Are you stuck in a cycle of relentless effort but feel likeyou're never doing enough? In this episode, we explore how the "Try Hard" habit fuels chronic overworking, perfectionism, and burnout.

Discover the exact childhood messages driving your need toprove your worth today and learn how this unconscious pattern, (part of Adrienne Lee’s “Drowning Person” model in Transactional Analysis), might actually be sabotaging your professional success.

What You Will Learn:

💡 Discover why trying hard might be sabotaging your success and pushing people away instead of impressing them

💡 Learn the childhood origins of the "try hard" pattern and how unconscious messages from your past are driving your overwork today

💡 Get actionable strategies to break the cycle including delegation techniques, time-blocking methods, and the gold standard approach for automatic behaviour change

Tune in next week for the Hurry Up pattern.

Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth!

Estelle Read  

Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction - Why trying hard is your enemy
(01:45) The try hard pattern explained
(03:30) Core fear of being deemed lazy or inadequate
(05:05) Where the try hard pattern comes from
(06:09) Childhood drivers and unconscious messages
(07:32) Adult problems caused by trying hard
(08:00) Client story: Academic inadequacy and imposter syndrome
(10:53) Client transformation results
(12:25) Strategies for overcoming try hard
(13:22) Mindset shift: Define what good enough is
(14:18) Practical tools

(18:18) Why willpower isn't enough: The role of Havening and EFT in burnout
(18:52) Setting boundaries

(19:44) Micro action

(20:22) Resources

(21:26) The next episode: The Hurry Up pattern

⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe whereveryou listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️.

⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube:

🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/

📺Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts

⭐Follow Estelle Read:

https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee

⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call:

⁠https://estelleread.com/resources/⁠

⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes:

🌟⁠The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE⁠

🌟⁠The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL⁠

⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book:

⁠Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⁠

⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog:

⁠Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress,when you sign up. ⁠

⭐Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and shouldnot be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.

Irini Tzortzoglou is a UK MasterChef winner, author, olive oil and honey sommelier, and retreat host. In this episode, she shares her unlikely leap from the banking world to culinaryexcellence - and the mindset shifts that made it possible. You’ll learn how to recognize your sacred gifts, overcome limiting beliefs, and build a life aligned with purpose, even under high pressure.

What you’ll learn:

💡 The real driver behind Irini’s MasterChef win (it’s about more than the food) and what that means for success in any field

💡 Reframing praise and overcoming imposter syndrome: a practical technique to accept recognition without self-doubt

💡 Emotional intelligence under pressure: how Irini stays calm, connected, and focused in high-stakes moments

Ideal for professionals in high-performance roles who want to:

• Break through performance ceilings
• Lead with confidence under pressure
• Cultivate resilience, clarity, and compassionate leadership

Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth!

Estelle Read  

Bestselling Author, Executive Coach & Speaker

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction to Irini Tzortzoglou
(00:48) What makes Irini's days exciting and unpredictable
(04:35) The reality behind social media influence
(06:46) How Irini approaches content creation authentically
(08:54) When did things take off? The algorithm and word of mouth
(11:11) The story behind "Under the Olive Tree"
(14:18) How childhood curiosity shaped emotional intelligence
(15:50) From banking to MasterChef: Connecting the dots
(17:45) Life-changing moments and pivotal decisions
(20:34) Overcoming limiting beliefs during MasterChef
(21:13) The "sacred gifts" revelation
(24:27) Learning to accept praise and acknowledge others
(27:57) The moment her name was called as MasterChef winner
(29:23) From MasterChef to meaningful retreats
(38:30) The transformational power of connection
(39:54) MasterChef lessons on teamwork and trust
(41:58) Why emotional intelligence matters for success
(42:00) Three lessons for career success
(43:15) The importance of doing the work
(44:24) Never resent where you are - it's preparing you
(46:03) Practice gratitude behind the wheel
(48:12) If you could invite three people to dinner...
(52:06) The one belief that shaped you
(54:46) Closing thoughts and staying connected

⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe whereveryou listen or watch, leave a review or share itwith someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️.

⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube:

🎧Listen on your favouritepodcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/

📺Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts

⭐Follow or Find Out More: Irini Tzortzoglou

https://irinicooks.com/

https://www.facebook.com/Irinitzortzoglou/

https://www.instagram.com/irinitzortzoglou/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/irini-tzortzoglou-aab9114/

⭐Follow Estelle Read:

https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee

⭐Access Resources or Book a FreeDiscovery Call:

⁠https://estelleread.com/resources/⁠

⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes:

🌟⁠The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE⁠

🌟⁠The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL⁠

⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book:

⁠Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⁠

⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog:

⁠Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress,when you sign up. ⁠

⭐Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and shouldnot be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.

Yesterday I auditioned for TEDx and honestly, it didn't goas planned. I'm sharing what happened because the best learning comes from moments like these. In this episode, I walk you through my TOP ACT method - a powerful tool I use personally and with clients to process failure, silence imposter syndrome, and transform disappointment into growth. This isn't about perfection; it's about learning how to bounce back stronger.

What You Will Learn:

💡 A framework to stop spiralling after setbacks – Learn the exact journaling method that helps you process negative emotions and move from rumination to action

💡 Why your brain sabotages you in high-pressure moments – Discover how to identify the hidden triggers that derail your performance (even when you're fully prepared)

💡 The secret to turning failure into fuel – Find out how to extract powerful lessons from disappointing experiences without getting stuck in self-criticism

Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth!

Estelle Read  

Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction
(02:37) Welcome to the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast
(05:17) Yesterday's TEDx Audition Experience
(08:19) My Four-Year Journey to Become a TEDx Speaker
(11:37) The Reality Check: 30 Applications on Average
(14:39) Stage Three: The 10-Minute Audition
(19:11) When Things Went Wrong: The Moment I Got Triggered
(23:59) Post-Audition Feelings: Disappointment and Frustration
(27:05) Introducing the TOP ACT Journaling Process
(29:27) The Science Behind Journaling for Emotional Processing
(32:00) The TOP ACT Method
(65:57) Final Reflections: Learning, Growing, and Sharing
(68:26) Outro and Resources

⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️.

⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube:

🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/

📺Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts

⭐Follow Estelle Read:

https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee

⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call:

⁠https://estelleread.com/resources/⁠

⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes:

🌟⁠The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE⁠

🌟⁠The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL⁠

⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book:

⁠Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⁠

⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog:

⁠Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⁠

⭐Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and shouldnot be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.

If you’ve followed me a while, you will know that I’ve gonefrom not being able to climb the stairs to climbing Wainrights for fun, (well, sometimes fun – sometimes the hills are hell).

I burnt out and got ME from overdoing life and work. Theoverdoing came from not feeling good enough and the urge to prove my worth. But when is enough, enough? The bar just keeps rising.

This is an interactive episode. You’ll hear real-timeaudience scepticism and the changes they experience after applying the technique I share. They were fab, and they ask the questions you probably want answered about overcoming imposter syndrome.

What You Will Learn:

💡 The hidden childhood pattern that's making you overwork - and the 7-minute technique that can ‘erase’it from your nervous system

💡 Why your brain keeps you trapped in the same stress cycle - and the neuroscience-backed method that creates lasting change in minutes, not 66 days (which is how long it takes the average person to change)

💡 The five imposter syndrome types sabotaging your success - discover which one is driving your burnout and how to stop the domino effect before it damages your health,happiness and wellbeing

Here’s to your leadership developmentand personal growth!

Estelle Read  

Bestselling Author, Coach &Speaker

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction
(01:50) What is Imposter Syndrome?
(02:08) Today's Agenda - Strategies to Regain Control
(03:39) Meet the Parents - Estelle's Personal Story
(04:51) Growing Up Different - Feeling Like an Imposter
(06:06) Working as Head of HR - Still Feeling Like a Fraud
(07:42) Chronic Fatigue & Recovery Journey
(08:10) Writing a Book - Procrastination & Self-Doubt
(09:03) Becoming a Bestselling Author
(10:16) The Message of Not Being Good Enough
(11:24) The Imposter Syndrome Domino Effect
(13:32) The Five Types of Imposter Syndrome
(18:31) Audience Poll - Which Type Are You?
(19:48) How Imposter Syndrome Causes Workaholism & Stress
(20:45) Case Study: The Perfectionist Lawyer
(23:55) Where Imposter Syndrome Comes From
(24:43) Personality Formation - Ages 0-7 Imprint Period
(28:45) Why Change is Challenging - Neural Pathways
(29:49) Antidote #1: Havening Technique
(30:14) Havening Small Print - Does It Work?
(32:26) Live Havening Exercise Begins
(35:54) How Havening Works - The Neuroscience
(39:51) Havening Results - The Lawyer's Transformation
(44:26) Client Results - Million Pound Conversation
(45:04) Resilient Leader Program SHINE Overview
(48:55) Antidote #2: Inner Captain vs Inner Critic
(50:15) The Science of Journaling
(51:53) TOP ACT Journaling Process
(55:11) Learning to Accepting Yourself
(56:50) Q&A from the audience
(61:42) Q&A - Estelle's Personal Phobias Story

⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe whereveryou listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️.

⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube:

🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/

📺Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts

⭐Follow Estelle Read:

https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee

⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call:

⁠https://estelleread.com/resources/⁠

⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes:

🌟⁠The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE⁠

🌟⁠The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL⁠

⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book:

⁠Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism andStress ⁠

⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog:

⁠Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress,when you sign up. ⁠

⭐Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and shouldnot be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.

My next guest’s work reshaped my understanding ofpersonality, why we are the way we are, and what birth order has to do with it. Dr. Linda Blair is a Chartered clinical psychologist, writer, speaker, and broadcaster who has authored five self-help books. She’s also appeared ontelevision programs such as The One Show, The Vanessa Show, and Child of Our Time.
We dive into family dynamics, birth order psychology, and sibling relationships - exploring how your place in the familycan influence personality, career choices, and leadership style. Linda shares insightful findings from her research on mother–infant bonding, her surprising collaboration with Professor Stephen Hawking, and practical strategies for lasting happiness.

What You Will Learn:

💡 Discover why your birth order position (firstborn, middle child, or youngest) influences your career success, stress levels, and relationship patterns - and how understanding thiscan transform your self-awareness

💡 Learn the surprising research finding about what truly makes a "good mother" (hint: it's not what you think) and how this applies to leadership and knowing when to step in versus let go

💡 Uncover the exact age when you were most authentically yourself and how revisiting that period can help you rediscover your passion, purpose, and what brings you into "flow"

Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth!

Estelle Read  

Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction - Birth order insights preview

(02:02) Introducing Dr. Linda Blair & her morning routine

(07:49) The four-hour creative focus principle

(08:05) Grounding practices and mindfulness

(08:11) Linda's origin story - from Kansas to Cambridge

(12:03) Working with Professor Stephen Hawking

(13:12) Studying mother-infant relationships in monkeys

(15:44) How broadcasting and writing opportunities emerged

(15:36) The privilege of being a psychologist

(17:28) Lessons from Stephen Hawking

(18:31) What makes a good mother - research findings

(21:32) Family dynamics fascination and finding your passion

(22:56) The age when you're most truly yourself

(25:00) How adolescence disrupts authentic self

(28:57) The concept of "flow" and being fullyengaged

(29:51) Birth order book origins and Linda's three firstbornchildren

(32:02) Firstborn characteristics and burnout

(35:01) Middle child characteristics

(38:08) Youngest child characteristics

(40:48) Child of Our Time television experience

(42:49) Steps to lead your best life - saying yes to opportunities

(44:00) Treating everyone as equals

(47:12) Linda's workshops and how to connect

(49:09) The "real Linda Blair" story

(49:29) Closing thoughts

⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going:

Please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leavea review or share it with someone who might benefit.Thank you ❤️.

⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube:

🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/

📺Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts

⭐Follow or Contact Linda Blair:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-blair-15187a31/

https://lindablair.co.uk/

⭐Follow Estelle Read:

https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee

⭐Free Discovery Call & Resources:

⁠https://estelleread.com/resources/⁠

⭐ Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes:

🌟⁠The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE⁠

🌟⁠The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL⁠

⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book:

⁠Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⁠

⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog:

⁠Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⁠

⭐Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.

Do you wake up tired, feel less sharp than you used to, orhave aches and pains?

Explore the critical connection between brain health,chronic pain, and the aging process in this eye-opening episode featuring neurologist Dr. Fawad Mian. Discover how "inflammaging," a slow, chronic inflammation associated with aging, silently impacts your brain and body, contributing to symptoms like brain fog, aches, and memory challenges.

Dr. Mian shares powerful insights into regenerative medicineand how it can offer alternatives to surgery for managing chronic pain and injuries. Learn practical strategies to optimise your wellbeing and reclaim your health as he recounts his personal journey of overcoming failed surgeriesand embracing innovative treatments.

What You Will Learn:

💡 Discover the silent health threat affecting your brain and body – Learn what "inflammaging" is and how this slow-smouldering inflammation could be accelerating your aging process, affecting everything from memory to chronicpain.

💡 Uncover surprising connections between sleep and serious health risks. Find out why your snoring or frequent bathroom trips at night could be warning signs of acondition that increases your risk of stroke and heart attack.

💡 Learn practical strategies to reclaim your health without surgery. Hear Dr. Mian's personal story of overcoming multiple injuries and discover the regenerative medicine approaches that helped him avoid the operating table.

Here’s to your shining!

Estelle Read  

Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker

Timestamps:

00:00) Introduction and welcome
(01:32) What is a neurologist?
(02:49) How neurologists help stroke patients
(05:24) Understanding inflammaging and chronic inflammation
(07:33) Signs you're aging faster due to inflammation
(09:57) The truth about weight loss medications like Ozempic
(12:53) Why muscle mass matters more than you think
(14:30) Exercise recommendations for women in perimenopause
(17:00) Key health metrics to monitor
(18:32) Understanding heart rate variability
(20:39) Sleep apnoea: The hidden health threat
(23:46) Solutions for sleep apnoea
(25:04) Dr. Mian's book: Getting to Pain Free
(27:12) Dr. Mian's personal injury journey
(31:05) The emotional component of physical pain
(34:38) Mindset strategies for managing chronic pain
(36:00) Pattern interrupts and positive anchors
(40:35) Reclaim Your Mind memory course
(41:54) Top three health recommendations
(43:46) Final question and closing thoughts

⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️.

⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube:

Listen on your favourite podcast platform here:https://estelleread.com/podcast/ or watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts

⭐Find Out More About Dr Fawad Mian

LinkedIn

Instagram

YouTube

Websites: https://prolohealing.com/& https://www.advocareneurowellnessmd.com/

⭐Follow Estelle Read:
LinkedIn   

YouTube

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

X

⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call:

https://estelleread.com/resources/

⭐Work with Estelle Read:

Find out more about our coaching programmes:

🌟The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE

🌟The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL

⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book:

Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotesto Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress

⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog:

Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up.

⭐Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.

In this episode, I unpack the real reasons we self-sabotageand introduce the science-backed CLEAR framework - designed to counteract it and help you break through barriers to your biggest goals in 2026. Whether you’re setting personal milestones or leading a team, you’ll find actionableinsights to help you and your team shine brighter.

This recording was longer than usual 😂, because there’s lots of great content to share, so it’s delivered in two shorter episodes.

Part 1️⃣ (last week): The Top 5 Goal Self-Sabotage Mistakes that even the most driven people make - and how to avoid them.

Part 2️⃣ (this week): The CLEAR Framework for setting and achieving goals to elevate your work and life.

What you’ll learn in Part 2️⃣:

💡The 5-step CLEAR framework that top performers use to overcome self-sabotage and accelerate success.

💡Practical, science-based strategies to boost energy, align actions, and stay motivated all year.

💡How to set meaningful goals, build durable habits, and rise to the next level - at work and in life.

Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth in 2026!

Estelle Read 

Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker

Timestamps:

(00:00) Welcome to the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast

(01:04) Support the show: Like, subscribe, and share

(01:30) Recap of part 1 of this episode and what’s ahead

(02:17) Why we self-sabotage and how to break the cycle

(03:44) Who this episode is for: leaders, professionals, and goal-setters

(04:04) The science behind self-sabotage and transformation

(05:12) Introducing the CLEAR framework

(10:47) Step 1: Get clear on your vision and goals

(11:06) Step 2: Let go of identity threats and limiting beliefs

(12:15) Step 3: Energise: plugging energy leaks and boosting motivation

(13:46) Step 4: Take aligned action and build success habits

(15:57) Step 5: Rise: review, refine, and recognise your progress

(45:58) Final thoughts, how to connect, and closing

⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️.

⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube:

Listen on your favourite podcast platform here:https://estelleread.com/podcast/ or watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts

⭐Follow Estelle Read:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/estelleatbeee/   

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/EstelleRead/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/estelle.at.beee

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@estelleatbeee

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EstelleAtBeee/

X: https://x.com/EstelleAtBeee

⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call:

https://estelleread.com/resources/

⭐Work with Estelle Read:

Find out more about our coaching programmes:

🌟The Resilient LeaderProgramme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/

🌟The Optimised LeaderProgramme: NEXT LEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/

⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book:

Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress: https://amzn.eu/d/67dE4CH

⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog:

Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r

⭐Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.

How’re those New Year’s resolutions going? Most peoplegive up their New Year's resolutions by the second Friday inJanuary, a day dubbed "Quitter's Day," with studies showing over 80% abandoning goals by mid-January due to unrealistic expectations and waning motivation.

If you want to understand why we self-sabotage and masterthe steps to stop it, these two episodes are for you. I’m sharing the science and stories behind why we self-sabotage - and, more importantly, how you can break free and achieve your boldest goals in 2026. Whether you’re aiming for personal growth, business breakthroughs, or simply want to feel more fulfilled, this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-life examples to inspire your next steps.

This recording was longer than usual 😂, because there's lots of great content to share, so it’s delivered in two shorter episodes.

Part 1️⃣: The Top 5 Goal Self-Sabotage Mistakesthat keep even the most driven people stuck and how to avoid them, (today’s episode).

Part 2️⃣: My CLEAR Framework, forsetting and achieving goals to take your work-life to the next level, (next week’s episode).

What You Will Learn in Part 1️⃣:

💡The science behind self-sabotage mistakes that could be keeping your goals out of reach. Overcome procrastination, perfectionism, and the hidden ceilings that limityour success and performance.

💡 The four goal categories to consider when creating your plan for 2026.

💡Get inspired by real-life stories and actionable tips that will empower you to take control, set meaningful goals, and accelerate your progress.

Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth in 2026!

Estelle Read  

Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker

Timestamps:

(00:00) Welcome to the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast

(01:04) Introduction: Meet Estelle Read and the mission of the show

(01:30) Why we self-sabotage: Setting the stage for 2026 goals

(06:24) The science behind self-sabotage and performance ceilings

(07:49) Real-life examples: Overcoming setbacks and achieving breakthroughs

(13:20) The four goal categories

(18:59) Finding the real reason (and motivation) for your goals in 2026

(23:51) Estelle’s personal journey: Lessons from the Lake District

(31:51) The 5 self-sabotage mistakes revealed

(47:06) How we delay our dreams

(48:33) Invitation to connect and next steps

(49:33) What’s coming in Part 2: The CLEAR Framework for transformation

(50:00) Outro and how to stay connected

⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️.

⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube:

Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/ or watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts

⭐Follow Estelle Read:
https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee

⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call:

https://estelleread.com/resources/

⭐Work with Estelle Read:

🌟The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/

🌟The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/

⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book:

Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress: https://amzn.eu/d/67dE4CH

⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog:

Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r

⭐Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.

In this episode, I reflect on the highlights of Season 4,sharing the most inspiring moments and lessons from my brave guests. We explore the mindsets, habits, and stories that can help you lead an even better work-life. After recording each episode, there was always a takeaway that made me reflect or take action - like doing my first wild water swim with my guest Philippa Hardy , a triathlon coach and HR veteran.

What You Will Learn:

💡 Discover the surprising common threads among high achievers - from overcoming fear to embracing vulnerability and setting bold goals.

💡 Hear raw, honest stories that will inspire you to reframe setbacks, build resilience, and pursue your ambitions with renewed energy.

💡 Get practical takeaways you can use to optimise your performance, productivity, success and wellbeing.

Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth!

Estelle Read  

Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker

Timestamps:

(00:00) Welcome to the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast

(01:04) Season 4 Highlights: The Experiment That Became aMovement

(02:05) The Power of Shared Experience: You’re Not Alone

(03:17) What Guests Have in Common

(06:08) Facing Fears and Setting Ambitious Goals

(09:15) Mindset Shifts: Reframing Negative Thoughts

(11:40) Discipline, Obsession, and Purpose

(13:17) Honest Conversations: Moments That Change Everything

(15:21) Resilience and Real Life Beyond Instagram Perfection

(18:18) Breaking Out of Comfort Zones: Personal Stories

(22:06) Tools and Ideas to Help You Lead Your Best Life

(24:58) Thank You to the Guests and Listeners

⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️.

⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube:

Listen on your favourite podcast platform here:https://estelleread.com/podcast/ or watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts

⭐Follow Estelle Read:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/estelleatbeee/   

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/EstelleRead/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/estelle.at.beee

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@estelleatbeee

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EstelleAtBeee/

X: https://x.com/EstelleAtBeee

⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call:

https://estelleread.com/resources/

⭐Work with Estelle Read:

Find out more about our coaching programmes:

🌟The Resilient LeaderProgramme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/

🌟The Optimised LeaderProgramme: NEXT LEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/

⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book:

Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress: https://amzn.eu/d/67dE4CH

⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog:

Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r

⭐Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.

I dive into the fascinating parallels between familydynamics at the Christmas table and the behaviours we see in meetings and the boardroom. Drawing from real-life coaching experiences and powerful psychological models, I’ll help you recognise old patterns, understand your triggers, and give you practical tools to handle difficult people both at homeand at work.

What You Will Learn:

💡 Discover the hidden connections between your childhood roles and your professional life - insights that will change how you see yourself and others.

💡 Learn practical, science-backed strategies to handle challenging family or workplace dynamics, so you can stay calm, confident, and in control.

💡 Unlock actionable coaching models that empower you to break free from old patterns and create more positive, productive relationships

Wishing you a very merry Christmas.

Estelle Read  

Bestselling Author, Coach &Speaker

Timestamps:

00:00) Welcome to the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast

(01:00) Meet your host and coach, Estelle Read

(01:30) Why family and boardroom dynamics are so similar

(03:00) Classic roles at the Christmas table - and what they mean

(05:00) How childhood experiences shape adult behaviour

(08:00) Real-life coachingstories: triggers and transformation

(12:00) Why is this person behaving this way? Discover what lies beneath the surface.

(15:00) How we get caught up in ‘drama’ and how to get out of it

(18:00) Why people try to control you and other throws a ‘tantrum’

(21:00) Giving feedback that works - at home and at work

(24:00) Practical tips for a stress-free Christmas (and career)

(27:00) Final thoughts and how to connect with Estelle

⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe whereveryou listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️.

⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube:

Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/ or watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts

⭐Follow Estelle Read:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/estelleatbeee/   

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/EstelleRead/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/estelle.at.beee

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@estelleatbeee

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EstelleAtBeee/

X: https://x.com/EstelleAtBeee

⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call:

https://estelleread.com/resources/

⭐ Work with Estelle Read:

Find out more about our coaching programmes:

🌟The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/

🌟The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/

⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book:

Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress: https://amzn.eu/d/67dE4CH

⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog:

Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r

⭐Book Recommendation:

Birth Order: What Your Position In The Family Really Tells You About Your Character: https://amzn.eu/d/5Fp271J