Leading You

In this episode of The Leading You Podcast, I sit down with Susan Toft, the CEO behind The Laundry Lady, an award-winning, tech-driven laundry service transforming the industry across Australia and New Zealand.

Susan’s journey is a powerful example of how to scale a business with purpose. What started as a solo operation has grown into a thriving network of over 300 independent contractors, and she has done it by staying true to her values, leveraging smart technology, and taking a strategic approach to growth.

What we cover in this episode

• From solo operator to industry leader – How Susan built The Laundry Lady from the ground up
• The power of values-driven leadership – Why strong values create consistency and quality as a business grows
• Sustainable growth strategies – The step-by-step approach Susan used to expand without compromising service
• Embracing technology for efficiency – How the Time Boss platform streamlined operations and created scale
• The impact of mentorship and networking – Why surrounding yourself with the right people accelerates success
• Becoming more visible as a leader – How Susan leveraged platforms like Shark Tank to grow brand awareness
• Work-life integration over balance – Why outsourcing everyday tasks can free up time for what truly matters

Susan’s story is full of practical lessons for business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders looking to grow without losing control. Whether you are scaling a business, leading a team, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

** Susan has also offered a special discount code for Leading You listeners

LAUNDRY20 entitles first-time customers to $20 off The Laundry Lady service. Minimum service fee still applies. Expires Dec 31 2025.

00:00 Introduction to Self-Leadership and Mindset Mastery

00:46 Meet Susan Toft: The Laundry Lady's Journey

01:46 Scaling Strategies and Maintaining Quality

03:21 The Importance of Values in Business

06:31 How The Laundry Lady Operates

10:05 Leveraging Technology for Innovation

20:13 The Role of Mentorship and Investment

21:20 Shark Tank Experience and Marketing Impact

27:41 Balancing Leadership and Personal Life

32:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Links and resources

🔗The Laundry Lady 
🛠 Time Boss platform
📲 Follow Susan Toft 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelaundryladyaus
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laundrylady_aus/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@laundryladyau
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-laundry-lady
Pinterest: https://au.pinterest.com/thelaundryladyau

🎧 Listen now for an inspiring conversation on leadership, business growth, and making empowered choices.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this heartfelt episode of Leading You, I open up about the profound impact my cancer diagnosis had on my life and mindset. This episode aims to inspire you to take control of your time and live a life aligned with your true values.

I begin by posing a challenging question: If today was your last day, would you be proud of how you spent it?

This question became incredibly personal for me the day I learned I had cancer, compelling me to reassess my priorities. I share how this experience taught me that time is not unlimited, and the importance of not putting off the things that truly matter. I delve into the profound realisation that many of us tolerate jobs, relationships, and situations that drain our energy and happiness. This episode emphasises the importance of cutting out the noise—those unnecessary tasks and obligations that don’t align with our values or well-being.

I discuss how my diagnosis led me to design my workday around my health and personal enjoyment, rather than being busy for the sake of being busy. Another vital lesson I learned is the significance of being present in the moment. After my diagnosis, I started to appreciate the small joys of life—like the blue sky, the scent of flowers, and simple social interactions—that I previously overlooked. I stress the importance of cherishing these everyday moments rather than constantly planning for the future or dwelling on the past.

Throughout this episode, I aim to encourage you to evaluate what you are tolerating in your life and make proactive changes. It's about making small but impactful mindset shifts that can dramatically enhance your quality of life. The episode encapsulates three key lessons: time is not unlimited, cut the noise and choose what matters most, and be present in the moment. I urge you to stop trying and start doing, as every moment counts, and tomorrow is never guaranteed.

Join me as we explore these life-changing insights and consider how you can apply them to live a life you truly love. Be proactive in your choices, don’t wait for life-altering events to make necessary changes, and focus on your well-being and happiness. Thank you for tuning in, and I hope this episode serves as a powerful reminder to live for today. Please share, rate, and review this episode to help spread this important message. 

 

Connect with Julie:

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

 

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Problem-solving isn’t just for leaders—it’s a skill everyone needs. In today’s fast-moving world, those who actively seek out and tackle challenges don’t just survive; they thrive.

I sit down with Craig Calder, former EY partner, author, and founder of Think Clear Group, to explore how anyone can develop the mindset of a problem hunter. Craig challenges the outdated idea that problem-solving is a reactive skill. Instead, he explains how identifying, understanding, and addressing problems proactively can transform your career, impact, and confidence.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Why problem hunting isn’t just for leaders—everyone benefits from mastering this skill
• How problem hunters get ahead—proactive problem-solvers make faster, clearer decisions
• The impact of a problem-solving culture—companies that focus on this outperform their competitors significantly
• The difference between spotting a problem and owning the solution
• Practical steps to define problems clearly, assess impact, and find root causes
• Why psychological safety and continuous learning are critical to better decision-making

This isn’t just a leadership conversation—it’s about how to take control of your own success. Whether leading a team, running a business, or looking to handle challenges more effectively, developing the skills of a problem hunter will set you apart.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Realisation

00:42 Meet Craig Calder: Author and Problem Solver

01:15 Craig's Personal Journey to Problem Solving

06:33 The Importance of Problem Hunters in Organizations

14:23 Steps to Effective Problem Solving

21:27 The Turd Observer Concept

26:39 Becoming a Sought-After Problem Hunter

32:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

LINKS

Connect with Craig:

Grab a copy of Craig’s book "Problem Hunter" here

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/craig-calder/

Website: https://www.thinkcleargroup.com/

 

Connect with Julie:

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve been sold the idea that work-life balance is the ultimate goal. That if we could just divide our time perfectly between work and personal life, everything would fall into place.

But here’s the hard truth: work-life balance is a scam.

In this episode of Leading You, we’re unpacking why balance is an unrealistic and guilt-inducing concept—and what you should be aiming for instead.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• The Myth of Perfect Balance—Why trying to achieve a neatly split life sets you up for failure.
• The Hidden Downsides of Balance—How chasing balance leads to frustration, guilt, and burnout.
• Replacing Balance with Alignment—Why work-life alignment is the smarter, more fulfilling goal.
• Five Steps to Achieve Work-Life Alignment—From setting boundaries to reclaiming control, practical strategies to design a life that works for you.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re failing at balance, this episode is your permission slip to drop the guilt and focus on what really matters.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going!

If this episode resonated with you, please consider rating and reviewing the Leading You podcast. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners who are ready to lead with intention and clarity.

Have thoughts on this topic? Send me a message or share your story—I’d love to hear how you’re making empowered choices in your own life.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every project has its unique challenges, but true project leadership is about more than just delivering on deadlines—it’s about legacy, self-leadership, and navigating complexity with confidence.

In this episode, I sit down with Jeanette Cremor (JC), a seasoned expert in project management with over 25 years of experience across government, higher education, and utilities. JC is the author of Real Project Leadership, where she shares a powerful framework designed to help project leaders move beyond processes and into purpose-driven leadership.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• The Legacy Mindset—Why every project should be approached with the question: If it ended today, what impact have you left for tomorrow?
• The Three Pillars of Real Project Leadership—Self-leadership, practice, and solution leadership, and why these matter more than traditional project management methods.
• The Power of Emotional Intelligence—How “mirror moments” help leaders develop self-awareness and resilience.
• Common Pitfalls in Project Leadership—Siloed teams, shifting priorities, and change resistance—and how to navigate them effectively.
• Shifting Mindsets for Success—How embracing legacy-driven leadership creates lasting impact.
• Building a Culture of Trust and Collaboration—Why project sponsors should be involved in setting shared values from the start.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone leading projects—whether you’re new to leadership or a seasoned professional looking to enhance your impact and effectiveness.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going!
If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and reviewing the Leading You Podcast. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners who are eager to elevate their leadership.

LINKS

Connect with Jeanette:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanettemcremor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanette_cremor/
Website: https://jeanettecremor.com.au/

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here

Connect with Julie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/
Instagram: @juliehydeleads
Website: https://juliehyde.com.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leadership is a choice—one that starts with self-awareness and accountability. But too often, we slip into patterns of blame, denial, or reactivity, undermining both our leadership and our team’s success.

In this episode, I explore the Above the Line vs. Below the Line framework—a game-changing mindset that shifts leaders from reactive to intentional, disempowered to accountable.

Above the Line: Conscious, solution-focused, accountable.
Below the Line: Reactive, defensive, and stuck in blame.

This framework has shaped my leadership journey—helping me turn around a low-performing team and guiding me through personal adversity, including my battle with stage 3 melanoma cancer.

When faced with challenges, choosing empowerment over victimhood transformed both my mindset and my actions.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

How unconscious habits drive 90-95% of our decisions—and how to take back control.
Why Above the Line thinking fosters trust, resilience, and psychological safety in teams.
Practical strategies to recognise and shift Below the Line behaviours.

Are you leading Above or Below the Line? Small mindset shifts create profound leadership transformations.

If this episode resonates, I’d love to hear your insights. Share your thoughts, and don’t forget to leave a review—it helps spread the message of empowered leadership.

LINKS

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

 

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This time of year has a special magic doesn’t it? The air is charged with new possibilities and intentions, it’s the perfect moment to refresh not just our plans, but our spaces too. 

I recently sat down with multi award winning Feng Shui master Jane Langof, who shared her insights on transforming your home and office into sanctuaries of productivity and peace.  

As Jane says, Feng Shui is the ancient Chinese art of arranging spaces to optimise energy flow to promote health, wealth, and harmony.  It’s not about the TikTok trends of placing lucky toads here and there, but a complex system built upon thousands of years of observation and calculation

Yes it’s complex, but implementing Feng Shui in our lives doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with the most basic principle - clearing the clutter. 

Clutter creates visual noise and blocks positive energy from flowing freely around your room. Think about it - If your office is a big disaster and a giant mess, you're never going to work as effectively as you are when your space is clear. So, start with something simple—clearing your desk. This small act alone can significantly improve focus and productivity.

One really important space to consider is the entrance of your home or workplace. You want to create a clean, calm and welcoming space that invites positive energy and opportunity into your life. A lovely focal point, such as a piece of art or a stylish console table, is a great touch for your entrance. 

Another crucial area for Feng Shui is the bedroom. You absorb a lot of energy while you’re sleeping here, so you want to make sure it’s the right kind. Clear away clutter, limit electronics, and position your bed against a solid wall. You also don’t want a mirror reflecting the bed, as they can amplify stress and unresolved issues. 

I hope Jane’s tips and wisdom will inspire you to refresh your own spaces, and your life, with the positive energy Feng Shui has to offer. If you want to learn more about this incredible art, Jane's book, "Feng Shui: A Homeowner's Guide to Abundance,” is a great resource. 

 

LINKS

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

 

Connect with Jane: 

Book: Feng Shui: A Homeowner's Guide to Abundance

Website: fengshuiconcepts.com.au

Instagram: @fengshuiconcepts

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janelangof

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

 

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A lot of women struggle with setting boundaries. People pleasing and doing things for others feels easier than saying No.

 

But a few years ago, Lisa Walker, co-founder of Eir Women, set herself a challenge a little more left of field… a year of saying Yes.

 

Lisa’s year of yes wasn’t just a catchy phrase—it was a life-altering experience that unlocked unexpected opportunities and incredible growth.

 

After losing her husband to alcoholism, Lisa’s next chapter began at age 49 with a series of unexpected life changes. In a short period, she uprooted her life—moving homes, starting a new business, and enrolling her sons in a new school. After a decade of avoiding social interactions, Lisa realised that saying yes could be a path to rediscovery. It was a conscious decision to step out from the shadows of grief into confidence, openness, and an eagerness to engage with the world anew.

 

Whether through accepting a simple coffee invitation, scuba diving and even pole dancing, saying yes helped break down the protective barriers Lisa had built around herself.

 

Saying yes impacted Lisa professionally too. As a co-founder of Eir women, being a public face and storyteller for the brand was initially intimidating. However, by saying yes to speaking engagements and networking, Lisa propelled her company into the spotlight, using her own story to inspire and connect with others.

 

Lisa is passionate about championing midlife wellness and advocates for health, balance and purposeful living with the utmost joy and love of life. Eir Women was born out of this passion, providing high-quality and clinical dose supplements for women over 40.

 

While saying yes to fun and quirky adventures, Lisa shares how finding joy in life also comes from the every day commitment to wellness. Through daily meditation and mindfulness, Lisa shares how she has maintained balance, reminding us that saying yes to mental health practices is as crucial as embracing external opportunities. Although life is still tough going at times, these practices have helped her navigate the complexities of life with resilience and grace.

 

Lisa’s story is inspiring to say the least and encourages us to examine our own lives and consider where a bit more yes could make a difference. In Lisa's words, start small—integrate mindfulness, try something new, or open yourself up to a conversation. Each yes is a step towards a more enriched, fulfilling life.

LINKS

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

 

Connect with Lisa:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisagriffiths/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/walker_on_the_wild_side/

Eir Women: https://eirwomen.com.au/

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

My guest today is someone whose journey and insights are nothing short of incredible. She is a force of nature, a beacon of confidence and resilience to women around the globe. The one and only Erika Cramer joins me today to share the absolute gold from her latest book, “Becoming Magnetic.” 

 

From a challenging past marked by trauma, abuse, and foster care, to joining the U.S. Army as a teenager and facing life-altering adversities like breaking her back and early widowhood, Erika has journeyed through monumental struggles. Today, she is renowned as The Queen of Confidence, a global leader in the world of confidence coaching, empowering women worldwide to reclaim their lives. To date, her programs have transformed the lives of hundreds of thousands of women globally. 

 

Erika is also an international speaker, award winning podcast host and author of a best-selling book. She is pursuing all these endeavours while also working toward a Bachelor's degree in psychotherapy. Erika’s life is a testament to the unyielding power of resilience and healing, proving that overcoming obstacles only serves to make us stronger. She is on a dedicated mission to support as many women as possible in healing their past, reclaiming their power, and creating the life of their dreams.

So, what exactly is magnetism, and how do we harness it? Isn’t it all just a bit “woo woo”?

 

According to Erika, it starts with self-mastery. In her book, she outlines the five phases of magnetism, beginning with learning how to master oneself. It's about awareness, reflection, and acceptance—three pillars that form the foundation for personal growth and transformation. It's a journey of self-discovery where we learn who we are and who we want to be.

 

One of the most exciting parts of our discussion was about creating your "Alter Shego." It's a concept that encourages women to step into a future version of themselves that embodies their highest potential. 

 

Being someone who loves practical steps, Erika insists that to become magnetic, we must be willing to take action. Theory is all well and good but it's the practical steps that lead to true transformation. From defining personal values to confronting the things we tend to avoid in our lives with honesty and courage, Erika provides a blueprint for anyone ready to take charge of their destiny. 

 

Make sure you grab a copy of Erika's book and use the start of this new year to choose exactly how you want your life to be. 

 

LINKS

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

 

Connect with Erika:

Book: Becoming Magnetic

Website: https://thequeenofconfidence.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thequeenofconfidence/?hl=en

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-cramer-queenconfidence/

 

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Navigating the twists and turns of life while trying to maintain a sound level of self-belief can feel like an uphill battle sometimes. It's easy to forget just how powerful you really are. 

I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Tory Archbold to chat about just this, and how we can all fuel our self-belief as leaders who shine brightly in life and career.

Tory is the CEO and founder of Powerful Steps, a global platform for women making significant impact. Over the past 25 years, Tory has been instrumental in brand building, PR, and digital media, working alongside some of the most influential figures worldwide. She's also the author of Self Belief is Your Superpower and hosts the top-ranked podcast, "Powerful Stories". I’m proud to call her both a mentor and a friend.

During our chat, Tory opens up about calling self-belief her superpower. Interestingly, she found self-belief in rejection. Who would have thought, right? She turned dismissals into her launchpad, both when she started her global PR company in her twenties and later on with her venture, Powerful Steps. Her values of passion, integrity, and delivery kept her grounded through it all.

One thing that really hit home for me is how Tory speaks about anchoring yourself to your values. It’s like having a personal GPS that keeps you on track. And when life throws you curveballs, rejection isn't a stop sign—just a detour on your journey to where you truly belong.

For those wrestling with low self-belief, Tory has some solid advice: start by owning your story. She suggests jotting down your life’s narrative, breaking down your experiences into key parts, and attaching meaning to those moments. This process helps you realise how powerful your story is and prepares you for the road ahead.

Tory also shares her simple but profound daily practices of gratitude and self-reflection that help her stay grounded. Taking a moment for yourself each day—morning and night—to reflect and express gratitude keeps you anchored to your purpose and ready to face the world.

Our chat took an honest turn when we discussed vulnerability. Tory shares her own challenges, like a near-death experience, showing how vulnerability doesn't weaken you—it strengthens the narrative of who you are and deepens your connections with those around you.

Wrapping up my time with Tory left me with a buzzing sense of inspiration. Each of us, with our unique story and unstoppable self-belief, has the potential to light up the world. It’s all about taking each step confidently on your terms.

 

LINKS

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

 

Connect with Tory:

Website: https://powerful-steps.com/ 

Instagram: @powerfulsteps

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tory-archbold-b8542715/

 

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.