The Success Trap: When Achievement Doesn't Feel Like Enough with Ben Robins

In this episode of the Notable Men Podcast, Laura Ezzell sits down with leadership coach, executive advisor, and self-leadership expert Ben Robins. Before becoming a coach, Ben led EMEA operations for a global consulting firm, working with some of the world's most recognized companies, including Google, Meta, and Amazon. His career has taken him across continents and industries, from cattle ranching in Australia to teaching in South Korea to leading international business teams. Today, he works with founders, executives, and business owners to help them navigate growth, pressure, and high-stakes decision-making through the lens of self-leadership and psychology. In this conversation, Ben shares why leadership challenges are often deeply personal rather than purely operational, how identity shapes performance, and what happens when successful people outgrow the stories they've been carrying for years. He explores the connection between self-awareness, emotional regulation, and leadership effectiveness, offering practical insights for anyone seeking greater clarity, confidence, and alignment. In this conversation, Ben shares: Why pressure reveals the leadership patterns already operating beneath the surface The hidden stories and identities that influence decision-making How micromanagement often stems from fear rather than strategy Why high performers are especially vulnerable to burnout and self-imposed pressure The connection between self-awareness and leadership effectiveness How identity shapes confidence, communication, and executive presence Why imposter syndrome persists even among highly accomplished leaders The role emotional regulation plays in leadership under pressure Why external success doesn't always create internal fulfillment How leaders can define success on their own terms instead of following someone else's blueprint The importance of updating your identity as you grow Why meaningful leadership begins with leading yourself first This is a thoughtful conversation about leadership, identity, self-awareness, and the internal work required to create sustainable success. Ben offers a powerful reminder that leadership isn't just about strategy, performance, or results—it's about understanding who you are and learning to lead from that place with intention. If you've ever felt stuck between where you are and who you want to become, this episode will challenge you to look beyond tactics and focus on the beliefs, patterns, and stories shaping your leadership journey. Connect with Ben LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-robins-coaching/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ben-Robins Instagram: @benrobins__ Website: www.ben-robins.com For listeners: www.ben-robins.com/podcast