Episode 61 How to create a Personal Board for your leadership career

In this first episode of 2026, Sarah introduces the powerful (and often overlooked) concept of a personal board for your leadership career. Drawing on the idea of organisational boards, Sarah explains how having the right people around you can help you make better career decisions, gain perspective, build influence, and stay motivated as a leader.You’ll learn about the different roles a personal board can play, how to identify who is already supporting you (often unconsciously), where the gaps might be, and how to intentionally build stronger, more strategic support around your career and leadership journey.In this episode, you’ll learn:What a personal board is and why it matters for female leadersThe three key categories of a personal boardThe 12 different roles people can play in supporting your careerHow one person can fulfil multiple rolesHow to identify gaps in your current support networkPractical steps to start building or strengthening your personal boardHow to approach people in a way that feels reciprocal and authenticWhy paying it forward is part of sustainable leadership successTimestamps[00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable and the purpose of the podcast[01:35] Episode 61 introduction and New Year reflections[02:00] Why creating a personal board can transform your career[03:00] What a personal board is (and how it mirrors organisational boards)[04:00] Overview of the personal board framework and key principles[05:00] The three categories of a personal board[05:30] Information roles: Inspirer, Expert, Navigator[07:00] Power and influence roles: Connector, Sponsor, Unlocker, Influencer[09:00] Development and support roles: Challenger, Improver, Cheerleader/Anchor[11:00] Real-life examples from Sarah’s leadership career[12:00] Becoming more intentional about who supports you[13:00] Identifying gaps in your personal board[14:00] Who to consider when building your board (beyond line managers)[15:00] How to approach people and make it mutually beneficial[15:45] Paying it forward and supporting others in their careers[16:30] Practical action to take this week[17:00] Final reflections and episode closeTake actionAfter listening, write down three people who already support your career or could play a role on your personal board. Reach out to one of them this week to reconnect, say thank you, or start a more intentional conversation.Useful LinksWho is in your Personal Boardroom? By Zella King & Amanda ScottSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallJoin The Love What You Do Facebook GroupConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected]