Episodes

  • What if confidence isn't the thing you're missing?

    So many successful women have spent their lives being capable, dependable and high-achieving, yet still find themselves holding back at work and in life. They say yes when they mean no, struggle to set boundaries and worry about being seen as too much, too ambitious or too full of themselves.

    In this powerful conversation, Sarah is joined by author, speaker and founder of Electric Peach, Sophie Jane Lee, to explore the hidden ways women abandon themselves in pursuit of being more palatable to others.

    Drawing on the themes of her book Beyond Palatable: A Manifesto for Unapologetic Women, Sophie shares why the stories we tell ourselves shape the lives we create and why becoming unstuck isn't about fixing yourself – it's about becoming more fully yourself.

    Together they discuss self-abandonment, visibility, boundaries, people pleasing and why doing the inner work matters if we want to stop shrinking ourselves and step into our brilliance.

    In this episode you'll discover:

    • What self-abandonment looks like at work and in everyday life

    • Why successful women struggle to own their value and take up space

    • The connection between our nervous system, safety and visibility

    • How unconscious stories shape our careers, relationships and confidence

    • Why boundaries feel so uncomfortable and how to navigate the guilt that comes with saying no

    • Practical ways to build self-awareness and create space for reflection

    • Why being 'full of yourself' is something we should aspire to rather than avoid

    Timestamps

    00:00 - Introduction

    01:00 - Sophie's career journey and why she wrote Beyond Palatable

    03:00 - Why women shrink themselves and make themselves smaller

    04:00 - Understanding self-abandonment and the nervous system

    06:30 - What self-abandonment looks like in the workplace

    08:15 - The triad of oppression and the systems women navigate

    13:45 - Are we making progress as women?

    16:00 - Visibility, confidence and becoming 'full of yourself'

    19:00 - Why there isn't a quick fix for confidence and self-worth

    22:00 - Creating space for reflection and doing the inner work

    26:15 - Setting boundaries and managing the guilt of saying no

    30:00 - The stories we tell ourselves and how they shape our lives

    32:30 - Sophie's final message for women who want to stop shrinking themselves

    Connect with Sophie Jane Lee

    Website: beyondpalatable.com

    Website: electricpeach.co.uk

    Instagram: @beyondpalatable

    LinkedIn: Sophie Jane Lee

    Useful Links

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with another woman who needs the reminder that she doesn't have to become somebody else to succeed – she simply needs permission to become more fully herself.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

    Remember, you don't have to stay stuck. You can become Unstuck & Unstoppable.

  • Have you ever felt like you needed to become a different person to succeed as a leader?

    In this episode Sarah is joined by senior HR leader Sarah Holey, who shares her inspiring journey from retail shop floor assistant to leading international people functions across Europe, the Americas, the Middle East and APAC.

    Together, we explore what it really takes to grow into senior leadership without losing yourself along the way. Sarah speaks openly about navigating self-doubt, moving from being the expert to becoming a beginner again, building credibility in a new organisation, and discovering that her collaborative leadership style wasn't something to change - it was one of her greatest strengths.

    If you're stepping into a bigger leadership role, managing challenging stakeholders, or wondering whether your leadership style is "enough", this conversation will leave you feeling reassured, empowered and inspired.

    In this episode we discuss:Sarah's unexpected journey from studying textiles to becoming an international HR leaderWhy working on the shop floor shaped her leadership philosophyThe confidence challenges that came with moving from one market to leading across 16 countriesLearning to stop expecting yourself to know everythingWhy senior leadership can feel surprisingly lonelyThe value of proactive coaching before starting a new roleBuilding trust and credibility with new stakeholdersWhy you don't need to copy louder leadership styles to earn respectThe power of leading with your valuesWhat authentic leadership really looks like in practiceSarah's advice for women stepping into leadership for the first time
    Timestamps

    00:00 Introduction to Sarah Holey and today's topic

    02:00 From textiles graduate to international HR leader

    06:00 Career turning points and moving into global leadership

    07:00 From expert to beginner: rebuilding confidence in a bigger role

    09:20 Why Sarah invested in coaching before starting a new job

    11:00 The hidden loneliness of senior leadership

    12:00 Leaving a successful role and overcoming imposter syndrome

    14:10 Leading senior stakeholders with confidence

    15:30 Why authentic leadership is more powerful than trying to fit in

    16:30 Speaking up without being the loudest voice in the room

    17:15 Leadership values and avoiding burnout

    18:45 Why coaching isn't just for people in crisis

    19:45 What it was like to work with Sarah Archer

    20:45 Defining authentic leadership

    21:30 What 'Unstuck & Unstoppable' means to Sarah

    Memorable Quotes"Curiosity will take you much further than being the expert.""I don't need to match someone else's leadership style to earn their respect.""There is such power in being the last person to speak in the room.""What gets you here won't necessarily get you there."

    Useful Links

    Connect with Sarah Holey on LinkedIn

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

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  • You're successful on paper. Capable, still showing up, still the person colleagues message when something needs sorting. And yet - something's shifted, and you can't quite name what.

    In this episode, Sarah unpacks the career crossroads: that disorienting in-between space where what used to fit no longer does, and what's next hasn't taken shape yet. Whether it's shown up through redundancy, burnout recovery, hitting a milestone, or being offered a promotion that should feel exciting but doesn't - the internal experience underneath is strikingly similar.

    Sarah breaks down the six patterns that keep ambitious women stuck at the crossroads longer than they need to be (hint: it's rarely about effort), and walks through the first, most important step forward - one that has nothing to do with having a plan.

    If you've ever felt quietly unsettled despite "having it all," or caught yourself hesitating at an opportunity you'd have said yes to in a heartbeat five years ago, this episode will help you understand exactly what's going on - and what to do about it.

    Timestamps

    [00:00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable

    [00:01:36] What is a career crossroads? The four different triggers

    [00:05:38] The common thread underneath: your relationship to your next step has changed

    [00:06:00] Naming it: why this is a liminal space, not a crisis

    [00:06:30] What it actually feels like day to day - redundancy, burnout, milestones, promotions

    [00:10:13] Why nothing's "wrong" but it still feels hard to move through

    [00:10:30] The six patterns that keep you stuck at the crossroads

    [00:13:46] The real first step: space and perspective, not a perfect plan

    [00:14:00] How to start - naming what's changed, separating urgency from clarity

    [00:14:50] Giving yourself permission not to decide immediately

    [00:16:30] Exploring options without commitment

    [00:17:30] Why an outside perspective (or a coach) can shortcut the stuck phase

    [00:19:00] Wrap up and where to find more resources

    Useful Links

    Episode 84 The Sign There is More for You in Your Career (even if you can't see it yet)

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

  • In this episode, Sarah is joined by former client Kate Dunstone, who shares her inspiring career journey from a long and successful career in higher education marketing to a senior leadership role in a completely new sector.

    After 17 years at the University of Portsmouth, Kate knew she was ready for something more aligned with her values, interests and long-term ambitions. In this conversation, she shares what it was really like to leave the security of a role and organisation she’d known for years, how she built the confidence to change sector, and how coaching helped her step into a more strategic, senior role with greater flexibility.

    If you’re wondering whether it’s too late to change direction, whether your skills will transfer to a new sector, or whether you’re really ready for a bigger role, this episode will give you both practical ideas and a confidence boost.

    In this episode, we cover:Kate’s career journey from course administrator to senior marketing leaderWhat made her realise she’d outgrown higher education after 17 yearsHow she built the confidence to change sector and go for a more senior roleThe role coaching played in clarifying her direction and helping her take actionWhy a trustee role helped strengthen her CV and support her sector moveHow she negotiated a role with more flexibility and better fit for her lifeWhat helped her move from Head of Marketing to DirectorWhy empathy and emotion can be leadership strengths rather than weaknessesWhat being “unstuck and unstoppable” means to Kate
    Timestamps

    00:00 – Introduction to Kate and her career journey

    01:50 – Kate’s current role as Director of Membership, Marketing and Digital

    03:35 – Starting out in higher education and moving into marketing

    06:20 – Growing into leadership and becoming more strategic

    08:15 – Confidence, career progression and balancing ambition with motherhood

    10:45 – Why Kate decided to get coaching support

    13:00 – How coaching helped with clarity, confidence, CV and LinkedIn

    15:00 – Taking on a trustee role to support a sector change

    17:20 – Landing the Head of Marketing and Communications role at the college

    20:05 – Going for the Director role and backing herself to step up

    22:40 – What Kate wishes she’d known earlier in her career

    23:35 – Reframing emotion and empathy as leadership strengths

    25:10 – Kate’s experience of coaching and what helped most

    27:10 – What “unstuck and unstoppable” means to Kate

    28:20 – Why networking, visibility and LinkedIn still matter even when you’re not job searching

    Key takeaways from this episode

    Kate’s story is such a good reminder that getting unstuck isn’t always about making a dramatic leap. Sometimes it’s about paying attention to what no longer fits, getting honest about what you really want, and taking the next step before you feel 100% ready.

    It’s also a powerful example of how career change doesn’t mean starting again. Kate took years of leadership, marketing and stakeholder experience and repositioned it into a new sector that felt much more meaningful and aligned.

    And perhaps most importantly, this conversation highlights that qualities many women dismiss in themselves - like emotion, empathy and sensitivity - can become some of their greatest strengths as leaders.

    Useful Links

    Connect with Kate on LinkedIn

    Episode 61 How to Create a Personal Board for Your Leadership Career

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

  • Have you ever found yourself wondering, "Is this really it?"

    From the outside, everything looks successful. You're performing well, earning good money, and progressing in your career. Yet something feels different. Not wrong exactly, but no longer quite right.

    In this solo episode, Sarah explores the often-overlooked signs that you've outgrown your current role, even when you can't yet see what comes next. She shares insights from her work with senior professional women who are navigating career transitions, questioning their direction, and searching for greater meaning, purpose and fulfilment.

    If you've been feeling disconnected, restless or drawn towards something different, this episode will help you understand what's really happening beneath the surface and why uncertainty may be a sign of growth rather than a problem to solve.

    In This Episode You'll DiscoverWhy successful women often struggle to recognise when they've outgrown a roleThe hidden reasons career clarity can feel so elusiveHow your professional identity can lag behind your personal growthFour subtle signs there may be more for you in your careerWhy uncertainty is often a natural part of career evolutionA simple reflection exercise to help you reconnect with what matters most
    Timestamps

    00:00 Welcome and introduction to the podcast

    01:45 Why so many successful women ask, "Is there more for me?"

    03:00 The feeling of success without fulfilment

    04:05 Sarah's personal story of leaving corporate HR for the voluntary sector

    05:00 The LinkedIn profile test: when your career story no longer feels like you

    05:40 Why you can't see what's next yet

    05:50 Reason 1: You're too close to your current identity

    06:30 Reason 2: Your career identity hasn't caught up with your personal growth

    07:20 Reason 3: External success can mask internal change

    08:20 The awareness phase that comes before clarity

    08:45 Sign #1: Feeling disconnected from your current identity and work

    09:50 Sign #2: Being drawn to different careers, lifestyles or choices

    10:50 Sign #3: Inconsistent motivation and what it might be telling you

    11:45 Sign #4: Asking questions without having answers yet

    12:30 Expansion versus exhaustion: understanding the difference

    13:15 Why uncertainty is not a problem to solve immediately

    13:40 A simple daily exercise to help uncover what's changing

    14:35 Trusting the process of career transition and growth

    15:00 How coaching can help you gain clarity and confidence

    15:45 Final reflections and closing thoughts

    Useful Links

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

    Remember "You don't have to know what's next. You just have to trust that something is shifting, and that shift is giving you valuable information about what matters most."

  • What does authentic leadership really look like in practice?

    In this episode Sarah sits down with former client Helen Cook, an experienced People Director, to discuss her career journey from hospitality into HR leadership, the lessons she's learned about confidence and career progression, and how coaching helped her gain clarity at an important point in her career.

    Helen shares a refreshingly honest perspective on leadership, including navigating self-doubt, balancing ambition with family life, and staying true to yourself in senior roles. This is a thoughtful conversation for anyone who wants to lead with confidence without feeling they need to become someone they're not.

    In This EpisodeFinding a career that aligns with your strengths and valuesBuilding a successful career in HR and people leadershipNavigating self-doubt and imposter syndromeLeading authentically rather than copying othersBalancing career ambitions with family responsibilitiesLessons learned from stepping into senior leadership rolesWhy leadership isn't a raceThe value of coaching during career transitionsDeveloping confidence and self-awareness as a leaderWhat it means to be unstuck and unstoppable
    Timestamps

    00:00 – Introduction to Helen and her career journey

    02:15 – From hospitality into HR: finding the right career path

    04:30 – Key career turning points and leadership progression

    07:00 – Discovering a leadership style that feels authentic

    09:45 – Navigating self-doubt and imposter syndrome

    12:20 – Balancing leadership responsibilities and family life

    14:50 – Why leadership isn't a race

    17:10 – The challenges of stepping into senior leadership

    19:40 – Reaching a career crossroads and seeking coaching

    22:15 – What coaching helped Helen uncover

    24:30 – Building confidence and trusting yourself

    27:00 – Lessons learned from leading people through change

    29:45 – Advice for others considering coaching

    32:15 – What being unstuck and unstoppable means to Helen

    33:30 – Final reflections and key takeaways

    Useful Links

    Connect with Helen on LInkedIn

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

  • How many opportunities have you delayed because you were waiting for permission?

    In this episode Sarah talks to Natalie Nielson, Programme Director at Barclays Corporate, to explore the leadership lessons that have shaped her career and helped her thrive in complex, high-pressure environments.

    Natalie shares how she learned to stop waiting for someone else to tell her she was ready, navigate the inner voice of self-doubt, and develop a leadership style grounded in trust, authenticity and reflection.

    We also discuss the coaching journey we undertook together following her promotion into a senior leadership role, and the powerful mindset shifts that helped her become more confident, influential and intentional in her career.

    If you've ever questioned your readiness for the next step, struggled with visibility, or found yourself getting in your own way, this episode will leave you with practical insights and plenty of encouragement.

    In This EpisodeWhy waiting for permission can hold your career backHow to get out of your own way and quiet self-doubtThe relationship between confidence and experienceNavigating the transition into senior leadershipWhy reflection is an underrated leadership superpowerThe importance of asking for help and building support networksCreating trust and meaning within teamsDeveloping an authentic leadership styleLearning from role models and increasing your influenceReflection before reaction as a leadership habitWhat it really means to be unstuck and unstoppable
    Timestamps

    00:00 – Introduction to the episode and Natalie Nielson

    03:45 – Natalie's role as Programme Director and leading complex transformation

    05:00 – The leadership challenge of waiting for permission

    06:00 – Why confidence is a by-product of experience

    06:40 – Getting out of your own way and managing self-doubt

    08:30 – Why senior leaders still experience uncertainty

    09:30 – The promotion that led Natalie to seek coaching

    10:45 – Stepping into a new leadership identity

    11:00 – Reflection as a leadership superpower

    12:00 – Why asking for help is underrated

    13:00 – Building trust, meaning and connection within teams

    14:00 – Creating a high-performance culture through authentic leadership

    15:00 – Aligning leadership with personal values

    16:00 – Why your identity is bigger than your job title

    16:45 – Possibility, potential and opening unexpected doors

    17:20 – What Natalie wishes she'd known earlier in her career

    18:30 – Managing worry and learning through experience

    19:00 – Building visibility and influence at senior levels

    19:45 – Learning from role models and observing successful leaders

    21:00 – The importance of practice and confidence building

    21:30 – Advice for anyone considering coaching

    22:30 – Natalie's experience of coaching

    23:30 – A leadership habit Natalie swears by: Reflection before reaction

    24:15 – What being unstuck and unstoppable means to Natalie

    25:00 – Key takeaways and closing reflections

    Useful Links

    Episode 40 How to Get Your Voice Heard in the Leadership Space

    Connect with Natalie on LinkedIn

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

  • In this episode, Sarah explores a career experience many ambitious women silently struggle with: looking successful on the outside while feeling disconnected, exhausted, or emotionally flat on the inside.

    If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this really it?” despite having the title, salary, or career others admire, this episode will help you understand why smart, capable women often stay stuck in roles they’ve outgrown - and what to do about it.

    This episode is for you if:

    You feel successful externally but unfulfilled internallyYour work no longer feels meaningful or energisingYou’re questioning your next career move but don’t know where to startYou’re stuck between security and wanting something more
    Time Stamps[00:00] Introduction to Unstuck and Unstoppable[01:35] Why this topic matters

    The hidden experience of feeling disconnected from a career that looks successful on paper.

    [02:15] Sarah’s personal experience as an HR Director

    Why reaching a senior leadership role didn’t bring the fulfilment she expected.

    [03:00] Signs you may have outgrown your role

    Common indicators including:

    Emotional flatnessChronic overthinkingLoss of confidenceSunday dreadFeeling underutilisedBurnout and exhaustionFantasising about escape
    [04:40] Burnout, exhaustion, and the need for different types of rest

    Sarah references Episode 77 and explains how high performers often need more than just time off.

    [05:25] Why smart women stay stuck in careers too long

    The deeper reasons women struggle to move on, including:

    Identity attachmentResponsibility to othersFear of regretFinancial pressurePerfectionismWaiting for certaintyLoyaltyConfidence erosionFear of disappointing others
    [09:10] Why clarity comes through action

    Why you do not need to have everything figured out before making a move.

    [09:50] The 3 levels of career change

    Sarah explains:

    The ShiftThe PivotThe Leap

    Including real client examples of successful career transitions.

    [11:40] Practical ways to regain clarity

    Questions and exercises to help you explore what needs to change:

    Notice your energy patternsReconnect with your valuesExplore possibilities without pressureHave career conversationsIncrease confidence and visibilityConsider what kind of life and work you want now
    [14:15] Final thoughts and encouragement

    Outgrowing your role does not mean you’ve failed - it means you’ve changed.

    [14:35] How to work with Sarah

    Information about booking a free career clarity call with Sarah.

    Useful Links

    Episode 77 Rethinking Rest - What High Performers Need Beyond Time Off

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

  • What happens when your career looks successful on paper… but no longer feels aligned?

    In this episode, Sarah is joined by Sarah Warrington, Head of Marketing at a private higher education institution, who shares her honest and inspiring career journey - from leaving accountancy after just 18 months, to building a meaningful leadership career in higher education marketing.

    We explore the realities of career progression, navigating values misalignment, asking for what you really want, and why compassionate leadership can be a powerful advantage rather than a weakness.

    Sarah also opens up about the coaching process that helped her gain clarity, confidence and the courage to make a career move while protecting the flexibility and family balance that mattered most to her.

    This episode is full of reassurance and practical insight for anyone feeling stuck, professionally unfulfilled, or ready to redefine success on their own terms.

    In This Episode We DiscussKnowing when a career path no longer fitsLeaving a “safe” profession early in your careerBuilding a meaningful career in higher education marketingThe importance of values alignment at workWhy visibility and asking for opportunities mattersNegotiating flexible working successfullyCareer coaching and building confidenceManaging your inner criticCompassionate leadership and emotional intelligenceLeadership in fast-paced startup environmentsBalancing ambitious work with family, wellbeing and personal growth
    Timestamps

    00:00 – Introduction to Sarah Warrington and her current role

    01:00 – Leaving accountancy and finding the right career path

    02:00 – Moving through higher education roles and discovering marketing

    03:15 – Stepping into leadership for the first time

    04:10 – The challenge of asking for progression and opportunities

    05:40 – Why working hard alone doesn’t guarantee promotion

    06:10 – Feeling stuck and discovering coaching

    07:20 – Realising something was no longer aligned

    08:10 – The fear of losing flexibility and work-life balance

    09:10 – How coaching created clarity and self-awareness

    10:10 – Managing the inner critic and building confidence

    11:15 – Trying new things, networking and exploring possibilities

    12:00 – “Rejection is redirection” and navigating the job search

    12:45 – Negotiating compressed hours in a new role

    13:10 – Discovering compassionate leadership as a strength

    14:20 – Leadership in a startup-style environment

    15:40 – Balancing leadership, family and wellbeing

    16:30 – Why hobbies and volunteering create perspective and energy

    17:20 – Sarah’s reflections on the impact of coaching

    18:20 – What “unstuck and unstoppable” means to Sarah

    Useful Links

    Connect with Sarah Warrington on LinkedIn

    Flexible Working People FaceBook Group

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

  • What really changes when you step into senior leadership?

    In this honest and insightful conversation, Sarah speaks with Maria Norowzian, Group & UK Hospitality Director at ATG Entertainment, about the realities of career growth, leadership transitions and learning to lead beyond your technical expertise.

    Maria shares her journey from starting out in marketing at McDonald’s in Australia to leading innovation and hospitality strategy for one of the world’s largest theatre companies. Together, they explore the steep learning curves that come with ambitious career progression, the mindset shifts required at senior level, and why leadership is far more about influence, relationships and vision than having all the answers.

    This episode is packed with valuable insights for managers, heads of department and aspiring senior leaders navigating growth, confidence and career progression.

    In This Episode We Discuss:Moving from functional expert to strategic leaderThe leap from “Head Of” to Director level leadershipWhy curiosity and growth mindset accelerate career successLearning through mistakes, failure and discomfortBuilding confidence in a bigger leadership roleLeading teams and managing cross-functional relationshipsHow coaching supports leadership growthThe importance of vision, calm and clarity in leadershipAmbition, hard work and finding flow in your careerCreating success and freedom on your own terms
    Timestamps

    00:00 – Introduction to Maria and her role at ATG Entertainment

    01:00 – Maria’s early career journey and passion for marketing

    03:00 – Why steep learning curves drive career growth

    04:00 – The transition into leadership and building teams

    06:00 – Why moving from Head Of to Director felt so different

    07:00 – Leadership mindset shifts and learning through mistakes

    08:00 – Expanding beyond marketing into commercial leadership

    10:00 – Why Maria sought coaching support

    11:00 – Transferable skills, confidence and navigating fear

    13:00 – Leadership blind spots and executive presence

    14:00 – Maria’s definition of great leadership

    15:00 – Career advice for ambitious professionals

    17:00 – Working hard, ambition and finding flow

    18:00 – The value of coaching for leaders

    20:00 – What “Unstuck and Unstoppable” means to Maria

    Useful Links

    Connect with Maria on LinkedIn

    Your First 100 Days by Niamh O'Keeffe

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

  • In this episode, Sarah explores how toxic stakeholders and difficult bosses can quietly erode confidence, visibility, and influence at work. She shares personal experiences, client stories, and practical strategies to help ambitious female leaders navigate challenging workplace dynamics without shrinking themselves or losing credibility.

    Timestamps

    [00:00] Welcome & Introduction

    Sarah introduces the episode and explains why navigating difficult bosses and toxic stakeholders is a critical leadership skill.

    [01:20] Why This Topic Matters

    How workplace dynamics can quietly impact confidence, credibility, and career progression.

    [02:15] The Confidence Impact of Difficult Stakeholders

    Why toxic interactions linger long after meetings end and can lead to overthinking and self-doubt.

    [03:40] Sarah’s Personal Leadership Story

    Sarah shares her experience working with an unpredictable CEO and how it affected her confidence and behaviour.

    [05:00] The Hidden Behaviour Changes Leaders Make

    How high-performing leaders unconsciously shrink themselves through hypervigilance, over-preparing, and holding back.

    [06:10] The 3 Types of Toxic Stakeholders

    The ControllerThe Political OperatorThe Inconsistent Leader

    [07:40] Client Coaching Story

    A real-life example of how one senior leader regained her confidence and influence by changing the dynamic.

    [09:45] The Turning Point

    Why managing the relationship differently matters more than trying to “handle” the person better.

    [10:05] Strategy 1: Stop Personalising It

    How separating yourself from the behaviour creates clarity and emotional distance.

    [10:55] Strategy 2: Understand the Dynamic

    Learning what drives difficult behaviour so you can respond strategically.

    [11:35] Strategy 3: Change How You Show Up

    Practical ways to communicate with more calmness, clarity, and authority.

    [12:20] Strategy 4: Decide Your Boundaries

    Knowing when to address behaviour, escalate concerns, or leave an unhealthy environment.

    [13:20] Leadership Reflection Exercise

    Sarah shares one powerful question to help you notice where you may be adapting yourself to manage others.

    [13:55] Final Thoughts

    Why strong leadership is about staying intentional and grounded in difficult dynamics — not becoming harder or more aggressive.

    [14:35] Closing & Resources

    Where to connect with Sarah and access additional career and leadership resources.

    Useful Links

    Episode 76 How To Position Yourself For Promotion In The Next 6 Months

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

  • Are you doing everything “right”- sleeping, exercising, pushing through your workload yet still feeling drained?

    In this episode, Sarah challenges the way we think about rest. For high-performing female leaders, exhaustion isn’t always about doing too much - it’s often about recovering in the wrong way.

    You’ll learn why traditional ideas of rest fall short, and how to restore your energy more effectively using seven powerful (and often overlooked) types of rest.

    What You’ll LearnWhy sleep alone isn’t enough to restore your energyThe hidden reason high performers still feel exhaustedThe 7 types of rest and how to recognise what you’re missingSimple, practical ways to build recovery into your working dayWhy rest isn’t a reward - it’s essential maintenance for performance
    Timestamps

    00:00 – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable

    01:00 – Why rest needs a rethink for high performers

    02:00 – Energy check: where are you right now?

    03:00 – The real problem: under-rested, not burned out

    03:30 – Default habits: pushing through, scrolling, switching off

    05:00 – Why high performers struggle with recovery

    05:30 – Mental rest: calming an overactive mind

    06:30 – Physical rest: micro-recovery during the day

    07:30 – Emotional rest: managing the invisible load

    08:30 – Reflection: which type of rest are you missing?

    09:00 – Social rest: balancing interaction and energy

    10:00 – Sensory rest: reducing constant stimulation

    11:30 – Creative rest: bringing in new input

    12:30 – Spiritual rest: reconnecting with meaning and values

    13:00 – Personal example: using values to shift energy

    14:00 – Why rest is not a reward but maintenance

    14:30 – Client story: rebuilding energy after promotion

    15:00 – How to choose the one type of rest to focus on

    15:30 – Final thoughts and next steps

    Key Takeaway

    You don’t need to push harder - you need to recover better.

    When you identify the right type of rest your body and mind need, everything from your energy to your confidence and performance becomes easier.

    Want more ideas for each type of rest? Send Sarah a message for her free guide

    Request the Emotions Wheel to help you better identify and process how you feel

    Useful Links

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

  • In this episode, Sarah challenges a common belief about promotion: that it’s purely based on performance. Drawing on her experience in HR leadership and executive coaching, she reveals why promotions are often blocked by hesitation, not capability, and what you can do to change how decision-makers see you.

    If you’re aiming for your next senior role, this episode will show you exactly how to position yourself so that promotion feels like the obvious next step.

    What You’ll Learn

    Why performance alone doesn’t get you promotedThe real reason senior leaders hesitate in promotion decisionsThe 4 key signals that show you’re ready for the next levelHow to shift perception in the next 6 monthsA simple but powerful communication shift that changes how you’re seen

    Timestamps

    [00:00:00] Introduction to the podcast and who it’s for

    [00:01:00] A powerful mindset shift: imagining the promotion discussion happening without you

    [00:02:00] Why promotions are blocked by hesitation - not performance

    [00:03:00] The hidden gap: “certainty of perception”

    [00:04:00] Case study: why Client B got promoted over Client A

    [00:05:00] Overview of the 4 signals that get you promoted

    [00:05:30] Signal 1: Thinking beyond your function

    [00:06:30] Signal 2: Handling ambiguity and pressure

    [00:07:30] Signal 3: Stepping out of the operational “weeds”

    [00:08:00] Signal 4: Already operating at the next level

    [00:09:00] Why making your ambition visible matters

    [00:09:45] The risk of silence: being seen as “content” where you are

    [00:10:00] One strategic shift: stop reporting, start interpreting

    [00:10:30] Final takeaway: promotion is about perception, not just performance

    Key Takeaway

    You don’t get promoted because you’ve done a great job—you get promoted when people can already see you operating at the next level. Your role is to remove any doubt that you’re ready.

    Useful Links

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

  • In this episode, Sarah breaks down how executive recruiters actually operate - and why the typical “send your CV and wait” approach doesn’t work at a senior level. If you’re aiming for leadership roles, you’ll learn how to position yourself strategically, build strong recruiter relationships, and stand out as a credible, low-risk candidate.

    What You’ll Learn

    The biggest misconception about executive recruitersHow recruiters assess senior candidatesWhy positioning matters more than your CV5 practical ways to work with recruiters effectivelyHow to make recruiters a powerful part of your job search strategy

    Timestamps

    [00:00] Welcome & podcast introduction

    [01:00] Global reach milestone + episode overview

    [02:00] Client story: feeling stuck and overlooked by recruiters

    [03:00] The biggest misconception about recruiters

    [04:00] Why a passive job search strategy fails

    [05:00] Case study: shifting positioning and strategy

    [06:00] How executive recruiters actually think

    [07:00] What makes you “easy to place”

    [07:30] 5 practical strategies to work with recruiters

    [07:30] 1. Be specific about what you want

    [08:00] 2. Lead with value, not your CV

    [08:30] 3. Build relationships, not transactions

    [09:00] 4. Prepare properly for recruiter conversations

    [09:30] 5. Don’t rely on recruiters alone

    [10:00] The mindset shift: recruiters are part of your strategy

    [11:00] Final thoughts + how to get support

    Key Takeaway

    Recruiters don’t find you a job - you position yourself so they can confidently place you. When you get clear, strategic, and visible, they become valuable allies rather than a frustrating dead end.

    Useful Links

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

  • In this episode, Sarah explores the powerful concept of strategic hope and why it is a critical leadership skill for ambitious female leaders who want to prevent burnout and create real momentum in their careers.

    Many high-performing women find themselves working hard while quietly hoping something changes - hoping for recognition, hoping for opportunities, hoping for better leadership or culture. But hope, in its most powerful form, isn’t wishful thinking.

    Drawing on the work of positive psychologist C.R. Snyder, Sarah introduces Hope Theory and explains how hope is actually a practical leadership strategy built on three key elements: goals, pathways, and agency.

    If you’ve been feeling stuck, flat, or unsure about your next step, this episode will help you shift from passive wishing to actively designing your future.

    What You’ll LearnThe difference between passive hope and strategic hopeWhy high-performing female leaders lose hope in their careersThe link between hope, motivation, and burnout preventionThe three essential skills that build strategic hopeHow to create clear goals, practical pathways, and real agencyReflection questions to help you start designing your next move
    Timestamps

    00:00 – Introduction to Unstuck and Unstoppable and episode overview

    01:30 – Why hope is the focus of this episode

    02:00 – Passive hope vs strategic hope in female leadership

    03:30 – Introduction to Hope Theory and C.R. Snyder’s research

    04:30 – Reflection: Where are you hoping for change instead of designing it?

    05:00 – Why female leaders lose strategic hope:

    05:10 – Effort without progress and declining energy 05:45 – Immovable systems and limited pathways 07:00 – Over-responsibility and burnout risk

    08:15 – The three strategic hope skills:

    08:30 – Skill 1: Clarity and defining your goal

    Getting specific about what you want next in your career

    10:45 – Skill 2: Creating pathways and designing your strategy

    Examples of pathways (networking, visibility, role design, internal and external opportunities) Planning for obstacles and contingencies

    13:00 – Skill 3: Building agency through small actions

    Evidence-building and confidence through action

    14:15 – Hope amplifiers

    Why power: connecting to meaning and purpose We power: support, accountability, and social connection

    15:30 – Three reflection questions to build strategic hope

    16:30 – Moving from wishing to designing your career

    17:00 – Coaching support and closing message

    Reflection Questions from This EpisodeWhat am I currently wishing would change in my career?What goal sits behind that wish?What is one pathway I could start this week?

    Useful Links

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

  • Have you ever felt like you're doing everything right in your leadership role - delivering results, working hard, supporting your team - yet still being overlooked for promotion?

    In this episode, Sarah lifts the lid on the unwritten rules of leadership that shape career progression at senior levels. Many ambitious female leaders are told that hard work and strong performance will naturally lead to advancement but in reality, leadership decisions are often influenced by visibility, relationships, strategic thinking, and perception.

    Through a powerful coaching story and practical reflection questions, this episode explores why brilliant women sometimes get passed over and, more importantly, what they can do differently to position themselves for the leadership roles they deserve.

    What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy working hard isn’t always enough to get promotedThe hidden leadership dynamics many organisations don’t talk aboutThe 4 unwritten rules that shape career advancementHow visibility, relationships, and perception influence leadership decisionsPractical actions you can take this week to position yourself for your next role
    Timestamps

    00:00 – Welcome to Unstuck & Unstoppable

    01:00 – Episode introduction: The leadership rules nobody talks about

    02:00 – Coaching story: “It feels like there’s a game being played and nobody told me the rules”

    A real-life example of a senior female leader being overlooked for promotion.

    03:30 – The myth of hard work leading to promotion

    Why performance alone doesn’t guarantee career advancement.

    05:00 – Leadership advancement is about more than delivery

    Understanding the gap between doing a great job and being seen as ready for senior leadership.

    The 4 Unwritten Rules of Leadership

    05:45 – Rule 1: Visibility matters more than effort

    Why leaders can’t promote what they can’t see and how to create strategic visibility.

    Reflection question: Where might you be working hard but staying invisible?

    08:00 – Rule 2: Relationships shape opportunities

    The importance of networks, sponsors, and trust in career progression.

    Reflection question: Who are the key people who need to know and trust you?

    10:00 – Rule 3: Strategic thinking gets rewarded

    Moving from operational excellence to future-focused leadership thinking.

    Reflection question: Are you spending most of your time delivering or thinking about the future?

    11:45 – Rule 4: Perception drives promotion

    How executive presence and leadership perception influence decisions.

    Reflection question: How do senior leaders currently perceive you?

    13:00 – One practical action to take this week

    Choose one conversation with a senior leader to increase visibility, influence, or strategic contribution.

    14:00 – Key takeaway: Understand the system and position yourself within it

    Visibility, relationships, strategic thinking, and perception are the keys to leadership advancement.

    14:30 – How to get support and access free resources

    Information on coaching support and additional resources.

    Useful Links

    Episode 66 Strengthening Your Strategic Thinking

    Episode 31 How to Develop Executive Presence

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

    Shine brightly. Lead boldly. Be unstoppable.

  • In this episode Sarah explores the powerful but often overlooked role of weak ties in career growth and job searching.

    If you're an ambitious woman looking to advance your career, increase your visibility, or access new opportunities, this episode will change how you think about networking. Sarah explains why the people you barely know may be the ones who open the biggest doors, and shares practical strategies to help you build and leverage these connections in a way that feels natural and authentic.

    What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhat weak ties are and why they matter in your careerWhy most job opportunities come from people outside your inner circleHow weak ties increase visibility and career mobilitySimple and practical ways to build and maintain weak tiesA quick exercise to start leveraging your network this week
    Timestamps

    00:00 – Welcome to Unstuck & Unstoppable

    02:00 – What Are Weak Ties?

    Understanding second and third-order connections and why acquaintances matter in career growth.

    03:00 – Why Weak Ties Open More Doors

    How weak ties access different networks and opportunities that your inner circle may not see.

    04:00 – The Spiderweb Analogy

    A powerful visual explanation of how networks work and where opportunities really come from.

    05:00 – Research and Career Mobility

    Why people who leverage weak ties find jobs faster and access hidden opportunities.

    05:30 – How to Leverage Weak Ties (Practical Steps)

    Intentional outreach during job search and asking for advice or connections.

    05:50 – Using Introductions Strategically

    Getting insider information and increasing your chances in recruitment processes.

    06:00 – Maintaining Light Contact

    Simple ways to stay visible through LinkedIn and quick check-ins.

    06:30 – Networking Coffee Conversations

    How short, informal conversations can strengthen weak ties.

    07:00 – A Simple Networking Exercise

    Identify one or two weak ties and reach out this week.

    07:30 – Weak Ties as Part of Your Visibility Strategy

    Why career growth is about who knows you and what you can do.

    08:00 – Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    Nurturing weak ties to open unexpected career doors.

    Useful Links

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

    Your next career opportunity may not come from your closest contacts - it may come from someone you’ve only spoken to once. Nurture your weak ties and watch new doors open.

  • Have you been in your role for five years or more? Are you there because you love it… or because you feel a bit stuck?

    In this episode, Sarah unpacks the difference between healthy staying and career stagnation, the subtle signs you might be stuck (even if things look “fine” on the surface), and practical steps to help you regain momentum, confidence, and clarity in your career.

    If you’ve been questioning your next move or avoiding the question altogether - this episode will give you a powerful reset.

    Show Notes

    [00:00:00] Welcome & Podcast Overview

    [00:01:00] Why This Topic Matters

    A real client story sparks the question: are you staying because you’re thriving or stuck?

    [00:02:00] The Big Question: Why Have You Stayed?

    Exploring the difference between loving your role and feeling unable to leave.

    [00:02:30] What “Healthy Staying” Looks Like

    Ongoing learning and developmentExpanding influence and impactIncreasing responsibility and stretchFeeling energised and engaged at work

    [00:04:00] When Staying Becomes Stagnation

    Repetitive work with no growthLack of progression opportunitiesDeclining confidenceComfort replacing challenge

    [00:06:00] The Hidden Risk of Being Too Comfortable

    Why growth requires “optimal anxiety” (not stress, but not stagnation either).

    [00:07:00] 5 Signs You Might Be Stuck

    Your learning curve has flattenedYou’ve stopped advocating for yourselfYou’re known for what you used to doYou feel invisible or overlookedYou keep saying “maybe next year”

    [00:08:30] Why We Stay Too Long

    Comfort and securityEroded confidence“Golden handcuffs” (salary, flexibility, benefits)The busyness trapIdentity lock (“this is just what I do”)

    [00:10:30] The Real Cost of Staying Stuck

    How stagnation shrinks your confidence, identity, and sense of possibility.

    [00:11:00] 3 Ways to Get Unstuck

    1. Run a Career Audit: Ask yourself:

    What am I learning?What impact am I having?Where am I growing?

    2. Expand Before You Exit

    Seek stretch projectsIncrease your visibilityRedesign aspects of your role

    3. Explore New Possibilities

    Internal moves or secondmentsNew environments or industriesReimagining your career direction

    [00:13:30] A Personal Turning Point

    Why staying in the same type of senior role no longer felt inspiring and what that revealed.

    [00:14:00] The Wake-Up Call Question

    “If nothing changed in your role for the next 3 years, would you feel excited or quietly disappointed?”

    [00:14:30] Reflection & Next Steps

    Encouragement to pause, reflect, journal, and seek support if needed.

    [00:15:00] Closing Thoughts

    You don’t need to blow up your career - but you do need to wake it up.

    Resources & Next StepstExplore the Strategic Visibility episode for practical ways to raise your profileReach out for coaching support if you’re ready to move from stuck to unstoppable

    Useful Links

    Take the Career Clarity Audit for personalised insight

    Episode 47 How to get noticed in your career

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

  • In this episode, Sarah explores why the inner critic exists and how it often tries to protect us from perceived risks like rejection, failure, or judgement. The challenge is that while it may have good intentions, it can also keep us stuck, holding back from the opportunities we truly want.

    Sarah shares three practical strategies to help you quieten your inner critic and strengthen your inner coach so you can move forward with more confidence and self-trust.

    Show Notes

    00:00 – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable

    01:17 – Episode introduction: The inner critic

    Why this topic comes up frequently in coaching sessions and how it affects confidence, career progression, and leadership.

    02:15 – What the inner critic sounds like

    Common thoughts that trigger self-doubt and prevent action.

    03:20 – Why we actually have an inner critic

    Understanding the brain’s role in protecting us from physical and emotional risk.

    05:00 – How limiting beliefs fuel the inner critic

    Where these beliefs come from and how they become ammunition for self-doubt.

    06:10 – Your inner narrative and the story you tell yourself

    How unconscious scripts shape what you believe is possible for you.

    07:10 – Strategy 1: Notice and rewrite the narrative

    Becoming aware of the story you’re telling yourself and consciously editing it.

    08:05 – Flipping the script

    Using the perspective of how you would speak to a friend to create a more empowering narrative.

    08:40 – Strategy 2: Evidence-based reframing

    Using real achievements and experiences to challenge the inner critic.

    09:25 – Client example: Recovering confidence after burnout

    How reframing helped a client rebuild trust in herself and pursue leadership again.

    11:20 – Strategy 3: Create distance from your inner critic

    Naming and externalising the inner critic to reduce its power.

    12:20 – Real client example: Visualising and managing the inner critic

    How one creative technique dramatically quietened a client’s inner critic.

    13:10 – Strengthening your inner coach

    Why self-trust is essential for leadership growth.

    14:05 – Reflection exercise for listeners

    A simple question to help you challenge your inner critic this week.

    Useful Links

    Episode 51: How to Change Your Inner Critic into Your Inner Coach

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Your inner critic isn’t trying to sabotage you - it’s trying to protect you. But when you learn how to rewrite the story it’s telling and strengthen your inner coach, you create the confidence and self-trust needed to step into bigger opportunities.

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk

  • If you’re working hard but not getting the traction, visibility or progression you want, this episode will help you understand why.

    Sarah breaks down the four core Influence Blockers she sees repeatedly in senior female leaders - the hidden patterns that quietly limit confidence, authority, and advancement. Once you can spot your blocker, you can shift it.

    Timestamps

    [00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppabl-

    [02:00] Why Hard Work Isn’t Enough

    The unconscious patterns that hold capable women back.

    [03:30] The Four Influence Blockers Overview

    An introduction to the four key categories.

    [04:00] Blocker 1: Internal Confidence & Identity

    Second-guessing yourself, overthinking meetings, still feeling the need to prove your capability - and how this shrinks your influence.

    [06:00] Blocker 2: Communication & Presence

    Softening your message, over-explaining, speaking late in meetings, and why executive presence determines how much weight your words carry.

    [07:00] Blocker 3: Strategic Positioning

    Staying operational instead of visible at a strategic level. Why being excellent at delivery doesn’t automatically position you for promotion.

    (Referenced: Episode 66 on strengthening strategic thinking.)

    [08:30] Blocker 4: Environment & Power Dynamics

    Navigating dominant personalities, organisational politics, and male-dominated cultures - and how your response shapes your influence.

    [10:00] The Real Cost of Not Addressing Your Blocker

    Staying stuck, being overlooked, watching less capable peers move ahead - and the damage self-doubt can cause.

    [11:30] Your Action Step

    Identify your primary blocker and decide what action you’ll take to shift the pattern.

    [12:30] How to Get Support

    How coaching can accelerate your influence and position you for the next level.

    Key Takeaway

    Influence blockers aren’t capability gaps - they’re patterns. And patterns can be changed.

    If you’re ready to stop playing small and start positioning yourself as the leader you already are, this episode will give you the clarity to begin.

    Useful Links

    Episode 66 Strengthening Your Strategic Thinking: From Operational to Big Picture

    Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration

    Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

    Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

    Rate & Review the Podcast

    If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected].uk