Confidence Before Visibility: Breaking Taboos and Leading with Psychological Safety with Tina Holmes

What comes first in a career — confidence or visibility?In this episode of It’s In You, I sit down with Tina Holmes to explore one of the most misunderstood dynamics in women’s careers. Together, we unpack why so many capable women wait to feel “ready,” why confidence often grows after action (not before), and how breaking taboos can become a powerful leadership tool.Tina brings a refreshing mix of clarity, honesty, and experience from working in complex organisational environments. We talk openly about vulnerability, psychological safety, and the hidden impact of company culture on self-confidence and growth.This conversation is an invitation to stop waiting, start trusting yourself — and become visible without losing authenticity.Key TakeawaysConfidence is not a prerequisite — it is built through actionMany women systematically underestimate their own capabilitiesBreaking taboos creates trust, credibility, and stronger leadershipVulnerability is not weakness; it is a leadership skillPsychological safety is essential for performance and innovationOrganisational culture deeply influences individual confidenceDiversity in leadership leads to better decisions and outcomesMentoring plays a key role in women’s career developmentVisibility is a choice — not a personality traitOpen conversations create healthier, more human workplacesSound Bites“Confidence comes first — internally.” “It’s time to care, and it’s time to speak up.” “If we don’t talk about taboos, they continue to hold power.”Episode Chapters00:00 – Introduction & personal background02:56 – Confidence and career development05:43 – Taboo topics in the workplace08:35 – Why psychological safety matters11:07 – Leadership and organisational culture14:14 – Change and uncertainty at work17:02 – The role of diversity in leadership19:59 – How taboos impact women at work22:43 – Personal experiences & leadership style25:13 – Success, fulfillment & redefining achievement28:03 – Closing reflections and outlookAbout Tina HolmesTina Holmes is a senior HR leader and trusted voice on modern leadership, organisational culture, and psychological safety. With deep experience across complex corporate environments, she is known for addressing uncomfortable topics with clarity and courage — and for creating spaces where people can grow without pretending.Connect & Continue the ConversationYou can find Tina Holmes on Linkedin and her personal website. More information regarding the Taboo Talker can be found here.📩 If this episode resonates with you, share it on LinkedIn and tag us!Connect with Katharina on LinkedInVisit Katharina's WebsiteSubscribe to Katharinas newsletterIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to IT`S IN YOU! so you never miss an update. For more leadership and career inspiration, follow Katharina on LinkedIn and visit her website for additional resources. Don’t forget to share the podcast with the women in your life who are ready to step into their leadership roles with confidence.Contact: [email protected]