In this episode, Sarah dives into one of the most common and frustrating challenges women in leadership face: getting your voice heard in the leadership space.

From being talked over in meetings to having your ideas claimed by others, these situations can leave you feeling disempowered, demotivated, and even disengaged. But there are proven ways to navigate this dynamic while staying true to your values.

In the first of a two-part series, Sarah shares tactical strategies you can use right away to increase your influence, get buy-in for your ideas, and have your contributions recognised. Next week, we’ll focus on the mindset work that underpins these tactics for even greater impact.

• How to build trust and credibility so your voice carries weight
• The importance of mapping allies and creating a “bank of social credit”
• Why likeability matters – and how to navigate the double bind for women leaders
• Using commitment and consistency to get buy-in for your proposals
• Spotting and eliminating undermining communication habits

Show Notes

[00:00:00] – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable

[00:01:00] – Why getting your voice heard is such a common challenge for women leaders

[00:02:30] – Real-life client examples of being silenced, overlooked, or undermined

[00:04:15] – Why this topic deserves two episodes: tactics today, mindset next week

[00:05:00] – Tactic 1: Build trust and credibility – reinforcing your authority through your track record and experience

[00:07:00] – Tactic 2: Map your allies – identifying influencers and decision-makers, building reciprocity

[00:09:20] – Why reciprocity works (and how to use it authentically)

[00:10:00] – Tactic 3: The likeability factor – navigating the “double bind” for women and people of colour in leadership

[00:13:00] – Tactic 4: Commitment and consistency – shaping perception to encourage follow-through

[00:15:00] – Tactic 5: Communication review – removing undermining language, being clear and concise

[00:17:00] – Recap of the five strategies and preview of next week’s mindset-focused episode

[00:18:00] – Resources, ways to connect, and closing encouragement

Useful Links

Robert Gialdini: Influence: The Science of Persuasion

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Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group

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And don't forget to subscribe so you don’t miss Part 2 on mindset strategies and share it...

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.

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:

• Interview narrative practice
• Positive reminiscence (from Positive Psychology)

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: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk

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.

[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:

• [00:11:15] Make a to-do list to decrease cognitive overload
• [00:12:00] Try journaling to process emotions
• [00:13:00] Be self-compassionate instead of self-critical
• [00:14:00] Move your body – physical activity reduces worry
• [00:14:30] Try short meditations to calm your mind

[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

• Anxiety at work is often a sign that you care, not that you’re failing.
• Worry doesn’t need to be a permanent mindset—you can retrain your response
• Journaling, meditation, physical movement, and perspective shifts are simple but powerful tools
• Coaching can help break embedded patterns of chronic workplace worry.

Useful Links

The Upside of Stress by Kelly McGonigal

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Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes

Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

Join The Love...

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:

• Why alliances are essential for your leadership and career growth
• The five categories of workplace alliances—and how to manage each one
• How to navigate adversaries and fence-sitters without draining your energy
• Practical steps to build trust, boost collaboration, and expand your influence
• Actionable takeaways to map your alliances and start building strategic connections today

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.

[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

• [00:07:00] Allies – natural supporters
• [00:08:00] Confederates – aligned but cautious
• [00:09:00] Opposers – good relationships but different views
• [00:10:00] Adversaries – tricky relationships and energy management
• [00:10:30] Fence-sitters – unknown loyalties

[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

At the end of the episode, Sarah shares simple actions you can take right now:

1. Map out your alliances – Identify where you have strong connections and where you need to build relationships.
2. Pick three people – Choose three individuals who could support your career or leadership goals.
3. Identify how you can add value – Think about how you can help them before asking for support.
4. Take one action this week – Build or strengthen at least one of these relationships in the next 7 days.

Useful Links

Research by The Center for Talent & Innovation on having a Sponsor

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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:

• The different types of NED roles (paid, unpaid, governance vs. advisory)
• Why it’s not just a post-retirement option
• How to assess your readiness and identify gaps in your experience
• The role of personal branding and visibility in securing a board position
• How to leverage your network (and find mentors or champions)
• Where to find NED opportunities, including specialist platforms and agencies

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

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Book a Free 121 Clarity Call

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.

[00:00:00] Welcome & Intro

[00:01:00] Why Promotions Can Feel Elusive

• The tension between leadership ambition and time constraints
• How self-doubt and imposter feelings show up, even at senior levels

[00:02:00] Are You Ready for Promotion? Signs to Watch For

• Seeing others get ahead while you feel stuck
• Feeling bored or underutilised
• Frequently acting up or being asked to take on more
• Strategic thinking beyond your own team

[00:04:00] Self-Doubt vs. Self-Awareness

• The difference between questioning your readiness and making a conscious, values-aligned choice
• A story of a client who chose not to go for promotion—intentionally

[00:05:00] 8 Strategies to Fast Track Your Promotion

1. Be intentional - promotions rarely happen passively
2. Do a gap analysis - skills and visibility
3. Clarify your leadership brand - ask for feedback or work with a coach
4. Scan for stretch opportunities - projects, strategic challenges, or acting-up roles
5. Demonstrate value - be proactive, solve problems beyond your remit
6. Build key relationships -with your boss, senior leaders, and potential mentors
7. Get comfortable with self-promotion - articulate achievements with depth and context
8. Time it right – leverage business wins or personal successes

[00:16:00] Final Reflections & Next Steps

• Be strategic and give yourself permission to aim higher
• Consider both internal and external promotional routes
• Take the first step by creating space to think and plan

[00:17:30] Get in Touch

• Sarah invites listeners to message her if they take action and land that promotion

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:

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.

[00:00:00] Welcome & Episode Introduction

• The challenge of finding time for career planning in leadership roles

[00:02:00] The Hidden Job Market & Why Leadership Jobs Are Harder to Find

• 70% of senior roles aren't advertised
• How positioning matters before jobs even go public

[00:03:00] Why You Might Be Feeling Stuck

• Common barriers: fear, self-doubt, lack of knowledge

🔍 4 Expert Ways to Find Your Next Leadership Job

[00:04:00] 1. Harness the Power of Your Professional Network

• Personal referrals dominate executive hiring
• How to stay top-of-mind with decision-makers
• A client success story on landing a startup leadership role via an old boss

[00:08:00] 2. Connect with Executive Recruiters & Headhunters

• Build relationships before you need them
• Where to find the right recruiters for your industry
• Example: A finance director who transitioned industries thanks to recruiter advocacy

[00:11:00] 3. Position Yourself as a Thought Leader

• Why visibility = credibility
• How to choose between speaking, writing, podcasting, and LinkedIn
• Real story: A marketing manager leveraged thought leadership to step up to a director role

[00:14:00] 4. Optimise Your LinkedIn Profile for Search

• Use keywords aligned with the job you want, not the one you have
• Tips for revamping your headline, summary, experience, and skills
• Example: How simple tweaks helped a Director of Ops attract COO opportunities

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: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk

Remember you are capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be...

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.

[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

1. Know your personality preferences—don't force what doesn't fit
2. Protect your peak productivity time and use it wisely
3. Prioritise self-care (yes, it’s part of your job as a leader!)
4. Use the Ivy Lee Method to plan your top 6 tasks daily
5. Do the hardest task first to expand your comfort zone
6. Learn something new every day to stay sharp and inspired

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: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk