Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Unstuck & Unstoppable
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Episode 3 Three steps to kickstart your leadership job search | 26 Nov 2024 | 00:14:36 | |
Sarah shares practical strategies to help you get unstuck and take the first steps toward securing your next leadership role. Sarah outlines three foundational steps to kickstart your leadership job search, focusing on motivation, clarity, and mindset. Whether you’re aiming for your first leadership role or planning a move to the next level, these actionable insights will set you on the path to success. Episode Show Notes[00:00] Introduction Meet Sarah Archer and her mission to help female leaders thrive. Overview of the episode’s focus: taking action on your leadership job search. [01:10] Step 1: Set a Goal with a Timeline Define a specific date for when you want to be in your new role. Plan backwards to allocate time for your job search. Identify "pull motivators" that inspire you to move forward. [04:30] Step 2: Define Your Ideal Role Clarify the elements of your next role: success factors, culture fit, stretch opportunities, and pay. How to narrow down non-negotiables to streamline your search. Using role criteria to make objective decisions during the offer stage. [09:15] Step 3: Manage Mindset Wobbles Overcome self-doubt and inner criticism that can hinder progress. Tap into your inner coach to remind yourself of your strengths and achievements. Strategies for staying motivated and confident throughout the job search process. [12:30] Recap and Closing Thoughts Summary of the three steps: setting a timeline, defining your ideal role, and managing your mindset. Invitation to connect for personalized coaching support. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 2: How to stop feeling like an imposter at work | 26 Nov 2024 | 00:19:29 | |
Today Sarah dives into the common but often unspoken experience of imposter feelings at work. If you've ever felt like a fraud or doubted your achievements, you're not alone—and this episode will help you kickstart the process of overcoming those thoughts. Episode Show Notes:[00:00] Introduction Meet your host, Sarah Archer, leadership coach and career strategist. Overview of the episode: imposter feelings and their impact. [01:15] What Are Imposter Feelings? Statistics: 70% of adults experience imposter feelings at some point. Triggering situations: new roles, promotions, or stepping out of comfort zones. [04:20] The Disconnect Between Perception and Reality Telltale signs of imposter feelings: doubting accomplishments and fearing exposure. The role of internalized rules and harsh self-judgment. [07:00] Roots of Imposter Feelings Potential origins: childhood, early career experiences, or authority fears. Sarah shares her personal story of overcoming imposter feelings. [10:10] The Brain’s Coping Mechanisms Strategies like perfectionism, avoidance, and overworking to manage feelings of exposure. The exhausting impact on confidence, career growth, and mental energy. [13:00] Breaking the Pattern Understanding imposter feelings as a psychological pattern, not a permanent state. Levels of change: environment, capabilities, beliefs, and identity. [15:30] Real-Life Transformation: Sally’s Story A client’s journey from imposter feelings to confidence in a new leadership role. The importance of embedding new thinking patterns. [17:30] Actionable Strategy: Identify and Reframe Your Rules Unearthing unhelpful rules with prompts:
Reframing rules as if advising a friend. [18:50] Final Thoughts and Next Steps Take time to identify unconscious rules and seek support if needed. Resources and coaching opportunities available on Sarah’s website. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 1 How to not hate networking | 26 Nov 2024 | 00:16:54 | |
Welcome to the first episode of Unstuck and Unstoppable! In this episode, Sarah Archer dives into a topic many ambitious female leaders grapple with—networking. Love it or hate it, networking is essential for building relationships, advancing your career, and unlocking new opportunities. Sarah shares actionable tips to make networking more enjoyable and meaningful by shifting your mindset, setting clear goals, and navigating those awkward moments. Show Notes [00:00:00] Introduction Sarah introduces Unstuck and Unstoppable, a podcast for ambitious female leaders looking to create more impact, income, and influence without burning out. She outlines the themes of confidence, purpose-driven leadership, and career success. [00:02:00] The Networking Dilemma Why so many of us dread networking and how our mindset—promotion or prevention—shapes our experience. Sarah shares her personal evolution from a prevention to a promotion mindset. [00:05:00] Tip 1: Define Your "Why" for Networking Learn how understanding your purpose can make networking more meaningful, whether it's learning, making connections, raising your profile, or simply being curious. [00:08:00] Tip 2: Find the Right Networking Group Sarah discusses the importance of finding a group that aligns with your personality and goals. Experimentation is key to discovering the right fit. [00:10:00] Tip 3: Have Strategies for What You Dislike Practical advice to handle awkward moments, from starting conversations to gracefully exiting ones that aren't working for you. [00:13:00] Tip 4: Set Mini Goals Boost your confidence and sense of achievement by setting small, actionable goals for each networking event. [00:15:00] Tip 5: Follow Up Effectively Networking doesn't end when the event is over. Sarah highlights the importance of maintaining meaningful connections through follow-ups and collaborations. [00:16:00] Final Thoughts and Closing Sarah recaps the key points, encourages listeners to adopt a promotion mindset, and invites them to be strategic about networking as part of their leadership journey. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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: | |||
| Welcome to the Unstuck & Unstoppable podcast (trailer) | 26 Nov 2024 | 00:02:02 | |
Welcome to the trailer of the Unstuck & Unstoppable podcast; a weekly career show for ambitious women. It's packed full of tips and strategies to help you thrive on your leadership career journey. Join Sarah Archer, an experienced leadership coach and career strategist as she explains what you can expect from the podcast. Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn or send me a DM at sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk | |||
| Episode 4 How to Negotiate Your Worth | 06 Dec 2024 | 00:22:32 | |
Sarah tackles a vital topic: negotiating your worth - whether it's asking for a payrise or negotiating a better salary at job offer stage. Sarah delves into the importance of preparing both practically and mentally for salary negotiations, sharing actionable strategies to help you confidently advocate for the pay you deserve. Episode Show notes[01:00] The Importance of Understanding Your Motivation
[5:00] Doing Your Research Learn where to gather salary data, including:
[09:00] Preparing a Strong Business Case Outline your desired salary and back it up with:
[14:00] Timing & Building Relationships Why timing is crucial: post-project success or organizational shifts can be opportune moments. The role of your boss as an ally in the negotiation process. [17:00] The Emotional Aspect of Negotiations Strategies to manage anxiety and rejection. Shifting your mindset to view the negotiation as part of long-term career development. [17:30] The Pension Pay Gap and Future Planning Learn why addressing salary negotiations is essential for closing the gender pension gap. Discover how cumulative salary decisions impact your long-term financial security [20:00] Backup Plans Alternative benefits to negotiate, such as flexibility, additional training, or future reviews. How to decide whether to stay or move on if your request is denied. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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, and let Sarah know how your negotiation journey goes. Remember, you’re unstoppable! | |||
| Episode 5 Stay or Go? When to quit your job | 13 Dec 2024 | 00:14:08 | |
Sarah tackles a dilemma that most professionals face at some point in their careers: Should I stay in my job, or is it time to leave? She explores the red flags that signal it’s time to move on, how to assess whether your dissatisfaction is fixable, and how to make a robust decision that aligns with your values and goals. Sarah also shares a step-by-step diagnostic to help you gain clarity and confidence in your next career move. Whether you’re feeling stuck, plateauing, or just unsure about your next step, this episode is packed with practical advice to guide you. Episode Show Notes: [00:00:00] Introduction: Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable. Sarah introduces the show and today’s topic, sharing why the decision to stay or leave a job is so challenging. [00:02:00] Clear Indicators It’s Time to Leave: Toxic work environments, mental health impacts, and lack of change or growth opportunities. [00:03:00] Subtler Signs of Dissatisfaction: Boredom, plateauing, or feeling stuck despite great perks or pay. [00:04:00] Diagnostic Questions to Gain Clarity: How to evaluate what’s wrong with your job and whether it can be fixed. [00:05:30] Assessing Growth Opportunities: Looking internally for new challenges, projects, or lateral moves within your organization. [00:06:30] Pros and Cons of Leaving vs. Staying: Weighing the benefits and trade-offs of each option. [00:07:30] Energy and Values Check-In: How energy levels and values alignment impact your career satisfaction and decision-making. [00:09:00] Conversations to Have: Talking to your boss, HR, mentors, or coaches to explore options and gain perspective. [00:10:00] Setting a Deadline for Decision-Making: Avoiding indecision by setting a firm timeline for your next steps. [00:11:00] Preparing for Your Next Move: Defining criteria for your next role, whether internal or external, and making time for your search or preparation. [00:12:30] Sarah’s Final Takeaway: “No decision is ever wrong; it’s simply the decision you made at the time.” Remember: Shine brightly. Lead boldly. Be unstoppable. Useful Links Stay or Go LinkedIn Live Recording Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 7 Career Change Made Simple: Should You Shift, Pivot, or Leap? | 27 Dec 2024 | 00:12:54 | |
In this episode, Sarah delves into the concept of career change, exploring three different pathways—shift, pivot, or leap. She shares practical strategies, real-life client examples, and personal experiences to help you understand which type of change might be right for you. Episode Shownotes: [00:00:00] Intro: Welcome to the podcast, its purpose, and Sarah's mission to help ambitious female leaders thrive while staying true to their values. [00:02:00] Why Career Change Happens: Common reasons people consider career change, including boredom, misalignment of values, or feeling stuck. [00:04:00] Overcoming Career Change Fears: Addressing the fears that arise during career change, such as uncertainty, fear of judgment, and loss of identity. [00:05:00] Degrees of Career Change: Breaking down career change into three pathways: shift, pivot, or leap. [00:06:00] Shift: Examples of staying within your current career while making meaningful changes, such as a teacher moving into leadership or a marketer transitioning sectors. [00:08:00] Pivot: Stories of professionals using existing skills to move into new but related roles, such as a marketing manager becoming an employee engagement manager. [00:09:00] Leap: Transformational career changes, like a communications director retraining as a speech and language therapist. [00:10:00] Sarah’s Career Journey: Personal examples of shifts, pivots, and leaps in Sarah’s career, from HR to career coaching. [00:11:00] Emotional vs. Practical Aspects of Change: The importance of mindset, confidence, and motivation in making a successful career transition. [00:12:00] Final Thoughts: Encouragement to take action, explore free resources, and connect with Sarah for guidance on career changes. Useful Links Watch this episode on LinkedIn Live Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 6 How to boost your leadership confidence | 20 Dec 2024 | 00:17:33 | |
In this episode, Sarah tackles a common challenge: maintaining and boosting leadership confidence amidst high expectations, decision-making pressures, and self-doubt. Tune in for actionable strategies, real-life examples, and tips to help you build a strong inner foundation for sustainable confidence and success. Show Notes[00:00:00] Introduction
[00:01:00] Why Leadership Confidence Wobbles
[00:04:00] Common Challenges for Female Leaders
[00:05:30] The Foundation of Leadership Confidence
[00:07:00] Working on Beliefs and Narratives
[00:11:30] The Role of Triggers and Stories
[00:13:00] Amplifying Your Leadership Brand
[00:15:00] Key Takeaways
[00:16:30] Invitation for Support
[00:17:00] Closing Remarks
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could benefit. Useful Links Watch the LinkedIn Live Recording Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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. Don’t Forget to Subscribe! 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 unstoppable! | |||
| Episode 10 How to Avoid Leadership Burnout | 17 Jan 2025 | 00:16:28 | |
In this episode, Sarah Archer explores the critical issue of Leadership Burnout. Sarah shares insights into what burnout looks like, why it happens, and why women in leadership roles are particularly at risk. She discusses the pressures of isolation, unrealistic expectations, multitasking, and work-life imbalance, as well as how traits like perfectionism and people-pleasing can exacerbate the problem. Sarah offers practical strategies to prevent burnout, including setting boundaries, building routines, and prioritizing self-care. Show Notes[00:01:30] Why Talk About Burnout? – Insights into burnout's prevalence among female leaders and its consequences. [00:03:00] Leadership Challenges – The additional pressures leaders face in times of change and high performance demands. [00:04:30] Burnout Statistics – McKinsey research highlights burnout's higher prevalence among women in management. [00:05:30] Defining Burnout – Symptoms, causes, and its definition by the World Health Organization. [00:07:00] Causes of Leadership Burnout – Isolation, lack of support, unrealistic workloads, multitasking, and power stress. [00:09:00] Recognizing Burnout Indicators – Personal signs and triggers to watch for. [00:10:30] Practical Tips to Prevent Burnout:
[00:14:30] Final Thoughts – Key takeaways and an invitation to connect and explore more resources. Remember: shine brightly, lead boldly, and be unstoppable. Useful Links How to Boost Your Wellbeing at Work E-book Women In The Workplace 2023 Mckinsey Report Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 9 How to Stop Being A Perfectionist At Work | 10 Jan 2025 | 00:18:16 | |
In today’s episode, Sarah tackles a common challenge faced by high achievers: perfectionism. We explore why perfectionism can be a double-edged sword, the stress and anxiety it causes, and how you can overcome it without compromising on quality. She shares actionable insights, including a 7-step approach to embracing the concept of “good enough,” designed to help you reclaim your time, reduce stress, and achieve sustainable success. Show Notes[00:00:00] Introduction Why tackling perfectionism is crucial for female leaders. [00:02:00] The Downside of Perfectionism Perfectionism’s connection to imposter syndrome and stress. How it impacts performance, well-being, and relationships. [00:05:00] Personal Story: My Struggles with Perfectionism Balancing motherhood and a senior HR role. The transformative power of the “good enough” concept. [00:07:30] Case Study: Breaking the Cycle A perfectionist architect’s journey to embracing good enough. [00:08:00] The 7-Step Approach to Good Enough Identify Two Tasks to Experiment On Focus on low-impact tasks. Define Good Enough for Yourself Consider time and impact trade-offs. Give Yourself Permission to Experiment Use affirmations to reframe perfectionist tendencies. Focus on the Benefits Reclaim time for personal priorities like family or self-care. Monitor Your Progress Reflect on outcomes and celebrate success. Engage Support Seek feedback and accountability from peers or managers. Address Underlying Beliefs Work with a coach or therapist to reframe limiting beliefs. [00:17:00] Recap and Final Thoughts Quick summary of the seven steps. Encouragement to embrace imperfection and unlock your potential. Thank you for listening—remember, you’re capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock your extraordinary potential. Be unstoppable. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| How to be successful in your next job interview | 03 Jan 2025 | 00:18:57 | |
This episode focuses on mastering your mindset to increase your chances of success in job interviews. From mindset tips to practical strategies, Sarah provides the tools you need to ace your next interview and achieve your career aspirations. Show Notes [00:00:00] Welcome and Introduction [00:02:00] The Growing Complexity of Interviews
[00:03:00] Overcoming Negative Mindsets
[00:05:00] Harnessing Positive Experiences
[00:06:00] Reframing Nerves as Excitement
[00:09:00] Gaining Perspective
[00:11:00] Seeing Interviewers as Allies
[00:13:00] Power of Affirmations
[00:15:00] Visualization Techniques
[00:17:00] Final Encouragement and Resources
Remember, you are capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be unstoppable! Useful Links Watch the episode on LinkedIn Live Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 13 How to develop your personal brand authentically | 07 Feb 2025 | 00:14:44 | |
In this episode Sarah dives deep into a critical yet often challenging topic: personal branding. She explores why personal branding matters, how to create one authentically, and ways to navigate challenges such as the “likability conundrum.” If you’re ready to take control of your narrative and elevate your career, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways
Show Notes [00:00:00] - Introduction to the podcast and host, Sarah Archer. [00:01:00] - Why personal branding is vital and often overlooked. [00:02:30] - The benefits of having a strong personal brand. [00:03:30] - Challenges women face, including the likability conundrum. [00:05:00] - Strategies to overcome societal biases authentically. [00:06:00] - Controlling your narrative and crafting your brand story. [00:08:00] - Identifying your brand elements: value, skills, and impact. [00:10:00] - Opportunities to enhance visibility internally and externally. [00:11:00] - Networking strategies that work for introverts and extroverts. [00:12:30] - The importance of authenticity in leadership and self-promotion. [00:13:30] - Recap and actionable tips for developing your personal brand. Useful Links Watch this episode on LinkedIn Live Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 unstoppable. | |||
| Episode 12 How to Get Your Leadership Mojo Back! | 31 Jan 2025 | 00:17:16 | |
In this empowering episode Sarah dives into a challenge that many leaders face: losing their leadership mojo. Whether it’s burnout, feeling stagnant, or simply being overwhelmed, Sarah shares actionable strategies to help you rediscover your energy, passion, and leadership identity. Packed with practical tips and inspiring insights, this episode is your guide to regaining confidence and leading with purpose. Show Notes: [00:00:00] Welcome and Introduction [00:01:00] The Mojo Disappears
[00:03:00] Signs You’ve Lost Your Mojo
[00:06:00] Recognizing the Opportunity for Reflection
[00:07:00] Leadership Identity and Values
[00:09:00] The Energy Check-In
[00:10:00] Priming for Success
[00:12:00] Reframing Challenges as Growth Opportunities
[00:14:00] Transforming Your Language
[00:16:00] Recap and Closing Thoughts
Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Resources Insight Timer App: A tool for guided meditations to help you set the tone for your day. 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 | |||
| Episode 11 How to cope when you don't get the job | 24 Jan 2025 | 00:15:17 | |
Job hunting can be a tough and exhausting journey, especially when you don’t land the offer after pouring so much energy into interview preparation. The sting of rejection can impact your confidence, motivation, and even your sense of direction. But don’t worry—there’s a way forward. In this episode, Sarah breaks down eight actionable steps to help you bounce back stronger. From managing the emotions of rejection and regaining your confidence to identifying common pitfalls and crafting a stronger personal brand, you’ll discover practical strategies to improve your interview performance. By the end, you’ll be ready to reframe rejection, embrace resilience, and approach your job search with renewed energy and clarity. If you’re feeling stuck after a job rejection, this episode will guide you toward turning the experience into a stepping stone for success. Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable [00:01:00] Why rejection can feel so hard and its impact on job seekers. [00:03:00] Step 1: Take time to recharge and regain perspective. [00:04:30] Step 2: Get actionable feedback and how to use it wisely. [00:06:00] Step 3: Analyze your fit and identify what’s missing. [00:07:00] Step 4: Review and refine your interview technique. [00:08:00] Step 5: Understand your personal brand and create impact. [00:10:00] Step 6: Reconnect with your confidence and quiet your inner critic. [00:11:00] Step 7: Build resilience to navigate rejection effectively. [00:12:30] Step 8: Get back out there and continue your job search journey. [00:14:00] The importance of seeking help, including interview coaching options. Useful Links Watch the episode on LinkedIn LIve Related Episode: [Episode 8: How to Be Successful at Your Next Interview] Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 30 How to Identify Your Strengths for a New Leadership Role | 06 Jun 2025 | 00:13:35 | |
In this episode, Sarah dives into a crucial topic for career clarity and confidence: how to identify your strengths when preparing for a new leadership role.Whether you're navigating a transition, returning from redundancy, or feeling unclear about your value, this episode will guide you through practical, reflective tools to uncover and articulate your unique strengths—so you can position yourself powerfully for what’s next. Show Not:[00:01:00] Why Identifying Your Strengths Matters Understand the importance of knowing and communicating your strengths for your next role. [00:02:00] Common Challenges Senior Women Face From imposter syndrome to redundancy and lack of clarity—why strengths can feel hard to spot. [00:03:00] Real Client Example: Shifting Interview Confidence How coaching helped a senior leader improve confidence and articulation in interviews. [00:04:00] How Strengths Drive Career Clarity & Pay Equity Why strengths awareness impacts career enjoyment, performance, and pay. [00:05:00] Client Story: From Playing Small to Strategic Leader A redundancy led to discovering untapped strategic strengths and bigger career goals. [00:06:00] Client Story: Owning Efficiency as a Superpower Discovering a strength in driving efficiency transformed personal brand and job positioning. [00:07:00] Step 1: Create a Personal Career Timeline Use life and career highs/lows to reveal consistent themes and character strengths. [00:08:00] Step 2: Reflect on Key Achievements Analyze what made your past achievements successful—skills, passion, and business value. [00:09:00] Step 3: Explore Your Reputation and Leadership Brand What are you known for? Dig into the external perception of your leadership value. [00:10:00] Step 4: Seek Feedback to Uncover Blind Spots How asking trusted colleagues can bring strengths to light you may overlook. [00:11:00] Step 5: Craft a Powerful Narrative Align your strengths, experience, and impact into a compelling leadership story. [00:12:00] Final Thoughts & Invitation Reflecting on your strengths gives clarity, confidence, and career direction—reach out if you'd like support in this journey. [00:13:00] Resources, Reviews & Closing Inspiration Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 ✨ You are capable of more than you know. Shine brightly. Lead boldly. Be unstoppable. | |||
| Episode 29 How to Cope With Difficult Feedback | 30 May 2025 | 00:16:33 | |
Receiving feedback, especially the difficult kind, can feel disorienting and emotional. But as a leader, learning how to process and respond to it effectively is key to your growth and success. In this episode, Sarah shares practical strategies to help you deal with tough feedback, reframe your response, and decide what’s useful to take on board, all while staying true to who you are. Whether you're facing recent criticism or want to build a feedback-positive culture in your team, this episode is full of valuable insights to help you feel more empowered and less reactive. Show Notes:[00:00:00] - Welcome & Podcast Purpose Sarah introduces Unstuck and Unstoppable, her mission, and who the podcast is for: ambitious female leaders who want to thrive with authenticity. [00:02:00] – Why Difficult Feedback Is So Hard Explores the emotional reactions feedback can trigger and why it’s not always objective or helpful. [00:03:00] – Feedback Isn't Always Fair Understanding that feedback can be inaccurate, biased, or based on others' projections, and why discernment matters. [00:04:00] – A Personal Story of Tough Feedback Sarah shares a pivotal early-career experience of receiving difficult feedback and how it helped her grow. [00:05:00] – The 8 Strategies: 1. Don’t React Immediately How to give yourself space to process emotions using reframing techniques like cognitive reappraisal and self-affirmation. [00:06:00] – 2. Get More Data Seek feedback from multiple sources to validate, challenge, or contextualise the criticism. [00:07:00] – Client Examples: Reframing Feedback Real-life stories of clients using 360 feedback and peer insights to shift perspective and regain confidence. [00:09:00] – 3. Find the Wisdom in the Feedback Work with a coach or reflect independently to determine what to take forward and what to let go. [00:09:30] – 4. Make Your Changes Visible Use symbolic or public actions to shift perceptions, especially in leadership roles. [00:10:30] – 5. Don’t Isolate Yourself Why avoiding people who gave you feedback or playing the victim doesn’t serve your growth, and how to reconnect. [00:12:00] – 6. When Change Isn’t the Answer What to do when feedback conflicts with your core strengths or style, and how to ask for understanding instead. [00:13:00] – Balancing Preferences with Expectations Navigating differences in working styles, like structure vs. spontaneity, and finding a shared understanding. [00:14:00] – 7. Don’t Shrink or Play Small Why negative feedback shouldn’t diminish your confidence—and how to check if external factors are impacting your performance. [00:14:30] – 8. Create a Feedback Culture Modeling feedback-seeking and giving behaviors as a leader to encourage a growth-focused environment. [00:15:30] – Recap of the 8 Key Strategies A quick summary of all the tools and ideas shared in the episode to manage and learn from difficult feedback. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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're capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. | |||
| Episode 20 How to Successfully Challenge Upwards in Your Leadership Role | 28 Mar 2025 | 00:15:48 | |
In this episode, Sarah dives into the art of challenging upwards — how to voice your concerns or alternative views to senior leaders without damaging your career or key relationships. Whether it’s pushing back on a strategy, highlighting risks, or setting boundaries, she shares practical strategies to navigate these tricky conversations with confidence and empathy. Timestamps: [00:00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable — intro to the podcast and today’s topic [00:02:00] Why challenging upwards can feel difficult — the fear of damaging relationships or careers [00:03:00] Real-life examples: My leadership experience at Amnesty International and recent client stories [00:05:00] The importance of positioning — it’s not about disrespect, but offering an alternative view [00:06:00] Connecting with your values and choosing your battles wisely [00:07:00] Building strong relationships with senior leaders to create trust and credibility [00:08:00] Developing cognitive flexibility — seeing different perspectives as a leadership skill [00:09:00] Understanding your unconscious needs — are you driven by the need to be right or liked? [00:10:00] Recognizing emotional triggers and giving yourself time to respond thoughtfully [00:11:00] Crafting your message — using facts, logic, and data to resonate with senior decision-makers [00:12:00] Language matters — why “and” is more powerful than “but” [00:13:00] The importance of bravery — standing firm as a leader while remaining professional [00:14:00] Quick recap of strategies for challenging upwards [00:15:00] How I can support you with leadership coaching — connect with me on LinkedIn or my website Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 your extraordinary potential. Be unstoppable. | |||
| Episode 19 How to be Assertive at Work | 21 Mar 2025 | 00:13:29 | |
In this episode, Sarah tackles the important topic of assertiveness at work — a crucial skill for communicating your needs, setting boundaries, and advocating for yourself with confidence. You’ll learn about different assertive communication techniques, how to assess your current communication style, and practical steps to start experimenting and building your assertiveness muscle. Show Notes [00:00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable - Introduction to the podcast and its mission. [00:01:00] Why assertiveness matters — The link between confidence and assertiveness in leadership. [00:02:00] What it means to be assertive at work — Balancing your needs while respecting others. [00:03:00] Why people struggle with assertiveness — Common fears and self-doubts. [00:04:00] Assess your current communication style — Identifying whether you're passive, aggressive, or assertive. [00:05:00] Six types of assertive communication
[00:11:00] How to practice assertiveness — Start small, rehearse, and reflect. [00:12:00] Observe and learn from others — Spot assertive behaviors in your environment. [00:13:00] Wrap-up and next steps — Experiment, reflect, and grow your assertiveness skills. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 your extraordinary potential. Be unstoppable! | |||
| Episode 18 Why having a mentor will boost your career | 14 Mar 2025 | 00:15:04 | |
In this episode Sarah explores the power of mentorship in career growth. She shares the key benefits of having a mentor, how to identify what you need from a mentoring relationship, and practical ways to find the right mentor for you. Whether you're looking for guidance, career development, or industry connections, mentorship can be a game-changer. Learn how to take a proactive approach to finding and working with a mentor! Show Notes:[00:00] – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable and introduction to the episode [02:00] – Why mentorship is your career secret weapon & why so few people have mentors [03:00] – The research: 76% of professionals believe in mentorship, but only 37% have one [04:00] – 12 key benefits of mentorship, including career growth, networking, confidence-building, and navigating leadership challenges [06:00] – Sarah’s personal experience with mentors & how they helped her career transitions [08:00] – How to identify what you need from a mentor (role model, industry expertise, networking, leadership support, etc.) [09:00] – Finding the right mentor: Industry fit, seniority, chemistry, and shared values [10:30] – Different routes to finding a mentor: Workplace programs, LinkedIn networking, professional groups, and mentorship platforms [12:00] – How to build a connection and approach a potential mentor with confidence [13:00] – Setting up a successful mentorship relationship: Time commitment, expectations, and boundaries [14:00] – The value of becoming a mentor yourself and how it benefits your career [15:00] – Final thoughts, free career resources, and how to stay connected Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 You’re capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and be unstoppable! | |||
| Episode 17 Want to get promotion - Here's how... | 07 Mar 2025 | 00:16:17 | |
In today’s episode, Sarah's tackling a big topic: how to position yourself for a promotion. Whether you're aiming for an internal step up or seeking opportunities externally, Sarah shares actionable steps to make your next career move a certainty. Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome & Introduction [00:02:00] Recognising When You're Ready for Promotion
[00:04:00] Managing Self-Doubt and Career Confidence
[00:05:00] Preparing for Promotion: Gap Analysis
[00:06:00] Seeking Opportunities to Stretch & Lead
[00:07:00] Increasing Self-Awareness & Knowing Your Value
[00:08:00] Being Proactive & Building a Strong Reputation
[00:09:00] Building Key Relationships & Securing Advocacy
[00:10:00] Getting Comfortable with Self-Promotion
[00:12:00] Researching Industry Trends & Market Insights
[00:14:00] Timing Your Promotion Strategy
[00:15:00] Recap & Final Thoughts
Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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’re capable of more than you know—shine brightly, lead boldly, and be unstoppable. | |||
| Episode 16 How to amplify your strengths at work | 28 Feb 2025 | 00:12:59 | |
In Episode 16, Sarah dives into the transformative power of amplifying your strengths at work. She discusses the importance of focusing on your natural talents, explains the difference between character and technical strengths, and provides actionable strategies to help you identify and amplify your core strengths. Learn how understanding and leveraging your strengths can boost your confidence, reduce stress, and enhance your career fulfillment. Show Notes: [00:00:00] - Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable with Sarah Archer [00:02:00] - Why strengths matter: Benefits backed by positive psychology [00:03:00] - Shifting from focusing on weaknesses to amplifying strengths [00:04:00] - Character vs. technical strengths: What’s the difference? [00:05:00] - Discover your strengths with the VIA Institute’s survey [00:06:00] - Real-life client example: Finding beauty in spreadsheets [00:07:00] - Why we overlook our innate strengths [00:08:00] - Three pillars of amplifying strengths: Consistency, commitment, curiosity [00:09:00] - Key reflection questions to amplify your strengths [00:10:00] - Example: Using the strength of kindness in new ways [00:11:00] - The power of feedback to uncover hidden strengths [00:12:00] - Sarah shares her own top strengths and how she uses them [00:13:00] - Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn and access free resources Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 You are capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be unstoppable. | |||
| Episode 15 How to Have a Career Conversation with Your Boss | 21 Feb 2025 | 00:16:39 | |
In this episode, Sarah dives into a topic many professionals overlook: how to have a meaningful career conversation with your boss. Whether you’re seeking growth opportunities, more fulfilling projects, or simply clarity on your next steps, Sarah shares the benefits of these conversations and a step-by-step process to help you approach them with confidence. What You'll Learn:
Show Notes: [00:00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable — Introduction to the podcast and Sarah's background. [00:01:00] Episode Overview — The importance of career conversations and why they matter. [00:02:00] What is a Career Conversation? — How it's different from appraisals, one-on-ones, and supervision sessions. [00:03:00] Benefits for You and the Business — How these discussions support your growth and organizational goals. [00:04:00] How Your Boss Can Help — The role of your manager in unlocking opportunities and providing guidance. [00:05:00] Taking Ownership of Your Career — Why you need to be proactive and drive the conversation. [00:06:00] Common Challenges — Addressing time constraints, lack of clarity, and fear of taking action. [00:08:00] Identifying What You Need — Clarifying the support you seek: time, capacity, connections, visibility, or guidance. [00:09:00] Turning Challenges into Opportunities — How to navigate uncertainty and use your boss as a sounding board. [00:10:00] How to Prepare for the Conversation — Tips for getting clear on your goals and needs. [00:11:00] Structuring the Conversation — From setting the scene to outlining your vision of success. [00:12:00] Requesting Feedback — How to ask for constructive insights on your career path. [00:13:00] Exploring Ideas and Agreeing on a Plan — Collaborating with your boss to identify opportunities and next steps. [00:14:00] Building a Continuous Career Dialogue — Why regular follow-ups are key to sustained growth. [00:15:00] What If Your Boss Isn’t Supportive? — Finding alternative mentors, sponsors, or career coaches. [00:16:00] Closing Thoughts — Final reflections, resources, and an invitation to connect on LinkedIn. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 Your support means the world and helps more women unlock their extraordinary potential. Remember: Shine brightly, lead boldly, and be unstoppable! | |||
| Episode 14 Are you fulfilling your potential at work | 14 Feb 2025 | 00:14:38 | |
In this episode, Sarah dives into the concept of fulfilling your potential at work. She explores what "potential" really means, why timing matters, and how to overcome the challenges of feeling stuck. With practical strategies and real-life examples, Sarah shares four actionable ways to unlock your potential, build confidence, and achieve sustainable career success. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
3. Practical Strategies: Real-world advice, from mentorship tips to creating a risk recovery plan. Show Notes:[00:00:00] Welcome and Intro to Unstuck and Unstoppable [00:02:00] Understanding Potential: What it Means and Why Timing Matters [00:03:00] Feeling Stuck at Work: Identifying the Signs and Challenges [00:04:00] Sarah’s HR Career Example: Choosing Growth Over Stagnation [00:05:00] Strategy 1: Exploring and Enhancing Your Strengths [00:07:00] Learning from the Best: Mentorship and Observational Techniques [00:08:00] Strategy 2: Building Risk Resilience and Mindset Preparation [00:09:00] Overcoming Fear: Tools to Reframe Challenges and Take Action [00:10:00] Strategy 3: Creating a Career Development Plan [00:11:00] Learning Styles and Realistic Time Management for Growth [00:12:00] Strategy 4: Increasing Opportunities Through Curiosity and Networking [00:13:00] Recap: Four Steps to Fulfilling Your Potential Useful Links Watch this episode on LinkedIn Live Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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. Your feedback helps us reach more ambitious leaders looking to unlock their potential. 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 | |||
| Episode 28 How To Make the First 90 Days in Your Leadership Role Count | 23 May 2025 | 00:15:33 | |
In this episode, Sarah dives into how you can make those all-important first 90 days in a new leadership role really count. Whether you’re stepping up into a bigger role, moving organisations, or navigating a complex transition, she’ll share the practical mindset shifts, strategies and leadership moves that will help you feel confident, purposeful and in control from day one. We’ll talk about the different types of transitions, common traps to avoid, and the smart, simple steps you can take to set yourself up for success – all in a way that feels authentic, aligned and impactful. Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome to the show & what Unstuck and Unstoppable is all about [00:01:00] Why the first 90 days in a leadership role matter so much [00:02:00] Understanding the different types of transition you're making [00:03:00] Promotion, new teams, new culture – what kind of shift are YOU in? [00:04:00] Business transitions: startups, growth, change, contraction – know the context [00:05:00] 3 Transition Traps to avoid (inspired by Michael D. Watkins) [00:05:30] Trap #1: Sticking with what you know [00:06:00] Trap #2: Prioritising action over learning [00:06:30] Trap #3: Neglecting your broader network [00:07:00] Why your onboarding should be led by YOU [00:08:00] A real client story: designing your own powerful onboarding experience [00:09:00] Showing up as a proactive, strategic leader – before you even start [00:10:00] Building a learning plan – getting curious before jumping into action [00:11:00] Acting like a consultant: observing, listening, reflecting [00:12:00] Identifying your quick wins – small moves, big impact [00:13:00] Spotting your key supporters and stakeholders early [00:14:00] Recap: Leadership purpose, learning mindset, quick wins, alliances [00:15:00] How to get support to plan your 90-day success strategy Useful Links The First 90 Days, Michael D Watkins Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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're capable of more than you know. Shine brightly. Lead boldly. And unlock your extraordinary potential. | |||
| Episode 27 How to Speak Up in Meetings & Increase your Visibility | 16 May 2025 | 00:17:09 | |
In this episode, Sarah dives into a topic that comes up all the time with the women she works with - how to find your voice in meetings and boost your visibility. Whether you're holding back out of fear, overthinking your contribution, or feeling overlooked, you're not alone. There are many reasons this can feel so hard - from internal confidence gremlins to external gender dynamics, and today we’re unpacking it all. ✨ If you’re ready to stop shrinking and start speaking with impact, this one is for you. Show Notes(02:00) Why speaking up in meetings can be such a challenge — and why it's not just you (03:00) The hidden dynamics that affect women’s visibility and credibility in meetings (04:00) The role of socialisation, confidence, and unconscious bias (06:00) How to shift your perspective so the pressure doesn’t paralyse you (07:00) Practical prep tips to help you feel confident and ready (08:30) How introverts and extroverts can approach meetings differently (09:30) Why speaking early in a meeting can be a game-changer (12:30) Tips to show engagement and presence, even when you're not speaking (13:30) Power gestures that can subtly increase your authority and presence (14:30) How to manage interruptions and assert your voice when talked over (15:30) The importance of post-meeting reflection to build confidence over time Try This Choose one or two of the ideas shared and put them into practice at your next meeting. Then take a few moments to reflect: What went well? What will I try differently next time? Remember: this is a skill you can build. You don’t need to be the loudest voice in the room to be heard - you just need to find your voice and use it with purpose. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 You are capable of more than you know. Speak up. Show up. You don’t need permission to take up space. Be unstoppable. | |||
| Episode 26 Do a 15 minute Career Review and Get your career back on track | 09 May 2025 | 00:15:24 | |
In this episode, Sarah walks you through a simple but transformative process: a 15-minute quarterly career review. If you’ve been feeling stuck, off track, or overwhelmed by your career goals, this episode is a must-listen. With practical prompts and mindset-boosting tips, you’ll learn how to reflect, refocus, and re-energise your career journey—all in under a quarter of an hour. Show Notes:00:00 – Welcome & Introduction Sarah introduces the podcast, its mission, and why it’s vital for women in leadership to take time for career reflection. 01:30 – Why You Need a Career Review How a 15-minute check-in can stop your career from drifting and help you stay intentional. 02:50 – The Struggle is Real Acknowledging how busy jobs and lives make it hard to prioritise career development—and why it’s still crucial. 03:40 – The Benefits of Quarterly Reviews Clarity, confidence, goal-setting, and recognising what’s working (and what’s not). 04:50 – Step 1: Create Space Ideas for when and where to do your review—whether it’s at your desk, in a café, or on your commute. 06:00 – Step 2: Reconnect to Your Goal Whether you set a goal in January or not, now’s the time to reflect on what you want this year. 06:45 – Step 3: Ask Yourself Key Questions What went well? What could have gone better? What have I learned? Who did I enjoy working with and why? What still needs to happen? 08:45 – Step 4: Refocus Your Energy Use the review to shift your energy and attention toward what matters most in the next quarter. 09:15 – Step 5: Boost Your Motivation Tips for creating a compelling “towards” goal vs. a reactive “away from” goal. 10:30 – Use Visual Anchors to Stay Focused Examples of using images, words, or symbols to stay connected to your goal. 11:30 – Celebrate Wins to Build Confidence Why celebrating your progress helps balance your mindset and boost your belief. 12:30 – Check Your Mindset Noticing negative self-talk, managing blocks, and staying positive. 13:00 – Stay Accountable How regular check-ins or support (like a coach or accountability buddy) help you stay on track. 14:00 – Recap & Final Encouragement A summary of the process and encouragement to book your 15-minute review today Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 25 How to Advocate for Yourself as a Leader | 02 May 2025 | 00:16:38 | |
As a female leader, knowing how to advocate for yourself is a game-changer. But let’s be real—doing it can feel awkward, uncomfortable, or even risky. In this e episode, Sarah dives into why self-advocacy is often difficult for women in leadership and shares practical steps to build your confidence, communicate your value, and ask for what you need to thrive. With reflections from her own leadership journey and client experiences, Sarah walks you through the mindset shifts and strategies to become your own best advocate—without feeling pushy or inauthentic. Whether you're feeling stuck, overlooked, or just want to lead with more purpose and presence, this episode will give you the tools to stand tall and speak up. Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable – Helping ambitious female leaders thrive with purpose [00:01:00] Why self-advocacy matters and how it helps unlock your potential [00:02:00] What is self-advocacy—and why is it so crucial for women in leadership? [00:03:00] Sarah’s personal story of learning to self-advocate at Amnesty International [00:04:00] Why it’s hard to advocate for yourself: stats, fears, and systemic barriers [00:05:00] The inner rules and beliefs that hold us back (“I want doesn’t get”) [00:06:00] A client story: when confidence in self-advocacy gets shaken by toxic leadership [00:07:00] Step 1: Get clarity on what you want, need, and where you thrive [00:08:00] Understanding your boundaries and available resources [00:09:00] Step 2: Talk about your work and position your value [00:10:00] How visibility of your contributions influence career opportunities [00:11:00] Step 3: Know your worth and don't be afraid to ask for support [00:12:00] Expect pushback: how resilience builds stronger self-advocacy [00:13:00] Step 4: Advocate with others—collective action for greater change [00:14:00] Step 5: Do the inner work—confidence, mindset, and belief in your value [00:15:00] Why advocating for yourself benefits everyone, especially your team [00:16:00] Quick recap + free resources and a reminder: you are unstoppable Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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: Shine brightly. Lead boldly. Unlock the extraordinary potential within you. You are unstoppable. 💥 | |||
| Episode 24 How To Overcome Setbacks in Your Leadership Career | 25 Apr 2025 | 00:18:28 | |
Setbacks in leadership are inevitable — whether it's redundancy, missing out on a promotion, or feeling misaligned with your organization. In this episode, Sarah shares practical strategies to move through the emotional toll of a setback and come out stronger, wiser, and more aligned. Drawing on 16 years of coaching experience, she breaks down a clear 5-step approach to help you reflect, reframe, and rebuild your path to success. Whether you’re currently navigating a career disruption or want to future-proof your resilience, this episode is a must-listen. Show Notes 00:00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to the Podcast 00:01:00 – Why Setbacks Matter and What You'll Learn Today Overview of today’s topic and why career setbacks can become pivotal growth moments. 00:02:00 – The Many Faces of Career Setbacks From redundancy to value misalignment — common scenarios Sarah sees in coaching. 00:04:00 – The Emotional Impact of Setbacks How setbacks affect identity, confidence, and emotions — and why it's important to honour that process. 00:05:00 – Navigating the Emotional Curve (Kubler-Ross Model) Grief, denial, anger, blame — and how to begin moving through these emotions. 00:06:00 – Step 1: Reflect with Honesty Understanding what went wrong, your role in it, and the lessons learned. 00:07:00 – Learning to Spot Red Flags in Hindsight Real-life client story about ignoring red flags in the interview process. 00:08:00 – Step 2: Ask for Constructive Feedback How to ask for helpful feedback and why it’s a powerful part of your rebound. 00:09:00 – Step 3: Objectively Consider What’s Next Don’t rush — instead, reflect on your values and career success criteria. 00:10:00 – Sarah’s Personal Redundancy Story How Sarah navigated being made redundant as a career coach and started her business. 00:11:00 – Real Client Story: From Employee to Contractor How a challenging boss led one client to redefine success and change direction. 00:12:00 – Step 4: Mindset Shifts & Reframing Opportunity From neuroscience to identity, how your brain reacts to setbacks, and how to reframe. 00:13:00 – Why Setbacks Spark Creativity How dopamine dips create motivation for change and open new doors. 00:14:00 – Step 5: Take Action to Address What Needs to Change Whether it’s mindset, confidence or leadership style — it’s time to act. 00:15:00 – Make Sure It’s the Right Opportunity (Not Just Any Role) Avoiding knee-jerk reactions and choosing roles aligned with your purpose. 00:16:00 – Build a Long-Term Resilience Strategy Practical tips for building internal and external visibility and support networks. 00:17:00 – Key Takeaways Recap A step-by-step reminder of the framework to turn your setback into a springboard. 00:18:00 – Final Thoughts & Invitation to Connect Encouragement and invitation to reach out for coaching or access free resources. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 You're capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. 🌟 | |||
| Episode 23 How to Stop Sabotaging Your Leadership Career | 18 Apr 2025 | 00:11:55 | |
In this episode, Sarah dives into the topic of self-sabotage in leadership careers. If you’ve ever found yourself hesitating to take the next step, talking yourself out of applying for a promotion, or feeling paralyzed by fear, this episode is for you. Learn how to identify the root causes of self-sabotage, reframe your mindset, and take actionable steps to move forward in your leadership journey. Show Notes:[00:00:00] – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable: Introduction to the podcast and its mission. [00:01:00] – The challenge of self-sabotage: How fear and self-doubt hold leaders back. [00:02:00] – Recognizing self-sabotage: Why we hesitate to take the next step in our careers. [00:03:00] – The dangers of staying stuck: How prolonged inaction can impact confidence and career growth. [00:04:00] – Common fears that drive self-sabotage: Fear of change, failure, judgment, and making the wrong decision. [00:05:00] – The impact of early-life influences: How childhood and career experiences shape our beliefs about success. [00:06:00] – External pressures: How societal expectations and financial responsibilities contribute to feeling stuck. [00:07:00] – Visualization as a tool for success: Rewriting the negative movie playing in your mind. [00:09:00] – Taking action to overcome fear: Creating a plan, identifying skill gaps, and building confidence. [00:10:00] – Surrounding yourself with positive influences: The power of a growth mindset and a supportive network. [00:11:00] – Final thoughts and next steps: How to move forward and take charge of your leadership career. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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’re capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be unstoppable! | |||
| Episode 22 What's on your career bucket list? | 11 Apr 2025 | 00:14:43 | |
In this episode, Sarah explores an exciting and motivating concept: the career bucket list. Just as we create bucket lists for life experiences, we can do the same for our careers. This list can include things we want to achieve, experience, or learn before retirement. Show Notes [00:02:00] – What is a Career Bucket List?
[00:03:00] – Personal Career Bucket List Examples
[00:05:00] – Career Bucket List Ideas
[00:07:00] – The Benefits of Having a Career Bucket List
[00:09:00] – Overcoming Self-Doubt and Negative Bias
[00:10:00] – How to Create Your Career Bucket List
[00:13:00] – Bringing Your Career Bucket List to Life
[00:14:00] – Closing Thoughts and Call to Action
Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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’re capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock your potential! | |||
| Episode 21 Are you having a Midlife Career Crisis? | 04 Apr 2025 | 00:13:31 | |
In this episode, Sarah dives into the question: Are you having a midlife career crisis? It doesn’t have to be midlife, of course; these career crises can happen at any stage, often triggered by life events like milestone birthdays, having children, losing a loved one, or global events like the pandemic. We explore how to turn these feelings of uncertainty into a positive career opportunity with reflection, values alignment, and actionable steps. Show Notes: [00:01:00] Why career crises happen and what triggers them [00:02:00] Recognizing the signs of feeling stuck or unfulfilled [00:03:00] Acknowledging career reflection as a positive step [00:04:00] Three powerful reflective questions to understand your current career state:
[00:06:00] Checking in with your values — are they aligned with your career and company? [00:08:00] How to assess whether your career crisis is a small glitch or a sign of a bigger shift needed [00:09:00] Turning reflection into action: making a plan for change [00:10:00] Creating realistic, actionable goals: 3-year, 1-year, 6-month, and 3-month plans [00:11:00] Identifying your support system — from mentors to peers to coaches [00:12:00] Staying motivated: How to connect with the positive emotions change will bring Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 unstoppable. | |||
| Episode 31 How to Develop Executive Presence | 13 Jun 2025 | 00:18:16 | |
In this episode Sarah dives into one of the most powerful differentiators for female leaders: executive presence. What does it really mean? Why does it matter for career advancement and leadership impact? And more importantly, how do you develop it authentically? With her signature blend of practical insight and empowering coaching, Sarah breaks down what executive presence is, why it's essential, and actionable ways to cultivate your own, without burning out or selling out. This episode is ideal for ambitious professional women who want to be seen, heard, and respected at the next level of leadership. Show Notes:[00:00] – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable [01:00] – Why executive presence matters in your leadership journey [02:00] – Defining executive presence in simple, authentic terms [03:00] – The career impact of executive presence: The 26% promotion factor [04:00] – Beyond promotions: How it helps with presentations, influence, and team leadership [05:00] – Authenticity and the alignment of inner values with outward behavior [06:00] – Elements of executive presence: poise, confidence, curiosity, body language, communication [07:00] – Exercise 1: Identify someone with executive presence and unpack what they do [08:00] – Client story: Having a conversation with someone you admire [09:00] – Exercise 2: Self-assessment and feedback from trusted colleagues [10:00] – Aligning executive presence with your leadership brand [11:00] – Good news: Executive presence is a skill—and it’s learnable [12:00] – The power of intentionality and experimenting in meetings [13:00] – Reflecting after interactions to grow your presence [14:00] – Mirror and learn: Spend time with people who exude presence [15:00] – The role of appearance in executive presence (and why red lipstick might help!) [16:00] – Avoiding invisibility: Why staying visible and vocal matters in meetings [17:00] – Final recap: Your action steps to build presence [18:00] – Free resource + invitation to connect with Sarah Useful Links Free E-Book: Five Steps to Creating Powerful Presence as a Female Leader Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 Be powerfully you. Shine brightly. Lead boldly. And unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be unstoppable. | |||
| Episode 35 How to Fast Track Your Next Promotion | 11 Jul 2025 | 00:18:17 | |
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. Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome & Intro [00:01:00] Why Promotions Can Feel Elusive
[00:02:00] Are You Ready for Promotion? Signs to Watch For
[00:04:00] Self-Doubt vs. Self-Awareness
[00:05:00] 8 Strategies to Fast Track Your Promotion
[00:16:00] Final Reflections & Next Steps
[00:17:30] Get in Touch
Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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’re capable of more than you know. Shine brightly. Lead boldly. And unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be unstoppable. | |||
| Episode 34 4 Expert Ways To Find Your Next Leadership Job | 04 Jul 2025 | 00:18:24 | |
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. Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome & Episode Introduction
[00:02:00] The Hidden Job Market & Why Leadership Jobs Are Harder to Find
[00:03:00] Why You Might Be Feeling Stuck
🔍 4 Expert Ways to Find Your Next Leadership Job [00:04:00] 1. Harness the Power of Your Professional Network
[00:08:00] 2. Connect with Executive Recruiters & Headhunters
[00:11:00] 3. Position Yourself as a Thought Leader
[00:14:00] 4. Optimise Your LinkedIn Profile for Search
Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 unstoppable. | |||
| Episode 33 How to be More Productive as a Leader | 27 Jun 2025 | 00:18:23 | |
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. Show Notes[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 💡 Sarah’s Six Productivity Boosters
Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 32 How to Get Out of Your Leadership Comfort Zone | 20 Jun 2025 | 00:20:52 | |
Sarah explores what it really means to step outside your leadership comfort zone and why it's essential for growth, confidence, and success. Whether you're stuck in operational work, feeling stagnant in your role, or facing new challenges that push your limits, this episode offers insightful strategies and personal stories to inspire you to stretch, not stress. Sarah shares real-life examples from her coaching practice and her own career journey, including tackling imposter syndrome, self-sabotage, and those scary-but-worth-it leadership opportunities. Learn how to build courage, embrace optimal anxiety, and use small, manageable actions to unlock your next level of leadership impact. Show Notes00:00 – Welcome & Introduction Sarah introduces the podcast and sets the stage for why leadership comfort zones matter. 01:00 – Why This Topic? Inspired by a coaching client stuck in her role after six years as a CEO. 02:00 – The Reality of Leadership Discomfort Sometimes you don't have a choice — leadership demands stretch. 03:00 – What Is a Comfort Zone, Really? Comfort = control, competence, and stagnation if you stay too long. 04:00 – Why You Need to Leave It Introducing “optimal anxiety” – stretch, not stress – for peak performance. 05:00 – The Neuroscience Behind It How stepping out of your comfort zone activates the courage circuit and releases dopamine. 06:00 – The Strategic Trap Operational comfort vs. strategic growth — how leaders can get stuck. 07:00 – Real Client Example A financial controller seen as “operational” because she didn’t delegate. 08:00 – Personal Story: Fear of Live Radio How Sarah self-sabotaged until she finally said yes — and why it changed everything. 10:00 – Common Fears Blocking You Fear of failure, judgment, and the unknown — especially for leaders. 11:00 – High-Stakes Leadership Challenges From board presentations to restructures — you can't always avoid the hard stuff. 12:00 – Regular Stretch Builds Readiness Why small, regular discomfort makes big challenges easier. 13:00 – Strategy 1: Start Small Use the “comfort zone box” model to move gradually from comfort to growth. 14:00 – Strategy 2: Set Clear Goals Motivation and clarity make it easier to leave what's familiar. 14:30 – Strategy 3: Visualize Success Boost confidence and prime your brain for a positive outcome. 15:00 – Strategy 4: Seek Support You don’t have to go it alone — mentors, peers, coaching all help. 16:00 – Strategy 5: Embrace Failure Salsa dancing, anyone? The value of learning through doing. 17:00 – Practical Ways to Begin Ideas for manageable leadership stretch goals you can try today. 18:00 – Comfort Zones Are Always Moving Keep expanding your capacity and confidence, step by step. 19:00 – Final Challenge: What Could You Do Today? Choose one manageable action to get out of your comfort zone — and go do it. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 “Stretch, not stress.” Start small, build your courage, and remember — every step you take out of your comfort zone builds your capacity to lead powerfully. | |||
| Episode 36 How to become a Non-Executive Director (NED) | 18 Jul 2025 | 00:16:18 | |
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:
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 Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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're capable of more than you know. Shine brightly. Lead boldly. Be unstoppable. | |||
| Episode 42 How to cope when your workload is overwhelming | 29 Aug 2025 | 00:18:14 | |
Feeling like your to-do list never ends and your workload is spiraling out of control? You’re not alone. In this episode, Sarah shares practical tips and mindset shifts to help you manage your workload, protect your boundaries, and avoid burnout. With over 15 years of coaching experience and a background in HR leadership, Sarah provides actionable strategies you can use right away - whether you need help with prioritising, delegating, or simply creating more headspace to breathe. If you’re ready to move from overwhelm to control and start thriving again, this episode is for you. Show Notes[00:00] – Welcome & Intro [02:00] – Why Overwhelm Happens Why heavy workloads and mental load outside of work contribute to burnout. [03:00] – Strategy 1: Get It Out of Your Head How writing everything down helps create clarity and calm. [04:00] – Strategy 2: Setting Boundaries Why boundaries matter and how to communicate and stick to them at work and home. [07:00] – Strategy 3: Managing Emails & Interruptions Simple techniques to stop email overload from derailing your day. [09:00] – Strategy 4: Time Blocking for Focus How chunking your day creates space for deep work and reduces stress. [10:00] – Strategy 5: Delegation & Empowerment How delegating helps your workload and develops your team at the same time. [12:00] – Strategy 6: Stop Saying Yes to Everything Why resisting the urge to take on more work is essential for your well-being. [13:00] – Strategy 7: Prioritisation Techniques How to focus on what truly matters and learn to say no effectively. [15:00] – Strategy 8: Redefining Success Creating new measures of success that protect your time and energy. [16:00] – Watch Out for Burnout Why asking for help is essential if overwhelm is affecting your health. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 41 How To Get Your Voice Heard in the Leadership Space (Part 2) | 22 Aug 2025 | 00:14:40 | |
In this episode, Sarah continues the conversation on how to get your voice heard in the leadership space. While Part 1 focused on practical and tactical strategies, this second part dives deeper into the mindset and inner work needed to truly amplify your impact. If you’ve ever felt overlooked in meetings, had your ideas claimed by others, or struggled to speak with conviction, this episode will help you shift your mindset, quiet your inner critic, and step forward with greater confidence. Show Notes 00:00 – Welcome and introduction 02:00 – Why mindset matters in getting your voice heard 03:00 – Real-life client stories of struggling to be heard in leadership spaces 05:00 – Recap of tactical strategies from Part 1 06:00 – Identifying the story you’re telling yourself and challenging your inner critic 07:30 – Escaping the comparison trap 08:00 – The power of preparation and finding allies in meetings 09:00 – Using feedback to build confidence and presence 10:30 – Posture, body language, and the confidence boost of appearance 11:30 – Speaking with conviction: moving from questions to statements 13:30 – Final reflections and practical next steps 14:00 – Resources, coaching offers, and closing message Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 40 How To Get Your Voice Heard in the Leadership Space Part 1 | 15 Aug 2025 | 00:18:07 | |
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. What You’ll Learn in This Episode
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 Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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. And don't forget to subscribe so you don’t miss Part 2 on mindset strategies and share it with a friend or colleague who could benefit 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 | |||
| Episode 39 How to Move Past Negative Experiences At Work | 08 Aug 2025 | 00:17:05 | |
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. Show Notes: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:
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 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 | |||
| Episode 38 How to Stop Worrying About Work | 01 Aug 2025 | 00:17:04 | |
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. Show Notes[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:
[00:15:30] 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
Useful Links The Upside of Stress by Kelly McGonigal Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 Share this episode with a colleague who needs a little peace of mind too! | |||
| Episode 37 How to Build Powerful Alliances as a Leader | 25 Jul 2025 | 00:18:28 | |
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:
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. Show Notes:[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
[00:11:00] 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 Action Steps:At the end of the episode, Sarah shares simple actions you can take right now:
Useful Links Research by The Center for Talent & Innovation on having a Sponsor Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 unstoppable. | |||
| Episode 50 How to Strengthen Your Leadership Identity | 24 Oct 2025 | 00:17:21 | |
In this milestone 50th episode, Sarah shares a vital episode for ambitious female leaders - how to strengthen your leadership identity. Sarah explores the invisible yet powerful biases that still affect women in leadership and reveals three practical ways to build visibility, voice, and value so you can lead with confidence, authenticity, and impact. Plus, she announces a special competition to win a 1:1 coaching session in celebration of reaching 50 episodes! Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome & Introduction [00:02:15] Competition Announcement 🎉 To celebrate, Sarah invites listeners to leave a 5-star review and message her for a chance to win a free 1:1 coaching session. [00:03:00] Why Leadership Identity Matters Why this topic is so important for women in leadership roles. [00:04:00] The Invisible Web of Biases Four common biases that impact women leaders:
[00:08:30] The Impact of These Biases How these biases drain energy, cause over-preparation, self-doubt, and can make leadership feel like an uphill battle. [00:09:00] 3 Layers of Leadership Credibility: Visibility, Voice, and Value A framework for strengthening your leadership identity:
Action: Ask yourself, “Do key decision-makers know about my recent wins?”
Action: Reflect on whether you’re contributing meaningfully in meetings and what you want to be known for.
Action: Take “radical responsibility” for contributing to wider organizational issues. [00:13:00] 3 Practical Actions to Strengthen Your Leadership Identity
“Remember, you’re capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be unstoppable.” Useful Links Free: Break Free From Imposter Syndrome Webinar Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 49 How to be comfortable with failure in your leadership career | 17 Oct 2025 | 00:18:55 | |
In this episode, Sarah talks about a topic that every leader faces but few like to discuss -failure. She explores why it feels so uncomfortable, what’s really going on in your brain when you fail, and four practical ways you can reframe, recover, and grow stronger from failure -so it becomes fuel for your success, not a roadblock. Show Notes[00:00:00] – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable [00:02:30] – Why We Struggle with Failure
[00:07:30] – Sarah’s Personal Failures and Lessons Learned From HR initiatives that didn’t land, to failed business launches and missed job opportunities -Sarah shares how she’s learned to view failure as part of growth rather than something to avoid. [00:08:30] – The Benefits of Failing Failure can:
[00:10:00] – Four Ways to Get More Comfortable with Failure
[00:16:30] – Start Small & Build Your Risk Resilience Experiment with low-stakes risks to grow your confidence over time. Failure tolerance is a muscle - the more you stretch it, the stronger it gets. [00:17:00] – Quote to Inspire You “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games.26 times I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot — and missed.I’ve failed over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”— Michael Jordan[00:17:30] – Final Thoughts & Coaching Invitation Sarah encourages listeners to see failure as an essential part of leadership growth.If you’d like to explore your own relationship with failure and unlock your next level of confidence and success, book a Career Breakthrough Call with Sarah. Useful Links Free Break Free From Imposter Syndrome Webinar Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 48 How to sell yourself with confidence in your next leadership interview | 10 Oct 2025 | 00:18:37 | |
In this episode, Sarah dives into how to confidently sell yourself in your next leadership interview, without feeling fake, boastful, or uncomfortable. Drawing on her extensive experience coaching senior leaders, Sarah shares practical mindset shifts, communication strategies, and evidence-based techniques to help you move from self-doubt to self-assurance. Whether you’re interviewing for a director or CEO role, this episode will help you show your true value with confidence and impact. Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome & Introduction [00:01:00] Why This Topic Matters Inspired by a client’s recent success in securing a director-level role, Sarah explains why interview confidence is a crucial skill for senior leaders and why “selling yourself” doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable. [00:02:30] The Challenges of Leadership Interviews How senior-level interviews differ from earlier career ones - more stages, more scrutiny, and higher expectations - and how preparation and mindset make all the difference. [00:04:00] What You’ll Learn in This Episode
[00:05:00] Reframing ‘Selling Yourself’ Instead of thinking of interviews as sales pitches, Sarah reframes them as opportunities to present evidence-based data about your value and achievements. [00:06:00] Managing Your Inner Critic Practical ways to silence self-doubt and build a positive mindset before interviews - from affirmations to perspective shifts. Includes real client examples of how mindset work leads to interview success. [00:08:00] Defining Your Unique Value How to identify your unique selling points and demonstrate how you make a measurable difference to an organisation - whether through growth, people, innovation, or efficiency. [00:10:00] Understanding the Interview Panel How to tailor your responses based on who’s on the panel - your future boss, HR, peers, or board members - and what each is looking for in a candidate. [00:12:00] Communicating Your Strengths with Ease Why humility can hold leaders back - and how to practice talking about your achievements naturally so it feels authentic, not boastful. [00:13:00] Balancing Strategy and Delivery A reminder that senior roles require both operational experience and strategic thinking and how to showcase both effectively. [00:14:00] Creating Personal Impact How to let your enthusiasm and authenticity shine through, show your human side, and build rapport with the panel. How small moments of honesty can create connection. [00:16:00] Be Intentional About Your Impact Tips for being deliberate about how you want to come across - whether as a visionary leader, safe pair of hands, or collaborative people person. [00:17:00] Recap & Key Takeaways Summary of the five key areas to focus on for your next leadership interview:
[00:18:00] Closing & Resources Sarah encourages listeners to connect for 1:1 interview coaching Useful Links Free Break Free From Imposter Syndrome Webinar Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 47 How to Get Noticed in Your Career | 03 Oct 2025 | 00:17:25 | |
Do you ever feel like your hard work is going unnoticed? Or that your peers are getting promoted while you’re left behind? In this episode, Sarah shares practical strategies to help you raise your visibility, get the recognition you deserve, and move your career forward without feeling like you’re bragging or selling out. I’ll walk you through:
If you’re ready to step into the spotlight, amplify your influence, and get noticed for all the right reasons, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Show Notes [00:00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable & Sarah’s mission [00:01:00] The challenge of balancing leadership with career aspirations [00:02:00] Listener shoutout + free resource announcement [00:03:00] Why visibility matters: career advancement, growth & recognition [00:05:00] Common challenges: fears, beliefs & mindset blocks [00:07:00] The perception gap: why saying “it’s fine” holds you back [00:08:00] Why your voice matters for your organization’s success [00:09:00] Top Tip #1 – Shift your mindset about visibility [00:10:00] Top Tip #2 – Be authentic in your own style [00:12:00] Case study: Creating a visibility strategy in financial services [00:13:30] Top Tip #3 – Be strategic & intentional with your plan [00:14:30] How to do a visibility audit (meetings & contributions) [00:15:30] Free resource: Five Steps to Powerful Presence as a Female Leader [00:16:30] How coaching can support your visibility journey [00:17:00] Closing message: Shine brightly, lead boldly, be unstoppable Useful Links Free resource: Five Steps to Powerful Presence as a Female Leader Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 46 How to Give Your Leadership Career a Glow Up! | 26 Sep 2025 | 00:15:59 | |
Leadership isn’t just about climbing the ladder—it’s about stepping into the best version of yourself. In this episode Leadership isn’t just about climbing the ladder—it’s about stepping into the best version of yourself. In this episode, Sarah shares her 4-step Glow Up Formula to help you move the dial on your leadership career with confidence, visibility, and strategy. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overlooked, or unsure how to stand out as a leader, this practical guide will help you unlock your next level. Expect mindset shifts, real-life client stories, and actionable takeaways you can apply right away. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Show Notes [00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable [00:02] Why a “glow up” approach to leadership matters [00:03] Step 1: Own your leadership identity [00:05] Practical action: Identify strengths, blind spots & mindset shifts [00:06] Step 2: Be seen and heard—amplify your presence [00:08] Client example: Finding your voice in senior leadership meetings [00:10] Practical action: Choose one area to be more intentional [00:10] Step 3: Make strategic career moves [00:12] Client example: Using networks to unlock promotions & new roles [00:13] Practical action: Learn from role models & network strategically [00:14] Step 4: Step into your future leadership self [00:15] Maintaining energy and embodying your next-level self [00:16] Wrap-up & invitation to share your leadership glow up Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and share it with a colleague. Your support helps more women shine brightly, lead boldly, and step into unstoppable leadership. | |||
| Episode 45 Why now is the right time to take a leap in your leadership career | 19 Sep 2025 | 00:17:36 | |
Are you waiting for the “perfect” moment to take the next step in your leadership journey? Here’s the truth: there will never be a flawless time - but there is a right time, and that time is now. In this episode, Sarah breaks down why this year is the year to make your move, whether that’s stepping up into a more senior leadership role, changing organisations, or exploring an entirely new direction. You’ll discover the real reasons we hesitate to leap, how to overcome those doubts, and the six steps to prepare yourself for a successful transition. By the end, you’ll feel inspired to stop waiting, start planning, and claim the leadership role that excites and challenges you. If you’ve been thinking, “Maybe next year…” this episode is the nudge you need. Show Notes:00:00 – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable Why this podcast exists and how Sarah helps ambitious women thrive in leadership roles. 02:00 – Why now is the right time to leap Understanding why waiting for the “perfect” moment is holding you back. 03:00 – What’s really stopping you Mindset, confidence, burnout fears, and practical barriers that keep leaders stuck. 06:00 – The importance of scanning your industry Balancing realism with ambition when making a career move. 07:00 – The cost of waiting Why avoiding action can lead to regret — and how authentic leaders are in high demand. 08:00 – Recognizing your career cycles How to spot when you’re naturally ready for your next challenge. 09:00 – Step 1: Pause and reflect Clarity on what you want, your values, and aligning with your “why.” 10:00 – Step 2: Decide what leap excites you Career change, seniority shift, or fresh challenges at the same level. 11:00 – Step 3: Learn from past job searches How to focus your time and energy on what works for you. 12:00 – Step 4: Define your personal brand Standing out through emotional and cultural intelligence. 13:00 – Step 5: Find the right type of organization Matching your leadership style to the organizational maturity and challenge. 14:00 – Step 6: Identify what you need Support, resources, and mindset shifts to sustain your job search. 16:00 – Recap of the six steps A practical roadmap to prepare for your next leadership role. 17:00 – Closing inspiration Why 2025 can be your year to shine, lead boldly, and be unstoppable. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||
| Episode 44 How To Avoid The Glass Cliff | 12 Sep 2025 | 00:15:20 | |
In this episode, Sarah dives into the concept of the Glass Cliff—what it is, why it happens, and most importantly, how to avoid stepping into leadership roles that may be set up for failure. Whether you're considering a promotion or navigating a crisis leadership role, Sarah shares practical strategies and insights to help you make informed decisions and set yourself up for success. Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable [00:01:00] Why the podcast exists – supporting ambitious female leaders [00:02:00] Introducing today’s topic: The Glass Cliff [00:03:00] What is the Glass Cliff and why does it happen? [00:04:00] Real-world examples and crisis scenarios [00:05:00] Why women are often appointed during challenging times [00:06:00] The risks of taking on a Glass Cliff role [00:07:00] Career strategy considerations before saying yes [00:08:00] Doing your due diligence: past, present, and future challenges [00:09:00] Gathering external insights and understanding support structures [00:10:00] Case study: A leader navigating a Glass Cliff role during COVID [00:11:00] Lessons learned: The importance of board and stakeholder support [00:12:00] Creating a plan and negotiating resources [00:13:00] Spotting red flags and making the final decision [00:14:00] Recap: Key steps to avoid the Glass Cliff [00:15:00] Resources, coaching support, and next steps Key Takeaways
Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes 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 | |||