Today I’m joined by returning guest Tiffany Hawk - author, book coach, and longtime collaborator - to talk about why sharing your story matters, especially when you don’t feel ready.

We explore how many accomplished professionals get stuck in what I call the “expert trap”, relying on expertise and credentials while holding back the personal stories that actually create connection.

Tiffany shares insights from her work helping women write meaningful books, along with her own journey of returning to writing after years of self-doubt.

We also talk about the messy reality of creativity, why the first draft is rarely pretty, and how community and accountability can make all the difference when you’re working on a book, talk, or other thought leadership project.

This conversation is especially meaningful during Women’s History Month, as we reflect on the power of women using their voices to tell the stories that shape culture and create change. 

Tiffany and I talk about:

• Why expertise alone doesn’t create connection
• The role of vulnerability in thought leadership
• Why you shouldn’t wait until your ideas feel perfect
• How storytelling helps audiences see themselves in your message
• The creative process behind writing a book

We also share details about our Story to Spotlight writing and speaking retreat in Spain this Fall 2026, where we’ll help women develop their ideas, stories, and thought leadership in a supportive environment. Learn more and apply at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/spain/

Links:

Show notes at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/464/ 

Get the details and apply for our Story to Spotlight Writing & Speaking Retreat in Spain this Fall 2026: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/spain/ 

Tiffany’s website: https://www.tiffanyhawk.com/intensive/ 

Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/quiz/

Connect on LinkedIn:

• Carol Cox = https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolcox
• Tiffany Hawk (guest) = https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyhawk/ 

Related Podcast Episodes:

• Episode 407: Building Your Speaking Platform as an Author (Even If You're an Introvert!) with Tiffany Hawk
• Episode 257: Writing a Book Gives Your Ideas Depth and Longevity with Tiffany Hawk
• Episode 461: Storytelling as Resistance: Finding and Using Your Voice with Janice Gassam Asare
• Episode 378: The Power of Women's Voices and Stories to Change the World with Carol Cox

Become Bookable Live Online Workshop - April 15, 2026
If you want to speak more but you’re not sure where to start or your efforts haven’t produced the results you want, I’m hosting a live online workshop called “Become Bookable: How to Get Speaking Invitations” on Wednesday, April 15th.

A lot of brilliant women assume they just need to pitch themselves more. But the real reason speakers get invited isn’t because they pitch harder — it’s because they’re positioned as bookable.

In this 3-hour interactive workshop live on Zoom, I’ll show you how speakers actually get invited — and help you clarify the positioning that makes event organizers say yes.

As a podcast listener, use the coupon code “Podcast100” to save $100 on your registration.

Learn more and register at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/bookable