Speak Your Mind Unapologetically Podcast – Détails, épisodes et analyse

Most people don't struggle with speaking up in general.
They struggle with one specific conversation that feels risky — a conversation with career, relationship, or emotional consequences.

Whether it's a performance review, a promotion request, a conflict, a micromanaging boss, a workload pushback, a boundary conversation, or a situation where you feel overlooked or disrespected… avoiding the conversation always feels safe in the moment, but it silently costs you confidence, influence, visibility, and self-respect.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why certain conversations feel so intimidating
• What's really driving the fear of conflict, backlash, or judgment
• The hidden psychological and career consequences of staying silent
• What changes when you approach these conversations strategically rather than reactively
• How to communicate with clarity, respect, and strength — without aggression or over-explaining

If you've been overthinking a conversation at work or losing sleep about what to say, this episode will give you the roadmap to finally move forward.

✅ Schedule a Complimentary Call To Plan Your One Conversation: https://calendly.com/assertiveway/30min 

🎁 Free Resource:
Download the 30 Power Shifts Guide — a free, practical cheat sheet with real-life "weak vs. powerful" word swaps for meetings, presentations, and everyday conversations.

• Replace soft, hesitant phrases with powerful, natural ones.

• Speak with clarity, conviction, and calm authority.

• Be heard without apology.

👉 Get your free guide here: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/30power 

✅ Free Newsletter:  https://assertiveway.com/newsletter/

✅ Take the Quiz 'Do You Speak Like a High-Impact Leader?':   https://myassertiveway.outgrow.us/highimpactleader 

✅ Listen on the Speak Your Mind Unapologetically podcast on Apple Itunes:   https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speak-your-mind-unapologetically-podcast/id1623647915   

✅ Listen on Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/6L1myPkiJXYf5SGrublYz2

✅ Order our book, 'Unapologetic Voice: 101 Real-World Strategies for Brave Self Advocacy & Bold Leadership' where each strategy is also a real story:

https://www.amazon.com/Unapologetic-Voice-Real-World-Strategies-Leadership-ebook/dp/B0CW2X4WWL/

✅ Follow the show host, Ivna Curi, on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2/  

✅ Request A Customized Workshop For Your Team And Company:   http://assertiveway.com/workshops

Contact me: info@assertiveway.com or ivnacuri@assertiveway.com

Contact me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2

Your voice is the bridge between who you are and how you lead. So how can you be heard and be remembered, even in toxic workplaces? In this episode we are joined by Lily Lapenna, MBE, communication coach and facilitator, honored by Queen Elizabeth for her impact work, and Amy Ewbank, expert in voice and former professional actor and Head of HR. Amy Ewbank and Lily Lapenna are Co-CEO's at Verve Leaders They share how to express your true essence and the art of joyful communication.

You'll discover:

• The 3 Es Framework (Essence, Expression, Environment) that transforms the way you communicate.
• What Prince William taught me about communication in 3 minutes.
• How to listen to what's not being said, and create trust through attunement.
• How to pitch, present, and persuade with storytelling that enchants.
• The secret confidence technique of powerful speakers.
• What every great pitch needs to land, that most people avoid.

Amy Ewbank and Lily Lapenna are Co-CEO's at Verve Leaders

Lily Lapenna, MBE, is a communication geek working with professional to help them get heard and be remembered. She works in academic institutions Like Harvard and Oxford university on business and communication. She is a passionate coach and facilitator around all things communication. She was honored by Queen Elizabeth with an MBE for her social impact work.

Connect with Lily: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lilylapenna/

Amy Ewbank is a leadership coach, communication strategist, and expert in voice. She began her career as a professional actor, performing in repertory theatre, BBC Radio, and Channel 4 amongst others. She also has experience working as Head of HR at a UK national charity, she has been featured on Sky News, Channel 5 and The Guardian for her work on the stage and beyond.

Connect with Amy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-ewbank-45158a231/

Elevate your communication skills with Verve: https://www.verveleaders.com/

✅ Free Newsletter:  https://assertiveway.com/newsletter/

✅ Take the Quiz 'Do You Speak Like a High-Impact Leader?':   https://myassertiveway.outgrow.us/highimpactleader 

✅ Listen on the Speak Your Mind Unapologetically podcast on Apple Itunes:   https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speak-your-mind-unapologetically-podcast/id1623647915   

✅ Listen on Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/6L1myPkiJXYf5SGrublYz2

✅ Order our book, 'Unapologetic Voice: 101 Real-World Strategies for Brave Self Advocacy & Bold Leadership' where each strategy is also a real story:

https://www.amazon.com/Unapologetic-Voice-Real-World-Strategies-Leadership-ebook/dp/B0CW2X4WWL/

✅ Follow the show host, Ivna Curi, on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2/  

How can leaders can bridge cultural divides, welcome diverse team members, and cultivate respectful conversations? How can you be civil with uncivil people? These are some of the questions that Dr. Shaun Carver, Executive Director of International House at UC Berkeley, answers in this episode. He's spent over two decades leading in global education, from China to California, creating spaces where people from all backgrounds and cultures can connect, communicate, and thrive.

In this episode, you'll discover:

03:24 Experiences in China and joining international house

04:19 Learning from cultural communication missteps

05:27 Civility and respect in disagreement in a diverse environment

08:35 The food strategy in connecting diverse people

12:43 The secret to not feeling offended

14:18 Ideas to seek out diverse interactions beyond comfort zones

17:27 Why a mission statement doesn't create a culture that bridges team divides

20:45 How smart leaders hire even smarter people and invite challenge and dissent

25:57 How to not censor free speech yet ensure civility

29:35 Conflict comes from not understanding others

30:15 Why hating a person is harter than hating a label

32:35 How to be civil with uncivil people

34:33 When is it appropriate to speak about taboo topics like politics, religion, and cultures

37:07 Why hatred comes from opinions based on ignorance, not experience (and how to fix that)

✅ About Dr. Shaun Carver: Dr. Shaun Carver, Executive Director and CEO, International House at UC Berkeley. With over 20 years of experience in international education and higher learning, Shaun is the Executive Director and CEO of International House at UC Berkeley, a renowned institution that fosters intercultural respect and understanding among people from around the world. Prior to I-House he served as Assistant Dean for Graduate Programs in the Rady School of Management, UC San Diego (2017–2020) and as Executive Director of the Hult International Business School (Boston, New York, San Francisco, Shanghai; 2013–2017), where he oversaw 750 students representing 82 countries. Before that he served in leadership positions in institutions of international higher education in China (2002–2013) at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, Tsinghua University, and the Sino-British College of the University of Shanghai Science and Technology (USST). He holds a Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California and an MBA from California State University San Marcos.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauncarver/ 

✅ Free Newsletter:  https://assertiveway.com/newsletter/

✅ Take the Quiz 'Do You Speak Like a High-Impact Leader?':  https://myassertiveway.outgrow.us/highimpactleader 

✅ Listen on the Speak Your Mind Unapologetically podcast on Apple Itunes:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speak-your-mind-unapologetically-podcast/id1623647915   

✅ Listen on Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/6L1myPkiJXYf5SGrublYz2

✅ Order our book, 'Unapologetic Voice: 101 Real-World Strategies for Brave Self Advocacy & Bold Leadership' where each strategy is also a real story:

https://www.amazon.com/Unapologetic-Voice-Real-World-Strategies-Leadership-ebook/dp/B0CW2X4WWL/

✅ Follow the show host, Ivna Curi, on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2/  

✅ Request A Customized Workshop For Your Team And Company:   http://assertiveway.com/workshops

Contact me: info@assertiveway.com or ivnacuri@assertiveway.com

Contact me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2

✅ Support The Podcast

Rate the podcast on apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speak-your-mind-unapologetically-podcast/id1623647915

How do you prove emotional abuse at work? To handle or report workplace bullying, you need to know your rights and options. When you don't, you end up a silent victim. But where do you start, and what steps can you take to ensure your voice is heard? Join us with Kimberly Williams, Vice President of People, Culture & Compliance at Walker Advertising, who shares her personal experience with workplace harassment as well as a breakdown of employee's workplace rights and compliance.

Tune in to this episode to discover:

✔️ Effective strategies for dealing with workplace abuse and how to bring about change.

✔️ The right way to document workplace abuse incidents to strengthen your case.

✔️ Insights on when and how to involve HR in reporting workplace abuse, and what to expect.

✔️ Navigating lawsuits and the legalities of workplace disputes – know before you go!

✔️ The importance of knowing your rights as an employee and how emerging laws, like The Psychological Workplace Safety Act, are shaping the future of workplace bullying legislation.

✔️ Real-world examples of workplace abuse and actionable tips on requesting outside investigation.

✅ Follow Kimberly Williams: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-e-williams/

Instrumental in fostering Walker Advertising's inclusive and award-winning culture, Vice President Kim Williams is responsible for all aspects of people operations. Recognized for her integrity and interpersonal skills, Kim has also been acknowledged for her creative approaches to recruitment and retention. She has an unparalleled reputation for navigating turbulence and change as well as nurturing positive relationships with colleagues at all levels of an organization. She began her HR career as a diplomat with the U.S. Department of State where she tackled complex personnel challenges, negotiated at the United Nations in Vienna, and received awards for her precedent-setting work in diversity and inclusion. With a passion for community service, Kim lives Walker's unique core values that holds social responsibility and innovation as foundations for growth.

Other links on the topic:

https://workplacepsychologicalsafetyact.org/

https://undergroundrailroadinc.org/touchy-subjects-podcast.html
https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/silence-is-expensive%3A-how-workplace-bullying-drains-your-bottom-line
https://ritzherald.com/unintended-consequences-how-organizational-interventions-can-enable-toxic-leaders/
https://www.thetexasmail.com/when-going-to-work-becomes-a-matter-of-life-or-death

✅ Follow Ivna Curi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2/  

✅ Follow Ivna Curi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2/  

✅ Order our book, 'Unapologetic Voice: 101 Real-World Strategies for Brave Self Advocacy & Bold Leadership' where each strategy is also a real story:

https://www.amazon.com/Unapologetic-Voice-Real-World-Strategies-Leadership-ebook/dp/B0CW2X4WWL/

✅ Request A Customized Workshop For Your Team And Company:  http://assertiveway.com/workshops

✅ Other Episodes You'll Like

How Do You Report Workplace Harassment Being Without Unfairly Punished (with Luz Nunez)

Is Your Boss Toxic? Identifying the Signs and Taking Action (with Rob Kalwarowsky)

Emotions in Negotiation: How To Use Emotions to Resolve Conflict (with Steve Alban)

Silent No More: Breaking the Chains of Passive Communication

How To Disagree Respectfully Without Being Disagreeable

Why Being Assertive Reduces Your Stress At Work

Authority Anxiety: Why It Happens and How to Overcome It

Confidently Say No In A Respectful Way (In 7 Easy Steps)

5 Steps To Respond To Dismissive Comments

Take Control: How to Protect Your Personal Power at Work

✅ Free Resources

FREE Training & presentation on How To Be Assertive Without Being Rude, Aggressive, or Offensive: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/assertivenotrude 

Sign Up for Our Email Newsletter: https://assertiveway.com/newsletter/

From Rambling To Articulate PDF Guide: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/articulate

Podcast episode lists by theme: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/speakyourmindunapologeticallytopics

Women in Tech Leaders Podcast Interviews: https://assertiveway.com/womenintechpodcastguests/

Podcast Summaries & More Email Newsletter: https://assertiveway.com/newsletter

Our Linkedin Blog Articles:  https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6863880009879306240/  

TEDx Talk How To Speak Up Safely When It's Psychologically Unsafe: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/safespeak

10 Day free Assertive And Liked Challenge: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/beassertiveandliked

Assertiveness free training: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/getahead

Other Free resources: https://assertiveway.com/free/

Podcast page: https://assertiveway.com/podcast-speak-your-mind-unapologetically/

✅ Work With Us

Workshops: http://assertiveway.com/workshops  

Break The Silence: https://assertiveway.com/communicationculturetransformation/

Services: https://assertiveway.com/offerings

Contact me: info@assertiveway.com or ivnacuri@assertiveway.com

Contact me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2

Website: https://assertiveway.com

✅ Support The Podcast

Rate the podcast on apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speak-your-mind-unapologetically-podcast/id1623647915

Ask me your question for the next episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/speakyourmindquestion

If you feel like your manager doesn't appreciate or recognize you enough, micromanages, or disrespects you, or if you are overworked and under paid, you'll need to better manage your boss. Tune in to this episode and discover:

✔️The 6-step framework to manage your boss.

✔️Do's and don'ts when it comes to managing up.

✔️How to perform due diligence with a new line manager.

✔️The importance of empathizing with your boss.

✔️How to start off on a strong note and maintain a positive relationship with your manager.

✔️How to handle conflict or even break up with your boss with grace.

✅ Order our book, 'Unapologetic Voice: 101 Real-World Strategies for Brave Self Advocacy & Bold Leadership' where each strategy is also a real story: https://www.amazon.com/Unapologetic-Voice-Real-World-Strategies-Leadership-ebook/dp/B0CW2X4WWL/

✅ Follow Ivna Curi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2/  

✅ Request A Customized Workshop For Your Team And Company:  http://assertiveway.com/workshops

✅ Other Episodes You'll Like

Speak Your Mind: How Assertiveness Breeds Respect

The Power of Self-Respect: 10 Ways to Treat Yourself with Dignity

The Power of Self-Respect (2): 10 Ways to Treat Yourself with Dignity (Part 2)

Exuding Confidence: The Secret Language of Nonverbal Communication

Power Phrases To Speak Up With Impact (Part 1)

5 Strategies For Making Yourself Heard At Work

✅ Free Resources

FREE Training & presentation on How To Be Assertive Without Being Rude, Aggressive, or Offensive: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/assertivenotrude 

Sign Up for Our Email Newsletter: https://assertiveway.com/newsletter/

From Rambling To Articulate PDF Guide: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/articulate

Podcast episode lists by theme: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/speakyourmindunapologeticallytopics

Women in Tech Leaders Podcast Interviews: https://assertiveway.com/womenintechpodcastguests/

Podcast Summaries & More Email Newsletter: https://assertiveway.com/newsletter

Our Linkedin Blog Articles:  https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6863880009879306240/  

TEDx Talk How To Speak Up Safely When It's Psychologically Unsafe: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/safespeak

10 Day free Assertive And Liked Challenge: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/beassertiveandliked

Assertiveness free training: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/getahead

Other Free resources: https://assertiveway.com/free/

Podcast page: https://assertiveway.com/podcast-speak-your-mind-unapologetically/

✅ Work With Us

Workshops: http://assertiveway.com/workshops  

Break The Silence: https://assertiveway.com/communicationculturetransformation/

Services: https://assertiveway.com/offerings

Contact me: info@assertiveway.com or ivnacuri@assertiveway.com

Contact me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2

Website: https://assertiveway.com

✅ Support The Podcast

Rate the podcast on apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speak-your-mind-unapologetically-podcast/id1623647915

Ask me your question for the next episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/speakyourmindquestion

Ever found yourself facing a frightening opportunity, unsure whether to step forward into uncertainty or stay safe? Don't let fear dictate your path to success. If you're aiming to grow and do more, embracing boldness is non-negotiable. But how can you push past fear to make those audacious moves? Dive into this discussion with Stephanie Steeves, Global Director of Marketing at Merck Animal Health.

Tune in to this episode to discover:

✔️ How embracing opportunities you're not fully prepared for could lead to your biggest breakthroughs.

✔️ The power of saying "yes" to scary challenges and figuring out the "how" later.

✔️ Why you need to ask for what you want, even when you anticipate rejection.

✔️ Strategies for seeking out public speaking opportunities despite shyness to propel your career forward.

✔️ Deciding how you'll support your causes, whether in publicity or behind the scenes.

✅ Follow Stephanie Steeves on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-steeves/

✅ Request A Customized Workshop For Your Team And Company:  http://assertiveway.com/workshops

✅ Follow Ivna Curi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2/  

✅ Other Episodes You'll Like

Which of the 7 Levels of Belief in Your Voice Are You At?

Beyond Confidence: How To Demonstrate Conviction To Elevate Your Professional Presence

25 Ways To Beat Impostor Syndrome And Regain Your Confidence

Master the 5 Levels To Speak Your Mind Unapologetically: From Silence to Influence

15 Compelling Reasons You Need To Be More Assertive

20 Apologies You Should Never Make And What To Say Instead

15 Ways To Be More Assertive If You Are Introverted, Emotional, Even If You Hate Conflict

Assert or Accommodate? Mastering Conflict Resolution in 5 Steps

Mindset Makeover: Cultivating Assertive Thinking for Empowered Interactions

✅ Free Resources

FREE Training & presentation on How To Be Assertive Without Being Rude, Aggressive, or Offensive: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/assertivenotrude 

Sign Up for Our Email Newsletter: https://assertiveway.com/newsletter/

From Rambling To Articulate PDF Guide: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/articulate

Podcast episode lists by theme: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/speakyourmindunapologeticallytopics

Women in Tech Leaders Podcast Interviews: https://assertiveway.com/womenintechpodcastguests/

Podcast Summaries & More Email Newsletter: https://assertiveway.com/newsletter

Our Linkedin Blog Articles:  https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6863880009879306240/  

TEDx Talk How To Speak Up Safely When It's Psychologically Unsafe: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/safespeak

10 Day free Assertive And Liked Challenge: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/beassertiveandliked

Assertiveness free training: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/getahead

Other Free resources: https://assertiveway.com/free/

Podcast page: https://assertiveway.com/podcast-speak-your-mind-unapologetically/

✅ Work With Us

Workshops: http://assertiveway.com/workshops  

Break The Silence: https://assertiveway.com/communicationculturetransformation/

Services: https://assertiveway.com/offerings

Contact me: info@assertiveway.com or ivnacuri@assertiveway.com

Contact me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2

Website: https://assertiveway.com

✅ Support The Podcast

Rate the podcast on apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speak-your-mind-unapologetically-podcast/id1623647915

Ask me your question for the next episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/speakyourmindquestion

Are you struggling to promote yourself at work without sounding boastful? Discover the secret to self-promotion that feels authentic and humble. Ever wondered how you can highlight your achievements without coming off as arrogant? We delve into the art of self-promotion in the workplace. With a fine balance between confidence and humility, promoting yourself effectively can lead to career growth, opportunities, and recognition.

Tune in to this episode to discover:

✔️ The top 5 ways to subtly promote yourself at work without crossing into bragging territory.

✔️ Strategies to use when talking about your achievements, making your self-promotion feel natural and well-received. 

✔️ The crucial reasons why self-promotion isn't just beneficial but essential for your career development and how to do it right.

✅ Follow Ivna Curi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2/  

✅ Request A Customized Workshop For Your Team And Company:  http://assertiveway.com/workshops

✅ Other Episodes You'll Like

The Art of Humble Self-Promotion: Top Techniques to Elevate Your Career Profile at Work Without Boasting

How to Get Promoted 5 Times in 6 Years: The Unspoken Rule Of Career Acceleration (with Irene Zhang)

Who Is Grooming You For A Promotion? (With Gina Hope)

How To Get Noticed At Work If You Are A Minority, Underrepresented, or Underprivileged

32 Ways To Take Up More Space And Get Noticed At Work

7 Compelling Reasons You Need To Start A Bragging Ritual

Why We Hesitate to Bother Others and Why We Shouldn't

From Rambling To Articulate: How To Communicate Your Ideas Concisely and Persuasively, Even On The Spot\

5 Myths That Hold You Back From Adding Value and Being Heard In Meetings

 7 Tips To Confidently Speak In Large Meetings

✅ Free Resources

FREE Training & presentation on How To Be Assertive Without Being Rude, Aggressive, or Offensive: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/assertivenotrude 

Sign Up for Our Email Newsletter: https://assertiveway.com/newsletter/

From Rambling To Articulate PDF Guide: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/articulate

Podcast episode lists by theme: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/speakyourmindunapologeticallytopics

Women in Tech Leaders Podcast Interviews: https://assertiveway.com/womenintechpodcastguests/

Podcast Summaries & More Email Newsletter: https://assertiveway.com/newsletter

Our Linkedin Blog Articles:  https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6863880009879306240/  

TEDx Talk How To Speak Up Safely When It's Psychologically Unsafe: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/safespeak

10 Day free Assertive And Liked Challenge: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/beassertiveandliked

Assertiveness free training: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/getahead

Other Free resources: https://assertiveway.com/free/

Podcast page: https://assertiveway.com/podcast-speak-your-mind-unapologetically/

✅ Work With Us

Workshops: http://assertiveway.com/workshops  

Break The Silence: https://assertiveway.com/communicationculturetransformation/

Services: https://assertiveway.com/offerings

Contact me: info@assertiveway.com or ivnacuri@assertiveway.com

Contact me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2

Website: https://assertiveway.com

✅ Support The Podcast

Rate the podcast on apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speak-your-mind-unapologetically-podcast/id1623647915

Ask me your question for the next episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/speakyourmindquestion

Change is hard. Why do people resist change in organizations, and how can leaders effectively overcome this resistance? Join us in this real talk with lessons from a leader who has been there. Our guest, Suzanne Knight, CEO & Founder, mBolden Ltd., discusses strategies for leading through transformational change and dealing with resistance.

She shares the importance of executive buy-in, clear communication of the vision, and understanding the human impact of change. Suzanne highlights the challenges of initiating change from within the organization and how external consultants can often be more effective due to their neutrality.

She also discusses the role of KPIs and the importance of balancing different stakeholder interests. Lastly, she provides advice for employees navigating change, focusing on constructive resistance and up-skilling to adapt to the future of work.

Tune in to this episode to discover:

✔️ The emotional landscape of change and its profound impact on organizations.

✔️ Vital strategies for overcoming resistance to change by engaging vision and clear communication.

✔️ The importance of external consultants in providing neutral perspectives for effective change management.

✔️ How pilot programs and testing phases are pivotal in the successful implementation of change initiatives.

✔️ Empowering strategies for employees to constructively embrace and adapt to change, enhancing their future work prospects.

✅ About Suzanne Knight: 

Suzanne Knight is an award-winning expert and keynote speaker on transformational change and the future of work. CEO and Founder of mBolden consulting firm, Suzanne works with clients around the world helping them anticipate and adapt to change so they can thrive, rather than just survive. Through her own firm and nearly a decade at Deloitte, Suzanne worked with over 40 clients in 12 countries. Beyond her consulting work, Suzanne is an active angel investor with The Firehood, start-up advisor, and tech founder. She previously spent 5 years with Walmart Canada as Vice President, Transformation Services and Philip Morris International as National Director of Organizational Effectiveness, leading organization transformation and change in both roles.

Suzanne volunteers as a SickKids Innovator, mentor with Urban Squash Toronto, and is on the HR Committee of JIAS. She has served as head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for a Consumer Goods company, on the Executive Advisory Council for Walmart Canada's Women in Retail program, and on the Foundation Board of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection.

Suzanne has an MA in Industrial/Organizational Psychology and MBA in Finance and Strategy. In 2023, she was recognized on The Peak's Emerging (under age 40) Leaders List and The DMZ's Women of the Year.

✅ Connect with Suzanne Knight: 

www.mbolden.co - Human capital consulting firm focused on helping clients understand and prepare for the future of work.
LinkedIn profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/skknight/

✅ Follow Ivna Curi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2/  

✅ Request A Customized Workshop For Your Team And Company:  http://assertiveway.com/workshops

✅ Other Episodes You'll Like

The Self-Advocacy Guide to Engagement at Work (PART 1)

How To Navigate Change with Confidence: From Anxiety to Personal Success

How To Master the Art of Outspoken & Decisive Leadership (with Aditi Sharma)

The Respectful Way To Give Bad News To An Employee (With Reshmi Nair)

15 Ways To Show You Care About Your Team To Build Resilience For Hard Conversations

✅ Free Resources

FREE Training & presentation on How To Be Assertive Without Being Rude, Aggressive, or Offensive: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/assertivenotrude 

Sign Up for Our Email Newsletter: https://assertiveway.com/newsletter/

From Rambling To Articulate PDF Guide: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/articulate

Podcast episode lists by theme: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/speakyourmindunapologeticallytopics

Women in Tech Leaders Podcast Interviews: https://assertiveway.com/womenintechpodcastguests/

Podcast Summaries & More Email Newsletter: https://assertiveway.com/newsletter

Our Linkedin Blog Articles:  https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6863880009879306240/  

TEDx Talk How To Speak Up Safely When It's Psychologically Unsafe: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/safespeak

10 Day free Assertive And Liked Challenge: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/beassertiveandliked

Assertiveness free training: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/getahead

Other Free resources: https://assertiveway.com/free/

Podcast page: https://assertiveway.com/podcast-speak-your-mind-unapologetically/

✅ Work With Us

Workshops: http://assertiveway.com/workshops  

Break The Silence: https://assertiveway.com/communicationculturetransformation/

Services: https://assertiveway.com/offerings

Contact me: info@assertiveway.com or ivnacuri@assertiveway.com

Contact me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2

Website: https://assertiveway.com

✅ Support The Podcast

Rate the podcast on apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speak-your-mind-unapologetically-podcast/id1623647915

Ask me your question for the next episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/speakyourmindquestion

Ever wondered why your attempts at establishing limits are met with resistance, or why your conversations don't lead to the mutual respect you're aiming for? We'll delve deep into the mistakes you might not even realize you're making, and how they can negatively impact your interactions.

Tune in to this episode to discover:

✔️ The importance of context and tone in boundary-setting conversations to prevent miscommunication.

✔️ Examples of passive-aggressive or aggressive boundary-setting language.

✔️ 7 Principles for confrontation-free boundaries.

✅ Get a FREE guide on the 7 Steps To Say No Without Hurting Any Feelings: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/sayno 

✅ Other Episodes You'll Like

13 Reasons Why People Don't Respect Your Boundaries

How Do You Outsmart A Manipulator? 7 Proven Strategies To Tackle Manipulation Head-On

The Power of Self-Respect: 10 Ways to Treat Yourself with Dignity

Confidently Say No In A Respectful Way (In 7 Easy Steps)

18 Signs That You Are A People Pleaser

9 Questions To Decide When To Practice Speaking Up Ahead

✅ Follow Ivna Curi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2/  

✅ Free Resources

FREE guide on the 7 Steps To Say No Without Hurting Any Feelings: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/sayno

FREE Training & presentation on How To Be Assertive Without Being Rude, Aggressive, or Offensive: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/assertivenotrude 

Sign Up for Our Email Newsletter: https://assertiveway.com/newsletter/

From Rambling To Articulate PDF Guide: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/articulate

Podcast episode lists by theme: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/speakyourmindunapologeticallytopics

Women in Tech Leaders Podcast Interviews: https://assertiveway.com/womenintechpodcastguests/

Podcast Summaries & More Email Newsletter: https://assertiveway.com/newsletter

Our Linkedin Blog Articles:  https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6863880009879306240/  

TEDx Talk How To Speak Up Safely When It's Psychologically Unsafe: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/safespeak

10 Day free Assertive And Liked Challenge: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/beassertiveandliked

Assertiveness free training: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/getahead

Other Free resources: https://assertiveway.com/free/

Podcast page: https://assertiveway.com/podcast-speak-your-mind-unapologetically/

✅ Work With Us

Workshops: http://assertiveway.com/workshops  

Break The Silence: https://assertiveway.com/communicationculturetransformation/

Services: https://assertiveway.com/offerings

Contact me: info@assertiveway.com or ivnacuri@assertiveway.com

Contact me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2

Website: https://assertiveway.com

✅ Support The Podcast

Rate the podcast on apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speak-your-mind-unapologetically-podcast/id1623647915

Ask me your question for the next episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/speakyourmindquestion

✅ Request A Customized Workshop For Your Team And Company:  http://assertiveway.com/workshops

Are you struggling to make your voice heard in the professional world? Learning to control and effectively use your voice can dramatically shift how you're perceived and influence your career trajectory. But where do you start?

Our guest Wendy Demolino, a seasoned tech executive with a wealth of experience from Oracle to Microsoft, takes us through her path from her initial struggles with communication control to becoming a commanding presence.

Wendy candidly discusses her early days, being labeled as polarizing, "the kid," and a "rookie," and how she navigated these challenges to manage her crying, overcome workplace labels, and master the art of effective networking.

Tune in to this episode to discover:

✔️ A practical strategy for managing emotional responses like crying and maintaining professionalism, even when frustration levels are high.

✔️ Insights into navigating workplace labels, stereotypes, and overcoming negative perceptions to reshape your professional image.

✔️ The critical importance of being in the right places for career opportunities and how to ensure you're invited to the 'party.'

✔️ Guidance on when to take the lead as a spokesperson and when it's strategic to let others speak, balancing visibility and inclusivity.

✔️ Tips for casual networking that can lead to finding a mentor or sponsor, crucial for career advancement.

✅ About Wendy Delmolino: 

Currently retired after a 30-year career in the Washington area Technology industry, Wendy most recently held the position of Microsoft Global Customer Success Leader for the Americas working to accelerate customers' digital transformations through adoption of Microsoft Cloud. Prior to Microsoft, Wendy spent over 28 years at Oracle Corporation in a number of roles across both commercial and government businesses, including Vice President Customer Success leading teams responsible for approximately half of Oracle's North American Cloud Technology customers.

Throughout her career, Wendy has been an advocate of diversity in the technology industry including representing Oracle on the United States House of Representatives Women's Conference Panel, as an Executive Sponsor in Microsoft Accessibility Resource Groups and mentoring those in under-represented communities. In 2018, Wendy began mentoring through Girls in Technology (GIT), a Women in Technology Washington, D.C. program and is currently the Mentor Liaison for the Mentor-Protégé Committee.

Based out of the Washington, D.C. metro area, Wendy's passion is her family including her husband Dominic, her children Peter and Francesca, and beloved Labrador retriever Fenway. Wendy enjoys relaxing hikes in the Washington area, trips to Walt Disney World in Florida and participating in runDisney races.

✅ Follow Wendy Delmolino on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendydelmolino/

✅ Request A Customized Workshop For Your Team And Company:  contact ivnacuri@assertiveway.com  

✅ Follow Ivna Curi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2/  

✅ Other Episodes You'll Like

Feeling Emotional? 9 Tips for Navigating Emotional Conversations with Confidence

10 Negotiation Tactics to Make You More Assertive And Have More Influence

5 Strategies For Making Yourself Heard At Work

From Rambling To Articulate: How To Communicate Your Ideas Concisely and Persuasively, Even On The Spot

7 Ways To Make Yourself Heard In Meetings

The Power of a Thick Skin: 10 Ways Assertive

 Communication Helps You Handle Difficult Workplace Situations

How To Express Your Emotions And Feelings To Persuade Others

How To Not Come Across As Aggressive When You're Outspoken

How To Take Criticism Without Getting Defensive (an assertiveness technique with examples)

Smashing Stereotypes: How To Confront 5 Common Biased Assumptions About Women at Work

Why Women Are Blamed For Team Failures And Don't Get Credit For Team Successes

How Can Women Close The Gender Gap Even If They Suffer Gender Bias

Top 10 Daily Challenges Women Face At Work

✅ Free Resources

FREE Training & presentation on How To Be Assertive Without Being Rude, Aggressive, or Offensive: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/assertivenotrude 

Sign Up for Our Email Newsletter: https://assertiveway.com/newsletter/

From Rambling To Articulate PDF Guide: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/articulate

Podcast episode lists by theme: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/speakyourmindunapologeticallytopics

Women in Tech Leaders Podcast Interviews: https://assertiveway.com/womenintechpodcastguests/

Podcast Summaries & More Email Newsletter: https://assertiveway.com/newsletter

Our Linkedin Blog Articles:  https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6863880009879306240/  

TEDx Talk How To Speak Up Safely When It's Psychologically Unsafe: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/safespeak

10 Day free Assertive And Liked Challenge: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/beassertiveandliked

Assertiveness free training: https://assertiveway.aweb.page/getahead

Other Free resources: https://assertiveway.com/free/

Podcast page: https://assertiveway.com/podcast-speak-your-mind-unapologetically/

✅ Work With Us

Workshops: http://assertiveway.com/workshops  

Break The Silence: https://assertiveway.com/communicationculturetransformation/

Services: https://assertiveway.com/offerings

Contact me: info@assertiveway.com or ivnacuri@assertiveway.com

Contact me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivna-curi-mba-67083b2

Website: https://assertiveway.com

✅ Support The Podcast

Rate the podcast on apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speak-your-mind-unapologetically-podcast/id1623647915

Ask me your question for the next episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/speakyourmindquestion