The Real Reason CEOs Get Fired?

It’s not the market.

It’s not the board.

It’s not “performance issues.”

👉 It’s because they can’t actually lead.

We don’t talk about this enough.

Too many leaders still think leadership is about titles, power, strategy, or being the loudest voice in the room.

Here’s the truth I’ve seen over 30+ years in this space:

🚫 They lose the room.

🚫 They stop listening.

🚫 They manage metrics but forget their people.

🚫 They create fear, not trust.

They confuse control with leadership.

And when the culture cracks, the board looks for someone who can actually connect, inspire, and rebuild belief.

💡 Leadership is about trust, empathy, and courage.

It’s a relationship — not a resume.

Your people are watching how you show up when things get tough.

They don’t need a ruler.

They need a real human who can lead with heart and backbone.

🔁 If you’re in leadership — or want to be — ask yourself this:

Would your team choose to follow you if they didn’t have to?

🎥 Listen to my latest Podcast - “The Real Reason CEOs Get Fired: They Can’t Lead”

👇 Drop your thoughts below. Have you seen this happen?

🔥 In this episode, Sonia McDonald dives into the five key barriers that could be holding you back from leadership success—and how to overcome them.

💡 Key takeaways:

1️⃣ Stop Playing Small – Say yes to new opportunities, speak up, and take risks!

2️⃣ Build Your Network – Your connections matter—engage in networking, both online and offline.

3️⃣ Think Strategically – Move beyond day-to-day tasks and start thinking big-picture.

4️⃣ Communicate Your Value – Share your wins, document your achievements, and own your contributions.

5️⃣ Develop Leadership Skills – Leadership isn’t just for CEOs—start learning now!

🐶 Plus, a fun update on Sonia’s new puppy, Lewis, the “Chief Cute Officer.”

📩 Want more leadership insights?

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📚 Looking for leadership resources?

Visit LeadershipHQ.com.au for blogs, tools, and coaching programs.

🎁 Freebie Alert!

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Fear is the biggest dream killer out there—but what if you just said, "F*ck it" and did it anyway? In this powerful episode, Sonia McDonald dives deep into how fear holds us back, how overthinking keeps us stuck, and what it really takes to break free from self-doubt. Whether you're dreaming of starting a business, writing a book, stepping onto a stage, or making a big life change, this episode will push you to take action now instead of waiting to feel "ready."

What You’ll Learn:

Why you'll never feel truly ready (and why that's okay!)

How fear is lying to you and keeping you small

The true cost of overthinking: time, opportunities, and confidence

Actionable steps to stop doubting yourself and start moving forward

The power of "borrowing confidence" from those who believe in you

Key Takeaways:

Done is better than perfect—take messy action and figure it out as you go.

Break big dreams into small, manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Reframe failure as feedback—every stumble is a lesson, not a roadblock.

Surround yourself with people who see your potential, even when you don’t.

Connect with Sonia:

Instagram: @soniamcdonald

Website: www.soniamcdonald.com.au

Leadership HQ: www.leadershiphq.com.au

In this episode of Courageously Unbothered, Sonia McDonald dives deep into the foundation of confidence: self-belief. She unpacks why believing in yourself is the key to unlocking your full potential, breaking past limitations, and stepping into your leadership power. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that will challenge you to silence self-doubt and embrace your worth.

Key Takeaways:

Why self-belief is the foundation of confidence and leadership.

How to reframe negative thoughts and step into your power.

Practical strategies to boost self-trust and overcome imposter syndrome.

Real-life examples of courageous leaders who thrived through self-belief.

Sonia’s Leadership Challenge:

This week, take one bold action that reflects your self-belief—whether it’s speaking up in a meeting, making a decision with confidence, or simply reminding yourself that you are enough. Share your experience with #CourageouslyUnbothered on social media!

Connect with Sonia:

Instagram: @soniamcdonald

Website: www.soniamcdonald.com.au

Leadership HQ: www.leadershiphq.com.au

🎧 Tune in and get ready to lead with courage, confidence, and authenticity!

Welcome to the very first episode of Courageously Unbothered! Today, Sonia McDonald tackles the all-too-familiar struggle of people pleasing.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

- What people pleasing is and why so many of us do it.

- The hidden costs of constantly saying "yes" when you mean "no."

- How people-pleasing steals your energy, authenticity, and joy.

- Sonia’s practical tips for breaking free from approval addiction, including:

- Reframing criticism and not letting others’ opinions define you.

- The power of saying “no” and setting boundaries.

- Why you need to stop apologising for taking up space.

- Embracing the courage to be disliked and focusing on what matters.

- Sonia also shares personal stories, neuroscience-backed insights, and book recommendations to help you start living boldly and authentically.

Mentioned in this Episode:

- Sonia’s books: Leadership Attitude, Just Rock It!, and First Comes Courage.

- Book Recommendations: The Courage to Be Disliked and You Are a Badass.

- Tools for defining your values: Visit Leadership HQ or Google “Values tools.”

Key Takeaway:

Stop playing small, start setting boundaries, and live for yourself—not for the approval of others.

Actionable Step:

Write down one thing you’ll stop doing this week to prioritise your energy and authenticity.

Connect with Sonia:

Instagram: @soniamcdonald

Website: www.soniamcdonald.com.au

Leadership HQ: www.leadershiphq.com.au

Ready to embrace your unapologetic self? Tune in now and start living courageously unbothered!