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In this episode, Sarah explores how negative work experiences like micromanagement, burnout, or toxic cultures can deeply impact our confidence, performance, and future career decisions. She shares practical strategies to process, learn from, and release those experiences so they no longer hold power over you. Whether you're currently in a difficult role or still carrying baggage from a past one, this episode will guide you through a powerful reflection process so you can move forward with renewed clarity and confidence.
Show Notes:00:00 – Welcome & podcast introduction
01:00 – Why this episode matters: The cost of unresolved negative work experiences
02:00 – Common types of negative experiences clients face
03:30 – Real-life examples: micromanagement, probation issues, burnout, redundancy
04:45 – How negative experiences affect confidence and decision-making
06:00 – Emotional impact: fear, self-doubt, hypervigilance, and disconnection
07:00 – Why brushing it off doesn’t work: the importance of cognitive closure
08:00 – Key reflection questions to begin processing the experience
09:00 – Understanding what you want to leave behind and what to take forward
10:00 – Releasing rituals: how Sarah helped a client move on emotionally
11:00 – Sarah’s personal story of working with an insecure CEO
12:30 – How processing helped rebuild confidence and authentic leadership
13:00 – Two more tools to help:
15:00 – Episode recap: Processing, practice, and positive reframing
16:00 – Invitation for a free career breakthrough call
16:30 – Outro and final encouragement: “Shine brightly. Lead boldly. Be unstoppable.”
Useful Links
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]
Do you get that dreaded Sunday night feeling before the workweek begins? Are you constantly replaying conversations, second-guessing decisions, or feeling the pressure of never-ending expectations? You're not alone—and you're not broken. In this episode, Sarah shares practical, science-backed strategies to help you stop worrying about work and start feeling more calm, confident, and in control. Whether you're dealing with high workloads, tricky relationships, or simply have a tendency to overthink, this episode will give you powerful tools to reframe your thoughts and regain your headspace.
Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable
[00:01:00] Why even senior women leaders feel stuck or doubt themselves
[00:02:00] What this episode covers: Sunday dread and work-related anxiety
[00:03:00] Common causes of workplace worry: workload, relationships, fast-paced culture
[00:04:00] When to consider burnout vs. situational stress
[00:05:00] The personality traits that make you more prone to worrying
[00:06:00] How a new leadership role can trigger unhelpful thought patterns
[00:07:00] 1. Don’t catastrophize – get some perspective
[00:08:00] 2. Isolate the specific worry – identify the trigger
[00:08:30] 3. Reframe stress as a sign you care
[00:09:00] A personal example: Sarah’s own podcast launch nerves
[00:10:00] 4. Channel stress into forward action (not rumination)
[00:10:45] Recommended read: The Upside of Stress by Kelly McGonigal
[00:11:00] Techniques to reduce Sunday night dread:
[00:15:30] Recap: Practical takeaways for workplace worry
[00:16:00] When to reach out for coaching support
[00:17:00] Final words: You are capable of more than you know
Key Takeaways
Useful Links
The Upside of Stress by Kelly McGonigal
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]
Share this episode with a colleague who needs a little peace of mind too!
In this episode, Sarah dives into a critical leadership skill: building powerful alliances. Whether you’re navigating tricky internal politics, dealing with big personalities, or simply looking to amplify your impact, strong alliances can make all the difference.
In this episode, you'll learn:
This is a must-listen if you want to lead with more confidence, create positive change, and develop a leadership style that’s collaborative, influential, and impactful.
Show Notes:[00:00:00] Introduction to Unstuck and Unstoppable
[00:01:00] The challenges of leadership and career progression for women
[00:02:00] Why building alliances is essential for female leaders
[00:03:00] Barriers to building alliances: politics, fear, and time
[00:04:00] The difference between sponsors, mentors, and allies
[00:05:00] The Tiara Syndrome and why sponsorship matters
[00:06:00] How to attract a sponsor and build your leadership brand
[00:07:00] Mapping alliances: the five categories of players
[00:11:00] Considering trust and functional needs in alliance building
[00:11:30] How to be strategic and intentional with your alliances
[00:12:00] The power of diverse perspectives and constructive challenge
[00:12:30] Adapting your communication style for better influence
[00:13:00] The law of reciprocity: giving before you get
[00:14:00] Celebrating others’ successes to build collaborative credibility
[00:15:00] Building trust through integrity and follow-through
[00:15:30] Radical responsibility: solving problems beyond your role
Action Steps:At the end of the episode, Sarah shares simple actions you can take right now:
Useful Links
Research by The Center for Talent & Innovation on having a Sponsor
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]
Remember you are capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be unstoppable.
In this episode, Sarah dives into a topic that many clients feel confused about: How do you become a Non-Executive Director (NED)? Whether you’re considering a portfolio career, want to broaden your strategic experience, or are curious about how to take on a board role alongside your current job, this episode will give you a practical roadmap for getting started. We’ll cover the benefits of becoming an NED, the types of roles available, and the steps you can take to position yourself for these opportunities. If an NED role is part of your career plan—whether now or in the future—this is the episode for you.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Show Notes:
00:00 – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable: Helping female leaders thrive without burning out
02:00 – Why becoming an NED is on the radar for many women leaders
03:00 – Can you be an NED alongside your day job? Yes, here’s how
04:00 – The benefits of becoming an NED: Portfolio careers, strategic growth, networking, and financial reward
05:00 – Understanding your motivation: Why do YOU want to become an NED?
06:00 – Types of NED roles: Paid, unpaid, public bodies, small businesses, trusteeships
07:00 – Key skills and gaps to consider: Risk, governance, board processes, decision-making
08:00 – Building your leadership brand and increasing your visibility
09:00 – Networking for NED success: Mentors, champions, door openers
10:00 – Strategic networking: Focus on your target sector or organisation type
10:30 – Joining NED-specific networks for support and opportunities
11:00 – Should you invest in NED training or governance courses?
11:30 – Crafting your NED CV: Highlighting strategic thinking, independence, and leadership
12:00 – How to find NED roles: Search firms, agencies, and specialist platforms
13:00 – Where to look: Women on Boards, Nurole, Guardian, FT, and public appointments
14:00 – Recap: Your action plan for becoming an NED
15:00 – How I can help: Get support for your personal NED strategy
Useful Links
Women on Boards UK
Nurole
UK Public Appointments
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]
Remember: You're capable of more than you know. Shine brightly. Lead boldly. Be unstoppable.
In this episode, Sarah shares the key steps to fast-tracking your next promotion. Whether you're feeling overlooked, craving a challenge, or unsure if you're truly ready for the next leadership level, this episode will help you clarify your direction and take intentional action.
You’ll learn how to recognise the signs you're ready, overcome self-doubt, identify gaps, build your leadership brand, and position yourself for internal or external opportunities all in a realistic 3–6 month window.
Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome & Intro
[00:01:00] Why Promotions Can Feel Elusive
[00:02:00] Are You Ready for Promotion? Signs to Watch For
[00:04:00] Self-Doubt vs. Self-Awareness
[00:05:00] 8 Strategies to Fast Track Your Promotion
[00:16:00] Final Reflections & Next Steps
[00:17:30] Get in Touch
Useful Links
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]
Remember you’re capable of more than you know. Shine brightly. Lead boldly. And unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be unstoppable.
Are you an ambitious woman looking for your next senior leadership role but feeling frustrated by the lack of visible opportunities? You’re not alone. As you progress in your career, the job search becomes more complex—and more hidden.
In this episode, Sarah shares 4 expert, proven strategies to help you find your next leadership job with more confidence and clarity. These practical tools—drawn from her 16+ years of experience as a career and leadership career coach—are especially powerful for women who want to lead with purpose without selling out or burning out.
Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome & Episode Introduction
[00:02:00] The Hidden Job Market & Why Leadership Jobs Are Harder to Find
[00:03:00] Why You Might Be Feeling Stuck
🔍 4 Expert Ways to Find Your Next Leadership Job
[00:04:00] 1. Harness the Power of Your Professional Network
[00:08:00] 2. Connect with Executive Recruiters & Headhunters
[00:11:00] 3. Position Yourself as a Thought Leader
[00:14:00] 4. Optimise Your LinkedIn Profile for Search
Useful Links
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]
Remember you are capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be unstoppable.
In this episode, Sarah dives into how to be a more productive leader - not by working harder, but by working smarter. If your days feel like a blur of back-to-back meetings, endless PowerPoint decks, or neverending to-do lists, this episode will help you reclaim control and effectiveness. She shares six powerful strategies that blend mindset, habits, and leadership practice to help you thrive.
Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome to the podcast & intro to Sarah
[00:01:00] The challenge of finding time for career aspirations
[00:02:00] Why productivity matters for leaders today
[00:03:00] Common client struggles: meetings, overload, and fast-paced growth
[00:04:00] Why productivity supports better decision-making and team growth
[00:06:00] 1. Understand your personality preference around structure and planning
[00:07:00] 2. Identify and protect your peak productivity hours
[00:08:00] Tips on time-blocking and scheduling high-focus work
[00:09:00] 3. Prioritise self-care (yes, even during busy periods!)
00:10:00] The role of sleep, nutrition, movement, and energy boundaries
[00:11:00] A real client example: making lunchtime gym time non-negotiable
[00:12:00] 4. Try the Ivy Lee Method: 6 daily priorities
[00:13:00] The power of planning ahead to reduce decision fatigue
[00:14:00] 5. Do the hard thing first—build resilience and momentum
[00:15:00] 6. Create a micro habit of learning something new each day
[00:16:00] How Sarah uses reading and podcasts to stay fresh and inspired
[00:17:00] Quick recap of all six productivity tips
[00:18:00] Invitation to share your productivity tips and get in touch
💡 Sarah’s Six Productivity BoostersUseful Links
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]
Sarah explores what it really means to step outside your leadership comfort zone and why it's essential for growth, confidence, and success. Whether you're stuck in operational work, feeling stagnant in your role, or facing new challenges that push your limits, this episode offers insightful strategies and personal stories to inspire you to stretch, not stress.
Sarah shares real-life examples from her coaching practice and her own career journey, including tackling imposter syndrome, self-sabotage, and those scary-but-worth-it leadership opportunities. Learn how to build courage, embrace optimal anxiety, and use small, manageable actions to unlock your next level of leadership impact.
Show Notes00:00 – Welcome & Introduction
Sarah introduces the podcast and sets the stage for why leadership comfort zones matter.
01:00 – Why This Topic?
Inspired by a coaching client stuck in her role after six years as a CEO.
02:00 – The Reality of Leadership Discomfort
Sometimes you don't have a choice — leadership demands stretch.
03:00 – What Is a Comfort Zone, Really?
Comfort = control, competence, and stagnation if you stay too long.
04:00 – Why You Need to Leave It
Introducing “optimal anxiety” – stretch, not stress – for peak performance.
05:00 – The Neuroscience Behind It
How stepping out of your comfort zone activates the courage circuit and releases dopamine.
06:00 – The Strategic Trap
Operational comfort vs. strategic growth — how leaders can get stuck.
07:00 – Real Client Example
A financial controller seen as “operational” because she didn’t delegate.
08:00 – Personal Story: Fear of Live Radio
How Sarah self-sabotaged until she finally said yes — and why it changed everything.
10:00 – Common Fears Blocking You
Fear of failure, judgment, and the unknown — especially for leaders.
11:00 – High-Stakes Leadership Challenges
From board presentations to restructures — you can't always avoid the hard stuff.
12:00 – Regular Stretch Builds Readiness
Why small, regular discomfort makes big challenges easier.
13:00 – Strategy 1: Start Small
Use the “comfort zone box” model to move gradually from comfort to growth.
14:00 – Strategy 2: Set Clear Goals
Motivation and clarity make it easier to leave what's familiar.
14:30 – Strategy 3: Visualize Success
Boost confidence and prime your brain for a positive outcome.
15:00 – Strategy 4: Seek Support
You don’t have to go it alone — mentors, peers, coaching all help.
16:00 – Strategy 5: Embrace Failure
Salsa dancing, anyone? The value of learning through doing.
17:00 – Practical Ways to Begin
Ideas for manageable leadership stretch goals you can try today.
18:00 – Comfort Zones Are Always Moving
Keep expanding your capacity and confidence, step by step.
19:00 – Final Challenge: What Could You Do Today?
Choose one manageable action to get out of your comfort zone — and go do it.
Useful Links
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]
“Stretch, not stress.” Start small, build your courage, and remember — every step you take out of your comfort zone builds your capacity to lead powerfully.
In this episode Sarah dives into one of the most powerful differentiators for female leaders: executive presence. What does it really mean? Why does it matter for career advancement and leadership impact? And more importantly, how do you develop it authentically?
With her signature blend of practical insight and empowering coaching, Sarah breaks down what executive presence is, why it's essential, and actionable ways to cultivate your own, without burning out or selling out.
This episode is ideal for ambitious professional women who want to be seen, heard, and respected at the next level of leadership.
Show Notes:[00:00] – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable
[01:00] – Why executive presence matters in your leadership journey
[02:00] – Defining executive presence in simple, authentic terms
[03:00] – The career impact of executive presence: The 26% promotion factor
[04:00] – Beyond promotions: How it helps with presentations, influence, and team leadership
[05:00] – Authenticity and the alignment of inner values with outward behavior
[06:00] – Elements of executive presence: poise, confidence, curiosity, body language, communication
[07:00] – Exercise 1: Identify someone with executive presence and unpack what they do
[08:00] – Client story: Having a conversation with someone you admire
[09:00] – Exercise 2: Self-assessment and feedback from trusted colleagues
[10:00] – Aligning executive presence with your leadership brand
[11:00] – Good news: Executive presence is a skill—and it’s learnable
[12:00] – The power of intentionality and experimenting in meetings
[13:00] – Reflecting after interactions to grow your presence
[14:00] – Mirror and learn: Spend time with people who exude presence
[15:00] – The role of appearance in executive presence (and why red lipstick might help!)
[16:00] – Avoiding invisibility: Why staying visible and vocal matters in meetings
[17:00] – Final recap: Your action steps to build presence
[18:00] – Free resource + invitation to connect with Sarah
Useful Links
Free E-Book: Five Steps to Creating Powerful Presence as a Female Leader
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]
Be powerfully you. Shine brightly. Lead boldly. And unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be unstoppable.
In this episode, Sarah dives into a crucial topic for career clarity and confidence: how to identify your strengths when preparing for a new leadership role.Whether you're navigating a transition, returning from redundancy, or feeling unclear about your value, this episode will guide you through practical, reflective tools to uncover and articulate your unique strengths—so you can position yourself powerfully for what’s next.
Show Not:[00:01:00] Why Identifying Your Strengths Matters
Understand the importance of knowing and communicating your strengths for your next role.
[00:02:00] Common Challenges Senior Women Face
From imposter syndrome to redundancy and lack of clarity—why strengths can feel hard to spot.
[00:03:00] Real Client Example: Shifting Interview Confidence
How coaching helped a senior leader improve confidence and articulation in interviews.
[00:04:00] How Strengths Drive Career Clarity & Pay Equity
Why strengths awareness impacts career enjoyment, performance, and pay.
[00:05:00] Client Story: From Playing Small to Strategic Leader
A redundancy led to discovering untapped strategic strengths and bigger career goals.
[00:06:00] Client Story: Owning Efficiency as a Superpower
Discovering a strength in driving efficiency transformed personal brand and job positioning.
[00:07:00] Step 1: Create a Personal Career Timeline
Use life and career highs/lows to reveal consistent themes and character strengths.
[00:08:00] Step 2: Reflect on Key Achievements
Analyze what made your past achievements successful—skills, passion, and business value.
[00:09:00] Step 3: Explore Your Reputation and Leadership Brand
What are you known for? Dig into the external perception of your leadership value.
[00:10:00] Step 4: Seek Feedback to Uncover Blind Spots
How asking trusted colleagues can bring strengths to light you may overlook.
[00:11:00] Step 5: Craft a Powerful Narrative
Align your strengths, experience, and impact into a compelling leadership story.
[00:12:00] Final Thoughts & Invitation
Reflecting on your strengths gives clarity, confidence, and career direction—reach out if you'd like support in this journey.
[00:13:00] Resources, Reviews & Closing Inspiration
Useful Links
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]
✨ You are capable of more than you know. Shine brightly. Lead boldly. Be unstoppable.
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