PODCAST · business
Women Who Lead Change
by Michelle Johns
This is the podcast for women who want to change the world.If you have that deep desire to see things change in your organisation, your community, or from the inside out, then this is for you. Here, we explore ideas and practical ways to lead change. You will hear stories of women who are making a difference, to energise and equip you on your own path.Think of this as your weekly source of inspiration and strategy for the journey.
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190
What I've Learned Leading Change for 15 Years
Michelle shares some key lessons from 15 years of working in change:You Cannot Out-Strategise Human EmotionsEvery Person Responds to Change DifferentlyYou Must Lean In, Listen, and Empathise to UnderstandYour Change Plan Must Address the Human SideYou Must Meet Organisations Where They AreChange Projects Always Have Challenges—That's NormalChange Is a Journey, Not an Event
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189
Sustainable Leadership
Michelle talks about exhaustion and how to be more sustainable in your leadership.The quiet, creeping depletion that so many high-achieving women carry around. The constant low-level hum of tiredness that we've normalised to the point where we barely notice it anymore.This week's reflection:On a scale of 1 to 10, how sustainable is your current pace? Not how productive you are. Not how much you're achieving. How sustainable.What's one change you could make this week—not a grand overhaul, just one thing—that would move the needle toward more sustainable leadership? Maybe it's a boundary. Maybe it's a conversation. Maybe it's saying no to something. Maybe it's asking for help.Check on someone else. Who around you seems to be running on empty? Could you reach out? Could you normalise the conversation about exhaustion by naming it in yourself?Come find me on Instagram @womenwhochange.official. Tell me what sustainability means to you. Tell me what gets in the way. Tell me what helps.
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188
The Sponsor Gap in Leadership
In this episode, we talk about Sponsorship.A mentor is someone who gives you advice. They meet with you periodically. They share their wisdom, help you think through challenges, and offer guidance based on their experience. Mentors are valuable. A sponsor, on the other hand, is someone who uses their political capital on your behalf. They advocate for you in rooms you're not in. They put your name forward for stretch assignments. They defend you when you're not there to defend yourself. They stake their reputation on your potential.Mentors talk to you. Sponsors talk about you.
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187
Leading Through Uncertainty
Leading Through Uncertainty: The Psychology of ChangeEach stage of the Change Curve needs something different from you.In denial: People need information, repeated calmly.In anger: People need to be heard, not corrected.In bargaining: People need boundaries, gently held.In depression: People need support and hope.In acceptance: People need direction and tools.
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186
The Confidence Question
The confidence conversation isn't wrong. Many of us do need to back ourselves more. But it's incomplete. It places responsibility on individuals while leaving systems untouched.So this week, I invite you to reflect:Where have you seen the "confidence gap" narrative play out in your career—in ways that helped, or in ways that obscured deeper issues?What's one thing your organisation could do differently to create a level playing field—not just for confident women, but for all women?And if you're willing to share: When have you stretched into something you didn't feel ready for, and surprised yourself?Come find me on Instagram @womenwhochange.official. Send me a DM. Let's continue this conversation.
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185
Redefining Strong: The Jacinda Ardern Leadership Lesson
I invite you to reflect:Where have you been told—explicitly or implicitly—that your natural way of leading isn't "strong enough"?What would it look like to bring more of your whole self to your leadership this week?And if you're comfortable, I'd love to hear: Who is a leader—maybe not famous, maybe someone you know—who has shown you a different way to be strong?Come find me on Instagram @womenwhochange.official and share your thoughts. Let's keep this conversation going.
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184
The Numbers Don't Lie: Women in Leadership Then and Now
In this episode, we look at how far Australian Corporates have come in the past 15 years, and the work still to go.Some key statistics in Australia:Female CEOs ASX 300: ~10% (stagnant)Female CEOs ASX 200 (2011): 3%Women in CEO pipeline: 18%Women in management: 40.2%Women on ASX 300 boards: ~33-35%Women in key management personnel: 39%40:40 Vision signatories with 40%+ women in executive teams: 41%Companies believing gender diversity benefits performance: 91%
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183
The Heart of Change Leadership
I invite you to reflect on one change you’re leading or living through. Ask yourself:On a scale of 1-10, how psychologically safe does my team feel to voice concerns?When was the last time I really listened to someone’s experience of this change without jumping in to problem-solve?What is one small way I can serve my people’s needs in this transition?I’d love to hear which of the concepts (servant leadership, psychological safety, compassion) resonates most with your experience. Find me on Instagram @womenwhochange.official and let me know what resonated.
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182
Why I Want More Women in Leadership
This is the podcast for women who want to change the world.If you have that deep desire to see things change in your organisation, your community, or from the inside out, then you are in exactly the right place.Here, we explore not just ideas, but the practical ways to lead change. We share stories of women who are making a difference, to energise and equip you on your own path.Think of this as your weekly source of inspiration and strategy for the journey.join me on instagram @womenwhochange.official
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181
Welcome to a New Era
This is the podcast for women who want to change the world.If you have that deep desire to see things change in your organisation, your community, or from the inside out, then you are in exactly the right place.Here, we explore not just ideas, but the practical ways to lead change. We share stories of women who are making a difference to energise and equip you on your own path.Think of this as your weekly source of inspiration and strategy for the journey.Come join me on instagram - @ womenwhochange.official
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180
Goodbye Past. Hello Future.
In this podcast, Michelle wraps up season 2.FromSupporting women in leadership and key topics - leadership, leading teams, confidence and popular episodes about feedback and managing toxic workplaces.ToGo deeper for women in leadership who want to change the world and do my part to see change in the world.
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179
Leading with a Brave Heart
Why I started the Leading with a Braveheart podcast.The leading with a braveheart journeyI started out with 7 episodes on what I learned in the corporate world, as a woman.Then I was inspired to continue to support women in leadership with key topics such as leadership, leading teams, confidence and popular episodes about feedback and managing toxic workplaces.
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178
A Career Journey from Accountant to Leadership Coach
In this episode, Michelle shares her personal story from the heart with all the successes, the challenges and the raw experience of her life and career and how they are both one story and have an impact on how we show up at work and in life.
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177
What will leadership look like in 2026?
Michelle shares her predictions for leadership in 2026. What’s needed, what is valued, and most importantly, the shifts that leaders need to make internally.Inner Foundation: Know SelfSelf-Regulate BeSlow DownOuter Expression IntentionalUniqueOriginal
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176
Planning for 2026 with intention and confidence
In this podcast, Michelle shares a planning session for 2026.Some of the questions shared for looking ahead:What are you looking forward to in 2026?What are your Top 3 Goals?What are your Intentions?What is your word for the year?What is something a bit different or original for you in 2026?
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175
End of year review for leaders
In this podcast, Michelle shares a wrap up for 2025 and suggests how to do this:STEP 1: Complete a month by month reflections and notesSTEP 2: Pull out your Highlights and Learnings
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174
Why Leadership Development needs to be slow and deep
Why a 12-Month Program? The Case for Slow, Deep Leadership DevelopmentI'm opening up just 5 spots for my year-long Leadership Blueprint VIP program. If you're interested in being considered, complete this application form.
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173
What Does It Really Take to Get Promoted?
In this podcast, Michelle shares how to make sure you get the promotion.The 3 P’s of Promotion:Performance PerceptionPoliticsFind out more about the 2026 Leadership Blueprint
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172
The Power of Your Leadership Values
In this podcast, Michelle Guide you through a short exercise to identify their top 2-3 core leadership values.Knowing your values is the foundation of authentic leadership. what do you feel in your “peak” moments?what’s missing in your “pit” moments?We do a deep dive on this inside the program to ensure your leadership style is uniquely yours. Sign up to get access to the program first…
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171
Navigating Office Politics and Egos Without Losing Yourself
In this podcast, Michelle shares how to navigate difficult personalities and build influence with integrity, without losing yourself.Reframe "office politics" as "stakeholder management." and discover strategies for dealing with difficult personalities, narcissists, and undermining peers You don't have to navigate this alone.
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170
Your Leadership Operating System
In this podcast, Michelle shares how it’s important to have systems in your life.>> habits>> routines>> rituals>> rhythmsall play crucial roles in creating a calm, harmonious and productive life!
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169
How to Speak So Executives Listen
In this podcast, Michelle shares how to Speak So Executives Listen: The PREP Method PointRationaleExplanationPointBook end with the point…and the Preparation is key!!
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168
The Delegation Dilemma Every New Manager Faces
In this podcast, Michelle shares how to go from Doer to Leader.She covers how to overcome the Delegation Dilemma Every New Manager Faces starting with finding tasks that are repeatable and teachable.If you want access to the full 4 leadership pillars, get on the waitlist - https://forms.gle/LzR6y4HsT3SNh1KM9
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167
Executive Presence Isn't What You Think
In this podcast, Michelle shares the secret to executive presence. The 5C's of Leading with Impact:CompassionClarityCourageConfidenceCalmvisit the website - www.braveheartcoach.com.au
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166
Why Your Technical Skills Are Holding Your Leadership Career Back
In this podcast, Michelle shares Why Your Technical Skills Are Holding You Back and what to focus on.The leadership blueprintleadership skillsself-awarenesshow you influence people and the systems you buildLink to the quiz: https://braveheartcoach.outgrow.us/impactquiz
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165
How to be a more present leader
In this podcast, Michelle shares how even in this world with so many distractions, how to stay present with others, with your tasks and yourself.Techniques for being present>> with others>> with your tasks>> with yourself
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164
Must Have Habits for Leaders
In this podcast, Michelle shares the must-have leadership habits The essential leadership habits:lead through actionbe calm in the stormbe reliableown mistakesbe a great improviser
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163
Adaptive & Authentic – How New Managers Can Lead with Agility and Integrity
In this podcast, Michelle shares how to be an adaptive leader and stay authentic.Anchor in your core values Adjust how you do things, not who you areLearn out-loud
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162
The Foundations of Authentic Leadership
In this podcast, Michelle shares the idea of authentic leadershipThe core foundations of authentic leadership:Self-awareness RelateabilitypurposefulIntegrity
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161
The Confidence Cure
In this podcast, Michelle shares "The Confidence Cure"The life-changing workshop Michelle runs comes to the pod!Listen in to hear the 3 step process to cure your lack of confidence.be awarebe bravebe kind
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160
How to Balance Confidence and Humility
In this podcast, Michelle shares how the fear of being seen as confident can hold us back.Tips to feel confident and not lose your humility:have purpose and meaning for your leadershiplisten firstremember that humans are not better than another human: what is your mantra?
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159
The Power in Lacking Confidence
In this podcast, Michelle shares how a lack of confidence can be a positive thing.The lack of confidence is complex. In this episode we break down what it means to lack confidence versus how external factors can make us feel like we’re not confident and how perception of confidence is different to true confidence.
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158
The Secret About Confidence
In this podcast, Michelle shares some of the less known facts about “confidence.If you’ve always struggled with confidence or the ability to maintain your confidence, this episode will help you shift your thinking about what it takes to feel confident.
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157
How to be a compassionate leader
In this podcast, Michelle shares 3 ways to become a more compassionate leader and human being.Listen deeply (without fixing or interrupting)Assume positive intent (seek to understand before reacting)Small acts of care (e.g., checking in, acknowledging effort)
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156
From Judgment to Curiosity: The Compassionate Leader’s Shift
In this podcast, Michelle shares how judgment shows up in leadership.This episode covers:The cost of judgmental leadership (e.g., stifled innovation, low trust)How compassion reduces judgment (curiosity > criticism)Tools to pause judgment (e.g., asking "What’s their story?")
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155
How to be more self-compassionate
In this podcast, Michelle shares how to become more self compassionateSelf-kindness vs. self-judgmentCommon humanity vs. isolationMindfulness vs. over-identification
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154
What is Compassionate Leadership?
In this podcast, Michelle shares what is compassionate leadership and why it is important in this era. Studies show compassionate leaders create:Higher trust (People feel safe to innovate.)Stronger loyalty (Teams stick together through challenges.)Better performance (When people feel valued, they give their best.)
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153
3 Things to Do to Avoid Burnout
In this podcast, Michelle shares how you can avoid burnout even when you are too busy to think about it!monotask instead of multitaskingshowing gratitudethe boundary script
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152
The 3 Types of Burnout and How to Fix Them
In this podcast, Michelle shares the 3 types of burnout and how to deal with them.overloadunder challengedworn out
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151
5 signs you’re heading to burnout
In this podcast, Michelle shares the 5 unknown signs of burnout and how to notice them early and how to manage them before they take control of your life.You don’t have time for basic needsYou resent people with boundariesSmall decisions feel overwhelmingYou’ve stopped feeling joy in moments you normally enjoyYou’re nostalgic for ‘busier’ times
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150
Are You Leading from a Full Cup?
In this podcast, Michelle shares a check in process for you to make sure you’re on track to be the best person you can be in 2025.If you want Michelle's Journal prompts, DM "WELLBEING" on Instagram @braveheartcoach
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149
‘Too Soft’ to Lead? How Servant Leaders Thrive in Competitive Cultures
In this podcast, Michelle shares how to manage push-back on servant leadership.3 Strategies to Stand Firm (Without Losing Your Cool):1. The ‘Strong Back, Soft Front’ Approach2. Leverage a ‘Covert’ approach Servant Leadership if you need to3. The ‘Kill Them with Success’ Move
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148
Servant Leadership & Authenticity
In this podcast, Michelle shares the connection between servant Leadership & authenticity.Authenticity is the alignment between one’s values, words, and actions. When combined with servant leadership, it:Builds Credibility – Employees trust leaders who are genuine.Encourages Vulnerability – Admitting mistakes fosters psychological safety.Strengthens Culture – Authentic servant leaders model ethical behavior.How They Work TogetherA leader openly shares challenges and seeks team input (authenticity + listening).They admit when they don’t have answers but commit to finding solutions (humility + healing).Their actions consistently reflect their words (integrity + stewardship).
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147
How to use servant leadership to influence
In this podcast, Michelle shares how to use servant leadership to influence at work.Servant Leadership as a Tool for Influence:Unlike coercive leadership, servant leaders influence through:Trust & Respect – People follow willingly when they feel supported.Leading by Example – Demonstrating humility and integrity inspires others.Persuasive Communication – Using logic and empathy to align stakeholders.Long-Term Relationships – Investing in people creates lasting loyalty.Influencing Without AuthorityA servant leader in a cross-functional team might:Listen to concerns before proposing solutions.Align team goals with organizational values.Use data and empathy to gain buy-in
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146
How to use servant leadership in projects
In this podcast, Michelle shares how to use servant leadership within projects.Why Servant Leadership Works for ProjectsEmpowers Team Ownership – Team members take initiative when trusted.Improves Collaboration – Open communication reduces silos.Enhances Problem-Solving – Diverse perspectives lead to better solutions.Focuses on Customer/Stakeholder Value – The leader ensures the project serves its purpose.
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145
Servant Leadership - what does it really mean?
In this podcast, Michelle shares what it means to be a servant leader.The world has changed. Does it mean we need to change - heck yes!So, in this episode we get real about what it means to be a servant leader and how it could be a useful tool in this era.Is it for you and the environment you find yourself in? You decide.
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144
What’s new at Braveheart Coach
In this podcast, Michelle provides an update about what’s happening at braveheart coach headquarters…You are evolving. I am evolving. And the podcast is evolving. This episode takes a moment in time to acknowledge this and shares a little of what’s to come. Stay tuned for more.
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143
Self awareness is the key to Effective Leadership
In this podcast, Michelle shares how to be an effective leader, focus on self awareness.3 ideas to increase your self awareness:1. Ask ‘What?’ Not ‘Why?’‘Why do I feel this way?’ leads to overthinking. Instead, ask ‘What am I feeling?’ and ‘What patterns keep showing up?’2. Seek ‘Loving Critics’Find 2-3 people who will be honest but kind and ask for feedback3. Practice ‘Pre-Mortems’Before a big decision, imagine it failed. Ask: ‘What could I have overlooked?’ This surfaces blind spots before they become setbacks."
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142
Self Compassion and Leadership
In this podcast, Michelle shares how to lead with compassion, you need to first be compassionate to yourself. What a self compassionate leader looks like:Set boundaries without guilt (‘Brave self-compassion’ means saying no!).Motivate through encouragement, not fear.Build trust because they’re not pretending to be perfect.
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141
How to take the lead in your career
In this podcast, Michelle shares how to take control of your career.If you feel like your work speaks for itself and opportunities come your way, you may want to listen in and check that you are not letting others control your career.Top tips to take control of your career:have a guiding starbe at least 2 steps aheadcreate a network of supportersIf you want to find out your self leadership score, complete the assessment - https://braveheartcoach.outgrow.us/self-leadership
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
This is the podcast for women who want to change the world.If you have that deep desire to see things change in your organisation, your community, or from the inside out, then this is for you. Here, we explore ideas and practical ways to lead change. You will hear stories of women who are making a difference, to energise and equip you on your own path.Think of this as your weekly source of inspiration and strategy for the journey.
HOSTED BY
Michelle Johns
CATEGORIES
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