Leading Without the Mask: Energy, Mental Health & Finding Your Voice

In this deeply honest and powerful episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by Nick Elston, award-winning keynote speaker, mental health specialist, and founder of Forging People.Nick shares his lived experience of OCD, anxiety, burnout, and breakdown—and how those challenges became the foundation for a career helping leaders find their voice without pretending to be someone they’re not. Together, Carol and Nick unpack what it really means to lead authentically as an introvert in a noisy, performative world.This conversation explores the emotional and mental load many introverted leaders carry, from imposter syndrome and people-pleasing to fear of rejection and the pressure to “show up louder.” Nick reframes introversion as an energy management strategy, not a confidence issue, and shares practical ways to protect your energy while still being visible and influential.In this episode, you’ll hear about:- Why introversion is about energy, not ability- The link between mental health, burnout, and performative leadership- How to overcome fear of rejection and imposter syndrome- Building a personal “playbook” to manage energy before and after high-pressure situations- Owning your story instead of being owned by it- Why finding your voice can be both transformational and therapeuticThis episode is essential listening for introverted leaders who want to thrive on their own terms—without masks, burnout, or performance.Find out more about Nick Elston: https://nickelston.com LinkedIn: Nick Elstonhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nickelston/Take the Confidence, Influence & Impact Assessment athttps://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders