Welcome to Your Next Move, the podcast for high-performing professionals in leadership who are ready to elevate their visibility, build a powerful personal brand and position themselves for opportunities that accelerate their path to industry-wide recognition or higher level roles.

I'm Kimberly Brown, a globally recognized career and leadership expert, keynote speaker, and bestselling author of Next Move, Best Move. I've coached hundreds of mid- to executive-level professionals working in Fortune 500 companies to grow their visibility, influence, and leadership presence, without leaving their jobs.

If you're wondering:

• How do I position myself as a thought leader at work?

• Why am I being overlooked for promotions when I'm good at my job?

• How do I build a leadership brand?

• Can I stay in my current company and grow my career?

• How do I make people remember my name in the right rooms?

…you're in the right place.

Tune in for expert advice, behind-the-scenes coaching, and my signature no-fluff perspective on what it really takes to accelerate your leadership trajectory and step into the rooms where real decisions are made.

🎧 Follow Your Next Move wherever you listen to podcasts, and start building a career that gets you seen, heard, and recognized for what you do best.

📲 Want to connect? Find me on Instagram @kimberlybonline or LinkedIn and say hello!

⬇️ Download the 9 Visibility Strategies You're Probably Missing at Work guide at https://kimberlybonline.com/visibility

Your Next Move is back! In this episode, Kimberly Brown shares why she hit pause earlier this year and how that break led to a shift in focus. If you're a high-achiever ready for elevated strategies, this new chapter is for you. 🎧 Tune in to hear what's changing, why it matters, and what to expect next. Stay In Touch → Connect with the community:

• Get on the waitlist for The Visibility Shift: kimberlybonline.com/tvs-waitlist
• Follow me on Instagram/TikTok: @KimberlyBOnline
• Explore Brown Leadership: Brownleadership Home
• Read the book "Next Move, Best Move: Transitioning Into a Career You'll Love" at www.nextmovebestmovebook.com

→ Share your question: Submit your question in a 90-second voice message, and I may address it in an upcoming episode. Submit here: SpeakpipeSend a voice message to YourNextMove Keywords: leadership development podcast, career growth, personal branding, visibility strategy, professional development, career change, women in leadership

In this episode of Your Next Move, Kimberly Brown unpacks the real role fear plays in your career. Spoiler: It's not something to avoid—it's something to explore. Fear isn't the stop sign. It's the signal. Top leaders don't wait to feel fearless—they move through fear with strategy. Kimberly shares five practical ways to reframe fear and use it as fuel to grow your visibility, speak up as a leader, and pursue bigger goals with confidence. You'll learn:

• Why fear and excitement feel the same in your brain
• How the 5 Second Rule breaks the hesitation cycle
• How to use project "pre-mortems" to manage fear before it spirals
• How to take aligned action, one small step at a time
• How to build psychological safety to lead through failure

If fear has been keeping you quiet, stuck, or invisible—this is your invitation to move forward. Stay In Touch → Connect with the community:

• Get on the waitlist for The Visibility Shift: kimberlybonline.com/tvs-waitlist
• Follow me on Instagram/TikTok: @KimberlyBOnline
• Explore Brown Leadership: Brownleadership Home
• Read the book "Next Move, Best Move: Transitioning Into a Career You'll Love" at www.nextmovebestmovebook.com

→ Share your question: Submit your question in a 90-second voice message, and I may address it in an upcoming episode. Submit here: SpeakpipeSend a voice message to YourNextMove

Keywords: fear and leadership, mindset for professionals, how to overcome fear at work, using fear as fuel, public speaking confidence, career visibility coaching, leadership mindset shifts, personal brand growth

Welcome to Episode 104 of the Your Next Move Podcast!

In today's episode, I'm getting real with you. I'm sharing six powerful reminders that I constantly rotate for both myself and my clients especially when we find ourselves stuck, scared, or playing small.

This is more of a truth-telling episode where I want to give you the advice that I give my clients. But especially recently, I've had some experiences where I realized I need to remind myself of these things too.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Why fear actually means "go" and not "stop," and how it's often the biggest thing standing between you and your goals

• How taking just one hour to plan your week can transform your productivity and mindset

• Why saying "no" when it's not a "hell yes" is crucial for your satisfaction and success

• The importance of using your voice even when it shakes

• Why rest isn't a reward for overworking but a power move and essential part of your plan

• The liberating truth that you don't have to prove your worth—you already belong

I also share a recent experience where I faced serious imposter syndrome before a speaking engagement, and how I used these same reminders to pull myself back from spiraling.

You'll get practical advice on:

• Recognizing when fear is causing you to choose "Plan B" when you really want "Plan A"

• Setting yourself up for success by planning in a way that works for your brain

• How to determine if an opportunity is truly a "hell yes" (and a simple test I use for client work)

• Practical ways to advocate for yourself even when it makes you nervous

• Building rest into your schedule as a non-negotiable part of your success strategy

• Reminding yourself that you are enough exactly as you are

At the end of the episode, I share an unofficial seventh reminder that emerged naturally: The more you lean into being your authentic self, the better.

Timeline

[0:00] Introduction: A different kind of episode - six reminders I keep in rotation

[1:15] Reminder #1: Show up when you're scared - fear means GO

[3:30] Story about choosing Plan B instead of Plan A because of fear

[5:25] Reminder #2: Take time to plan for your success

[7:45] Reminder #3: Say no when it's not a hell yes

[9:20] My test for deciding which one-on-one clients to take

[11:10] Reminder #4: Use your voice even when it shakes

[12:55] Reminder #5: Rest is a power move, not a reward

[15:30] How I've improved my relationship with rest over the years

[17:20] Reminder #6: You don't have to prove your worth

[18:45] My backstage experience with imposter syndrome

[21:30] The unofficial 7th reminder: The more you lean into being you, the better

[23:10] Closing thoughts and encouragement to share

Stay In Touch → Connect with the community:

• Follow me on Instagram/TikTok: @KimberlyBOnline
• Explore Brown Leadership: https://brownleadership.com
• Read the book "Next Move, Best Move: Transitioning Into a Career You'll Love" at www.nextmovebestmovebook.com

→ Share your question: Submit your question in a 90-second voice message, and I may address it in an upcoming episode. Submit here: https://www.speakpipe.com/YourNextMove

→ Apply for a 1:1 coaching session: Participate in a 20-30 minute coaching session that may be featured in a future episode. Apply here: https://bit.ly/YNMCoaching

In today's episode, I explore something that affects so many of us but rarely gets the attention it deserves - knowing when it's time to take a break from work. While our always-on culture makes stepping away feel impossible, I'll share why taking a strategic break might be the most productive move for your long-term career success.

I guide you through five clear signs that indicate you need a work break - not just a vacation where you're checking email poolside, but a true, intentional step back to recharge and reset. I also provide actionable insights on what to do if you recognize these signs in yourself.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why needing a break isn't a sign of weakness or failure, but often a sign of self-awareness and leadership

• How physical symptoms like insomnia, frequent headaches, constant fatigue, digestive issues, and getting sick more often can be your body's way of saying "enough"

• What emotional exhaustion looks like - feeling empty, cynical, or detached - and why you can't think your way out of it

• The irony of declining performance despite longer hours and what neuroscience tells us about why our brains require periods of rest

• How disconnection from purpose and meaning in your work can signal burnout rather than a true misalignment

• Why an inability to unplug - checking email during dinner, thinking about work in the shower, feeling anxious when trying to relax - indicates work has expanded beyond healthy boundaries

You'll also hear personal reflections about my own experiences with recognizing when it's time to pause in order to move forward stronger.

This episode empowers you to:

• Recognize the warning signs before they lead to more serious consequences

• Understand why your body and mind need genuine rest to function optimally

• Take a strategic break without derailing your career trajectory

• Remember that you are not your job - you're a whole person whose identity extends beyond your professional role

TIMELINE

• 00:00 The Importance of Taking a Work Break

• 02:20 Recognizing Physical Symptoms of Burnout

• 05:09 Understanding Emotional Exhaustion

• 07:57 Declining Performance and Overworking

• 10:00 Disconnection from Purpose and Meaning

• 11:49 Inability to Unplug and Enjoy Time Off

• 13:43 Strategies for Taking a Work Break

At the end of the episode, I introduce my comprehensive guide, "Taking a Work Break Without the Panic," which provides everything from understanding your legal rights and benefits to creating a communication strategy to planning your return to work after a break.

Stay In Touch → Connect with the community:

• Follow me on Instagram/TikTok: @KimberlyBOnline
• Explore Brown Leadership: https://brownleadership.com
• Read the book "Next Move, Best Move: Transitioning Into a Career You'll Love" at www.nextmovebestmovebook.com

→ Share your question: Submit your question in a 90-second voice message, and I may address it in an upcoming episode. Submit here: https://www.speakpipe.com/YourNextMove

→ Apply for a 1:1 coaching session: Participate in a 20-30 minute coaching session that may be featured in a future episode. Apply here: https://bit.ly/YNMCoaching

→ Get your guide: Visit kimberlybonline.com/workbreak and use code YourNextMove to get 50% off my comprehensive guide "Taking a Work Break Without the Panic" or click the link in the show notes.

In this live coaching session, I sit down with Abriana Walton, a media professional from Detroit who's navigating the challenges of her first full-time job. We dive deep into overcoming perfectionism, building genuine confidence, and mapping out a fulfilling career path that aligns with your purpose.

• Learn how to handle workplace mistakes with grace and use them as growth opportunities

• Discover strategies for tracking your wins to boost confidence when facing challenges

• Understand why high achievers often struggle to accept praise for their exceptional work

• Explore the balance between career planning and leaving room for unexpected opportunities

• Gain insights on prioritizing multiple passions without burning out

Whether you're starting your career or seeking your next professional challenge, this episode offers practical guidance for embracing imperfection while still pursuing excellence in your work and life.

Timeline 00:24 - Meet Abriana: Career Background & Coaching Goals 01:50 - Struggles with Confidence & Workplace Mistakes 04:28 - The Reality of Making Mistakes at Work 07:50 - Learning Through Trial & Error in a Dual Role 10:08 - The Importance of Tracking Wins & Building Confidence 12:54 - The High Achiever's Perspective on Praise 16:28 - Career Mapping: Setting Long-Term Goals 21:40 - The Power of Goal-Setting & Strategic Planning 26:28 - Passion vs. Profession: Managing Multiple Interests 30:28 - Visualizing Your Ideal Career & Life 35:14 - Final Advice & Next Steps 37:22 - Closing Thoughts & Invitation for Future Coaching Sessions

Stay In Touch → Connect with the community:

• Follow me on Instagram/TikTok: @KimberlyBOnline
• Explore Brown Leadership: https://brownleadership.com
• Read the book "Next Move, Best Move: Transitioning Into a Career You'll Love" at www.nextmovebestmovebook.com

→ Share your question: Submit your question in a 90-second voice message, and I may address it in an upcoming episode. Submit here: https://www.speakpipe.com/YourNextMove

→ Apply for a 1:1 coaching session: Participate in a 20-30 minute coaching session that may be featured in a future episode. Apply here: https://bit.ly/YNMCoaching

Welcome to Episode 101 of the Your Next Move Podcast! In today's episode, I dive into a mindset framework that will help you transform the way you approach your goals. Whether you're facing a career shift, trying to improve your personal life, or pursuing new business goals, this episode will show you how flipping your mindset can lead to faster success with less stress.

I introduce the Be-Do-Have Model—a powerful tool for anyone looking to reach their goals. The key is understanding that to achieve anything, you must first BE the person who achieves it, then DO the necessary actions, and finally, you will HAVE the desired outcome. Too often, people approach it in reverse: waiting for the "have" before taking action.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Why most people get the Be-Do-Have model wrong, and how this keeps them stuck.

• How fear and hesitation can prevent you from stepping into the ideal version of yourself.

• The Courage Driven Mindset Framework—a new coaching method I use to help clients (and myself!) shift their mindset and take decisive action.

• The 3 actionable steps to shift your mindset: Recognize, Reframe, and Respond.

• Why consistency is key in applying the Be-Do-Have model to your life.

You'll also get a behind-the-scenes peek into my personal growth journey and how I'm shifting my mindset in my own life.

Listen in and learn how to:

• Move past the waiting game and start being the person who achieves their goals now.

• Tackle fear and self-doubt to start taking bold actions instead of staying stuck in thinking mode.

• Use the Courage Driven Mindset Framework to reframe challenges and respond with confidence.

At the end of the episode, I challenge you to apply the Be-Do-Have model to your goals. Take action today and see what shifts.

Stay In Touch → Connect with the community:

• Follow me on Instagram/TikTok: @KimberlyBOnline
• Explore Brown Leadership: https://brownleadership.com
• Read the book "Next Move, Best Move: Transitioning Into a Career You'll Love" at www.nextmovebestmovebook.com

→ Share your question: Submit your question in a 90-second voice message, and I may address it in an upcoming episode. Submit here: https://www.speakpipe.com/YourNextMove

→ Apply for a 1:1 coaching session: Participate in a 20-30 minute coaching session that may be featured in a future episode. Apply here: https://bit.ly/YNMCoaching

Welcome to a milestone episode of Your Next Move Podcast—Episode 100! In this special episode, I get real about my personal and professional journey, sharing how pivotal moments of struggle have sparked powerful transformations. From career shifts to navigating personal challenges, I open up about the internal changes that led me to create my "Transformation Roadmap," a five-pillar strategy that's redefining how I show up in the world.

As I embark on a new chapter of growth and evolution, I discuss the mindset shifts, business strategies, and legacy-building principles that will shape my next steps—and how you can apply them to your own journey. Whether you're feeling stuck, looking to expand your reach, or ready to craft a lasting legacy, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration to help you take your next move with confidence.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The significance of reaching 100 episodes and the lessons I've learned along the way

• My "Box Analogy" and how to recognize when it's time for a professional shift

• How personal healing and transformation play a role in elevating your impact

• The five pillars of my Transformation Roadmap and how they'll shape my business and personal growth

• How expanding your reach, owning the room, and building lasting relationships are key to leadership success

Timeline

[0:00] Introduction: The significance of reaching 100 episodes and why persistence matters

[2:30] The Box Analogy: Understanding when you've outgrown your current role and why it's time to shift

[7:00] Career and Personal Reflection: Lessons from failed launches, personal healing, and growth

[11:30] The Five Pillars of Kimberly's Transformation Roadmap: Defining personal growth, brand strategy, and legacy-building

[17:45] Expanding Your Reach: Why visibility and leadership positioning are non-negotiable

[22:00] Building Relationship Capital: The power of meaningful connections in career advancement

[24:30] Crafting a Legacy and Next Steps: Shaping a career that leaves a lasting impact

Stay In Touch → Connect with the community:

• Follow me on Instagram/TikTok: @KimberlyBOnline
• Explore Brown Leadership: https://brownleadership.com
• Read the book "Next Move, Best Move: Transitioning Into a Career You'll Love" at www.nextmovebestmovebook.com

→ Share your question: Submit your question in a 90-second voice message, and I may address it in an upcoming episode. Submit here: https://www.speakpipe.com/YourNextMove

→ Apply for a 1:1 coaching session: Participate in a 20-30 minute coaching session that may be featured in a future episode. Apply here: https://bit.ly/YNMCoaching

In this episode of Your Next Move with Kimberly Brown, we conclude our deep dive into the C-Method: The Self-Coaching System for Clarity, Commitment, and Change by covering the final three steps: Craft Your Action Plan, Commit to Consistency, and Celebrate and Evolve. Kimberly shares actionable strategies to move beyond planning and confidently execute your goals for 2025. From crafting realistic plans to maintaining momentum, this episode is packed with insights to help you build a sustainable path to success.

If you're ready to take control of your goals and follow through with confidence, this episode is for you.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why crafting a realistic action plan sets the foundation for success.

• How to maintain momentum and hold yourself accountable through consistency.

• Why confidence is built through action, not just planning.

• The importance of celebrating milestones and evolving your approach for future growth.

• How to prioritize the promises you make to yourself as much as those you make to others.

Action Steps:

1. Craft a tangible action plan: Use tools like sticky notes, planners, or apps to map out every step toward your goals.

2. Commit to consistency: Find a schedule and pace that works for you, and show up more days than not.

3. Reflect and evolve: Take time to celebrate wins, conduct after-action reviews, and adjust your approach as needed.

4. Identify your peak productivity hours: Schedule important tasks during the times of day when you feel most energized and focused.

"Something I'm Doing That Works"

Kimberly shares how working from 5 a.m. to 8 a.m. has transformed her productivity during this hustle season. She encourages listeners to identify their own peak productivity hours and align their most important tasks with those times for maximum results.

Stay In Touch → Connect with the community:

• Follow me on Instagram/TikTok: @KimberlyBOnline
• Explore Brown Leadership: https://brownleadership.com
• Read the book "Next Move, Best Move: Transitioning Into a Career You'll Love" at www.nextmovebestmovebook.com

→ Share your question: Submit your question in a 90-second voice message, and I may address it in an upcoming episode. Submit here: https://www.speakpipe.com/YourNextMove

→ Apply for a 1:1 coaching session: Participate in a 20-30 minute coaching session that may be featured in a future episode. Apply here: https://bit.ly/YNMCoaching

In this episode of Your Next Move with Kimberly Brown, we continue our deep dive into the C-Method: The Self-Coaching System for Clarity, Commitment, and Change. Today's focus is on Step 2: Curating Your Knowledge. Kimberly explains how to sift through the wealth of information, tools, and experiences you've accumulated to identify what will best serve your current goals.

She also shares her personal strategies for leveraging existing resources to maximize results. If you're ready to create a plan for your next steps in 2025, this episode will help you unlock the power of intentional learning and resourcefulness.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why curating your knowledge is essential for achieving your goals.
• How to evaluate whether your tools and resources align with your current objectives.
• The 80/20 rule for focusing on the most impactful knowledge.
• Three critical questions to ask when filtering through courses, books, and materials.
• The importance of knowing when to let go of outdated advice, strategies, or commitments that no longer serve you.

Upcoming Workshop:

Join Kimberly for the Next Level Strategy Workshop on January 23rd! This free lunch-and-learn will guide you through creating your Career Advancement Blueprint with actionable steps to achieve your goals in 2025.

Register here: kimberlybonline.com/NLS

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Register for the Next Level Strategy Workshop: kimberlybonline.com/NLS Subscribe to the Your Next Move Newsletter for updates, resources, and first access to new episodes: https://bit.ly/YNMNewsletter Blog Post: https://kimberlybonline.com/podcast/yournextmove-98/

Stay In Touch → Connect with the community:

• Follow me on Instagram/TikTok: @KimberlyBOnline
• Explore Brown Leadership: https://brownleadership.com
• Read the book "Next Move, Best Move: Transitioning Into a Career You'll Love" at www.nextmovebestmovebook.com

→ Share your question: Submit your question in a 90-second voice message, and I may address it in an upcoming episode. Submit here: https://www.speakpipe.com/YourNextMove

→ Apply for a 1:1 coaching session: Participate in a 20-30 minute coaching session that may be featured in a future episode. Apply here: https://bit.ly/YNMCoaching