Episode 53 - Bold Leadership With Michelle Vandepas | Business Therapy™

In this episode, I’m joined by Michelle Vandepas for a thoughtful conversation on bold leadership, self-expression and what it can look like to show up more fully as yourself.Michelle brings decades of experience in leadership, publishing and coaching and together we explore the nuance behind “authenticity.” Because being yourself isn’t always as straightforward as it sounds. It can be layered, evolving and sometimes uncomfortable, especially when it involves unlearning old patterns.We talk about how many of us hold ourselves back in subtle ways, not always because we lack ability, but because of fear, conditioning or simply not feeling ready yet. And what it might look like to begin shifting that, in ways that feel supportive rather than overwhelming.Here’s what we covered✅ A more grounded perspective on what bold leadership can look like✅ The difference between expressing yourself and reacting from emotion✅ How self-awareness and emotional regulation can shape the way we lead✅ The ways holding back can show up in the body, not just the mind✅ The connection between voice, expression and overall wellbeing✅ Why many women downplay their gifts, even when they’re capable✅ How writing things down can create clarity and reduce fear✅ The idea of taking small, different actions as a way to open new possibilities✅ The role of support and accountability when things feel unclear✅ Why rest can sometimes be part of moving forward, not a distraction from it✅ What it can look like to honour where you are while still growingMichelle also shares parts of her personal journey, including how suppressing her voice once showed up in her physical health and how, over time, learning to express herself created shifts both internally and externally.One reflection that stayed with me from this conversation is this:Being yourself isn’t about getting it “right,” it’s about allowing space for who you are to emerge, in a way that feels honest and grounded.Because when there’s less pressure to perform, it can feel easier to move forward in a way that actually feels aligned.If you’ve been feeling a little held back, or thinking about how you show up in your life or business, this episode offers a perspective that feels both gentle and practical.About Michelle Vandepas Michelle Vandepas is a leadership coach, publisher and retreat host with over four decades of experience. She works with authors and entrepreneurs to help them step more confidently into their voice, share their stories and expand what they believe is possible for themselves.Connect with Michelle Vandepas: Website: michellevandepas.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michellevandepasInstagram: www.instagram.com/michelle.vandepasFacebook: www.facebook.com/michelle.vandepasYoutube: www.youtube.com/@michellevandepas 💼 Explore Business Therapy™If you’d like support while building your business, Business Therapy™ is a space designed to help you move forward with more clarity, confidence and grounded support as you navigate growth. Learn more at www.jokedurojaiye.me 📖 Download the Free Unmute Yourself Discussion GuideIf this episode resonated with you, you can download the free Unmute Yourself Book Club Discussion Guide for deeper reflection and more intentional conversations around voice, visibility, growth, and purpose. Click here to download. 📖 Read the book, Unmute YourselfUnmute Yourself explores identity, voice, growth and becoming the version of yourself that can hold what you’re building. you can order here.If you’ve read Unmute Yourself and it resonated, then please leave a review here.