Explore every episode of the podcast Quietly Visible

In this inspiring episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by Shelley-Ann Pieterse, Executive Alignment Coach and former Managing Director at Accenture, to explore what happens when ambition, perfectionism, and the need for validation collide with authenticity and wellbeing.
Drawing on her own experience of navigating leadership as an introverted woman from a previously disadvantaged background, Shelley-Ann shares the challenges of trying to fit into environments where she felt different—and the personal cost of constantly striving to prove herself.
Together, Carol and Shelley-Ann discuss the pressures many high-achieving women place on themselves, the impact of burnout, and why sustainable success starts with self-awareness and alignment. Shelley-Ann candidly reflects on her journey through multiple episodes of burnout, the loss of her partner, and the powerful realisation that success means little when it comes at the expense of your health, values, and happiness.
💡 In this episode, you'll hear about:
The hidden impact of perfectionism and over-responsibility
Why validation-seeking can lead to burnout
Navigating leadership as an introverted woman in a male-dominated environment
Building credibility and influence without pretending to be someone you're not
The importance of mentors, sponsors, and supportive networks
How to recognise when your career is no longer aligned with your values
Taking small, intentional steps towards a more fulfilling and sustainable future
Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder, questioning your next career move, or feeling stuck on the hamster wheel of achievement, this conversation offers valuable insights into creating success on your own terms.
🔗 Connect with Shelley-Ann Pieterse
Website: https://klimacoaching.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelley-ann-pieterse/
Glimmer Guide specifically for podcast listeners and it isn’t available as a direct link on the site. https://www.glimmercoaching.com/glimmer-guide
Glimmer Snapshot https://www.glimmercoaching.com/glimmer-snapshot
Carol Stewart & Free Confidence, Influence & Impact Assessment:
https://aboundingsolutions.com
Music: ©️ Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this eye-opening and essential episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by Dr. Manna Semby—former Goldman Sachs VP turned naturopathic physician, TEDx speaker, and author of The Perimenopause Broken Rung (launching 15th June).

Together, they unpack a critical but often overlooked issue: why so many high-achieving women step back or leave their careers at their peak—and how perimenopause may be the hidden factor behind it.

Dr. Manna shares her powerful personal journey from Wall Street to medicine, revealing how her own experience of burnout, brain fog, and hormonal changes led her to uncover what she calls the “Perimenopause Broken Rung”—a biological challenge that is quietly impacting women’s confidence, cognition, and career progression.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- Why burnout isn’t always what it seems—and what might really be going on
- The early (and often missed) signs of perimenopause, especially brain-related symptoms
- How hormonal changes impact memory, focus, sleep, and decision-making
- Why so many women blame themselves instead of understanding the biology
- The link between women leaving leadership roles and midlife health changes
- Practical steps women can take to regain energy, clarity, and control

Dr. Manna also challenges the silence and stigma around women’s health, calling for greater awareness, education, and support—both individually and within organisations.
This episode is a must-listen for women navigating midlife, leaders who want to retain top talent, and anyone ready to challenge outdated narratives around burnout and performance.

📘 Book Launch – Out June 15th
The Perimenopause Broken Rung: The Hidden Threat to Women’s Brains and Careers
The first book to connect perimenopause symptoms with career derailment—and what we can do about it.
🔗 Connect & Resources
🌐 Website: https://arunamed.com
🧠 Free Assessment:
👉 https://arunamed.com/pbr
💼 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/manna-semby/
🌐 Carol Stewart & Free Confidence, Influence & Impact Assessment:
👉 https://aboundingsolutions.com
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this episode of the Quietly Visible podcast, Carol discussed strategies for managing anxiety and improving confidence when speaking in high-stakes situations.

She explained how public speaking can trigger communication apprehension, particularly for introverts, and outlined four key techniques to address this: thorough preparation beforehand, practicing box breathing exercises to calm nerves, parking worrisome thoughts for later reflection rather than ruminating on them, and staying present in the moment.

Carol shared a personal example from delivering her TEDx talk to illustrate how applying these techniques can help maintain composure and confidence during challenging presentations.

Take the confidence, influence, and impact assessment at https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/

🎵©️Julie Anne Smith

In this episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by Jinesha Jain, a data strategist and real estate entrepreneur, for a powerful conversation on redefining leadership through strategic stillness.

Jinesha shares her journey from high-achieving, hustle-driven success to a moment of deep reflection sparked by a simple yet profound question from her mother: “Are you happy?”

What followed was a shift in how she viewed success, ambition, and leadership—moving away from constant busyness towards intentional calm and clarity.

Together, Carol and Jinesha explore how introverted leaders can harness the power of silence, challenge the pressure to always be “on”, and cultivate a more grounded, impactful way of leading. Jinesha also introduces a simple yet transformative breathing technique that helped her reconnect with herself and enhance her focus, confidence, and decision-making.

Key Takeaways:
Why traditional definitions of success can leave us feeling unfulfilled
The hidden cost of constant hustle and overachievement
How strategic stillness can improve clarity, focus, and leadership presence
The science behind breathwork and its impact on the nervous system
A simple breathing technique to reset and regain control in high-pressure moments
Why self-awareness is the true leadership advantage in today’s fast-paced world
How introverted leaders can lead powerfully without being loud or fast
This episode is perfect for introverted women leaders—and anyone feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to constantly do more—who are ready to lead with greater calm, clarity, and authenticity.
🔗 Connect with Jinesha
Instagram @Jineshajain
TedX Talk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bV-KwDyhcgQ
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

Visibility is one of the topics that comes up often in my work with introverted women leaders — and it's easy to understand why.

If being in the spotlight doesn't come naturally to you, the idea of putting yourself forward can feel uncomfortable, even unnecessary.

But the reality is, research shows that extraverts get more opportunities at work because their performance is more visible. That's not a character flaw in introverts — it's a systemic gap that requires a strategic response.

In this short episode, I explore why visibility matters for your career progression, your leadership credibility, and your team's trust in you — and why being visible doesn't mean being loud, gregarious, or self-aggrandising.

It means being strategic about who needs to know you, what you want to be known for, and how you show up for the people who matter.

You don't have to change who you are. You just have to be seen.

Want to increase your confidence, influence, and impact? Take the free assessment to improve your impact and influence

⁠https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/⁠

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this insightful episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by high-performance coach Alex Davids to explore a powerful and often overlooked concept: managing cognitive energy, not just time.

Drawing on her background in psychology, neuroscience, and leadership coaching, Alex shares how understanding the brain’s energy system can transform the way we work, lead, and live.
Together, Carol and Alex unpack why so many leaders—especially introverts—find themselves exhausted despite working hard, and how modern work environments and constant digital distractions are quietly draining our mental capacity.

This conversation offers both awareness and practical strategies to help you protect your focus, boost your effectiveness, and avoid burnout.
Key takeaways from this episode:
- Why cognitive energy—not time—is your most valuable resource
- The surprising limit of just ~4 hours of deep focus per day
- How constant interruptions and “continuous partial attention” drain your brain
- Why introverts may experience faster energy depletion in high-stimulation environments
- Simple ways to recharge your brain throughout the day (without needing long breaks)
- How leaders can create healthier, more sustainable workplaces by modelling better habits
- The importance of aligning your most demanding work with your peak energy times
This episode is ideal for introverted leaders, knowledge workers, and anyone feeling mentally stretched by the demands of modern work. If you’re ready to work with more clarity, calm, and intention—this conversation will give you a fresh perspective on how to do just that.
🔗 Connect with Alex
https://www.linkedin.com/in/high-performance-coach-alexandra-davids-neperform/

https://nextevolutionperformance.com/
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence

https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this important and thoughtful episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by employment discrimination attorney Brittany Stevens, a multi-award-winning partner at Phillips & Associates. Together, they explore the realities of sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace — a topic that still affects a significant number of women globally.
Brittany shares insights from her work advocating for employees who have experienced harassment, discrimination, and retaliation. The conversation explores why so many incidents go unreported, how power dynamics can make it difficult for women to speak up, and what steps individuals can take if they find themselves in this situation. Carol and Brittany also discuss the emotional impact of workplace harassment and the importance of creating environments where people feel safe to raise concerns.
This episode offers practical guidance as well as reassurance for anyone navigating difficult workplace dynamics.
Key Takeaways
Sexual harassment remains widespread: Many women experience unwelcome behaviour at work, yet a significant number of cases go unreported due to fear of retaliation or damage to career prospects.
Power dynamics matter: Harassment often occurs where there is a strong imbalance of power, making it especially difficult for early-career professionals to speak up.
Documentation can be powerful: Keeping records, messages, and written complaints can help support a claim if someone decides to report harassment.
Retaliation is unlawful: Employees have legal protections when they raise concerns about harassment, although retaliation can sometimes appear in subtle forms.
Workplace culture matters: Organisations must actively enforce policies and create environments where employees feel safe reporting inappropriate behaviour.
If you’ve ever wondered what your rights are, how to navigate a difficult workplace situation, or how organisations can better support their people, this episode provides valuable insight and encouragement.
🔗 Connect with BrittanyWebsite https://www.newyorkcitydiscriminationlawyer.com/our-team/brittany-a-stevens/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-stevens-alper/
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this episode of the Quietly Visible Podcast, Carol Stewart discussed three ways for introverted women to grow their influence without performing confidence they don't feel.

She emphasised the importance of getting clear on one's purpose before high-stakes meetings, using strategic visibility by consistently showing up in key spaces, and letting one's track record speak for itself without boasting.

Carol also discussed the STAR framework to help introverted women naturally discuss their achievements and suggested keeping a success folder to easily recall and share their accomplishments.

Complete the free Confidence, Influence, and Impact Assessment at https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/

🎵 - ©️Julie Ann Smith

In this thoughtful and affirming episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by Karla Packham-Corteil, an introverted leader, researcher, and leadership development professional with a deep curiosity about what helps people truly thrive at work.
Karla shares her personal journey as an “accidental leader” and reflects on how being labelled quiet shaped her confidence from childhood through to senior leadership roles.

Drawing on her postgraduate research, she explores how perceived introvert mistreatment – being ignored, overlooked, or dismissed – impacts well-being, leadership self-belief, and aspirations.
Together, Carol and Karla challenge common misconceptions about introversion, assertiveness, and leadership. They unpack why many introverted leaders are far more assertive than stereotypes suggest, and why environments that favour extraversion can quietly undermine confidence – even for capable, experienced leaders.
Key takeaways from this episode include:
- Why being quiet is often misunderstood – and unfairly framed as a weakness
- How perceived introvert mistreatment affects well-being and leadership self-belief
- The critical role of leadership self-efficacy in sustaining ambition and progression
- Why assertiveness is not an extravert-only trait
- How psychological safety and authenticity help introverted leaders flourish
- What organisations can do differently to support diverse personality styles
This episode is especially valuable for introverted women leaders, aspiring leaders, coaches, HR professionals, and anyone interested in creating workplaces where people can succeed without pretending to be someone they’re not.
🔗 Connect with Karla

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlapackhamcorteil/
https://substack.com/@kpc182
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeadersTeil

In this deeply honest and powerful episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by Nick Elston, award-winning keynote speaker, mental health specialist, and founder of Forging People.
Nick shares his lived experience of OCD, anxiety, burnout, and breakdown—and how those challenges became the foundation for a career helping leaders find their voice without pretending to be someone they’re not.
Together, Carol and Nick unpack what it really means to lead authentically as an introvert in a noisy, performative world.
This conversation explores the emotional and mental load many introverted leaders carry, from imposter syndrome and people-pleasing to fear of rejection and the pressure to “show up louder.” Nick reframes introversion as an energy management strategy, not a confidence issue, and shares practical ways to protect your energy while still being visible and influential.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- Why introversion is about energy, not ability
- The link between mental health, burnout, and performative leadership
- How to overcome fear of rejection and imposter syndrome
- Building a personal “playbook” to manage energy before and after high-pressure situations
- Owning your story instead of being owned by it
- Why finding your voice can be both transformational and therapeutic
This episode is essential listening for introverted leaders who want to thrive on their own terms—without masks, burnout, or performance.
Find out more about Nick Elston:
https://nickelston.com
LinkedIn: Nick Elston
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickelston/
Take the Confidence, Influence & Impact Assessment at
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

Carol delivered a powerful message about authentic leadership, particularly for introverted and multiply marginalised leaders.

She outlined three key steps for leading with courage: knowing oneself through self-awareness, accepting oneself despite societal expectations, and believing in oneself to take action.

Carol emphasised that authenticity isn't just a style preference but requires courage to challenge decades of cultural conditioning that favor extroverted leadership.

She shared personal insights about how understanding systemic barriers rather than personal limitations can empower leaders to embrace their true selves.

Complete the Confidence, Influence, & Impact Assessment https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment

Subscribe to the Quietly Visible LinkedIn newsletter Quietly Visible LinkedIn newsletter - https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6600753811223035905/

In this episode of Quietly Visible, host Carole Stewart is joined by Sharon D Brown, self-care strategist, licensed mental health professional, and founder of Self Care U Academy.
Together, they explore why self-care is not a luxury but a vital foundation for sustainable leadership — particularly for introverted women navigating demanding roles. Drawing on Sharon’s personal journey and over two decades of clinical experience, the conversation centres on the power of rituals and how rest, reflection, breath, and rhythm help leaders remain grounded, resilient, and authentically themselves.
Sharon gently challenges the idea that rituals are rigid or restrictive, reframing them instead as supportive anchors that protect wellbeing, regulate the nervous system, and prevent burnout long before crisis hits.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
Why self-care often gets pushed aside — and the cost of doing so
How rituals help introverted women manage overstimulation and decision overload
The role of breath, reflection, and the body in emotional regulation
How daily, repeatable practices support clarity, presence, and better leadership decisions
Simple ways to begin creating rituals that feel personal, nourishing, and sustainable
This episode is especially valuable for introverted women leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals who want to protect their energy, lead with intention, and build success without sacrificing their wellbeing.
Connect with Sharon
📌 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-d-brown/
📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sharondbrownselfcarepreneur
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

As this year draws to a close, this final episode of Quietly Visible is an invitation to pause, reflect, and look ahead with intention rather than pressure.I share some personal reflections on the year that’s been — including goals I didn’t complete, lessons I’ve taken from that, and how revisiting purpose can reignite motivation. We explore why some goals stick while others fall away, and what makes change more sustainable, particularly for reflective, thoughtful people.Drawing on coaching psychology and lived experience, I talk about:✔️ The difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation✔️ Why values-aligned goals are easier to sustain✔️ The importance of having a meaningful “why”✔️ Accountability, self-compassion, and realistic goal-setting✔️ How to respond when life disrupts even the best intentionsThis is not about pushing harder or doing more. It’s about choosing goals that matter, letting go of unnecessary self-criticism, and approaching the year ahead in a way that feels grounded and human.If you’re ending the year feeling reflective, unfinished, or quietly hopeful about what’s next, this episode is for you.Thank you for listening, and I’ll see you in 2026.Take the Confidence, Influence, and Impact Assessment at https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/

🎵©️Julie Anne Smith

In this uplifting conversation, host Carol Stewart, founder of Abounding Solutions, is joined by Melanie Elsbeth, founder and host of MAMA! What’s Next?. Melanie shares her powerful journey from shy East German teenager to navigating adulthood in Australia, finding her voice in corporate spaces, and later redefining her purpose after becoming a mum.
Melanie opens up about growing up feeling unheard, pushing herself into challenging situations to grow her confidence, and learning the difference between shyness and introversion. She reflects on the moments that shaped her, including the bold move to Australia in her early 20s, thriving in new cultures, and recognising the importance of belonging and psychologically safe workplaces.
Carol and Melanie explore the deep shifts that motherhood can bring — shifts in identity, values and priorities — and how this led Melanie to create MAMA! What’s Next?, a platform dedicated to helping mothers rediscover themselves and move into work and lives that feel meaningful and aligned. Together, they discuss confidence, cultural expectations, spirituality, and the importance of listening to your inner voice when shaping your next chapter.
Key takeaways
The difference between shyness and introversion — and why understanding this matters.
How stepping outside your comfort zone can be a catalyst for confidence and self-belief.
Why belonging and psychological safety influence how introverts show up and thrive.
The identity shifts many mothers experience, and how to navigate “what’s next?” with clarity.
The power of intention, purpose, and spiritual connection in guiding career and life changes.
Why being open and curious can reveal opportunities you didn’t know existed.
This episode is perfect for introverted women who are navigating transitions, considering career shifts, or seeking greater alignment and fulfilment — especially mothers exploring their next chapter.
🔗 Connect with MelanieInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mamawhatsnext/Website https://mamawhatsnext.com/
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this uplifting and honest conversation, Carol speaks with writer, educator, and anti-racism activist Sharon Hurley Hall about what it truly means to model showing up as an introvert. Sharon shares her journey from journalism to activism, how she learned to embrace her introversion with confidence, and why being “intentionally visible” matters for quiet leaders.

They explore how introverts can raise their visibility through writing, share strategies for setting boundaries and avoiding burnout, and discuss the importance of creating introvert-friendly spaces. Sharon also talks about her Self-Expression Immersion and her upcoming masterclass Seven Secrets of Introvert Success: A Masterclass for Quiet Revolutionaries, designed to help introverts show up authentically and thrive.

Key Takeaways:
- How Sharon learned to turn introversion into a strength, not a deficit
- The power of visibility for introverted women and leaders
- Practical ways to raise your profile through writing
- Why self-knowledge and boundaries are vital for introvert success
- Creating spaces that honour quiet energy and authenticity
This inspiring episode is perfect for introverted women who want to lead with confidence, creativity, and calm.
Connect with Sharon Hurley Hall:
https://sharonhh.com
Anti racism Newsletter
LinkedIn
Join Sharon’s masterclass: Seven Secrets of Introvert Success: A Masterclass for Quiet Revolutionaries
Join here https://luma.com/q2o6jc38
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this thought-provoking episode, Carol speaks with Kate Lowry, CEO coach, venture capitalist, and author of Unbreakable: How to Thrive Under Fear-Based Leaders. Together, they unpack a timely and often unspoken topic — fear-based leadership — and explore how to navigate, survive, and even thrive under leaders who lead through control and intimidation.
Kate shares insights from her extensive experience in Silicon Valley, including her research into trauma psychology and the behavioural patterns that drive fear-based leaders. She offers compassionate yet practical advice on how to protect your wellbeing, maintain your authenticity, and create psychological safety for yourself and your teams — even when working within toxic systems.
💡 Key takeaways:
How to recognise the signs of fear-based leadership and its emotional impact.
Why fear-based leaders are often driven by insecurity and learned behaviour.
Practical strategies to stay grounded, set boundaries, and preserve your sense of agency.
How introverted women, in particular, can harness quiet strength and resilience in challenging workplaces.
Why understanding these dynamics helps you lead with empathy, courage, and integrity.
This episode is a must-listen for introverted women leaders, anyone working under a difficult boss, or those committed to fostering healthier, more authentic leadership cultures.
🔗 Connect with Kate Lowry:
https://www.katelowry.com/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinejlowry/
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/kateunbreakablelowry/
Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579366067469
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
👉 https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by award-winning leadership coach, hypnotherapist, and keynote speaker Amy Green Smith. Together, they explore the powerful theme of fear—how it shows up in our lives, how it holds us back, and most importantly, how we can navigate it with courage.
Amy shares her personal journey from corporate burnout to building a career rooted in purpose, as well as her experience of being an “outgoing introvert” and how that has shaped her work. She introduces the idea of becoming fear-optimised—recognising fear as a natural part of life and learning how to use it to our advantage rather than letting it paralyse us.
You’ll hear about the four basic fear responses—fight, flight, freeze, and fawn—and how these show up in modern life as anxiety, procrastination, people-pleasing, and more. Amy offers practical ways to reframe these patterns, build self-worth, and establish boundaries that support both personal and professional growth.
Key Takeaways:
Fear is not the enemy—courage exists because of fear.
Understanding the modern versions of fight, flight, freeze, and fawn helps us identify what’s really holding us back.
Outgoing introverts often get mistaken for extraverts, but learning how you truly recharge is key to thriving.
Boundaries and self-worth go hand in hand in avoiding burnout and leading authentically.
Community and connection remind us that we are not alone in our experiences.
This inspiring conversation is for introverted women leaders—and anyone—who wants to stop letting fear dictate their choices and instead step forward with quiet courage and confidence.
🔗 Connect with Amy Green Smith: amygreensmith.com
https://amygreensmith.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/heyamygreensmith/
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this episode of Quietly Visible, Carol Stewart welcomes Yvonne Okiyo, EDI specialist and holistic menopause coach, for a rich and inspiring conversation on leadership, well-being, and gender equity.

Yvonne shares her journey into equity, diversity and inclusion work, her passion for supporting marginalised groups, and how her lived experiences shaped her commitment to helping women thrive.

She opens up about embracing her strengths as an introverted leader, showing how qualities such as deep thinking and empathy are invaluable in driving change.The discussion also explores menopause in depth – at work and beyond.

Yvonne highlights why supportive policies and awareness are vital, while also sharing practical steps women can take to advocate for themselves. She offers valuable insights into holistic nutrition, lifestyle, and stress management as key tools for navigating this stage of life.

Key takeaways:

• Why introverted leadership strengths such as empathy and reflection are powerful assets
• The importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion in leadership and well-being
• Practical ways employers can support staff going through menopause
• Holistic nutrition and lifestyle habits to ease menopausal symptoms
• How confidence, influence, and authenticity enable women to lead and flourish

This episode is perfect for introverted women leaders, HR professionals, and anyone passionate about supporting women’s well-being and leadership impact.

Connect with Yvonne Okiyo

Instagram & TikTok: @realhealthwithyvonne

LinkedIn: Yvonne Okiyo https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonne-okiyo-a83b0021/Take

Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influencehttps://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this solo episode of Quietly Visible, Carol reflects on her personal journey from self-doubt to self-confidence, sharing how she learned to embrace her introversion and turn it into a strength.

She opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome throughout her career—whether navigating organisational change, stepping into leadership roles, or writing her book—and how aligning her 'why' with her values helped her succeed.

Drawing on her own experiences as well as her MSc research into belonging and psychological safety, Carol explores:

✔️Why introversion is not a lack of confidence but a different way of leading and connecting

✔️How to recognise and address specific areas of self-doubt rather than writing yourself off as 'not confident'

✔️Practical strategies to manage imposter syndrome and reframe self-perceptions

✔️The role of environment, values, and personal motivations in building lasting confidence

This episode is both personal and practical, offering encouragement and tools for anyone who has ever felt held back by self-doubt, imposter syndrome, or the belief that they need to be someone else to succeed.

Complete the free Confidence, Influence, and Impact Assessment at https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/

📷Julie Anne Smith

#introvert #empowerment #impostersyndrome #introvertedwomenleaders #confidence

In this episode of Quietly Visible, Carol Stewart is joined by Melissa DinWiddie—Juilliard-trained dancer, jazz singer, improviser, author of The Creative Sandbox Way, and creativity consultant for global brands like Google, Meta, and Salesforce.

Melissa shares her powerful journey from believing she “wasn’t creative” to embracing her artistry and building a career helping leaders and teams unlock their boldest ideas. She opens up about the perfectionism that held her back for years, how self-compassion became her game-changer, and why she now proudly calls herself an “intentional imperfectionist.”

💡 In this conversation:

• Why creativity is much more than painting or music
• How perfectionism differs from the pursuit of excellence
• The role of self-compassion in overcoming fear and self-doubt
• How introverted leaders can thrive by lowering the bar and starting messy
• Practical tools to embrace play, experimentation, and risk-taking
  

Melissa’s story is a testament to the fact that creativity lives in everyone—and that letting go of perfection can open doors to joy, innovation, and authentic leadership.
Connect with Melissa DinWiddie:

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

Website: melissadinwiddie.com
https://melissadinwiddie.com/

Instagram: @a_creative_life
https://instagram.com/a_creative_life

You Tube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRFDQEc5Rj6SU3FTprqohLQ

Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by consultant psychotherapist, writer, and founder of Stilled Therapy & Consultancy, Monique Thomas. Together, they explore what it means to lead with grace and why this is such a powerful approach for introverted women in leadership.

Monique shares her personal journey from teaching and performing to psychotherapy, weaving in lessons about authenticity, stillness, and the importance of connection. She unpacks how leaders can move beyond performance and pressure, create psychologically safe environments, and thrive without pretending to be someone they’re not.

Key takeaways from this conversation:

• Grace in leadership means moving away from performance-driven cultures and embracing authenticity.
• Stillness isn’t about inactivity—it’s about finding safety, acceptance, and deep connection even in motion.
• Authenticity is powerful—real change begins when we accept ourselves as we are.
• Connection is essential—introverts need belonging and safe spaces just as much as anyone else.
• Challenging performance culture can prevent burnout and help leaders lead with compassion and sustainability.
  

This is an inspiring listen for introverted women leaders who want to thrive by leading with authenticity, compassion, and courage—without losing themselves to performance pressures.

Connect with Monique:hello@stlldtherapy.com

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/monique-thomas-ma-5541b429/

Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

One of the areas many of my clients struggle with is networking. For introverts, traditional networking can feel overwhelming and draining, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Networking is less about “working the room” and more about building meaningful connections that align with your values and energy levels.In this episode, I share:✨Why introverts often find networking exhausting — and how to reframe it.✨Real-life client stories of overcoming self-limiting beliefs about networking.✨Practical strategies such as using open-ended questions, active listening, and connecting beforehand.✨How to plan and approach events so you feel more at ease and get the most from them.Whether you see networking as a chore or simply want to do it in a way that feels authentic and sustainable, this episode will give you tools and inspiration to approach it differently.👉🏾 Take my free Confidence, Influence, and Impact Assessment at https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/ to identify areas to strengthen your leadership.🎵 Julie Ann Smith ©️

Carol Stewart is joined by Dr. Lynise Green, integrated wellness and leadership consultant, wellness strategist, and award-winning expert. Together, they explore how introverted women in leadership can reclaim their energy, authority, and authenticity without giving in to performative expectations.

Dr. Green shares her fascinating journey from engineer to naturopath to consultant, and how her own experiences with burnout shaped the work she does today.

She unpacks the myths around productivity, visibility, and hustle culture, showing why sustainable success isn’t about always being “on” but about managing and optimising your energy.

Highlights from the conversation:

• The danger of performative leadership and why authenticity is more impactful

• How burnout shows up physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually
• Why presence and intentional energy are more powerful than constant hustle

• Practical strategies for setting boundaries without guilt
• How introverted leaders can thrive by valuing quality over quantity in their visibility
• Why managing energy—not just time—is the key to living and leading well

This episode is a must-listen for introverted women who want to lead with impact, protect their energy, and build a leadership style rooted in clarity, purpose, and authenticity.

Connect with Dr. Lynise Green:
https://www.wellwithl.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lynisegreennd

Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this candid and insightful episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by Kai-Nneka Townsend, leadership resilience and burnout consultant. Kai-Nneka shares her personal journey through burnout—how it crept up, the warning signs she missed, and the steps she now teaches leaders to prevent it.
They discuss the reality of exhaustion, cynicism, and self-doubt that can undermine even the most successful leaders, and how unmanageable workloads combined with the pressure to “push through” can take a serious toll on health and confidence. Kai-Nneka offers practical strategies for setting boundaries, asking for help, and managing both professional demands and personal responsibilities.
The conversation also tackles “mum guilt”—why it happens, how it impacts working mothers, and how to balance career ambitions with quality time at home without being consumed by guilt.
💡 Key takeaways:
Recognising the early signs of burnout before it’s too late
Why boundaries are essential for protecting your time, energy, and wellbeing
The importance of defining what success looks like for you at this stage of life
How to have honest conversations at work and at home to get the support you need
Practical tips for managing “mum guilt” and being fully present in both work and family life
This episode is a must-listen for leaders, especially introverted women, who want to protect their energy, thrive in their careers, and still enjoy life beyond work.
🔗 Connect with Kai-Nneka Townsend:
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this episode, Carol explored the impact of stress on women's health, distinguishing between acute and chronic stress and sharing personal stories to illustrate how stress can manifest physically and emotionally.

She emphasised the importance of recognising early signs of stress and developing resilience as a way to manage stress and improve overall well-being, while also discussing strategies for emotional regulation and building a support network.

Carol concluded by highlighting the benefits of gratitude and self-reflection, encouraging listeners to practice self-care and make time for personal development through various stress management techniques.

Take Carol's Confidence, Influence, and Impact Assessment at https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/

🎵 ©️Julie Ann Smith

Carol Stewart is joined by Koreen Fader, CEO of QVC UK, to discuss the power of self-awareness and introverted leadership. From her beginnings as an intern to becoming CEO, Koreen shares her personal and professional journey—owning her introversion every step of the way.
Together, they explore how introverted women leaders can succeed without conforming to the traditional, extraversion-favouring leadership style. Koreen shares practical ways she manages her energy in high-demand environments, how she prepares for public speaking and networking events, and why being authentic, rather than performing extraversion, leads to deeper connection and trust.
Highlights include:
Koreen’s rise from intern to CEO and what helped her succeed
Why preparation is a superpower for introverted professionals
Managing energy and avoiding burnout in demanding roles
How to navigate networking when it feels unnatural
The role of empathy, vulnerability and authenticity in leadership
What happens when you lead your team your way, not the traditional way
This episode is a must-listen for introverted leaders and aspiring executives who want to embrace their natural style, make a difference, and thrive, without compromising who they are.
🔗 Connect with Koreen Fader & QVC UK:
📱 Follow Koreen on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/koreen-fader-10a83222/
🏢 QVC UK on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/qvcgroup/
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this supportive and enlightening episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart speaks with Joy Langley, a psychotherapist, mindset coach, and author of Navigating Stress.

Together, they explore how introverted women in leadership can manage internal pressures, deal with imposter feelings, and silence the inner critic that too often whispers, “You’re not enough.”
Joy brings her calm wisdom to a conversation about personality, perfectionism, and power. Drawing on her work with high-achieving women, she explains the difference between introversion and extraversion, how personality traits shape our inner dialogue, and why self-compassion is a critical leadership skill.
Highlights from the episode:
Understanding the link between personality traits and stress
Why introverted leaders often feel “not good enough” in extravert-favouring spaces
How to deal with the voice of the inner critic—and turn it into a coach
The myth of “perfectly calm and confident” leadership
How affirmations, journaling, and even embracing “messiness” can build resilience
Tools for rebalancing your nervous system and owning your voice
Whether you're navigating corporate spaces or building your own business, Joy’s compassionate insights will help you give yourself permission to lead, live, and speak with greater ease.
Connect with Joy Langley:
https://joylangley.com/
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this episode, Carol explored the concept of comfort zones and their negative impact on personal and professional growth, sharing examples of how staying within one's comfort zone can lead to stagnation and missed opportunities for advancement.

She provided practical advice and strategies for overcoming fears that keep people trapped in unsatisfying jobs, including the importance of self-reflection, seeking support, and gradually stepping out of one's comfort zone through manageable challenges.

Carol emphasised the value of regular self-challenge and personal growth, sharing her own experiences of stepping outside her comfort zone, and encouraged listeners to consider similar opportunities to increase their confidence and impact.

Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment

#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

Carol Stewart is joined by PR and personal branding expert Ronke Lawal, founder of Ariatu PR. Together, they delve into how introverted women leaders can cultivate a powerful and authentic personal brand, without pretending to be someone they’re not.

Ronke shares wisdom from two decades of helping professionals and entrepreneurs amplify their voices. From wardrobe choices to digital presence, she unpacks practical strategies for owning your identity, communicating with confidence, and making your leadership visible in a way that aligns with your personality, not drains it.

💡 Key takeaways include:

Why personal branding isn’t about being famous, it’s about building trust

How introverted leaders can show up without faking extraversion

What authenticity really means in today’s attention-driven world

Using fashion and styling as a form of self-expression and confidence

How to develop a legacy-driven brand rooted in purpose and clarity

Actionable tips to elevate your presence both online and in the workplace

Whether you’re hesitant about visibility or unsure how to self-promote authentically, this episode offers guidance to help you be remembered, for all the right reasons.

Connect with Ronke Lawal:

Website: ronkelawal.com https://ronkelawal.com/
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by Dr. Tosin Bowen-Wright, a consultant clinical psychologist, leadership coach, and advocate for women’s wellbeing.

Together, they unpack the myths surrounding resilience and explore how introverted women can lead confidently—without burning out.Tosin shares her own story of navigating senior leadership, pushing through exhaustion, and ultimately redefining what it means to be resilient.

Her experience sheds light on the emotional toll of high-pressure roles, especially for Black women and introverted leaders, and how honouring your boundaries, energy, and emotional needs is key to sustainable success.

Topics include:

The harmful effects of the “push through” narrative in leadership

Recognising the signs of burnout before they take hold

Practical strategies for tuning into yourself and protecting your energy

Setting clear boundaries and embracing self-care as leadership tools

Why resilience is about awareness, not endurance

The difference between introversion and confidence—and how knowing the difference changed her life

This episode is essential listening for any woman navigating leadership in environments that demand visibility, while craving calm and authenticity.

Connect with Dr. Tosin Bowen-Wright:

Website: www.doctortbw.co.uk

LinkedIn: Tosin Bowen-Wrighthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-tosin-bowen-wright/
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this episode of the Quietly Visible Podcast, I delve into a common challenge faced by introverted women leaders—setting and enforcing boundaries.

Whether it's saying yes when you want to say no, avoiding difficult conversations, or overcommitting out of guilt or people-pleasing tendencies, the cost of poor boundaries can be high—emotionally, mentally, and professionally.

I explore:

✔️ Why boundaries are essential for wellbeing, confidence, and effective leadership

✔️ The emotional and societal pressures that stop women from setting them

✔️ What happens when boundaries are absent

✔️ How to communicate and reinforce your boundaries clearly and assertively—without the guilt

You’ll hear practical examples, coaching insights, and simple yet powerful strategies to help you protect your time, energy, and peace of mind.“Your needs matter just as much as anyone else’s. Saying ‘no’ is not selfish—it’s self-preservation.”

📥 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

🔗 Plus, download my free Confidence, Influence & Impact Assessment at aboundingsolutions.com to explore how you're showing up in your leadership.

🎵 - ©️ Julie Ann Smith

#QuietLeadership #IntrovertedWomen #SettingBoundaries #CarolStewart #QuietlyVisiblePodcast

Carol Stewart speaks with Dr. Sharon Melnick, business psychologist, executive coach, and author of In Your Power: React Less, Regain Control, Raise Others.

Together, they explore how introverted women—especially those in senior executive roles—can reclaim and embody their personal power in workplaces that often favour extraversion and dominance.

Dr. Melnick unpacks what it truly means to be "in your power," sharing practical strategies to move from being a reactive thermometer to a proactive thermostat—the leader who sets the emotional climate in any room.

Highlights from the episode include:

The 3 foundations of personal power: agency, sovereignty, and efficacy

Why introversion is a strength—not a shortcoming—in leadership

How to stay calm and centred under pressure using techniques like cooling breath

How burnout is more about lack of power than workload

What to do when you're the only introverted woman in a male-dominated, extravert-driven environment

How to influence without being the loudest in the room

Whether you're navigating boardrooms, burnout, or bias, this episode is packed with actionable insight to help you reclaim your energy, communicate with intention, and lead powerfully—on your own terms.

Connect with Dr. Sharon Melnick:
Sharonmelnick.com https://sharonmelnick.com/
Try the Power Profile Quiz and download the Burnout-Proof Checklist
Book: In Your Power: React Less, Regain Control, Raise Others
LinkedIn – Sharon Melnick PhD https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharonmelnick

Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

“Confidence isn’t about being louder. It’s about being more of yourself.” — Beatrice Kabutakapua

In this enriching episode of Quietly Visible, Carol Stewart is joined by Beatrice Kabutakapua, business storytelling coach and founder of the Business Storytelling Centre. Together, they explore how storytelling can empower introverted leaders to connect, communicate, and lead with greater influence—without needing to act like extraverts.

Beatrice shares her personal journey from journalism to coaching, how she rediscovered her own voice through story, and why introversion is not the same as shyness. She reveals how leaders can use lived experience—not flashy performance—to create compelling stories that inspire trust and foster connection.

Key topics include:

The difference between introversion and shyness—and why it matters

Using storytelling for self-awareness, influence, and team engagement

How to share stories even when the topic is “dry” or data-heavy

Why confidence comes from being more of yourself, not less

The storytelling structures that suit introverts best

Beatrice’s new book Lead with Your Story (coming October 2025)

Whether you’re hesitant to be visible or simply want to communicate more powerfully as an introverted leader, this episode is filled with supportive insights and practical advice.

Connect with Beatrice Kabutakapua on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/beatrice-ngalula-kabutakapua/
Website https://www.beatricekabutakapua.com/

Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of the Quietly Visible podcast, Carol Stewart shares her journey from denying her introversion to becoming unapologetically introvert and proud.

She reflects on her childhood experiences with shyness and self-doubt, the societal misconceptions that shaped her early understanding of introversion, and the pivotal moments that led her to embrace her quiet strengths.

Carol also discusses how her professional evolution—from senior leader to award-winning executive and leadership coach—helped her specialise in supporting introverted women to lead with confidence, influence, and impact.

She dives into her academic research on belonging and psychological safety for introverted women in the workplace and how workplace culture often overlooks introverted strengths.

Whether you're early in your career or an experienced leader, this episode will inspire you to own your introversion, see it as a superpower, and lead authentically and proudly.

🎧 Tune in to discover:

✔️ Why introversion is often misunderstood

✔️ How introverted women can thrive in leadership

✔️ The importance of psychological safety and belonging

✔️ What led Carol to create The Impact Club, a supportive community for introverted leaders

Take Carol's free assessment to improve your confidence, impact, and influencehttps://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this powerful episode of Quietly Visible, Carol Stewart speaks with Joanne Lockwood, inclusive culture specialist, speaker, and founder of SEE Change Happen. Joanne shares her personal and professional journey of transitioning as a transgender woman at 52, and how embracing her true identity led to not only a new career in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), but a more meaningful, authentic life.
Joanne opens up about the lifelong challenges of masking her true self, the impact of alcohol as a coping mechanism, and the process of rebuilding relationships during and after transition. She also explores how resilience is developed—not through ease, but by getting things wrong, learning from setbacks, and choosing to move forward.
💡 Topics include:
Masking, introversion, and the pressures of conforming
Building resilience through lived experience and self-reflection
What it means to lead and live inclusively
The changing face of DEI in business—and why belonging still matters
Practical advice for anyone at a crossroads of personal transformation
Joanne's insights are relevant to anyone navigating change, identity, or seeking to create more inclusive environments—whether at work or within themselves.
🔗 Connect with Joanne Lockwood:
🌐 Website: seechangehappen.co.uk
💼 LinkedIn: Joanne Lockwood
🎙️ Podcast: Inclusion Bites (Available on Spotify, Apple & more)
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

“Presence is not about performing louder—it's about taking up space intentionally and managing your energy with grace.” — Salvatore Manzi
In this episode of Quietly Visible, Carol Stewart is joined by Salvatore Manzi, a communications coach and author of the upcoming book Clear and Compelling. Together, they explore how introverted professionals can manage their energy and presence during high-stakes situations—whether that's leading meetings, giving presentations, or being put on the spot.
Salvatore, an introvert himself, shares practical and neuroscience-backed techniques for staying grounded and confident, especially when the spotlight suddenly turns on you. From using intentional pauses and breathing techniques, to subtle posture shifts and pre-meeting rituals like “box breathing” or movement resets, this episode is packed with powerful tools that support clarity, composure, and authentic communication.
💡 Topics include:
Why traditional communication training often overlooks introverts
How to reset your nervous system in seconds
Using body language to command a room without overperforming
Hacks for responding confidently when put on the spot
The power of metaphors, frameworks, and strategic pauses
How slowing down boosts both clarity and presence
Whether you're preparing for a big presentation or navigating fast-paced meetings, this conversation will leave you equipped, energised, and empowered to show up as your most authentic self.
Connect with Salvatore Manzi:
Website: salvatoremanzi.com
LinkedIn: Salvatore Manzi https://www.linkedin.com/in/salvatorejmanzi/
Coming Soon: Clear and Compelling (June release)
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

Being able to influence helps you to convey your ideas and inspire others to buy into them. It helps build strong relationships, fosters better teamwork, drives productivity, guides and eases the process of change, and much more. People who can influence tend to have more significant career opportunities, but not everyone knows how to influence with impact. In this episode of the podcast, I discuss how you can develop your influencing skills.Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influencehttps://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheassessment🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith#introvert #Empowerment #introvertedwomenleaders

Host Carol Stewart is joined by Sandra Stocks—motivational speaker, coach, and co-host of the Living a Hell Yes podcast. Together, they explore the quiet yet powerful voice within us—the one we often ignore in favour of people-pleasing, fear, and the expectations of others.
Sandra shares her deeply personal journey of navigating inauthentic choices, like going through with a wedding she knew wasn’t right, and how these experiences ultimately led her to a life of radical authenticity and self-worth. She offers heartfelt, relatable insights into why so many introverted women feel the pressure to be someone they’re not—and how tuning into your inner guidance can change everything.
Connect with Sandra Stocks:
Website: contrastcoaching.co.uk (relaunching soon)
https://contrastcoaching.co.uk/

Book: Sixteen Seconds: Debunking the Myths Surrounding Manifestation

Podcast: Living a Hell Yes
https://www.livingahellyes.com/

Instagram: @sandrastockscoach
https://www.instagram.com/sandrastockscoach

Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influencehttps://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this deeply grounding episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by Tiki Paige, a transformation coach, energy and sound healer, and founder of Soulful Tiki. Together, they explore why introverted women often feel energetically drained—and how to protect and restore your energy in a world that doesn’t always cater to your quiet strengths.
Tiki shares her personal journey from burnout in high-pressure corporate roles to healing and supporting others through holistic practices. You’ll hear why setting boundaries, honouring solitude, and protecting your energy body are essential—not optional—for introverted leaders.
She also offers simple but powerful techniques to help you recharge, such as her “pink bubble” visualisation for daily protection and her heart-centred breathwork practice for instant calm.
Free Resource for Listeners:
Download Tiki’s Grounding and Protection Meditation and End-of-Day Reflection & Release Workbook – Download your free Grounding and Protection Meditation and End-of-Day Reflection & Release Workbook—your daily rituals to begin with clarity and protection, and end with peace and gentle self-connection—a sacred rhythm to support your soul, every day.
👉 Get it here
This episode is a must-listen for any introverted woman ready to lead from a place of wholeness, calm, and clarity.
🔗 Connect with Tiki:
🌐 soulfultiki.com
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

In this episode, I explore the question: 'Is your career still working for you at this stage in your life?' I share personal stories and client experiences that highlight the importance of aligning your career with your current life circumstances, priorities, and values.

Using the Kaleidoscope Career Model, I discuss how women often seek challenge in early career, balance in mid-career, and authenticity later on. But these stages aren’t fixed—your needs can shift at any time, and that's perfectly valid.

Whether you're feeling out of sync with your current path, considering a transition, or navigating family responsibilities while leading in your career, this episode will prompt you to pause and reflect: What do I really want now?

🔑 Key Talking Points:

• Why it's important to define success for yourself—not based on others’ expectations

• The Kaleidoscope Career Model and how your needs change over time

• My personal career decisions, including choosing security over risk during single parenthood

• The myth of 'having it all at once' and how to create balance on your own terms

• How mum guilt, family dynamics, and life stages shape our leadership and career journeys

• Stories of women I have coached through redundancy, reinvention, and renewal

💬 Quote to Remember:

"We can have it all, but not necessarily all at the same time."

🔗 Resources:

✅ Take my free Confidence, Influence & Impact Assessment: https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
✅ Follow me on LinkedIn for more insights on introverted leadership https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolstewart1/
✅ Subscribe to the Quietly Visible newsletter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6600753811223035905/

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

In this episode of Quietly Visible, Carol Stewart is joined by Alison Coward, founder of Bracket and author of Workshop Culture. Alison shares her insights on building creative, productive team environments using workshop principles. As an introverted leader herself, Alison also opens up about her personal journey and the strategies she’s developed to thrive in leadership.

Alison explains how embedding workshop techniques into daily team routines can boost creativity, collaboration, and productivity. She highlights the importance of balancing idea generation with structured decision-making to achieve impactful outcomes.

Connect with Alison & Get Her Book:

• Website: BracketCreative.co.uk
• LinkedIn: Alison Coward
• Book Discount Code: Use WRKCULT30 for 30% off Workshop Culture via Practical Inspiration Publishing. www.practicalinspiration.com







🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

Before you can lead others you need to be able to lead yourself, and self-awareness is key.

In this episode of the Quietly Visible Podcast, I talk about the importance of self-awareness for introverted women leaders.

Take the confidence, influence, and impact assessment at https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment

🎵- ©️ Julie Anne Smith

"Once you understand your purpose and lead yourself first, everything else begins to align." — Julie Perkins

In this inspiring episode of Quietly Visible, Carol Stewart welcomes Julie Perkins, founder of Wyseminds, a platform dedicated to empowering female entrepreneurs.

Julie shares her journey from expanding Specsavers in the Netherlands to founding Wyseminds, where she supports women navigating the challenges of business growth. Julie’s personal journey — including overcoming cancer — has deepened her commitment to helping others succeed.

Julie discusses the importance of leading yourself first before leading others. She shares how early in her leadership journey she tried to emulate others, which proved exhausting. Learning to align her leadership with her core values brought clarity, authenticity, and confidence.
Julie reflects on her experience expanding Specsavers in the Netherlands, starting with no brand recognition. She emphasises the value of reflection and recovery in maintaining energy and clarity as a leader.
Julie’s strong belief that "everybody’s story should be told" became her guiding purpose.
Julie champions introverted women, encouraging them to see their quiet strengths as powerful tools for leadership. By leveraging their clarity, focus, and authenticity, introverts can excel in fast-moving business environments.
Julie’s book, The Wyse Way, Purpose Led Business Growth, guides women in transforming their passion into a structured, purpose-driven business model.

Wyseminds offers online resources and virtual guidance to help founders take ownership of their growth journey.

Find out more here https://wyseminds.com/

If you are looking to increase your influence and impact then why not take Carol's free impact assessment at ⁠aboundingsolutions.com⁠

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

In this episode of Quietly Visible, Carol Stewart speaks with Heidi Kassevich, founder of KASE Leadership and an expert in introvert inclusivity and quiet leadership.

Heidi, an educator and executive coach and now leads efforts to transform classrooms into introvert-friendly spaces. She shares insights from her upcoming book, Silent: Setting the Stage for Introverts to Thrive in the Classroom and Beyond.

Connect with Heidi on LinkedIn

Purchase Heidi's Book

Visit KASE Leadership

If you are looking to increase your influence and impact then why not take Carol's free impact assessment at aboundingsolutions.com

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith.

Comparison is the thief of joy, an old saying with a lot of truth. It means constantly comparing ourselves or our circumstances to others can lead to unhappiness and dissatisfaction, causing us not to appreciate the qualities that we ourselves have.

I see this a lot when coaching introverted women leaders, they compare themselves to others and put themselves down in the process. This brings on self-doubt and a lack of self-confidence. And it is stressful.

In this episode, I talk about this and what you should do instead.

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

Take Carol's free assessment at

www.abounding solutions.com

There’s nothing sweeter than being reintroduced to yourself, with the belief that your introversion is a superpower." — Richard Etienne

In this insightful episode ofQuietly Visible, Carol Stewart welcomes Richard Etienne, an award-winning personal branding consultant and founder ofThe Introvert Space. Richard, a former official photographer for Prime Minister Theresa May, shares his journey as an introvert navigating professional spaces and his mission to amplify the voices of quiet leaders.

Richard’s passion for storytelling was sparked by advice from his father, encouraging him tocreate what he wanted to see. His background in filmmaking, journalism, and branding has led him to help introverted leaders find their voice. He shares strategies for drawing out stories from introverts. Early in his career, Richard struggled with self-doubt, overthinking job applications, and avoiding dominant personalities in meetings. He reflects on how introverts are often overlooked in fast-paced, extraverted environments and how workplace structures do not always support quiet thinkers.

Seeing a lack of tailored resources for introverts in the workplace, he createdThe Introvert Space to provide support, training, and community. The platform aims to be adata-led initiative, supporting both introverts and the organisations that manage them.

🔗Connect with Richard & The Introvert Space:

• Website:TheIntrovertSpace.com
• LinkedIn:Richard Etienne







🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

Take Carol's free assessment at

www.abounding solutions.com

How does your attachment style impact the way you lead? If you're an introverted woman in leadership, you may struggle with self-doubt, speaking up, or asserting yourself—especially if you lean toward anxious or avoidant attachment. In this episode, I break down what attachment styles are, where they come from, and how they show up in leadership.

You’ll learn:
✅ How anxious, avoidant, and fearful-avoidant attachment affect decision-making, confidence, and communication
✅ Why introverted women leaders may feel extra pressure—and how to navigate it
✅ Practical strategies to develop a secure leadership mindset (even if you don’t naturally have one!)

No matter your attachment style, leadership is a skill you can build. Tune in to learn how to step into your leadership role with clarity and confidence.

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

Take Carol's free assessment at

www.abounding solutions.com

This episode of Quietly Visible features Susie Drummond, a change consultant and leader with over 25 years of experience in organisational transformation across four continents. She shares her leadership journey as an introvert, navigating different cultures, embracing change, and building meaningful connections while staying true to her introverted nature.
Susie reflects on growing up as an introvert, initially believing it was a weakness but later recognising it as a strength.
She shares how she developed skills to "pass" as an extravert when necessary while staying authentic to her nature. Having worked in the UK, US, Australia, and Dubai, Susie discusses the challenges of adapting to different work environments.
Find Susie Online:
Website:rebelkindly.com
LinkedIn:Susie Drummond

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

In this episode, Carol discusses the challenges many women face when considering a career change, particularly those in their late 30s to early 50s. She explores why fear often holds them back and shares strategies to help them move forward with clarity and confidence.Key Topics:⭐Understanding why you want to change careers⭐Overcoming fear and self-doubt⭐Identifying your values, strengths, and skills⭐Exploring new career opportunities⭐Gaining relevant experience for a career transition⭐Practical steps to move forward

🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

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In this episode of the Quietly Visible podcast, host Carol Stewart explores the power of authenticity with her guest, Sandra Addae. Sandra is a dynamic professional with a journalism background, having focused her studies on the marginalisation of ethnic minorities in the media.

Her career spans contributions to notable organisations like CNN, Billboard Magazine, Sky News, and Disney, among others. Sandra also launched a networking event, Ignite, in 2024 for marginalised leaders. Listeners will be inspired by Sandra’s journey, balancing a thriving career in journalism, marketing, and communications while championing inclusion and authenticity.

Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn

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