic.

Her advice for entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses? Focus on the future, and don’t get stuck in the weeds. “At a certain point, you have to think like a CEO,” she advised. That means developing people, documenting processes, and having the confidence to step back so others can step up.