In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, Susanne Biro, executive coach to CEOs and senior leaders, shares what she’s learned after decades of working behind the scenes with some of the most successful people in the world. From navigating her own experience with depression in her twenties to advising leaders of billion-dollar organizations, Susanne reveals the hidden fears, internal pressure, and mental patterns that quietly shape performance, decision-making, and fulfillment.

This conversation goes beyond surface-level leadership advice and dives into the real work most leaders avoid: self-awareness, emotional mastery, and honest communication. Susanne breaks down how “Deep Fear” shows up even at the highest levels, why success often fails to deliver fulfillment, and how leaders can shift their internal dialogue to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and impact.

You’ll also learn practical tools to strengthen self-awareness, improve communication, and take control of your inner narrative so you can lead more effectively without burning out.

Learn More About Susanne Biro:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanne-biro-executivecoach/
• Website: https://susannebiro.com/
• Podcast: https://deepfearpodcast.com/
• Book: https://susannebiro.com/book/
  
  

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Tony Robbins: https://www.tonyrobbins.com/
• Michael Singer: https://untetheredsoul.com/
• Susanne’s TEDx: https://youtu.be/5mv6OX8ylP4?si=4GO9w5yu3lD7Y3ip
  
  

The discussion also tackles questions…

• Why do high-performing leaders still feel unfulfilled, even after achieving success?
• What is “Deep Fear,” and how does it quietly impact decision-making and leadership performance?
• Why does the human mind default to negative thinking, and how can you change it?
• How do you know if your inner dialogue is helping or hurting your leadership?
• What’s the difference between success and fulfillment, and why do so many leaders confuse the two?
• How can leaders improve self-awareness in a practical, daily way?
• What does real listening actually look like in leadership conversations?
• Why do leaders avoid difficult conversations, and how can they start having them more effectively?
• How can you reframe fear into growth and build confidence through action?
• What daily habits help leaders stay grounded, focused, and resilient under pressure?

Themes:

• The inner game of leadership and self-awareness
• Hidden fear and pressure in high-performing leaders
• Emotional intelligence and executive decision-making
• Success vs. fulfillment and the “outer life trap”
• The power of mindset and internal dialogue
• Building confidence through action and discomfort
• Brave conversations and authentic communication
• The role of relationships and human connection in leadership
• Personal responsibility and self-mastery
• Daily practices for mental clarity and resilience

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.