In this episode, I take you through my personal journey of going from trying to fit in as "one of the guys" to fully embracing what makes me unique—and how that shift led to true success. For years, I thought being compared to my male colleagues was the highest compliment, but over time, I realized that suppressing my feminine traits was holding me back from reaching my full potential.

I share my story of working in male-dominated environments, the gender bias I encountered, and the pivotal moment when I recognized that my authentic self was my greatest asset. By blending both masculine and feminine characteristics, I discovered the power of authenticity and how it positions you as a true leader.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

- How gender bias impacts the way we see ourselves in professional spaces

- Why trying to fit in can undermine your true potential

- The benefits of embracing both masculine and feminine traits in leadership

- How to position yourself as unique, authentic, and irreplaceable in your field

- Practical tips to stop following someone else’s blueprint and start leading with your own strengths

If you've ever felt like you had to tone down or change who you are to succeed, this episode will show you why embracing your true self is the key to standing out and positioning yourself for long-term success. Your authenticity is your strength—it's time to own it.

**Tune in to this empowering episode and discover how to position yourself for success by being unapologetically you!** Don’t forget to leave a review, share your thoughts, and help others discover this episode.

**Join the Conversation**

I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode. Share your experiences in the comments or on LinkedIn tagging @susanveldkamp.

**Subscribe & Share**

If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! Share this podcast with a friend or colleague who might benefit from learning how to better position themselves in the minds of others.

Connect with Susan

• LinkedIn: Susan Veldkamp's LinkedIn

• Website: Susan's Website

About

Gender bias, female leadership, authenticity, personal stories, masculine characteristics, feminine characteristics, personal leadership, self-awareness, women in business, empowerment.

-- Susan Veldkamp

-- Position yourself so no one can ignore you (anymore)!

In this eye-opening episode, I take you on a journey to uncover the subtle ways we lose self-confidence over the years—and, more importantly, how to reclaim it. As kids, we had this innate, unshakeable confidence. But as we grow older, external opinions, disapproval, and the need for approval slowly chip away at our self-trust.

I dive deep into why so many women (and men) find themselves doubting their abilities later in life, despite once moving through the world with confidence and certainty. Using real-life examples, I show you how these small moments of disapproval, whether from family, colleagues, or society, lead us to adjust ourselves in ways that drain our confidence.

But here’s the good news: you can take back every single bit of confidence you’ve lost. It’s not easy, but it's possible. By questioning your habitual reactions, understanding the root causes of your self-doubt, and learning to prioritize your own voice, you can rebuild your self-confidence and live a life that feels authentic to you.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• Why self-confidence naturally declines as we grow older

• How seeking approval costs you pieces of yourself over time

• The key questions you need to ask yourself to reclaim your self-trust

• Practical steps to rebuild your confidence, one decision at a time

• How living for others leads to regret—and how to prevent it from happening to you

If you’ve ever felt like you’ve lost yourself or your confidence along the way, this episode is for you. Learn how to stop living by others’ standards and start living for you.

Tune in now and start taking back your confidence! Don’t forget to leave a review or rating if this episode resonates with you—it helps others discover the show too.

Listen now and reclaim the self-confidence you deserve!

**Join the Conversation**

I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode. Share your experiences in the comments or on LinkedIn tagging @susanveldkamp.

**Subscribe & Share**

If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! Share this podcast with a friend or colleague who might benefit from learning how to better position themselves in the minds of others.

Connect with Susan

• LinkedIn: Susan Veldkamp's LinkedIn

• Website: Susan's Website

About

Self-confidence, personal growth, identity, self-discovery, approval, disapproval, life regrets, decision making, NLP, female leaders.

-- Susan Veldkamp

-- Position yourself so no one can ignore you (anymore)!

In this powerful episode, I dive deep into the concept of personal leadership when life throws curveballs. Whether you're stuck in a traffic jam on the way to an important meeting or dealing with that one colleague who always monopolizes the conversation, it's not about controlling the chaos—it's about mastering your reaction.

I share my personal journey of learning the hard way that fighting what you can't change is a losing battle. Instead, embracing the art of letting go and shifting focus can unlock a new level of flow and ease in both your professional and personal life. From team meetings that test your patience to unexpected roadblocks, this episode teaches you how to shift from frustration to flow by taking leadership over what you can control—your response.

By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with actionable insights on how to:

• Let go of fighting situations you can’t control

• Shift your focus from obstacles to opportunities

• Stay in flow during challenging moments at work and in life

• Lead yourself with ease, even in the face of life's unpredictability

Whether you're leading a team or leading your own life, mastering your reaction is the key to staying calm, confident, and in control. Tune in and start transforming frustration into personal leadership!

**Join the Conversation**

I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode. Share your experiences in the comments or on LinkedIn tagging @susanveldkamp.

**Subscribe & Share**

If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! Share this podcast with a friend or colleague who might benefit from learning how to better position themselves in the minds of others.

Connect with Susan

• LinkedIn: Susan Veldkamp's LinkedIn

• Website: Susan's Website

About

Acceptance, personal leadership, flow, obstacles, life lessons, mindset, resilience, focus, challenges, self-improvement.

-- Susan Veldkamp

-- Position yourself so no one can ignore you (anymore)!

Ever felt frustrated by those who seem to talk a big game but don’t deliver? You know the ones—blowhards. They dominate the room, take credit, and somehow get ahead without the results to back it up. In this episode, I break down how her irritation with blowhards led to an important realization: positioning yourself is the key to success.

Being good at your job isn’t enough. To rise in your career, you need to master the art of self-promotion—but on your terms. Susan shares her personal story of turning envy and frustration into empowerment, using her own style to gain visibility, respect, and career growth. You’ll learn why it’s not about mimicking the blowhards—it’s about positioning yourself authentically to achieve your goals.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why simply being excellent at your job won’t get you ahead

• How to shift from frustration to empowerment when dealing with office blowhards

• The importance of positioning yourself strategically in your career

• Susan’s step-by-step journey from feeling overlooked to becoming a top saleswoman

• How to find your voice, share your wins, and make sure your hard work is noticed

• The secret to making self-promotion feel authentic, not arrogant

Key Quotes:

• “Being good is not enough—being excellent is not even enough. You have to position yourself.”

• “If a blowhard can position themselves successfully, then so can you—but in your own way.”

• “When you stop letting others drain your energy and focus on your own path, your results will be mind-blowing.”

Listen to this episode if you:

• Are tired of seeing less qualified colleagues get ahead

• Struggle with self-promotion and want to learn how to do it authentically

• Want to unlock the key to positioning yourself for career success

• Need a shift in mindset to reclaim your power in the workplace

Tune in and start positioning yourself fort he career you deserve!

**Join the Conversation**:

I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode. Share your experiences in the comments or on LinkedIn tagging @susanveldkamp.

**Subscribe & Share**

If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! Share this podcast with a friend or colleague who might benefit from learning how to better position themselves in the minds of others.

Connect with Susan:

• LinkedIn: Susan Veldkamp's LinkedIn

• Website: Susan's Website

About

Blowhard, positioning, career growth, self-advocacy, visibility, sales success, personal development, professional growth, self-awareness, ambition.

-- Susan Veldkamp

-- Position yourself so no one can ignore you (anymore)!

It's easy to let distractions and small challenges drain your energy—leaving you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and frustrated. But what if you could shift your focus and harness your full potential?

In this episode, I dive deep into the concept of energy leaks—those small, often unnoticed obstacles that sap 80% of your energy, even though they represent only 20% of your workload. You’ll discover how to position yourself for success, protect your energy, and focus on what truly matters to thrive in your career.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to identify and stop energy leaks that are holding you back

• Why positioning yourself strategically is essential for long-term success

• Powerful mindset shifts to reclaim your focus and boost productivity

• Real-life stories of female leaders who turned challenges into opportunities

• Proven strategies to protect your energy and thrive in any professional environment

Key Takeaways:

• Positioning yourself isn’t just about skills—it’s about managing your energy and influence.

• Learn to say no to distractions and yes to the tasks that push you forward.

• How reframing your perspective on personal challenges can unlock new levels of success.

If you're ready to stop leaking energy and start thriving in your career, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in for practical insights and inspiration that will empower you to step into your full potential.

**Join the Conversation**:

I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode. Share your experiences in the comments or on LinkedIn tagging @susanveldkamp.

**Subscribe & Share**

If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! Share this podcast with a friend or colleague who might benefit from learning how to better position themselves in the minds of others.

Connect with Susan:

• LinkedIn: Susan Veldkamp's LinkedIn

• Website: Susan's Website

About

Energy strategy, leadership, personal challenges, empowerment, focus, vision, female leaders, coaching, impact, sustainability.

-- Susan Veldkamp

-- Position yourself so no one can ignore you (anymore)!

In this episode, we're diving deep into one of the most powerful yet simple tools to help you navigate challenging interactions with difficult, energy-draining people. Whether it's in the workplace, in social settings, or even within your own family, annoying people are a reality. But what if you could flip the script? What if you could position yourself with strength and clarity, turning these encounters into opportunities?

The answer lies in one crucial question.

Here’s what we’ll explore in this episode:

• Why annoying people trigger you — and what that reveals about your deeper desires.

• The secret to taking control of interactions without trying to change others.

• How to position yourself powerfully in any situation.

• Practical tips for meetings and conversations where someone else drains your energy.

• Shifting your mindset to turn frustration into an opportunity for growth and self-leadership.

By the end of this episode, you’ll be equipped with a simple, effective strategy that empowers you to stop losing energy and start positioning yourself for success—even when surrounded by the most annoying people.

Listen in and learn how to ask yourself the one question that will transform how you handle every interaction!

**Join the Conversation**

I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode. Share your experiences in the comments or on LinkedIn tagging @susanveldkamp.

**Subscribe & Share**

If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! Share this podcast with a friend or colleague who might benefit from learning how to better position themselves in the minds of others.

Connect with Susan:

• LinkedIn: Susan Veldkamp's LinkedIn

• Website: Susan's Website

About

Annoying people, personal leadership, energy management, self-reflection, motivation, relationships.

-- Susan Veldkamp

-- Position yourself so no one can ignore you (anymore)!

Ladies, it’s time to break the chains of undervaluation and claim the salary you deserve! 💪 In this empowering episode, we dive deep into the art of salary negotiation, helping you push past the discomfort and ask for what you're truly worth.

💡 Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Recognizing Your Worth: It’s time to see your value beyond titles and experience. Learn how to get crystal clear on your strengths and bring them to the table during negotiations.

• The Psychology of Negotiation: Why negotiating for yourself feels so much harder than when you're advocating for others—and how to overcome it!

• Key Salary Negotiation Tactics: Proven strategies that help you confidently navigate salary offers, whether you're switching jobs or renegotiating at your current company.

• Getting Comfortable with Uncomfortable Numbers: Why stepping outside your comfort zone is the secret to achieving a higher salary and creating lasting financial growth in your career.

• Real-Life Success Stories: Hear how women just like you have negotiated their way to higher incomes and long-term professional success.

🌟 Don’t Miss Out: Whether you’re self-employed, a corporate leader, or just stepping into the job market, these tips will help you demand what you're worth and boost your financial well-being.

🎧 Tune in now and let’s put an end to self-doubt and salary underestimation. Your career, and your bank account, will thank you!

**Join the Conversation**:

I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode. Share your experiences in the comments or on LinkedIn tagging @susanveldkamp.

**Subscribe & Share**

If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! Share this podcast with a friend or colleague who might benefit from learning how to better position themselves in the minds of others.

Connect with Susan:

• LinkedIn: Susan Veldkamp's LinkedIn

• Website: Susan's Website

About

Money, salary negotiation, self-worth, female leaders, career growth, comfort zone, negotiation skills, income, self-employment, financial empowerment.

-- Susan Veldkamp

-- Position yourself so no one can ignore you (anymore)!

Today, I’m diving into a topic that’s really close to my heart—the power of saying “no” to opportunities that seem amazing on the surface but don’t truly align with your bigger vision.

A few weeks ago, I was invited to contribute to a book that celebrates extraordinary women. It felt like a huge honor. My ego was thrilled, and initially, I said yes. But as I thought more deeply about it, I realized this wasn’t the right opportunity for me. In this episode, I’ll share the tough decision-making process I went through and why I ultimately said no, even though it hurt to do so.

You’ll hear about:

• Why turning down great opportunities can sometimes be the best choice

• How to evaluate offers based on your long-term goals rather than the immediate excitement

• The rabbit story that changed my perspective on focus and prioritization

• The role of ego in decision-making and how to quiet its influence

• How to stay aligned with your true vision and avoid getting distracted by things that don’t serve your larger purpose

If you’ve ever been torn between saying yes to a tempting offer or staying committed to your bigger dreams, this episode will speak to you. As female leaders, we’re often expected to juggle everything, but the truth is, you can’t chase every opportunity and expect to reach your ultimate goal.

Join me as I reflect on my decision, and let’s explore together how you can confidently say no when necessary and stay focused on what truly matters.

**Join the Conversation**:

I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode. Share your experiences in the comments or on LinkedIn tagging @susanveldkamp.

**Subscribe & Share**

If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! Share this podcast with a friend or colleague who might benefit from learning how to better position themselves in the minds of others.

Connect with Susan:

• LinkedIn: Susan Veldkamp's LinkedIn

• Website: Susan's Website

About

Choices, personal growth, focus, opportunities, decision making, women empowerment, life goals, self-awareness, priorities, dreams.

-- Susan Veldkamp

-- Position yourself so no one can ignore you (anymore)!

In this deeply personal episode, I share a raw and transformative moment in my journey as a female leader and entrepreneur. For years, my ego has been a constant companion—keeping me safe, but also holding me back from growth. My ego is trying to protect me from stepping into the unknown.

Join me as I take you through a recent challenge, where my ego kicked in during a critical moment in my business. You’ll hear the vulnerable story of how self-doubt crept in, trying to convince me I wasn’t good enough to reach my goals. But this time, I didn’t let it win.

In this episode, I’ll talk about how I identified my ego’s voice, the steps I took to confront it head-on, and ultimately, the letter I wrote to my ego—one that shifted my entire mindset. If you’ve ever felt like you’re fighting yourself while chasing your dreams, this episode is for you.

Uou'll discover:

• How to recognize when your ego is holding you back

• Why your ego acts as a protector, and how to work with it, not against it

• The power of acknowledging your fears without letting them control you

• My personal letter to my ego, and how it helped me regain control of my journey

If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt or felt like your inner critic was keeping you from reaching your potential, this episode will show you how to lovingly let go of the limitations your ego creates.

Remember: success comes when we align our hearts and our minds, and sometimes, that means asking our ego to step aside.

Listen now and take the first step towards freeing yourself from the ego’s grip.

**Join the Conversation**

I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode. Share your experiences in the comments or on LinkedIn tagging @susanveldkamp.

**Subscribe & Share**

If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! Share this podcast with a friend or colleague who might benefit from learning how to better position themselves in the minds of others.

Connect with Susan:

• LinkedIn: Susan Veldkamp's LinkedIn

• Website: Susan's Website

About

Ego, Personal Growth, Empowerment, Fear, Change, Self-Reflection, Leadership, Courage, Mindfulness, Self-Discovery

-- Susan Veldkamp

-- Position yourself so no one can ignore you (anymore)!

In this episode, I dive deep into a critical but often overlooked question: *How do you think you exist in someone else’s mind?* It's more than just a curiosity—it's a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. Understanding how others perceive you can help you build stronger relationships, position yourself for success, and ultimately, reach your goals faster.

**Key Takeaways:**

1. Perception is Reality: What others think of you often determines how they interact with you. If you want to be seen as a leader or a go-to expert, you need to consciously shape that perception.

2. **Breaking Free from Assumptions**: Too often, we assume that just because we’re good at something, people will automatically notice. But success requires more than just skill—it requires visibility. Learn how to effectively communicate your strengths and ambitions to the right people.

3. **Positioning Yourself Like a Brand**: Just like major companies invest heavily in branding, you need to consistently reinforce your presence and ambitions with others. We explore how to strategically share your goals with those who can help you grow.

4. **The Power of Repetition**: One conversation isn’t enough. Just like advertising campaigns, you need to consistently remind others of your value and goals. Discover the art of repeating your message without being overbearing.

**Join the Conversation**:

I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode. How do you think others see you? Have you used this awareness to your advantage? Share your experiences in the comments or on LinkedIn tagging @susanveldkamp.

**Subscribe & Share**

If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! Share this podcast with a friend or colleague who might benefit from learning how to better position themselves in the minds of others.

Connect with Susan:

• LinkedIn: Susan Veldkamp's LinkedIn

• Website: Susan's Website

About:

self-perception, external perception, ambition, career growth, positioning, networking, female leaders, personal development

-- Susan Veldkamp

-- Position yourself so no one can ignore you (anymore)!