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Little Moves, Big Careers is the podcast for people who want to build high-performing careers in a messy, fast-moving world.

Hosted by Caroline Esterson, career strategist and co-founder of Inspire Your Genius, this show lifts the lid on the unspoken rules of modern work and gives you the small, smart moves that make a big difference.

From visibility and confidence to self-leadership and influence, every episode mixes bold insights, cheeky truths, and practical takeaways that actually work inside real organisations.

No corporate waffle, just unapologetically honest career talk for people who want to perform, progress, and stand out for all the right reasons.

Sign up to the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

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Or "Why Hard Work Alone Doesn’t Get You Noticed at Work"

 You’ve been told to keep your head down, work hard, and wait your turn. Sound familiar? This episode reveals why that advice is holding you back and what to do instead. 

From laugh-out-loud real talk to smart shifts that boost your visibility, I’ll show you why capability means nothing without clarity and how to start showing up like you mean it.

Quickfire career moves included. Slightly savage, encouragement guaranteed.

RESOURCES

Bold Moves Brief

Visibility Checklist

Visibility Language Upgrade

Big Conversation Guide

Connect with Caroline here

Connect with Wendy here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

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If you've ever felt like your manager was more “in the way” than “in your corner,” this one’s for you.

In this sharp-tongued but clear-eyed bonus episode, Caroline takes us on a safari through the modern workplace zoo, spotting characters like The Deflector, The Bouncer, The Squirrel, The Chameleon, and yes, even the elusive Amplifier.

It’s not about moaning. It’s about naming the pattern so you can stop internalising the chaos and start working around it like the savvy human you are.

Learn how to:

• Handle managers who deflect, dodge, and disappear
• Respond (not react) to dodgy leadership
• Use E + R = O (Event + Response = Outcome) to take back control
• Amplify yourself—even if no one else is

You’ll laugh, wince, and probably recognise a few of your former line managers… but most importantly, you’ll leave equipped with cheeky scripts, smart strategies, and a whole lot more control over your career than you thought you had.

Because waiting to be noticed? That’s a system that’s failed you before.
 This time, you’re moving first. With style.

Listen now and reclaim your agency, one bold move at a time.

RESOURCES

Your Bold Moves Brief

Big Conversation Guide - ask your team (safely) how you can show up better for them.

Are you an Amplifier Quiz

Connect with Caroline here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

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How Invisible Power Networks Shape Your Career (Without You Even Knowing)

Ever had that sinking feeling that the real meeting happened before the meeting?
Or that someone less capable got the nod while you’re still “being patient”?

Welcome to The Club; no badges, no invites, just power.

In this episode of Little Moves, Big Careers, Caroline Esterson lifts the velvet rope on how influence really works at work. You’ll learn how unspoken rules, subtle loyalties, and quiet confidence shape who gets picked, praised, and promoted; and how to stop waiting for permission to join.

You’ll discover:

• Why effort doesn’t equal visibility (and what does)
• The neuroscience of exclusion — and why it literally hurts to be left out
•  How to spot informal power patterns and play smarter, not louder
•  Why The Club isn’t always evil — it’s often emotional
•  Three bold-but-doable moves to get noticed without faking it

Inside the episode:

•  Are YOU in The Club?  Take the cheeky, too-close-to-home quiz
•  Real or Rubbish? Decode whether that weird workplace moment is Club Code or just corporate chaos
•  What Would Caro Do?  A listener from Preston is done being overlooked. 
•  Quickfire Career Moves: 3 fast shifts to move from helpful to highly strategic
•  Career Quote Crime: “If you work hard, you’ll be recognised.” Nope. You’ll be tired. Caro serves the smarter truth.

This episode exposes the unspoken rulebook of modern careers and helps you rewrite it with intention, clarity, and a bit of sass.

RESOURCES

Bold Moves Brief

Big Conversation Guide - ask your team (safely) how you can show up better for them.

Informal Influence Mapper

Connect with Caroline here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

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The Tiny Career Moves That Build Massive Momentum
Ever feel like you’re doing everything right but still getting overlooked? Spoiler: it’s not your effort, it’s your radar.

In this episode of Little Moves, Big Careers, Caro shows you how to stop missing the moments that matter and start training your brain to spot the real career-shifters.

You’ll discover:

• Why big opportunities rarely come with bold font or a calendar invite
• How to notice patterns like Zara’s merch team and Daniel Kahneman’s brain
• What to do when Greg gets credit for spotting what you already knew
• The crucial difference between action and insight — and which one gets you promoted

Plus:

• The “curiosity filter” trick to replay your week differently
• One power question that shifts how people see you in meetings
• How to turn those vague “loop ins” into actual leaps

This episode will tune your radar, sharpen your strategy, and prove that momentum doesn’t come from waiting; it comes from noticing, then moving.

RESOURCES

Bold Moves Brief

Big Conversation Guide

Career Reflection Checklist: Spotting the little clues

Connect with Caroline here

Connect with Sonia here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

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In this episode of Little Moves, Big Careers, Caroline Esterson gets gloriously real about the messy truth of career paths, emphasising that success is not linear, no matter what the old-school career ladder crowd wants you to believe. Instead, we’re talking zigzag moves, surprise sliding doors moments, and the wild power of zigging when you're told to zag.

Caroline takes aim at the myth of the straight line and hands you a better map, one where detours, pivots, and “Wait, how did I end up here?” moments are actually rocket fuel for personal and professional growth. If you've ever felt like you took the long way round, good news: you’re not lost, you’re levelling up.

You’ll walk away with practical advice, a dash of cheek, and full permission to define success on your own (gloriously unpredictable) terms.

Key takeaways

• Careers are not straight lines; they are weather systems.
• Success is often found in unexpected pivots.
• Recognising sliding doors moments can change your career trajectory.
• The traditional career ladder is becoming obsolete.
• Zigzagging through your career can lead to valuable experiences.
• Chase experiences rather than titles or positions.
• Curiosity and awareness are key to spotting opportunities.
• It's important to trust patterns over rigid plans.
• Don't let conventional wisdom limit your potential.
• Progress is not always perfect, but it is still progress.

Sound Bites

"Progress doesn't always look like sunshine."
"Chase experiences, not jobs."
"Start trusting pattern over plan."

Quick Fire Career Moves You’ll Learn

• Stop asking “Is this the right move?”, start asking “What will I learn?”
• Trust the pattern over the plan. Your instincts are wiser than your CV.
• Ask people how they really got where they are. Note to self: it’s never the five-year plan.

Listen if You’re:

• Second-guessing a job change that doesn’t look neat
• Tired of chasing titles and ready to chase truth
• Trying to explain your zigzag to your Dad, your boss, or your inner critic
• Ready to make the brave, weird move… and own it

Resources + Extras

Bold Moves Brief 

The Career Story Prompt Pack

Run the Big Conversation session with your team

Connect with Caroline here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

Want to bring this energy into your organisation? Let’s talk. caroline@inspireyourgenius.com

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Love this? Forward it to someone who’s quietly plotting a bold pivot.
Please rate & review so the algorithm sends it to the brave ones.

Because success doesn’t come from staying put, it comes from knowing when to zag.

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

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Not Confidence. Not Cleverness. Curiosity Is Your Secret Weapon.

The boldest careers aren’t built on perfect plans; they’re built by people who stay curious. Strategically. Unapologetically. And often, just a little cheekily.

In this episode of Little Moves, Big Careers, Caro unpacks why curiosity beats confidence every time and how to use it as your secret career edge.

You’ll hear:

•  A story about 208 seconds that proves calm curiosity saves the day
•  A listener wondering if trying something new makes them “flaky” (spoiler: nope)
•  The truth about “Jack of all trades” and why it’s time for its redemption arc

This episode will get you thinking differently, asking smarter questions, and spotting opportunities before everyone else does.

Because you don’t need to be fearless.
You just need to stay curious long enough to find out what’s possible.

RESOURCES

Bold Moves Brief

Big Conversation Guide for leaders

How Are You Curious Quiz? and from there, grab Your Curiosity Compass

Connect with Caroline here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

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Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt at Work

Ever had that “who let me in here?” moment? Yeah. Welcome to the club no one applied to join.

In this episode of Little Moves, Big Careers, Caroline Esterson dives into the messy middle of imposter syndrome: where self-doubt isn’t a flaw, it’s feedback that you’re stretching.

No toxic positivity. No “just be confident” nonsense. Just straight talk about:

• Why imposter thoughts hit hardest right before a breakthrough
• How your prehistoric brain confuses growth with danger
• Practical tools to shrink the spiral and move anyway

You’ll laugh, you’ll nod, and you’ll probably text a friend, “You need to hear this.”

Because you don’t need to be fearless. You just need to keep moving; even with the wobble.

Listen if You’re:

• Newly promoted and wondering if it was all a mistake
• Secretly convinced someone’s going to “find you out”
• Tired of pretending you’re fine while Googling acronyms under the table
• Ready to stop spiralling and start owning your brilliance, even with wobbles

RESOURCES

As always, you have your:

Bold Moves Brief

Big Conversation Starter kit right here

Download the Gremlin Check-In , your brutally simple, fill-in-the-blank worksheet to help you name the thought, reframe it, and take a bold micro-move anyway.

Connect with Caroline here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

Want to bring this kind of truth-telling, high-impact energy into your organisation? Let’s talk. caroline@inspireyourgenius.com

#careertips #careeradvice #personaldevelopment

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

Send us a text

Progress over perfection. Movement over manicured.

Ever spent hours watching webinars, highlighting your notes, colour-coding your to-do list… and still felt stuck? That’s planning disguised as progress, and it’s one of the sneakiest ways we stall our careers. In this episode, we call out perfectionism for the joy-thieving con it is, and champion messy, scrappy, unpolished action that actually gets results.

Caroline spills some of her most cringe-worthy (but career-defining) moments, including mismatched shoes at a pitch, a coffee-soaked disaster, and the reply-all apocalypse and prove that magic doesn’t come from polished plans… it comes from movement. Even wobbly ones.

Key Takeaways

• Messy action beats perfect planning every time, especially when it comes to career momentum.
• Perfectionism is productivity in a tuxedo, it looks smart but gets you nowhere.
• Procrastination isn’t laziness, it’s emotional self-protection. Understand the brain science behind why we stall.
• Every cringe is a clue. Mistakes aren’t failure, they’re intel.
• Clarity is earned through action, not overthinking.

RESOURCES

Bold Moves Brief

Big Conversation Starter

Your Messy Moves Tracker

Connect with Caroline here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

Ready to ditch the pressure to be perfect? 

Hit play and take the messiest little move you’ve got. It might just be the one that changes everything.

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

Send us a text

Ever smiled through a team meeting while mentally planning your escape to a remote cottage in Wales? Or replied “No worries!” to a Friday 5pm request while quietly Googling “how to become a llama farmer”?

This episode is not about pretending everything’s fine. It’s about real optimism - the kind that doesn’t require vision boards, scented candles, or toxic positivity. Just one honest check-in, one tiny shift, and one decision to climb above the line.

If you’ve ever felt flat, burnt out, or stuck smiling through the madness, this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways

• Optimism isn’t personality - it’s strategy.
• Burnout doesn't always look like collapse. Sometimes it looks like “fine.”
• Real resilience comes from reflection, not denial.
• Protecting your spark is leadership, not laziness.
• You don’t have to feel great to move - you just need to move with intention.

Sound Bites

• “Optimism doesn’t always wear sparkles. Sometimes it just says: let’s give it another go.”
• “You don’t have to collapse to justify recovery.”
• “Forced positivity is about as comforting as a soggy sandwich.”
• “You can’t reframe if you don’t reflect.”
• “Even the best jobs have parts you’d happily launch into the sun.”

RESOURCES

BOLD MOVES BRIEF

BIG CONVERSATION STARTER

FLAMEKEEPER PROMPT LIST: 20 bold reflection prompts to help you reconnect, reframe, and refuel (no toxic positivity required)

Connect with Caroline here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

🎧 Listen now to stop faking the flame and learn how to fuel it for real.

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

Send us a text

In this final episode of the "Little Moves Big Careers" podcast, host Caroline Esterson shines a spotlight on drift - the quiet career killer that shows up when you’re doing the tasks but losing direction.  She challenges listeners to cut through the noise and embrace intentionality in their careers. Whether you're mid-pivot or feeling stuck, Caroline offers practical advice on making deliberate choices that can transform your professional journey. Discover the concept of the "two millimetre difference" and learn how small, intentional shifts can lead to significant outcomes. 

Tune in for a mix of cheeky games, career insights, and actionable strategies to help you stand out and build a career you're proud of. Don't miss this mic-drop moment as we wrap up the season with a call to action: make your next move, no matter how small, with purpose.

Key Concepts Covered:

• Burnout isn't a weakness. It's a signal that your current strategy is unsustainable.
• Clarity comes from movement, not more overthinking or 3 am job board spirals.
• The 2mm Difference: Small, intentional shifts that radically alter your career trajectory
• Intentionality over effort. It's not how much you do; it’s how you do it that gets noticed.
• Micro-choices build macro momentum. Stop aiming for the leap. Start with the tilt.

Listen Now If You:

• Feel like you’re working hard but going nowhere
• Are constantly overwhelmed and thinking of quitting
• Want to rebuild focus, energy, and career direction without a full reset
• Need a bold nudge to stop drifting and start deciding

RESOURCES

BOLD MOVES BRIEF

BIG CONVERSATION STARTER

Explore the 2mm Difference concept

Connect with Caroline here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

Want help designing your own team’s “intentionality reboot”? Let’s talk caroline@inspireyourgenius.com

If this episode lit a spark, share it with a teammate, post your own 2mm move using #IntentionalAF, or leave a review that helps this podcast reach someone else who needs it.

You are Intentional.
Now go prove it.

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

Send us a text

Join Caroline Esterson in this reflective episode of "Little Moves Big Careers" as she revisits the highlights of Season 1. From the importance of intentional visibility to embracing curiosity and taking messy action, Caroline shares key insights and listener stories that showcase how small moves can lead to significant career shifts. 

Discover actionable tools and resources designed to help you turn insights into action. Don't miss this chance to reflect on your journey and prepare for even bolder moves in Season 2!

Key Takeaways

• Reflection is crucial for personal and professional growth.
• Hard work alone is insufficient for career advancement.
• Intentionality and visibility are key to success.
• Tools and resources can help translate insights into action.
• Small moves can lead to significant changes in career paths.
• Building psychological safety fosters honest conversations.
• Personal stories can inspire and guide others in their journeys.
• Learning occurs on multiple levels: content, process, and reaction.
• Celebrating progress is essential for motivation and continued growth.

#careertips #highperformance

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

Send us a text

Join Caroline Esterson in "Little Moves, Big Careers" as she tackles the crippling effects of perfectionism in the workplace. 

This episode features career strategist, therapeutic counsellor and coach, Chris Mooney, who shares insights on overcoming fear and embracing progress. Learn actionable strategies to boost your career momentum by prioritising progress over perfection. Discover why "practice makes progress" is the key to success, and get ready for next week's deep dive into psychological safety with expert Gary Keogh. Don't miss out on transforming your career with these powerful insights!

Key Takeaways

• Don't wait for the perfect moment to act.
• Perfectionism can disguise itself as diligence.
• Fear of judgment and failure often holds us back.
• Progress is more important than polish.
• Ask better questions to unlock momentum.
• Sharing ideas early can ignite collaboration.
• Celebrate effort, not just completion.
• Practice makes progress, not perfection.
• Embrace your flaws as part of growth.

Sound bites

"Embrace your flaw-som-ness."
"Practice makes progress."
"You just need more courage."

RESOURCES

• Grab your Perfectionist Recovery Kit and Team Tool right here
• Read more about it here
• Connect with Caroline on LinkedIn 
• Connect with Chris on LinkedIn 

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

Send us a text

In this episode, Caroline emphasises the critical role of reflection in career development. She discusses how strategic self-reflection can lead to significant improvements in performance and personal growth. She introduces you to four types of reflection: 

1. Pre-reflection, 
2. Daily reset, 
3. Growth reflection, and 
4. Future-facing reflection, 

Each one serves a unique purpose in enhancing intentionality and effectiveness in professional settings. She encourages listeners to adopt these practices to foster a habit of reflection that can lead to meaningful career advancements.


Key Takeaways

• Most people don't reflect; they just react and repeat.
• Reflection is essential for career growth and insight.
• 15 minutes of daily reflection can improve performance by 23%.
• Reflection can be simple and fit into daily life.
• Creating a habit of reflection can lead to significant changes.
• Reflection is about upgrading, not dwelling on the past.

Sound bites

"Reflection is your key."
"What did I learn this week?"
"Debug it, don't dwell."

Useful links

Download your Reflection Cheat Sheet right here

Connect with Caroline on LinkedIn

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

Send us a text

Join Caroline Esterson as she delves into the subtle yet impactful world of unconscious bias and its effects on workplace dynamics. Discover how everyday actions can undermine psychological safety and learn strategies to rise above these challenges.

KEY POINTS

Unconscious bias and its influence on workplace interactions. The role of gossip and blame as social contagions. Strategies to foster psychological safety and collaboration. Real-life scenarios illustrating above and below the line behaviors. The importance of mindset in overcoming bias and fostering innovation.

SOUNDBITES

"Bias isn't always loud or intentional. It's those mental shortcuts your brain runs without asking you first." 

"Belonging that's built on gossip is cheap. Belonging that's built on honesty, well, that's the kind of crew I want to fly with."

#BiasAwareness #PsychologicalSafety #WorkplaceCulture

NEXT EPISODE TEASER

Tune in next week as Paul Dawson shares his journey from scraping through GCSEs to becoming a CEO, proving that success is not a straight line.

RESOURCES 

• Grab your: 
  • Safe to Speak checklist here
  • Bold Moves Brief here
  • Big Conversation Starter here
• Read more about it here
• CONNECT WITH GARY  HERE
• CONNECT WITH CAROLINE HERE

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

Send us a text

In this episode, Caroline Esterson and Gary Keogh delve into the concept of psychological safety in the workplace, exploring its importance, the barriers to achieving it, and the roles individuals and leaders play in fostering an environment where everyone feels safe to speak up. They discuss personal experiences, the significance of inclusion, and practical tips for creating a psychologically safe workplace. The conversation emphasises the need for curiosity, humility, and vulnerability, and highlights the importance of measuring psychological safety to drive meaningful change.

TAKEAWAYS

• Psychological safety is crucial for open communication in teams.
• Leaders play a significant role, but everyone contributes to creating safety.
• Curiosity and humility are essential traits for fostering psychological safety.
• Two in five people feel unsafe to speak up in teams.
• Mistakes should be viewed as learning opportunities, not failures.
• Inclusion is vital for team dynamics and individual contributions.
• Measuring psychological safety can provide insights into team health.
• Creating an environment for open conversations enhances team performance.
• Empowerment and accountability can coexist in a compassionate workplace.

Small actions can lead to significant changes in workplace culture.

SOUND BITES

"We all have a role to play."
"Two in five people don't feel safe to speak up."
"You can measure psychological safety."

RESOURCES 

• Grab your: 
  • Safe to Speak checklist here
  • Bold Moves Brief here
  • Big Conversation Starter here
• Read more about it here
• CONNECT WITH GARY  HERE
• CONNECT WITH CAROLINE HERE

#psychological safety #leadership #workplace culture #team dynamics #accountability #personal development #career growth

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

Send us a text

Join us for Part 2 of this insightful conversation with Paul Dawson, CEO if Agena Group, in which he shares insights on transitioning from corporate to private equity, delivering public sector services, and the value of understanding your role in the workplace. He emphasises the importance of being comfortable with discomfort and provides practical advice for personal and professional growth.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Leadership Insights: Explore Paul's approach to personal and team leadership, focusing on creating a culture of continuous growth and empowerment. 
• Career Transitions: Learn about Paul's move from corporate to private equity, highlighting the significance of knowing when to embrace change. 
• The Three P's Framework: Paul shares his guiding principle of prioritising people, product, and profit in decision-making.
• Culture is crucial in organisations.
• Focus on the value of the service provided

Connect with Caroline here

Connect with Paul here

Agena Group website

CALL TO ACTION

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review us on your favourite podcast platform. 

Share it with anyone who might benefit from Paul's story and insights. 

Remember, even the smallest move can lead to big career changes.

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

Send us a text

In this conversation, Paul Dawson reflects on his early career experiences, the challenges faced in management, and the importance of mentorship and continuous learning. He discusses overcoming prejudice, navigating stress, and the significance of organisational culture.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Despite being average in GCSEs it didn't stop Paul from carving out an incredible career
• Apprenticeship led to an unexpected career path.
• No regrets about career decisions made.
• Importance of mentorship and learning from others.
• Facing prejudice in early management roles.
• Mental health challenges due to work stress.
• Embracing discomfort leads to growth.

Connect with Caroline here

Connect with Paul here

Agena Group website

CALL TO ACTION

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review us on your favourite podcast platform. 

Share it with anyone who might benefit from Paul's story and insights. 

Remember, even the smallest move can lead to big career changes.

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

Send us a text

In this episode, Caroline Esterson explores how to apply insights from the previous conversation with Declan Allen into actionable steps for career development. She introduces the concept of the career flywheel, emphasising the importance of adding value over merely being busy, spotting and solving workplace issues, and creating space for deep work. Practical moves are suggested to enhance productivity and challenge the 'do more with less' mindset, ultimately encouraging listeners to focus on what truly matters in their careers.

TAKEAWAYS

• The importance of getting noticed for results, not intentions.
• Understanding the difference between doing your job and adding real value is crucial.
• Most people operate within their job description, missing opportunities for growth.
• Organisations value those who can cut through noise and focus on what matters.
• Creating friction in workflows can lead to better outcomes.
• Tracking time spent on tasks can reveal areas for improvement.
• Challenging the 'do more with less' mentality is essential for sustainable productivity.
• Small, consistent moves can lead to significant career advancements.

SOUND BITES

• "You've got million pound fingers."
• "You can't fix what you won't name."
• "Make the move, even if it's tiny."

RESOURCES

Your Bold Moves Brief

The Big Conversation Guide for teams

Connect with Caroline here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

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In this conversation, Declan Allen (MD, Horiba Mira) shares his journey from engineer to managing director, discussing the importance of focusing on the present, building strong relationships, and the value of diversity in teams. 

He reflects on his early career experiences, the transition to leadership, and the lessons learned from mistakes. Declan emphasises the need for adaptability in the ever-changing automotive industry and expresses optimism about the future of innovation and societal impact.

TAKEAWAYS

• Focus on doing your best in the present moment.
• Building relationships is crucial for career success.
• Diversity in teams leads to better problem-solving.
• Managing upwards requires clear communication of successes.
• Don't assume others understand your contributions.
• Adaptability is key in a changing industry.
• Mistakes often stem from staying too long in the wrong place.
• Improving lives should be the core mission of any business.

SOUND BITES

• “You don’t get noticed for saying you want to lead; you get noticed for getting things done.”
• “The best leaders never forget what it’s like on the shop floor.”
• “Don’t wait for someone to tell your story. Tell it yourself, and tell it through your impact.”
• “Titles don’t make leaders. The way you show up, help others, and solve problems does.”
• “When you stop chasing the next role and start focusing on doing this one brilliantly, that’s when opportunity finds you.”
• “Different perspectives aren’t awkward, they’re how progress happens.”
• “No one ever built credibility by talking about potential. They built it by delivering, again and again.”

RESOURCES

Your Bold Moves Brief

The Big Conversation Guide for teams

Connect with Caroline here

#career advice #leadership #teamwork #diversity #automotive industry #managing upwards

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Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

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In this episode, Caroline Esterson discusses the importance of meaningful learning experiences, emphasising that true learning goes beyond quick fixes and superficial knowledge. 

She shares insights from her work and draws inspiration from "Limitless" with Chris Hemsworth, illustrating how reframing their roles can lead to significant personal and professional growth. The conversation delves into the science of effective learning, highlighting strategies such as spaced repetition, practice, feedback, and reflection. 

Caroline concludes with practical steps listeners can take to enhance their learning and career development.

TAKEAWAYS

• Learning experiences should challenge old habits and push for growth.
• True learning is messy, repetitive, and requires reflection.
• Spaced repetition helps retain information longer.
• Practice is essential; you learn by doing, not just knowing.
• Feedback accelerates learning and helps correct mistakes.
• Reflection is crucial for growth and understanding.
• Multi-modal learning enhances retention and understanding.
• Avoid treating learning like fast food; depth is key.
• Knowledge without application is just trivia.
• Continuous learning is vital for career advancement.

RESOURCES

Your Bold Brief is here

The Big Conversation Guide for teams is here

Connect with Caroline here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

#learning #personaldevelopment #continuouslearning #effectivelearningstrategies #careergrowth

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

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Christine Reynolds, Talent and Performance Director at Dothings.io, delves into the art of receiving feedback, exploring its crucial role in personal growth and professional development. Discover how mastering feedback can transform criticism into opportunities for high performance.

Takeaways

• Receiving feedback is essential for personal growth and improvement.
• Feedback, though sometimes painful, is a necessary tool for development.
• Understanding the challenges of feedback can lead to significant breakthroughs.
• Psychological insights can aid in effectively processing feedback.
• High performers excel by mastering the art of receiving feedback.
• Feedback and imposter syndrome create a complex dynamic.
• Filtering feedback helps determine its true value.
• Choosing your response to feedback is a personal decision.
• Feedback should be evaluated and utilised, not dismissed.

Resources

Your Bold Moves Brief (including the receiving feedback checklist)

The Big Conversation Conversation Starter

Connect with Christine

Do Things

Connect with Caroline here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

#feedback #personal growth #receiving feedback #high performance #careeradvice

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

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In this engaging conversation, Jon McLeod shares insights on reputation management, the importance of treating people well, and the nuances of building a strong personal and professional reputation. He discusses the challenges of navigating career paths, the impact of generational differences on work ethic, and the significance of learning from mistakes. The dialogue emphasises the value of self-awareness, effective communication, and the necessity of seeking feedback in both personal and professional contexts. Jon also provides practical advice for managing crises and the art of delivering sincere apologies, ultimately encouraging listeners to enjoy their work and maintain a positive outlook.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Treat everyone well, not for transactional benefit.
• Reputation is contingent on actions aligning with words.
• You can't talk your way out of a bad reputation.
• Take care of your reputation like an organ of the body.
• Don't rush to action in a crisis; reflective pause is key.
• A well-handled failure can boost your credibility.
• 80% of success is showing up; attend optional events.
• Seek feedback, even though it's difficult.
• Be honest about your mistakes and learn from them.
• Build your circle of support as you progress in your career.

SOUND BITES

"Be honest about your mistakes."
"80% of success is showing up."
"Have a good time all the time."

RESOURCES

Your Bold Moves brief

The Big Conversation Guide for teams

Our blog develops the ideas further here

Connect with Jon here

Connect with Caroline here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

#reputationmanagement #personalimpact #personalgrowth #careeradvice

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.

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In this episode, Caroline Esterson explores the intricacies of workplace motivation, focusing on how different mental filters and needs shape our behaviours and interactions. By examining theories from nlp, Dan Pink and Tony Robbins, she provides insights into understanding personal and others' motivations, offering practical strategies for navigating workplace dynamics and enhancing career growth.

TAKEAWAYS

• Understanding different motivations can improve workplace dynamics.
• NLP meta programs are filters that shape our thinking.
• Dan Pink identifies purpose, autonomy, and mastery as key motivators.
• Tony Robbins outlines six human needs that drive behaviour.
• Recognising filters can help in managing conflicts at work.
• Framing ideas in a way that resonates with others is crucial.
• Decoding oneself and others can lead to better collaboration.
• Balancing motivation diets is essential for career satisfaction.
• Flexibility in understanding wiring can enhance team effectiveness.

SOUND BITES

"We're decoding this wiring today."
"We all share six human needs."
"Understanding is your key."
 

RESOURCES

What drives you, Quiz?

BOLD MOVES BRIEF

BIG CONVERSATION STARTER

More on nlp metaprogrammes

A summary of Dan Pink's Drive from RSA Animate

Tony Robbins Blog on the 6 human needs

Connect with Caroline here

Sign up for the Genius Files - your weekly backstage pass to the unspoken rules of high-performance careers. Smart shifts that make you say, “Oh damn, that’s exactly what I needed.” 

#motivation #danpink #careeradvice #tonyrobbins #nlpmetaprogrammes #highperformance

Ready to make your next bold move? Grab the free Bold Move Audit and join the insider crew.

Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at caroline@inspireyourgenius.com - I read them all.