Original Air Date: 7/28/25

Summer is in full swing over here, which means routines are out the window, snacks are being negotiated like contracts, and I’m just doing my best to keep everyone hydrated, fed, and off screens for more than 15 minutes.

If you’re juggling camp drop-offs, your inbox, dentist appointments, group texts, and trying to hit your step count while your team pings you for decisions… you’re my people.

This week’s episode is for every professional who’s ever walked out of a meeting thinking: “Wait… what did we actually decide?”

Today we’re talking about the leadership quality that doesn’t get enough credit: clarity. Not charm. Not charisma. Clarity.

Because while charisma might light up the room, it’s clarity that actually moves work forward. And when leaders skip it? Teams suffer. Confusion rises. Burnout sets in. Projects stall. Talent walks.

Whether you’re the leader or the one following someone else’s vision, you deserve clear direction.

In this episode, we cover:

✔️ Why vague leadership is more common than you think

✔️ How ambiguity quietly drains energy, motivation, and results

✔️ What to actually say when you need clarity, but don’t want to come off as “too much”

✔️ Real stories from coaching leaders who were beloved—but vague

✔️ 4 ways employees thrive when clarity is the standard

Listener Takeaways:

• Charisma grabs attention. Clarity builds trust.

• If you’re not clear, your team can’t win.

• You can’t grow your career on guesswork.

• Silence might feel safe, but long-term? It costs you.

• You don’t need permission to ask for direction. You deserve it.

Try This at Work:

When the direction feels fuzzy, ask:

• “Can I reflect that back to you to make sure I got it right?”

• “What does success look like for this?”

• “Would you rather I prioritize X or Y?”

• “Are there any non-negotiables I should know before I get started?”

Whether you're leading the room or quietly holding things together behind the scenes, this episode is your permission slip to expect (and model) real clarity at work.

You’re not too much.

You’re just done shrinking.

Before you go:

• Follow the show so you don’t miss what’s next

• Share this episode with a friend or teammate who’s feeling stuck

• DM me on Instagram @rxashleehayes — Tell me: Where do you need more clarity at work?

Thank you for pressing play.

You didn’t freeze. You’re moving forward.

And next week? We’re talking about the #1 mistake leaders make in meetings and what to do instead.

I’ll catch you next week on This Wasn’t My Plan.