PODCAST · business
Little Moves, Big Careers: Smart Career Growth Strategies for Ambitious Professionals.
by Caroline Esterson from Inspire Your Genius
Struggling to get noticed and move up in today’s fast-changing workplace? Little Moves, Big Careers is your go-to podcast for smart, actionable career growth strategies that cut through the noise.From visibility and confidence to self-leadership and influence, every episode mixes bold insights, cheeky truths, and practical takeaways that actually work inside real organisations to help you stand out and get promoted.No corporate waffle; just unapologetically honest career talk for people who want to perform, progress, and stand out for all the right reasons.New episodes drop every Tuesday. Start your journey with 'The Survivor’s Guide' episode to learn how to lead through change and rebuild your career even when things get sticky.Hosted by Caroline Esterson, career strategist and co-founder of www.inspireyourgenius.com, this show reveals the uns
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#94 | Three Small Leadership Moves That Shift Your Influence and Promotion Prospects Starting Monday!
What if the biggest obstacle to your next promotion isn't a lack of talent—but the fact that you're trapped in reactive mode?If you're constantly busy, solving problems, attending meetings, and keeping everything moving, you may feel productive. But are those activities actually increasing your visibility, influence, and opportunities for promotion? This episode explores why so many talented leaders get stuck in a cycle of doing rather than thinking—and how a small shift in focus can create a massive impact on your career.Through the story of Sarah, a high-performing sales director, you'll discover how challenging one long-standing team habit unlocked better conversations, stronger leadership moves, and greater influence across her team.In this episode, you'll learn:How reactive work patterns quietly reduce your visibility and limit promotion opportunities.Why questioning inherited processes can dramatically increase your influence as a leader.The simple leadership moves that create space for strategic thinking, better ideas, and stronger results.Listen now to discover how one small shift in focus can help you build more influence, make smarter leadership moves, and position yourself for promotion.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#93 | Your Brain, Your Leadership and the Invisible Gorilla Blocking Your Influence
Watch the Invisible Gorilla Experiment HereAre you working harder than ever—but still not getting the visibility, influence, and promotion opportunities you deserve?Most professionals assume career growth comes from doing more, responding faster, and staying on top of every task. But what if your brain is wired to keep you focused on the urgent at the expense of the important? In this episode, we explore the science behind reactive thinking, why organizations unintentionally reinforce it, and how it may be limiting your ability to stand out as a leader.In this episode, you'll discover:Why your brain naturally defaults to reactive mode—and how that impacts your visibility, influence, and promotion potential.What the famous Invisible Gorilla Experiment teaches us about the opportunities and patterns you may be missing at work.Three powerful questions that will help you create more space for strategic thinking, leading with influence, and career growth.Listen now to learn how a small shift in attention can dramatically increase your influence, visibility, and readiness for your next promotion.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#92 | Stop Reacting, Start Leading and Watch Your Influence and Promotion Prospects Soar
What if the biggest barrier to your next promotion isn’t your capability—but the fact that you’re trapped in reactive mode?You work hard, deliver results, and keep everything moving. But if your days are filled with responding, firefighting, and following inherited processes, you may be sacrificing the very visibility and influence that drive career progression. In this episode, you'll discover why busyness is often mistaken for value, how one leader transformed her team by challenging a long-standing habit, and what you can do to create space for more strategic impact.In this episode, you'll learn:Why reactive working quietly undermines your visibility, influence, and promotion opportunities—even when you're performing well.How to identify outdated habits, meetings, and processes that consume time without creating meaningful value.A simple leadership shift that helps you move from managing activity to leading with influence and creating greater impact.Listen now to uncover the hidden habits that may be limiting your influence and promotion potential—and learn how to create space for the work that truly gets noticed.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#91 | How To Become AI Unshakeable In 7 Days (And Turn Your Imposter Syndrome Into Promotion-Ready Influence)
Are you worried that AI is making your role less valuable—or wondering how to stay relevant as workplaces rapidly change?The conversation around AI often focuses on automation, productivity, and new technology. But the professionals who remain indispensable aren't necessarily the ones producing the most output. They're the ones who know how to demonstrate their judgment and make their invisible work impossible to overlook.In this episode, you'll learn three practical moves you can implement immediately to strengthen your position, increase your visibility, and future-proof your career in an AI-driven workplace.You'll discover:How to shift from being seen as a producer of work to the person trusted to evaluate it.Why Invisible Work—relationship-building, trust, and contextual knowledge—is becoming more valuable as AI adoption grows.How to reposition your experience, CV, and professional story so your unique value stands out.If you want to become more visible, more valuable, and more difficult to replace in the age of AI, this episode gives you three actions you can start using this week.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#90 | Why Your Imposter Syndrome Around AI May Be Pointing To Your Promotion Advantage (And The “Soft Skills” Your Workplace Needs Most)
If AI is transforming the workplace, why are some women becoming more valuable instead of less?While most conversations focus on automation and job displacement, there's another story unfolding beneath the surface. The very skills that organizations have historically overlooked—judgment, relationship-building, and contextual decision-making—are emerging as some of the most valuable capabilities in an AI-powered world.In this episode, you'll learn why women may be uniquely positioned to benefit from this shift, how AI is exposing long-standing blind spots in how organizations measure value, and what you can do to make your most important contributions impossible to ignore.You'll discover:Why AI is targeting predictable work—and why judgment remains one of the hardest human skills to replicate.How relational intelligence creates value that AI cannot automate, copy, or replace.Practical ways to identify, document, and communicate the invisible work that makes you indispensable.If you want to understand where the real opportunity lies in the age of AI, this episode will help you recognize, articulate, and amplify the skills that matter most.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#89 | Why AI Is Exposing the Leadership Gap and What Every Smart Leader Needs To Do Right Now To Secure Their Influence
Are you worried that AI could replace your job, or wondering what makes some people more valuable while others become easier to replace?As AI rapidly changes the workplace, many professionals are focusing on learning new tools, earning certifications, and proving they're adaptable. But there’s a critical factor that most people overlook. The real differentiator isn't how well you use AI; it's how effectively you apply judgment. In this episode, you'll discover why some professionals are becoming more indispensable as AI adoption grows and how you can strengthen your own job security.You'll discover:The specific parts of your role AI can automate (and the parts it simply cannot replace).Why making your judgment visible is more valuable than producing more output.A simple framework for increasing your job security by highlighting the expertise, context, and decision-making that only humans can provide.If you want to stay relevant, valuable, and difficult to replace in an AI-powered workplace, this episode will show you exactly where to focus your attention.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#88 | Get Promoted for the Work Nobody Sees With These 3 Moves That Make the Invisible Tax Visible
What if the solution to your invisible tax isn't working less - but making your contribution impossible to ignore?After uncovering the hidden costs of invisible work throughout the week, this episode shifts the focus from frustration to action. Using Donna Summer's iconic anthem She Works Hard for the Money as inspiration, we explore what it means to be seen, valued, and recognised for the work that keeps teams functioning behind the scenes.In this episode, you'll learn:Why the message behind She Works Hard for the Money perfectly captures the reality of the invisible tax.How to build career visibility without becoming someone you're not.Three practical strategies to increase workplace recognition for the contributions that usually go unnoticed.Listen now to discover how to reduce your invisible tax, strengthen your career visibility, and earn the workplace recognition your contribution deserves.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#87 | The Hidden Tax Draining Your Influence And Tanking Your Promotion Prospects (And Why it's WOMEN Who Are Expected To Pay For It)
What if the work that's making you indispensable is also the work that's holding your career back?If you've ever been the person who organizes, mentors, supports, covers, coordinates, or keeps the peace, this episode explains why that work often goes unseen despite being critical to your team's success. Drawing on decades of research, we unpack the hidden workplace patterns that cause some employees—especially women—to carry a disproportionate share of work that benefits everyone but advances no one's career.In this episode, you'll learn:What non-promotable tasks are and why they form a major part of the invisible tax many professionals pay.How emotional labor quietly becomes an expectation at work and the long-term personal cost of carrying it.Why organizations reward visible outcomes while overlooking the skills hidden inside invisible tax, non-promotable tasks, and emotional labor.Listen now to gain the language, research, and evidence you need to identify your own invisible tax, understand the impact of non-promotable tasks, and recognize the true cost of emotional labor.Resources:The No Club: Putting A Stop To Women's Dead-End Work by Linda Babcock, Brenda Peyser, Lise Vesterlund, Laurie R. WeingartNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#86 | Invaluable to Everyone Else and Invisible for Promotion? The Leadership Influence Move To Change That.
What if the work that makes you invaluable is the very thing preventing your promotion?If you've ever stayed late to help a colleague, onboarded new team members, solved problems that weren't yours, or kept your team running smoothly behind the scenes, this episode will feel uncomfortably familiar. Through the story of Jade, you'll discover why so much essential workplace contribution goes unseen, unrewarded, and disconnected from career advancement.In this episode, you'll learn:Why invisible work often receives little workplace recognition despite being critical to team success.How consistently saying yes can quietly limit your career progression opportunities.The hidden organizational patterns that cause caring, capable employees to become overloaded and overlooked.Listen now to understand the real cost of invisible work and learn why doing more isn't always the path to greater career progression and workplace recognition.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#85 | Would Your Team Choose You? The Three Leadership Moves That Make the Answer Yes.
Would your team still choose to work for you if they had another manager available tomorrow?In this episode, we move from theory to action. After exploring the stories and science behind followership, you'll learn three practical leadership moves that create trust, commitment, and team loyalty in everyday situations. You'll also discover why the smallest leadership moments often have the biggest impact on whether people choose to follow you.You'll learn: How to strengthen followership by protecting your team when things go wrong and supporting them when it matters most. Why specific recognition is one of the fastest ways to build team loyalty and help people feel genuinely valued. How effective leadership develops future talent by creating growth opportunities rather than holding onto control. Listen now to discover the simple leadership actions that turn compliance into commitment and create the kind of followership that lasts for years.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#84 | The Science Behind Why Your Team Is Giving You Compliance Not Commitment and the Leadership Trust Moves To Change That.
What if the biggest factor affecting your team's performance isn't skill, experience, or motivation—but trust?In this episode, you'll discover the science behind genuine followership and why teams willingly give discretionary effort to some leaders while giving only the minimum to others. Drawing on research from neuroscience, psychology, Harvard Business School, and Google, you'll learn why a traditional management style is often damaging trust and limiting your long-term influence.You'll discover: The four measurable ingredients of trust and the one factor most managers overlook that can undermine everything else. Why psychological safety drives performance, innovation, and accountability more effectively than control and authority. The critical difference between compliance and commitment—and how to identify which one your team is giving you right now. Listen now to learn the science-backed leadership shifts that build trust, strengthen influence, and create teams that choose to give their best work every day.Resources:Safe To Speak ChecklistPsychological Safety Performance Hack SheetThe Conversation GuideNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#83 | Why Ruth's Team Would Walk Through Walls for Her and What David's Team Taught Her About Leadership Trust & Influence.
Why do some managers inspire lifelong loyalty while others struggle to earn even basic trust from their team?In this episode, you’ll discover why the old leadership rulebook is failing modern managers and how genuine followership is built through honesty, safety, consistency, and trust — not charisma, authority, or motivational speeches. Through the stories of Ruth and David, you’ll hear what truly makes people willingly go the extra mile for a leader.Inside this episode, you’ll learn: Why a traditional management style often damages trust and influence without leaders realizing it The small leadership moments that quietly create loyalty, safety, and long-term team performance How honest communication and accountability build stronger followership than authority ever will Listen now to learn the leadership approach that makes people want to follow you long after the job itself has changed.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#82 | The 90-Second Reset That Proves Calm Leadership Influence Is Built Before You Even Walk In the Room.
What do you do when one comment, one email, or one look completely throws off your leadership presence?In this episode, you’ll learn practical nervous system resets and calm leadership techniques you can use immediately before difficult meetings, presentations, and high-pressure conversations. Through personal stories, neuroscience-backed tools, and simple leadership choreography, this episode shows how influence is built in the smallest moments — often before you even speak.Inside this episode, you’ll learn: The 90-second nervous system reset that stops panic responses before they damage your leadership How calm leadership phrases become emotional anchors that steady your team during uncertainty The exact physical sequence that helps you walk into meetings calmer, clearer, and more influential You’ll also hear the powerful “corridor story” — and why the moments before the meeting often matter more than the meeting itself.If you want to lead with more calm, influence, and emotional steadiness under pressure, this episode gives you practical tools you can start using immediately.Resources:The Corridor Protocol - How To Lead With Calm When You Don't Feel ItNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#81 | The Neuroscience Behind Why Your Team Borrows Calm From You & How to Use It to Build Leadership Influence Under Pressure.
Why do some leaders calm an entire room before they even begin speaking?In this episode, we unpack the neuroscience behind calm leadership, nervous system regulation, and the hidden biological signals shaping every meeting you lead. You’ll discover why teams unconsciously mirror the emotional state of the leader in front of them — and how tiny physical shifts can completely change the atmosphere in high-pressure conversations.Inside this episode, you’ll learn: How co-regulation and nervous system science explain why people “borrow” calm from effective leaders The physical leadership cues that instantly make meetings feel safer, steadier, and more collaborative Why performing calm is not “faking it” — and how your body chemistry actually changes through embodied leadership If you want to communicate with more calm, lead difficult conversations more effectively, and become the steady presence your team trusts under pressure, this episode gives you the science behind how it really works.Resources:The Corridor Protocol - How to Lead with Calm When You Don't Feel ItNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#80 | What Maggie Did When 140 Anxious Employees Looked to Her for Calm & the Leadership Influence Move That Changed Everything.
What happens when your team looks to you for calm… and you don’t actually feel calm yourself?In high-pressure moments, your leadership is shaping more than decisions and communication. Your pace, posture, breathing, and presence directly influence your team’s nervous system — often before you even say a word. In this episode, you’ll hear the story of Maggie, a leader unexpectedly tasked with guiding 140 anxious employees through uncertainty, and the small shifts that completely changed the emotional temperature of the room.Inside this episode, you’ll learn: How calm leadership functions as nervous system regulation for your team during uncertainty The exact sentence that instantly lowers tension and creates psychological steadiness in meetings Why pace, pauses, posture, and breathing matter more than having the “perfect” leadership message If you want to become the kind of leader people trust under pressure — even when you’re nervous yourself — this episode will completely change how you think about calm, leadership, and the nervous system.Resources:The Corridor Protocol - How to Lead with Calm When You Don't Feel ItNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#79 | When the Work You Love Becomes the Work You Dread & the Leadership Moves That Keep Your Influence and Promotion on Track.
What happens when the thing you love doing starts becoming the thing you dread most?In this episode, we bring together the psychology, neuroscience, and career strategy behind sustainable high performance. Using Alicia Keys’ “Girl on Fire” as the backdrop, this conversation explores the hidden cost of overperformance, why ambitious people struggle to define “enough,” and how burnout prevention starts long before a breakdown happens.You’ll learn the practical shifts that help high performers protect their energy, lead sustainable careers, and stop treating exhaustion like proof of ambition.Inside this episode, you’ll discover: Why burnout prevention is essential for long-term high performance and career sustainability How defining your personal version of “done” changes the way you work forever The simple recovery and capacity habits that protect your performance without slowing your ambition If you want a career that stays brilliant without burning you out in the process, this episode gives you the blueprint to build it.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#78 | The Neuroscience of Why Recovery Is Not the Opposite of High Performance & How Burnout Is Quietly Costing You Leadership Influence and Promotion.
What if the reason your performance is slipping isn’t lack of discipline — but lack of recovery?In this episode, we unpack the neuroscience behind burnout, chronic overperformance, and why high achievers are often the last people to realize they’re running on empty. You’ll learn what sustained stress actually does to your prefrontal cortex, why burnout hits high performers differently, and how recovery directly impacts decision-making, creativity, and long-term success.You’ll also hear why most workplace “self-care” advice completely misses the point — and what the research says sustainable high performance actually requires instead.By listening, you’ll discover: Why burnout recovery is a critical part of high performance — not the opposite of it How chronic stress silently reduces cognitive performance and decision-making quality The practical recovery shifts that create sustainable success without sacrificing ambition If you want to perform at a high level without eventually crashing, this episode will change how you think about work, recovery, and success.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#77 | How High Performing Leaders Miss the Burnout Warning Signs That Quietly Destroy Their Influence & Promotion.
How long has it been since you truly switched off without guilt, pressure, or the feeling that you should be doing more?In this episode of Unshakeable Her, we unpack the hidden cost of high performance and why so many capable, reliable professionals slide into burnout without even noticing it happening. Through Jess’s story — a respected leader quietly running on empty — you’ll hear how workplace culture, impossible personal standards, and constant availability can slowly disconnect you from yourself and your work.Inside this episode, you’ll discover: The hidden warning signs of burnout that high performers often miss until it’s too late Why sustainable performance isn’t about doing less — it’s about recovering strategically The surprisingly small daily shift that helped Jess regain clarity, energy, and focus without stepping away from her career If you’re tired of feeling like success always comes at the expense of your wellbeing, this episode will change the way you think about performance, ambition, and rest.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#76 | Find the Golden Thread in Your Zigzag Career & Use It to Build Leadership Influence and Get Promoted.
What if your unconventional career path is not something to hide, but something to wear with pride?If you’ve ever stared at your LinkedIn profile or CV wondering how to make your zigzag career look more “normal,” this episode will help you stop forcing it into a straight line. Using Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colours as the perfect metaphor, Caroline shows how every pivot, sidestep, gap, and reinvention can become part of a powerful career story when you know how to name the value behind it. In this episode, you’ll learn how to:Find the golden thread that connects the different parts of your career story. Explain your pivots clearly and confidently without sounding defensive or apologetic. Turn your unconventional path into a compelling narrative for interviews, LinkedIn, and the way you see yourself. Play this episode now to start owning your zigzag career with the confidence of someone who knows exactly what her coat is made of.Resources:Career Prompt PackConnect with Caroline hereNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#75 | The Science Behind Why Your Career Pivots Are Proof of Leadership Capability & the Influence That Gets You Promoted.
What if every career pivot you’ve made has been quietly building the exact kind of capability today’s workplaces need most?If you’ve ever worried that your nonlinear career looks messy, unfocused, or hard to explain, this episode gives you the science-backed reassurance you need. Caroline explores why zigzag careers can create range, adaptability, pattern recognition, and transferable skills that more linear paths often do not, while also explaining why career pivots can feel so uncomfortable in your own head. In this episode, you’ll learn how to:Understand why broad experience can become a powerful advantage in complex, fast-changing workplaces. Recognise the identity shift that happens during career pivots so you stop mistaking discomfort for failure. Describe your career as a body of capability rather than a disconnected sequence of jobs. Play this episode now to start seeing your zigzag career as evidence of the range, resilience, and adaptability that make you valuable.Resources:Career Prompt PackConnect with Caroline hereNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#74 | Stop Apologising for Your Zigzag Career & Start Using It to Build the Leadership Influence That Gets You Promoted.
Have you ever felt the need to apologise for a career path that looks more like a zigzag than a ladder?If your CV includes pivots, pauses, reinventions, sideways moves, or roles that do not fit neatly into one clear story, this episode will help you see your path differently. Instead of treating your varied experience as something to explain away, Caroline shows how unconventional careers often build the exact transferable skills that make you more adaptable, valuable, and ready for what comes next. In this episode, you’ll learn how to:Reframe your nonlinear career path as evidence of range, resilience, and adaptability. Identify the transferable skills you have collected through pivots, career breaks, redundancies, and reinventions. Stop apologising for your zigzag and start naming its value with confidence in interviews, conversations, and career decisions. Play this episode now to start turning your unconventional career story into one of your strongest sources of confidence.ResourcesCareer Prompt PackConnect with Caroline hereNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#73 | 3 Tiny Intentional Moves Made (Despite the Ache) & the Leadership Confidence Comeback That Gets You Promoted Again.
What do you do when the career knockback was months ago, but your confidence still hasn’t come back?After a redundancy, restructure, rejection or career setback, there comes a point where everyone else expects you to be “moving on”, but inside, you may still feel stuck, unsure and quietly questioning whether you are as capable as you thought. In the final episode of this week's career comeback series, Caroline brings together Sasha’s story, the science of confidence, and the emotional power of Rise Up by Andra Day to show that rebuilding does not happen in one big brave leap. Instead, it happens through tiny, intentional moves made despite the ache.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why you don't need to wait until you feel fully confident before you start moving forward againHow to stop measuring your recovery against someone else’s timeline and reconnect with real evidence of your capabilityThree small, practical moves that can help you restart your confidence loop and begin leaning into your next chapterPress play now to start rising from your career knockback with clarity, evidence and one small move that reminds you who you are.And to help you craft your career story on your terms grab your Career Prompt Pack right here.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#72 | Why Career Setbacks Hit Your Identity Not Just Your Career & the Leadership Move That Starts the Rebuild Your Confidence.
Why does a career knockback make you question who you are, not just what you do next?When redundancy, restructure, rejection, or a toxic role knocks you off course, the impact is not just practical. It can disrupt your identity, interrupt your confidence, and make even simple next steps feel strangely difficult. In this second episode of the career comeback trilogy, Caroline explains the psychology behind why setbacks hit so hard, and why rebuilding is not about waiting to feel ready. It starts with creating small pieces of evidence that remind you what you still bring.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why losing or leaving a role can feel like a threat to your identity, not just a change in your circumstancesHow the confidence-competence loop gets broken after a knockback, and how to begin restarting itWhy your transferable skills may hold more options, confidence and direction than your old job title ever didPress play now to understand what is really happening after a career setback, and take the first small step towards rebuilding your confidence, clarity and next chapter.And to help you craft your career story on your terms grab your Career Prompt Pack right here.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#71 | Who Were You at Work Before the Knockback? Here's the Leadership Identity Move That Helps You Find Your Way Back.
Who were you at work before the knockback changed the way you saw yourself?A redundancy, a restructure, a missed promotion, or a role that slowly grinds you down does not just affect your career plans. It can shake your identity, confidence and sense of direction in a way that updating your CV will never fix. In this episode of Unshakeable Her, Caroline names the part of a career setback that so many women feel but rarely say out loud: the moment you realise you may have confused the job with yourself.In this episode, you’ll discover:How to make sense of the emotional impact of a career knockback when everyone else expects you to “move on”Why losing or leaving a role can feel so much bigger than a practical career changeA simple starting point to help you reconnect with what you actually bring to work, beyond your title, team or companyPress play now to start rebuilding your confidence from the inside out, two millimetres at a time.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#70 | What to Actually Say When You Know You Are Capable but Nobody Is Considering You for Leadership or Promotion.
What would you actually do if you felt undervalued at work right now?In this Friday episode, Caroline serves you up a handpicked banger to anchor your commitment to action and move you from insight to action. After unpacking the story and the science earlier in the week, she shares the practical next step for women who are tired of being overlooked, underplayed, and politely passed over. This episode tackles the real workplace question so many women ask privately: what do I actually say and do when I know I’m capable but I’m not being considered?You'll: Learn three small but powerful moves to help you get seen for your value at work Understand how to stop waiting for managers to read your mind and start asking more directly Discover how to talk about your impact in a way that feels professional, clear, and non-cringey Play this episode to get a practical, confidence-building roadmap for turning feeling undervalued into clear action this week.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#69 | Being Overlooked Genuinely Hurts & the Science Behind Why Your Leadership Influence Is Staying Invisible.
Have you ever wondered why being overlooked at work can feel so much more painful than it “should”?In this Wednesday science episode, Caroline breaks down the psychology and neuroscience behind feeling undervalued at work. From the real brain-based pain of being excluded to the attribution gap that causes invisible work to stay invisible, this episode explains why your reaction is not overdramatic, irrational, or a confidence problem. It is a deeply human response to a workplace dynamic many women know all too well.You'll:Understand the science behind why being overlooked at work genuinely hurts and affects motivation Learn what the attribution gap is and why hard work alone does not guarantee recognition Discover a simple, practical way to start making your contribution more visible without feeling performative Play this episode to understand what is really happening when you feel undervalued at work and learn the small shift that helps you take your agency back.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#68 | Working Hard and Being Seen Are Two Different Skills & Here Is the Leadership Move That Closes the Gap.
Have you ever worked incredibly hard, delivered brilliant results, and still watched someone else get the credit or the opportunity?This episode is for the woman who is tired of being quietly competent while less capable people get noticed and promoted before them. If you have ever felt undervalued, overlooked, or invisible at work, Caroline unpacks why this happens and why it feels so draining. You will hear a relatable story about career visibility, recognition, and the hidden workplace rule nobody teaches you early enough.You'll Understand why working hard and being seen for your work are two completely different skills Feel less alone in the experience of being overlooked and finally put a name to what is happening Learn a simple 2mm move you can use this week to build your influence without changing who you are Play this episode to learn the small, practical shift that can help you stop being overlooked and start getting seen for the value you already bring.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#67 | 3 Practical Moves to Reclaim the Headspace Your Leadership Influence & Promotion Have Been Waiting For.
What could change in your career if you had more headspace for strategic thinking, influence, and bold moves?In this episode, Caroline shifts from awareness to action with practical ways to reduce mental load and reclaim cognitive bandwidth. Because this is not just about feeling better. It is about protecting the headspace you need to contribute at a higher level, increase your visibility, and make the moves that support promotion and career growth. If your best thinking keeps getting crowded out by invisible responsibilities, this episode will show you where to begin.You’llLearn practical ways to reduce mental load and reclaim more mental spaceProtect more bandwidth for strategic thinking, stronger influence, and bigger career movesUnderstand how redirecting your cognitive energy can support visibility and promotionPress play to start reclaiming the headspace you need to influence more, lead more clearly, and move your career forward.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#66 | Your Brain Feels Full Because It Is & the Science Behind How Mental Load Undermines Your Leadership & Promotion.
What if the reason you cannot switch off is also affecting your ability to think strategically, lead confidently, and move toward promotion?In this episode, Caroline goes deeper into the science behind mental load and explains why constant cognitive overload is more than just exhausting. It can narrow your thinking, reduce your access to strategic ideas, and leave less bandwidth for the kind of contribution that builds influence and supports career progression. If you have ever wondered why your brain feels full even in quiet moments, this episode will help you understand what may be happening beneath the surface.You’ll:Learn how cognitive overload may be affecting your strategic thinking and decision-making at workUnderstand why mental load can limit influence, visibility, and promotion-ready contributionReframe your exhaustion as a real cognitive issue, not a personal weaknessListen now to understand the science behind this hidden mental load.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#65 | One Woman's Normal Morning & the Hidden Mental Load That Is Quietly Costing You Leadership Influence & Promotion.
Could the invisible mental load you carry every day be affecting your influence at work more than you realise?In this episode, Caroline explores the hidden mental load so many women carry at home and at work, and why it does not just leave you tired. It can quietly drain the headspace you need to think strategically, contribute confidently, and be fully seen for the value you bring. If you have ever felt mentally overloaded, depleted in meetings, or frustrated that your impact is not matching your effort, this episode will help you put words to what may be happening.You’ll:Understand how mental load can affect your energy, visibility, and influence at workRecognise the hidden cognitive labour that may be limiting your confidence and promotional opportunitiesSee why naming this invisible load is the first step toward protecting your career growth and promotion opportunitiesPress play to uncover how mental load may be shaping your influence, visibility, and promotion at work.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#64 | 3 Leadership Habits That Build Real Influence After Promotion Even When You Still Feel Like You Are Winging It.
Have you been promoted into leadership and found yourself waiting to feel confident before acting like a leader?For many newly promoted managers, imposter syndrome shows up most strongly in the small everyday moments: team meetings, one-to-ones, and the constant pressure to appear certain. This episode shows why influence is not built by having all the answers, but through small, repeatable leadership habits that create trust, clarity, and confidence over time.You will learn three practical leadership habits you can use straight away in your next team meeting or one-to-oneYou will see how these small habits help newly promoted managers build influence without pretending to feel fully readyYou will understand how to create more trust and confidence while still leading through uncertaintyPlay this episode to discover three simple ways to build influence after promotion, even if imposter syndrome is still tagging along.More from the showA Cheat Sheet For Shrinking Your Imposter SyndromeA 90 Day New Manager ChecklistNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#63 | The Science Behind Why Faking Certainty After Promotion Destroys Leadership Influence & What to Do Instead.
Have you ever been promoted into management and felt like you should sound more certain than you really feel?For many newly promoted managers, promotion does not feel empowering straight away. It can trigger imposter syndrome, a loss of confidence, and the pressure to appear certain to protect credibility. In this episode, Caroline breaks down the science behind why early leadership feels so psychologically disorientating, and why real influence is built through honesty, clarity, and psychological safety rather than pretending to have all the answers.You will understand why promotion into leadership often triggers imposter syndrome, even in highly capable womenYou will learn why pretending 'you know it' or 'you've got this' can weaken trust and reduce your influence with your teamYou will take away three practical moves to help you lead with more clarity, credibility, and confidence Play this episode to learn how to handle imposter syndrome after promotion and build genuine influence without faking confidence.More from the showA Cheat Sheet For Shrinking Your Imposter SyndromeA 90 Day New Manager ChecklistNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#62 | She Got Promoted & Faked Certainty to Protect Her Credibility & Here Is What It Cost Her Leadership Influence.
Have you ever been promoted into management and instantly felt like everyone expected you to have all the answers.For many newly promoted managers, promotion does not feel empowering at first. It can trigger imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and the pressure to sound certain before you feel ready. The story shared in this episode explores what happens when a new manager tries to protect her credibility by holding back, and how that choice can quietly affect trust, influence, and team confidence.You will understand why promotion often brings imposter syndrome even when you are fully capable.You will learn how influence is built through honest communication, not forced certainty. You will see how to respond when your team needs clarity and you do not have every answer yet.Play this episode to reflect on how you handled imposter syndrome after a promotion and built influence without pretending to be more certain than you are.More from the showA Cheat Sheet For Shrinking Your Imposter SyndromeA 90 Day New Manager ChecklistNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#61 | Being Seen Is Not About Being Louder & the Leadership Influence Moves That Finally Get You Promoted.
Do you know you’re capable, yet still find yourself holding back, second guessing your voice, or staying quiet when it matters most?In this episode, Caroline explores how imposter syndrome quietly chips away at your visibility, influence, and career progress, especially for women in corporate leadership. She unpacks why being seen is not about becoming louder or more self-promotional, but about recognising the value you already bring and making it easier for others to recognise it too.You’ll learn how to stop letting self-doubt silence your contribution in important moments.You’ll discover simple ways to build your influence without changing who you are.You’ll leave with practical, repeatable moves to build influence and create more career momentum from the value you already bring. Play this episode to learn how to quiet imposter syndrome, show up with more certainty, and be seen for the value that has been there all along.More from the showYour Gremlin Cheat Sheet to quieten your self-doubt.Read more about The Hidden Cost of Playing SmallNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#60 | Performance Is Only a Third of the Promotion Formula & the Leadership Influence Moves Nobody Taught You.
Are you doing exceptional work but still not getting the influence or career progress you expected?For many women in corporate leadership, the issue is not capability - it is visibility. This episode explores how imposter syndrome, workplace dynamics, and outdated assumptions about merit can quietly limit influence and slow career progress, even for highly capable women.You’ll understand why performance alone is rarely enough to move your career forward.You’ll learn how influence, image, and exposure shape career progress in ways most women were never taught.You’ll walk away with simple, practical ways to become more visible and more influential without losing your authenticity.Play this episode to learn how to turn your existing strengths into greater influence, visibility, and real career progress.More from the showYour Career Prompt Pack full of questions and challenges to help you craft your career story.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#59 | Were They Truly Better or Just Better Seen? And the Leadership Visibility Gap That Is Costing You Promotion & Influence.
Have you ever watched someone else get the promotion, project, or recognition you worked for and wondered whether they were truly better, or just better seen?This episode speaks directly to women in corporate leadership who are delivering strong results yet still feel overlooked, second-guess themselves, or struggle to turn hard work into real career progression. Caroline Esterson unpacks three deeply familiar workplace moments that reveal a hidden issue behind missed opportunities: visibility. In a world shaped by AI, hybrid work, and return-to-office pressures, being excellent at your job is no longer enough on its own. This conversation helps listeners understand why influence, recognition, and advancement are so often connected to whether the right people can actually see their value. Understand the real reason strong performance alone does not always lead to promotions or opportunities Recognise the warning signs that visibility, not capability, may be the thing holding your career back Start reframing imposter syndrome and career frustration through a more strategic lens of influence and visibility Play this episode to uncover why your brilliance may be going unnoticed and start seeing what needs to shift for your career progression to finally match your performance.On Wednesday, we'll unpack the why, what, and how of gaining greater influence and drive your career progression forward.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#58 | The 60-Second Leadership Reset for the Car Park, Corridor and Loo Cubicle Moments When Your Confidence Wobbles.
What do you do in the 60 seconds before a meeting when your confidence has dropped, and the room still needs you at your full size?This episode is for the woman who has done the preparation, knows her material, and still feels herself shrinking right before the moment that matters. Caroline closes the week with a practical reset for those corridor, car park, and loo-cubicle moments when self-trust wobbles and you need something small, fast, and effective to bring you back to yourself.You’ll learn a simple 60-second sequence to interrupt the imposter spiral before a high-stakes momentYou’ll discover how breath, evidence, and one true sentence can calm your nervous system and sharpen your self-trustYou’ll leave with a practical confidence ritual you can use before presentations, difficult conversations, and important meetingsPlay this episode before your next big meeting to reset your nervous system, reconnect to your preparation, and walk in as the version of you who’s ready.ContactConnect with me on LinkedInOr email me [email protected] with 'Rachel' in the subject line, and I'll send you the full 90-second pre-performance sequence from Friday's episode as a printable card you can keep in your bag. Small enough to fit. Powerful enough to change what happens before your next big moment.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#57 | The More Capable You Are, the More Vulnerable You Are & the Science Behind Your Leadership Confidence.
Have you ever received one piece of feedback before a big meeting and suddenly stopped trusting your own judgment?This episode explains what is actually happening inside your brain when critical feedback lands at the worst possible moment. If you’re a capable woman in leadership who tends to soften, over-edit, or second-guess yourself before high-stakes moments, this conversation will help you understand why that response is not weakness, but a predictable mix of biology, conditioning, and workplace dynamics.You’ll understand the neuroscience behind why feedback can trigger a threat response right before an important momentYou’ll learn why highly capable women are often more vulnerable to self-doubt, not lessYou’ll walk away with three practical moves to help you stay grounded, evaluate feedback clearly, and return to your prepared, capable selfPlay this episode to understand your threat response, stop shrinking under pressure, and walk into your next big moment with your full voice intact.ReferencesBrene Brown, vulnerability and high achievement research.Carol Gilligan, In A Different Voice (1982). Jean Baker Miller, Toward A New Psychology Of Women (1976). Victoria Brescoll, Yale (2011).Lieberman et al. (2007) UCLA affect labelling study. Carol Dweck, Mindset (2006). Ethan Kross, Chatter (2021). Pete Walker, Complex PTSD (2013). Valerie Young, The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women (2011).ContactConnect with me on LinkedInOr email me [email protected] with 'Rachel' in the subject line, and I'll send you the full 90-second pre-performance sequence from Friday's episode as a printable card you can keep in your bag. Small enough to fit. Powerful enough to change what happens before your next big moment.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#56 | Why Imposter Syndrome Makes You Dilute Your Influence Before A High-Stakes Meeting
Have you ever received one piece of feedback right before an important meeting and suddenly stopped trusting your own judgment?This episode, the story of Rachel and her big presentation, will feel painfully familiar if you’re a capable woman in leadership who can prepare brilliantly, think clearly, and still unravel the moment someone questions your approach. It gets to the heart of why high-achieving women can mistake self-protection for professionalism and dilute their strongest thinking right when visibility matters most. You will :Understand why this is not simply a confidence problemRecognise the hidden pattern that causes you to soften, edit, and second-guess yourself under pressureLeave reflecting more honestly on how you respond to critical feedback before high-stakes momentsPlay this episode to spot the exact moment self-trust slips and start protecting your best thinking when it matters most.ConnectConnect with me on LinkedInOr email me [email protected] with 'Rachel' in the subject line, and I'll send you the full 90-second pre-performance sequence from Friday's episode as a printable card you can keep in your bag. Small enough to fit. Powerful enough to change what happens before your next big moment.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#55 | 'If You Are What You Say You Are Have No Fear' & the Three Leadership Moves That Make Your Influence Visible.
Jocelyn told us she plays hip hop on big project launch days. Something with beats that make her feel excited. Something that pumps her up.This week's song is for her. And for every woman who has been quietly, consistently, almost accidentally extraordinary — and hasn't yet decided to let that be seen.This week's anchor track is Superstar by Lupe Fiasco featuring Matthew Santos. It asks one question: if you are what you say you are — have no fear, the camera is here. That is an invitation, not a demand. And the science behind why music changes your physiological state before a high-stakes moment is more compelling than you might think.Plus, we have for you three quickfire career moves that bring together everything from this bonus trilogy — the brag folder Jocelyn swears by, the visibility move from Wednesday's science, and the capacity check that stops the little voice in its tracks.These moves are small enough to do before Monday morning. Powerful enough to change what Monday feels like.This is the last episode before the new season begins. Rachel is waiting. And she is going to feel very familiar.Key Takeaways1. This week's anchor track. 2. The Brag Folder. 3. One proactive share. 4. The Capacity Check. 5. The question. Music FeaturedSuperstar — Lupe Fiasco ft. Matthew Santos (2007, 1st and 15th / Atlantic Records). Available on all streaming platforms. Add it to your Little Moves playlist.New Season PreviewSeason One begins Monday. Three episodes a week — story, science and song. You'll meet Rachel. She's on the 8.47 to Victoria. She has an email in her inbox she doesn't want to open. And by the end of the week you're going to understand something about your own brain that you might not have had the language for before.Subscribe now so you don't miss her.And, if you know a woman who has been quietly brilliant and hasn't quite noticed yet — send her this episode. She doesn't have to stay in the 'wait, what' moment. And she's going to want that brag folder.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#54 | Capability Versus Capacity and the Science That Explains Why Brilliant Women Get Overlooked for Leadership and Promotion.
On Monday, Jocelyn (VP of Global Brand & Comms, working mum, quietly extraordinary human), said two things that resonated powerfully.The first: that early in her career, she believed doing brilliant work would be enough. And then she quickly realised it wasn't. The second: that returning from maternity leave felt like operating at a lower level, and that she had to remind herself, repeatedly, that she was still capable.In this episode, I'm bringing the science to both of those moments.First, the visibility problem. Why the most competent women are systematically underrecognised, what organisational research tells us about how careers actually advance, and the single question that changes how you think about your professional reputation forever.Second, capability versus capacity. The four words that I believe are the most important distinction in this show. Why women consistently confuse the two, what cognitive load theory tells us about performance under pressure, and how to stop the little voice from lying to you about what is actually happening.Eight minutes. Two ideas. Both from Jocelyn's conversation. Both with the science to back them up.This is the episode you'll want to send to every woman you know who has ever said: I'm just not performing the way I used to.Key Takeaways1. Capability vs capacity. 2. The visibility problem is structural, not personal. 3. Weak ties drive careers forward. 4. The capacity check.5. One proactive share. Research ReferencesHerminia Ibarra — Act Like A Leader, Think Like A Leader (2015). Mark Granovetter — The Strength of Weak Ties (1973). Landmark research on how career opportunities actually move through networks.John Sweller — Cognitive Load Theory (1988). Research on working memory capacity and performance under pressure.You can connect with Caroline hereand email her [email protected] you know a woman who has ever said I'm just not performing the way I used to - send her this episode. She's probably not performing differently. She's probably just carrying more. There's a difference. And now she'll know it.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#53 | She Got Promoted to VP and Still Asked "Wait Did I Do That" & What It Teaches You About Leadership Influence with Jocelyn Lo.
What does it look like when a woman is quietly, consistently, almost accidentally extraordinary (and genuinely the last person in any room to have noticed)?It looks like Jocelyn Lo, VP Global Brand and Comms for Seedtag.In less than a year since returning to work after maternity leave, Jocelyn led a full company rebrand, shot a commercial in a closed-down subway station in Georgia, launched an AI product, and was promoted to VP. When someone pointed all of this out to her, her response was: wait, what?In this conversation, Jocelyn talks about:The unspoken rules of corporate life that nobody tells you when you start out, How she coaches her team to present their own work and take up the space they've earned, What it was actually like to return from maternity leave into a promotion she hadn't expected, and The one tool she uses to remind herself of everything she has accomplished on the days when the little voice gets loud.That tool is A brag folder.This episode is for every woman who has ever done brilliant work, held everything together, and still gone home wondering if she's really good enough. (Yes, she is)Key Takeaways1. The brag folder. A private, honest, running record of everything you have done well, however small. Not a CV, but instead evidence for yourself on the days when you need it most.2. The visibility question. Can people speak to your work when you are not in the room? If the answer is not a confident yes, that is where your energy goes next — not into doing more work, but into making sure the right people can see what you are already doing.3. Capability vs capacity. Capacity is the only thing that changes when life gets fuller. Your capability is still exactly where it was. Do not let the little voice confuse the two.4. The zigzag is the point. There is no straight line for a career path. The sideways moves, the pivots, the unexpected turns — these are not detours. They are the making of you.5. Start before you are ready. Ask to present your own work. Send the proactive email. Share the idea before it is perfect. The opportunity will not always come to you.This Week's TrilogyWednesday: The Science: Two things Jocelyn said that deserve the research behind them. The neuroscience of capability vs capacity, and the visibility problem — why the most competent people are systematically underrecognised and what the research says about changing that.Friday: The Song: Jocelyn's anchor track for this week, chosen specifically for a woman who does her best creative work when the beats are right. Plus three quickfire moves to carry into Season One.ActionIf you heard something in this conversation that sounded like someone you know — a colleague, a friend, a woman on your team who is quietly holding everything up and hasn't quite noticed — send it to her.She doesn't have to stay in the wait, what moment.You can connect with Jocelyn hereYou can connect with Caroline hereNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#52 | Boundaries Are a Leadership Skill & Here Is How Setting Them Builds Your Influence & Gets You Promoted.
Do you ever feel pressured to overdeliver, keep everyone happy, and prove yourself at work?In this episode, Caroline explores why that pressure can quietly pull capable women away from strategic, sustainable leadership. Through her conversation with Emma, she unpacks why boundaries are not selfish, how people pleasing can drain your energy and focus, and why human skills like empathy, communication, and curiosity are becoming some of the most valuable strengths in today’s workplace.You’ll learn why boundaries are a vital leadership skill that help you protect your energy and make better decisions.You’ll discover how overdelivering and people pleasing can hold back your confidence, clarity, and long-term career growth. You’ll understand why empathy, communication, curiosity, and asking better questions can help you grow faster and lead more effectively.Play this episode to strengthen your boundaries, sharpen your leadership skills, and build a more sustainable path to career growth.You can connect with Emma here.You can connect with Caroline hereYou can find resources to support the podcast hereNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#51 | Are the Right People Talking About You & How to Build the Leadership Allies That Drive Your Promotion & Influence.
Are the right people talking about your work when you’re not in the room?This episode unpacks a career truth many women discover too late: doing brilliant work is not always enough to move forward. Career momentum often comes through relationships, reputation, and the conversations others have about you behind closed doors. Caroline and Emma explore how genuine curiosity helps build meaningful workplace connections, why advocacy matters more than self-promotion alone, and how to tell the difference between strategic relationship-building and people pleasing.You will:Understand why career opportunities often come through trust, visibility, and advocacy from others. Learn how being curious about other people’s priorities can help build stronger, more strategic workplace relationships. See how to create allies without slipping into over-helping, over-committing, or people pleasing.Play this episode to learn how to build the kind of relationships that grow your reputation, expand your influence, and open doors in your career.You can connect with Emma here.You can connect with Caroline hereYou can find resources to support the podcast hereNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#50 | Technical Expertise Got You Here & Strategic Leadership Influence Gets You Promoted.
Are you doing brilliant work at your job but still being overlooked for bigger opportunities?This episode explores why confidence and technical expertise are not always the real differentiators in career growth. For women navigating corporate leadership, the real advantage often comes from understanding the wider business context, spotting patterns, and connecting daily work to strategic outcomes. In a fast-moving workplace, that bigger-picture thinking is what helps you stand out, contribute more meaningfully, and be seen as leadership material.You will:Learn why senior leaders look for business awareness and strategic thinking, not just strong execution.Discover how widening your view of the business can make you more valuable in conversations, meetings, and decisions.Gain a simple curiosity habit that helps you move from reactive task-doing to more intentional, strategic leadership.Play this episode to learn how to turn your expertise into visible strategic value and position yourself for the next level in your career.You can connect with Emma here.You can connect with Caroline hereYou can find resources to support the podcast hereNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#49 | Your Workplace Does Not Have a Women Problem It Has a Decision Hygiene Problem and Here Is How to Fix It.
International Women’s Day can spark great conversations… and then Monday arrives and everything snaps back to “busy.”This episode is the follow-through.If you manage people, this is your practical guide to turning fairness from a once-a-year moment into decision hygiene: the everyday habits that shape who gets seen, backed, and promoted.In this episode, you’ll learnWhy most workplaces don’t have a “women problem” - they have a decision hygiene problemThe hidden ways careers get shaped: credit, access, opportunity, clarity, protection (and why “treat everyone the same” isn’t fairness)The difference between confidence and confidence performance (and why “be more confident” is lazy feedback)How to stop rewarding “the ask” by default - without turning work into a bureaucracy festivalA simple, repeatable leadership habit: Give Audit → Give Plan → Give Proof (15 minutes a week)Key momentsThe uncomfortable truth: how informal decisions quietly shape progressionBrain stuff (without the TED Talk): why “equal treatment” doesn’t create equal outcomesCareer Quote Crime: “Just be more confident” (and what to say instead)Listener dilemma: “I’m being overlooked - how do I ask for support when my manager is slammed?”The manager-proof ask: how to request visibility and growth with clarity, not emotionYour weekly system: the quickest way to rebalance credit, access, and opportunityPractical scripts you can stealIf you’re the team member: “Can I grab 15 minutes? In the next 4 weeks I’d like to own one visible stretch piece and present it to [X]. I’ve got two options that would help the team - which would you back?”If you’re the manager (instead of ‘be more confident’): “I want more visibility of your thinking - let’s define what that looks like in meetings and stakeholder moments.”Your action for this weekBook 15 minutes on Friday and run:Give Audit: who got credit, access, opportunity, protection?Give Plan: one deliberate “give” next weekGive Proof: one line you can point to (so it becomes a habit, not a hope)If you want to go furtherTry the “Create a moment” move: A thank you is a compliment. A moment is a reputation. Name the person, name the value, name the result - where other people can hear it.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#48 | Leadership Happens on a Random Tuesday & the Give To Gain Moves That Build Influence & Create Fairer Promotions.
International Women’s Day is a moment - but leadership is what happens on a random Tuesday when nobody’s watching.This episode is for managers and senior leaders who genuinely want fairer outcomes… and who are ready to stop relying on good intentions and start using better habits. We’re using the IWD 2026 theme Give To Gain to break down the four “gives” that change careers in real life: credit, access, opportunity, clarity (with a bonus: protection).In this episode, you’ll learnWhy “supporting women” isn’t a slogan — it’s a set of leadership decisionsThe four career-shaping levers leaders control every week: Credit • Access • Opportunity • Clarity (and why each one matters)How busy brains default to familiarity and convenience — and what to do insteadHow to run a simple Give Audit without turning your life into a spreadsheetThe 2mm move leaders forget: Create a moment (turn private gratitude into public visibility)Key momentsThe Big Idea: where careers are really won and lost (hint: not in the annual initiative)The Give Audit: who did you give credit/access/opportunity/clarity to in the last 30 days?The “Create a moment” reframe: gratitude is private, moments build reputationCareer Quote Crime: “I treat everyone the same.” (why sameness isn’t fairness)Leader toolkit: scripts for giving credit and access that actually travelQuickfire moves: three simple leadership actions you can take this weekPractical scripts you can stealCredit in the moment: “Quick pause — I want to credit that properly. That came from X. Let’s build on it.”Access that matters (not just meetings): “I’m introducing you to X — they influence this decision.” “You present the recommendation — I’ll be in the room backing you.”Clarity (so bias has less room to hide): “This is what good looks like. This is what excellent looks like. Here’s the evidence we’ll use.”Your action for this weekChoose one “Give” and do it deliberately within the next 24 hours:Give credit publiclyGive access to people/contextGive opportunity with visibilityGive clarity in writing(Bonus) Give protection: time + air coverIf you’re not a manager:Flip the audit: when did you last receive credit, access, opportunity, protection — and what’s one clear ask you can make this week?New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#47 | The Five Leadership Moves That Build Influence and Visibility in a Hybrid Team.
Are you leading a hybrid team and quietly wondering whether you’re creating clarity or just managing chaos?Hybrid working promises flexibility, but for many leaders it often feels fragmented, messy, and harder than it should. In this episode, Caroline Esterson explores why hybrid leadership can feel especially challenging for new leaders and shares practical ways to make it work better for both you and your team.You’ll hear why hybrid working often creates disconnection around priorities, visibility, and inclusion, and why connection is not a “nice to have” but a core part of helping work move smoothly. Caroline breaks down five small leadership moves that can make a big difference, from narrating your thinking more clearly to leveling the room in meetings, building visibility rituals, and creating informal moments of connection on purpose.You’ll learn how to:spot the hidden connection gaps making hybrid work feel hardercreate more clarity, inclusion, and visibility across your teamuse small, natural leadership habits to reduce friction and build trustPlay this episode to learn how a few small shifts can help you lead your hybrid team with more confidence, connection, and ease.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#46 | Four Career Conversations, One Powerful Truth & the Leadership Lessons That Build Real Influence & Get You Promoted.
Stepping into leadership can feel exciting… and quietly overwhelming.In this reflective episode of Little Moves, Big Careers, Caroline pulls together the key lessons from four powerful career conversations - each revealing what leadership really looks like behind the scenes.From curiosity over certainty to identity over perfection, this episode explores the truths nobody spells out when you first step up at work.If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re ready, capable, or doing enough, then this one’s for you.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why curiosity matters more than having the answersHow progress often starts with trade-offs, not doing moreWhy agency can move your career forward even when circumstances feel toughThe hidden power of relationships in shaping opportunityHow embracing your identity at work builds confidence and momentumTune in for reassurance, perspective and one tiny move you can take this week.Follow the show so you don’t miss future conversations on confidence, visibility and navigating early leadership with clarity.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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#45 | What Most Leaders Learn Too Late About Boardroom Influence & How to Get There Faster with Dr Keith Dorsey.
Discipline isn’t about willpower. It’s about trade-offs.In this episode of Little Moves, Big Careers, Caroline chats with Dr. Keith Dorsey about the habits that quietly shape extraordinary careers - from martial arts at six years old, to the US Air Force, to leading major corporate turnarounds and serving on boards.They explore:Why discipline is a muscle; not a personality traitThe leadership mistake that even high performers makeWhat separates management from governanceWhy most people think about board roles too lateHow curiosity and reflection create long-term momentumIf you’ve ever wondered how to move from doing the work… to influencing the direction of the work - this conversation is for you.Keith's websiteThe Boardroom Journey BookNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Struggling to get noticed and move up in today’s fast-changing workplace? Little Moves, Big Careers is your go-to podcast for smart, actionable career growth strategies that cut through the noise.From visibility and confidence to self-leadership and influence, every episode mixes bold insights, cheeky truths, and practical takeaways that actually work inside real organisations to help you stand out and get promoted.No corporate waffle; just unapologetically honest career talk for people who want to perform, progress, and stand out for all the right reasons.New episodes drop every Tuesday. Start your journey with 'The Survivor’s Guide' episode to learn how to lead through change and rebuild your career even when things get sticky.Hosted by Caroline Esterson, career strategist and co-founder of www.inspireyourgenius.com, this show reveals the uns
HOSTED BY
Caroline Esterson from Inspire Your Genius
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