67. The “You Should Smile More” Trap episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 28, 2026 · 24 MIN

67. The “You Should Smile More” Trap

from The Balanced Leader: Merging Logic and Heart in Women's Leadership

"You should smile more." We've all heard it, usually said like a compliment but landing like a command or even a demand. Sometimes it comes when you're giving hard feedback, holding someone accountable, or just being neutral. This episode isn't about convincing you to smile. It's about the empowerment that comes from smiling when it's chosen by you, not demanded by others. Tune in this week discover the significant difference between smiling because someone told you to and choosing to smile for yourself. You'll learn how to discern when feedback about smiling is someone trying to diffuse your power versus when it comes from genuine goodwill, the neurological research behind a chosen smile, and my own story of how letting myself be more human, more playful, and yes, smiling more, didn't weaken my authority but made me more trusted, more connected, and gave me way more fun in my leadership role. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: www.aspire-coaching.co/67 Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yanndang/Mentioned in this episode:Before Your Next Big Meeting or Conversation.......Get The 5-Minute Reset to Own the Room. This free guide helps you reset your energy, anchor your authority, and step in as the powerful leader you already are. You'll learn how to walk into any meeting feeling calm, clear, and in command - in just 5 minutes. You can download this free guide by going to https://thebalancedleader.captivate.fm/resetDownload the 5-Minute Reset Here!

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67. The “You Should Smile More” Trap

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How long is this episode of The Balanced Leader: Merging Logic and Heart in Women's Leadership?

This episode is 24 minutes long.

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This episode was published on January 28, 2026.

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"You should smile more." We've all heard it, usually said like a compliment but landing like a command or even a demand. Sometimes it comes when you're giving hard feedback, holding someone accountable, or just being neutral. This episode isn't...

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