Leadership Within

Have you ever been invited into the inner circle? The group that knows things others don’t? 🤔In this episode, we dig into something we see a lot in organisations: using information as power. Sharing secrets with some, keeping others in the dark. It feels like trust. It feels like status. But what does it actually do to a team?We talk through the real impact. The gossip it creates. The anxiety it breeds. And the way it quietly erodes trust over time.We also get honest about our own moments of being pulled in. That feeling of “ooh, I’m in the club” and then the yuck that follows. 😬Because sometimes the bravest thing isn’t joining. It’s pausing and asking yourself: do I actually want to be in there?If you’ve ever felt the pull of the inner circle, or the burden of knowing too much, this one’s for you. 🎙️ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this episode, we talk about the energy we bring into work, meetings and leadership.It started with one line: “I want to steal your energy.” Sounds like a compliment, right? But it opened up a bigger question for us.What does our energy do to a room? When is it helpful? When does it become too much? And what happens when positivity starts to feel fake?We talk about presence, confidence, masks at work, and the quiet pressure to be “the right amount” of yourself. Not too flat. Not too much. Just acceptable enough.We also get into the difference between sharing energy and draining it. Because good leadership is not about performing. It is about being real, reading the room, and still making space for other people to bring their own energy too.A simple one. But a useful one. 🎈 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

What do we do when the culture around us is not helping us do our best work?In this episode, we talk about a tough choice many leaders face. Do we stay and try to improve things? Do we leave and use our energy somewhere better? Or do we stay, complain, and slowly lose ourselves in the process?We explore how easy it is to blame the culture, the politics, or other people, while missing our own part in what is happening. We also talk about energy, agency, scarcity, and why poor culture can follow us if we do not stop and notice our own patterns.This is an honest chat about leadership, self-awareness, and the small choices that shape culture every day. And yes, there is also a surprisingly lovely lesson from geese🪿If you’d like, I can also give you 3 shorter description options with slightly different tones, like more thoughtful, more direct, or more LinkedIn-friendly. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this episode, we talk about something that quietly shapes how we lead and work with others: ask culture vs guess culture.We explore why some of us ask directly for what we need, while others hint, soften, or wait to be read. We share real examples from coaching and client work, and we look at how power, pace, fear, and past experiences can all affect how we communicate.We also talk about why directness can feel uncomfortable, but still bring relief. Clarity helps. Guessing often creates stress.We reflect on performance conversations, “powerful questions”, and the reality that not everyone can answer big questions on the spot. Sometimes people need time. Sometimes we do too.This is a practical and honest chat about communication, leadership, and self-awareness. We end with a simple reminder: notice when we are guessing, forgive ourselves, and try a clearer ask next time 😊 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this episode of Leadership Within, we talk about what happens when a leader’s ego gets poked. That moment when we feel disrespected, overlooked, or “put in our place”. And suddenly we are sulking, overthinking, or making choices we would never make on a good day.We keep it real. We share how ego hijacks show up, why we are wired to track threat, and what it costs teams when leaders react instead of respond. Then we get practical. We explore small ways to pause, breathe, and get back to what matters. Results, relationships, and calm decisions. Even when it means bowing our heads a little. 😊🎙️ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this episode of we get into something that shows up at work and at home. Blame.We talk about that split second when something goes wrong and our mind jumps to “whose fault is this?”. We share real examples, including moments where we noticed the judgement rising and chose not to act on it.We explore what helps us step out of the blame cycle. Pausing. Getting curious about what we need in that moment. Asking, “What’s my part in this?” and “What assumptions am I making?”. And then making a clear decision. Do we want to invest in the relationship, or let it go?We also look at teams, when one person becomes the scapegoat, and how leaders can shift the tone from blame to care. 🙂References* Beyond Blame: A New Way of Resolving Conflicts in Relationships by Jeffrey A. Kottler This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

It’s a new year, and lots of people start thinking about work changes. There’s that old line: people don’t leave jobs, they leave bosses. In this episode, we look at the other side of it too. What if the relationship with your boss is something you can shape, not just suffer?We talk about the real stuff. Walking on eggshells. Picking the “right moment”. Feeling the power gap, and worrying how honesty will land. We explore boundaries and empathy, and why you often need both at the same time. We also get into vulnerability at work, and what “being authentic” can mean without turning every meeting into oversharing.You’ll leave with simple prompts to try, plus a cleaner way to say what you need, what you can offer, and what you can’t right now. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this episode of Leadership Within, we start with a simple moment, a barking dog in the background, and it opens up a bigger question. What happens when leadership is meant to look polished, but life is messy?We talk about the pressure to sound “professional”. The right tone. The right posture. The right words. And how that can get in the way when we need to admit we do not know, or when we need help.We explore what authenticity can actually mean in real life. Not as a perfect brand, but as a felt sense. We also look at the “internal manager” many of us carry, the part that edits us to stay safe and accepted.There’s also a practical edge, how language, accent, and “corporate” style can change how we come across, even when our intent is good. We finish with a simple reminder, the freedom to lead more like ourselves starts with us. 😊 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this episode we talk about what it means to be strong and flexible as a leader. Vanessa shares a yoga story about wanting to jump in and rescue someone, and what it takes to stay in her lane instead. We explore how easy it is to over give, fix things for others, and then feel drained or resentful.TK talks about impatience, quick decisions, and learning to slow down so there is time to reflect. Together we look at the moment where you notice a pattern and choose a different move.We also share simple ways to build small pauses into busy days, so you can tell the difference between real pain and healthy stretch in your work. This is a gentle, honest conversation for leaders who care a lot and sometimes care a bit too much. 🧘😊 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this episode of Leadership Within we explore what happens when our team quietly feels judged by us, even when we think we are being “coaching”. We look at how judgement shows up in one to ones, how it affects trust and safety, and why we cannot simply remove it. We share simple ways to notice it, name it, and move back into real curiosity together 🤝 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

We’re wired to think about our careers as a linear, upwards trajectory but frequently we find ourselves stalled not able to get to the next level. It’s as if there’s a missing run on the career ladder. In this episode we discuss different ways to view our careers and offer tips in terms of defining success on your own terms and how to retain your ambitions when the system you’re in doesn’t allow movement. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

Accountability sounds simple. In real life it gets messy. In this episode we unpack what helps and what hurts. We look at freeloading on teams, unclear roles, and leaders who dodge hard chats. We share personal stories, including the moment a tough feedback talk turned into “you don’t trust me”, and what we learnt from it.We also explore why we slide into blame or self-blame, and how that keeps us stuck. Then we bring it home, literally, with how shared work at home can teach us about shared work at work. You will hear simple moves you can use today: set clear roles, check your assumptions, say what you feel, ask for what you want, agree the next step, and forgive yourself when you slip.It is a gentle, honest chat from TK and Vanessa. No grand claims. Just real talk to help you lead with more care and more clarity.Links* Brené Brown on Blame This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

We talk about the people who light us up as leaders. Vanessa shares what she learns from her yoga teacher. Clear voice. Kind edge. Safe space. TK brings a scene from The West Wing that still moves him. Courage. Values. Staying the course. We ask what of those qualities already live in us, and which one we want to stretch next.It gets real. We name the tug between humility and confidence. How empathy can help and also drain. How we hold back in groups, yet find our voice one to one. We play with a simple idea. Borrow one quality from someone you admire. Try it for a week. You do not need the whole person. Just the bit you need right now. 😊Listen in for small, honest steps. Pick a person. Name the trait. Practise it in the next meeting or class. Notice what changes. We are not aiming for perfect. We are aiming for conscious choices. That is leadership from the inside out. 🔥Links* The West Wing Two Cathedrals This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

Influence is part of work. But it can tip into manipulation fast. In this episode we explore that thin line. We talk about intent, clear asks, and why fake “we” language erodes trust. We share real moments where guilt, defensiveness, and power games show up at work, and what to do instead. 😊 You will hear us test simple swaps. Say what you want. Check how it lands. Give people a choice. Set boundaries early. We also look at phrases that fall flat, like “open to influence”, and how to stay direct without being harsh. There are stories from remote teams, peer pressure, and messy handoffs that many of us know too well. 🎧 By the end, you will have a few plain tools to influence with care, not tricks. From TK and Vanessa, with honesty and a bit of humour. 🤝 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

We sit with constant change. Plans shift. We do not always have the answers. So we try a simple frame that keeps people grounded. Here is what we know. Here is what we do not know yet. Here is what will not change. It helps us speak plainly without pretending.We look at how people need different kinds of certainty. Some want things said out loud. Others are fine in the grey. We talk about why trust matters so the words land, and how trust is often a felt sense rather than a slide or a metric.We use the dance floor and balcony image. Stay close to the work, then step up for a wider view. The stepping up is hard when the pace is high. We name change fatigue and how it shows. We share small rituals that help us reflect without loading one person with all the work. Short pauses. Rotas. Fresh prompts so the habit does not go stale This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

Teams move better when the why is clear. Purpose turns busy people into a unit. This episode grew out of a real conversation about purpose and energy at work .We share why a clear mission lifts trust, focus, and motivation. We talk about why it’s hard in modern work. Too many priorities. Vague corporate lines. Noise from matrix structures. Then we show simple ways to fix it. A one-line purpose. A short workshop to map who we serve and the change we create. Quick check-ins that link daily work back to the why. 😊You’ll hear real stories from TK and Vanessa. No jargon. Just steps you can try this week. Good for new and seasoned leaders. Useful for remote and office teams. Join us and leave with a plan you can use tomorrow. 🎯🧩Links* Honda vs Yamaha story This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this episode of Leading Within, we explore why true leadership starts with knowing your capacity. Drawing on Vanessa’s Capacity Compass framework, we unpack how tuning into your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual energy can shift the way we lead, from overgiving and burnout to clarity, agency, and balance that actually works.Links* The Daily Capacity Compass This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this episode, we dive into what it's really like stepping from being a team member into leadership. 😊 We chat openly about those tricky moments when you first realise you're expected to lead rather than just deliver tasks. Vanessa shares her insights on balancing individual ambition with team needs, while TK opens up about a memorable moment when he recognised the shift to leadership involved delegation, not just doing everything himself.We also discuss why accountability matters more than responsibility, and why being honest about your strengths and struggles as a leader is essential. Join us to explore how vulnerability can actually strengthen your leadership journey. 🚀 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

It’s natural for us to value safety - we want to keep things comfortable. But true connection requires honesty, repair and sometimes discomfort. In this episode we discuss real experiences of this and practical ways to move beyond politeness.We explore the signs of superficial safety: over-agreeing, avoiding conflict or hard feedback, lots of check-ins, few challenges and frustration behind the scenes but not talking about it. We examine what powerful connection looks like: disagreement with respect, willingness to name what’s going on, repair when rupture happens and being real, not just being safe. And we consider how we can build more connection by modelling it ourselves as leaders, and being willing to go first and be the change. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this episode, we chat about something many leaders find tricky: asking for help. It can feel like you have to be strong and have all the answers, especially when you're new to a role.We discuss why it feels so difficult and that feeling of being an imposter. It’s a pressure many of us put on ourselves to do more than we should. We talk about how different workplace cultures can make it easier or harder to speak up.We also share our own stories and some simple ideas to make asking for help a bit less scary. It can actually be a great way to bring your team together. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

On this episode we explore the challenge and opportunities for leaders as they navigate their teams through uncertainty.We explore what balance means, particularly in this context and reflect on ways for leaders to show up that acknowledges the anxiety that can arise from not knowing, be human, and navigate the unknown.Links* Overwhelmed creating content? Should I head to AI for help? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

Leaping from “mate” to manager can shake any team. In this episode, we share honest stories of that awkward shift and the feelings that surface on both sides. We talk about hidden power games, unspoken promises, and why a new title sometimes feels like a betrayal. 😊We explore how first-time leaders can keep trust alive while learning to coach, give straight feedback, and handle conflict they once avoided. We also look at what senior leaders can do to back them up with real skills, not platitudes. A few simple, open conversations can prevent months of silent resentment. 💬If you support new managers or still remember your own first promotion, join us for practical ideas and a bit of reassurance that everyone wrestles with these growing pains. 🙂 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

Praise is free, it has a lasting impact, and encourages more of the behaviours we want to see … so why don’t we do more of it?In this episode we explore this topic and offer practical suggestions as to how you as a leader could connect to praise as a vital tool in your resource kit.Links* The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

Mentorship can be a real game-changer, but many of us find it hard to ask for. In this episode, TK and Vanessa reflect on their own journeys with mentors, both formal and informal. 😊We talk about what makes a mentoring relationship work, why it can feel vulnerable to ask for help, and how finding the right mentor is about more than just liking someone. Sometimes, it is about finding someone who has walked the path before and can share real lessons.We also get honest about the mistakes we made when seeking or offering mentorship, and what we would do differently now. 🌟If you have ever wondered how to find a mentor, how to be one, or why it matters so much for leadership growth, this conversation is for you. 😊 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this episode, TK and Vanessa explore what happens when the room goes quiet. We share a recent group session that took an unexpected turn. There were long stretches of silence, and we had to decide whether to press for answers or let the moment breathe. We discovered that pausing can create deeper thought and even stronger connections. 😊We look at different kinds of silence and why leaders sometimes find it awkward. We also talk about practical ways to handle those hushed moments. Should we invite people to share, or wait until they’re ready? Do we push for dialogue, or trust that the quiet is doing its job? 🤔Join us as we explore how silence can spark fresh insights, encourage real reflection, and give everyone a voice, even when no one is speaking. 😊Resources/Links* Nancy Kline* Co-Active Leadership This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this one we explore what happens when emotions run high at work.Should leaders stay calm and detached, or can they share genuine feelings?We talk about the reality of messy situations. Big emotions can show up without warning. We share simple ways to handle them and stay grounded. We look at how to process your own feelings, how to hold space for others, and how to keep trust alive in tense moments.We are TK and Vanessa, and we believe that being human at work matters. Listen in to hear our honest stories, a few insights, and some easy tips for handling strong emotions. We hope this chat helps you and your team grow together. 😊Resources/Links* Drama Triangle* Transactional Analysis* After Earth - “Take a Knee” This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this podcast we explore what vulnerability based trust is, why it’s important and practical things we might do to build it.We share examples of where vulnerability is challenging both personally and in teams and consider some simple things we can do with ourselves and each other to support growth. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

We dig into the everyday struggle of forming new habits and sticking to them. We share personal stories about how easy it is to slip back into old ways, plus a few insights on why that might happen. Discipline sounds dull, yet it can open doors, as long as we are kind to ourselves when things get tough. Building a strong support group also matters, because the people around us can give us a push when motivation fades.We chat about small changes, tiny wins, and finding the right balance between getting results and looking after our own wellbeing. We reflect on how leaders can grow this mindset in their teams by staying honest and showing encouragement. There is no special fix. Instead, it is all about keeping up good habits, tweaking what does not work, and sharing the load with those who believe in our goals. We hope you enjoy this relaxed, human conversation.Links* Atomic Habits: How to Get 1% Better Every Day - James Clear* Leaked Audio: Here’s What JPMorgan CEO Dimon Said About Hiring and Remote Work This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

The way we unconsciously place ourselves in leadership dynamics impacts culture, decision-making and psychological safety.This podcast discusses how being aware of power dynamics In the workplace can increase psychological safety and inclusion.We talk about how leaders that stay centred and don’t take a one up or one down perspective create cultures where people flourish.We conclude that leadership isn’t about controlling power - it's about holding space for others to step into theirs. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this episode, we talk about setting goals and celebrating small wins. We share our January struggles and chat about how big dreams can sometimes feel overwhelming. TK and Vanessa open up about the ups and downs of leadership and everyday life. We dive deep into the challenges of starting fresh and the importance of appreciating every little success along the way. Our chat is honest, friendly and full of practical insights. We hope you feel inspired to look back, learn and be proud of every step you take 😊. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

Sometimes we find ourselves in situations where we make a decision but we experience doubt. In this episode we explore how leaders can check-in with themselves, consider the bias in their self-appraisal and use data and reflective practice to support their intuition, decision-making and build confidence.We talk about asking the hard questions: what assumptions am I making and what evidence do I have alongside my intuitive hits. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this episode, we talk about the pressure leaders feel to have all the answers. We think this expectation isn’t just unrealistic, it can actually hold teams back. Instead, we explore how leaders can focus on guiding their teams and creating space for them to step up. We share stories from our own experiences and the lessons we’ve learned about leading through uncertainty. It’s not about knowing everything; it’s about fostering trust, encouraging growth, and building a culture of collaboration. Join us for a real conversation on what it means to lead effectively without the weight of always being right. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this episode, we explore how our leadership is shaped by our past experiences, wounds, socialisation and limiting beliefs. We dive into how these hidden influences can lead us to adopt protective or reactive strategies, often without realising it. By learning to recognise these patterns, we can start to break free from them and lead with greater authenticity, resilience, and self-awareness. Join us as we discuss practical ways to uncover these hidden wounds, acknowledge them, and begin the healing process, unlocking the potential to lead not just others, but ourselves, with courage and clarity. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com

In this first episode of Leadership Within, we share the story behind the podcast. We created this space to explore the human side of leadership - authenticity, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to lead with heart.We reflect on our own leadership journeys, the lessons we’ve learned, and why honest conversations about the challenges leaders face are so important. This episode is all about setting the stage for what’s to come and inviting you to join us on this journey.If you’re ready to reflect on your own leadership path and connect with real stories and ideas, this is the perfect place to start.You can also find us on LinkedInTomasz 'TK' KropiewnickiVanessa May This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadershipwithin.substack.com