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Published by Estelle Read | Optimising Leadership Brilliance Coach | Bestselling Author | Speaker | Beee Founder
Lead strategically with calm confidence with Estelle Read, Bestselling Author, Coach, Speaker, and guests. Optimising Leader Brilliance is the self-improvement toolkit for leaders ready to break performance ceilings and achieve next level results. Get science-backed strategies and mindset shifts to tackle imposter syndrome, workaholism, anxiety, and self-sabotage. We provide stress relief and burnout solutions to help you reduce your workload and reclaim your time. We also share tools to clarify your strategic direction and deliver the brilliant results you're capable of. Visit: EstelleRead.com
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Winning your first hour each morning is the secret tostaying calm under pressure—and it all starts with biology, not personality. In this episode, Dr. Robert Carter, international bestselling co-author of The Morning Mind and the upcoming The Convenience Trap , shares a neuroscience-backed morning routine that resets your nervous system, thehidden convenience traps draining your resilience, and a simple framework to help you stay centred no matter what the day throws at you. What You Will Learn: 💡 The morning routine that biologically primes your nervous system to win your day before it begins 💡How instant gratification culture quietly saps your resilience—and steps to reclaim your control 💡The ALIVE framework: a practical method to activate awareness, level up, and embody calm under stress Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Host of Optimising Leader Brilliance Timestamps: (00:00) – Welcome and Episode Overview (02:00) – Why Winning Your First Hour Matters for Emotional and Cognitive State (06:00) – Meet Dr. Robert Carter and His Book The Convenience Trap (10:45) – Understanding the Convenience Trap and Its Impact on Resilience (15:30) – Biology Behind Staying Calm Under Pressure (20:15) – The ALIVE Framework: Activate, Level Up, Integrate, Value, Embody (25:00) – Recognizing Stress Triggers and Biological Rhythms (30:30) – How Convenience Culture Contributes to Stress and Health Challenges (36:00) – Personal Stories of Stress, Autoimmune Conditions, and Recovery (45:00) – Practical Morning Routine Tips for Biological Reset (50:45) – Breathing and Awareness Techniques to Stay Centred Under Pressure (56:00) – Integrating Calm Practices into Daily Life and Work (01:02:30) – Preparing for Recovery and Mental Resilience (01:07:00) – Reflective Practice and Coaching Questions from Dr. Carter (01:11:30) – Closing Thoughts and How to Take Next Steps 📱FOLLOW OR CONTACT: ⭐GUEST: Dr Robert Carter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-carter-phd-mph-57b1405/ https://theconveniencetrap.com/ ⭐ HOST: Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee or @EstelleReadCoach 🔧 ACCESS FREE RESOURCES & TOOLS: ⭐Want a summary of today’s learnings? Subscribe to Estelle Read’s blog, TheBrilliant Leader’s Notebook , to get the key takeaways from every single episode: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r ⭐Find Out Which of the 7 Leadership Saboteurs is Holding You Back by Completing the Scorecard: https://estelle-read.scoreapp.com/ ⭐Download Estelle’s Free Journal &Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ❤️ CAN YOU HELP? We bring this show to you for free. You can help us keep growing and going by taking 30 seconds to: 🔔 Subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode. 📨 Share the show with a friend. ✍️ Leave a review to help others find us. 🗓️ BOOK A 15 FREE DISCOVERY CALL: ⭐https://calendly.com/estelleatbeee/15-minute-discovery-call 🧠ESTELLE READ’S COACHING PROGRAMMES: ⬆️The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXTLEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/ 🎇The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/ 🎧 LISTEN OR WATCH ON ALTERNATIVE PLATFORMS 📺 ⭐ Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://pod.link/1515648162 ⭐ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⚠️ DICLAIMER This podcast is for informational purposes only and shouldnot be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. Don’t suffer alone ❤️.
Why do high achievers often feel stuck despite theirsuccess? In this episode, Dr. Judith Wright, a neuroscientist and coach featured on Oprah and Good Morning America, shares her insights on the hidden patterns that keep leaders trapped in burnout, conflict, and underperformance. Discover how “soft addictions” and unmet deep yearnings silently sabotage your leadership potential. Learn practical strategies to name your true feelings, reconnect with your core needs, and embark on a path to clarity, calm, and authentic success. What You Will Learn: 💡The universal human yearnings wired into our brain that drive behavior and leadership success 💡How overdoing strengths like discipline or caring can become “soft addictions” that hold you back 💡One powerful question you can ask anytime to understand and transform your emotions instantly (00:00) – Welcome and Episode Introduction (02:15) – The Hidden Patterns that Keep Leaders Stuck (06:30) – What Are Soft Addictions? How They Impact Leadership (11:00) – The Role of Feelings and Emotional Intelligence in Success (17:45) – The Neuroscience of Naming and Managing Emotions (24:30) – Understanding Our Deep Yearnings and Their Evolutionary Roots (32:15) – How Unmet Yearnings Trigger Burnout and Conflict (38:00) – The Power of Awareness: Catching Your Soft Addictions in Action (44:30) – Practical Steps: What To Do When You Notice Being Overwhelmed (50:00) – Building New Neural Pathways for Self-Compassion and Resilience (55:45) – Leadership Lessons: Balancing Strengths Without Burning Out (01:01:00) – Reflective Questions to Understand Your Yearnings and Patterns (01:06:30) – Closing Thoughts and How to Take the Next Step 📱FOLLOW OR CONTACT: ⭐ GUEST: Dr Judith Wright - CEO, Live Wright - https://livewright.com/ Find Dr Judith’s books here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B001HD1VY8/allbooks ⭐ HOST: Estelle Readhttps://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee or @EstelleReadCoach 🔧 ACCESS FREE RESOURCES & TOOLS: ⭐Want a summary of today’s learnings? Subscribe to Estelle Read’s blog, TheBrilliant Leader’s Notebook , to get the key takeaways from every singleepisode: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r ⭐Find Out Which of the 7 Leadership Saboteurs is Holding You Back by Completing the Scorecard: https://estelle-read.scoreapp.com/ ⭐Download Estelle’s Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Access Other Free Resources: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ❤️ CAN YOU HELP? We bring this show to you for free. You can help us keep growing and going by taking 30 seconds to: 🔔 Subscribe or follow so younever miss an episode. 📨 Share the show with a friend. ✍️ Leave a review to help others findus. Thanks for your support! 🗓️ BOOK A 15 FREE DISCOVERY CALL: ⭐https://calendly.com/estelleatbeee/15-minute-discovery-call 🧠ESTELLE READ’S COACHING PROGRAMMES: ⬆️The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/ 🎇The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/ 📓BUY ESTELLE READ’S BESTSELLING BOOK: Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism andStress: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Inner-Brilliance-Outer-Shine-Workaholism/dp/1789048036/ 🎧 LISTEN OR WATCH ON ALTERNATIVE PLATFORMS 📺 ⭐ Listen on your favouritepodcast platform here: https://pod.link/1515648162 ⭐ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⚠️ DICLAIMER This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professionalfor specific advice. Don’t suffer alone ❤️.
Feeling invisible in rooms where your leadership should shine? This episode dives deep into leadership visibility and how to raise your profile authentically. Discover why many leaders struggle with imposter syndrome, fear of failure, or uncertainty about how to present their leadership presence confidently. Host Estelle Read chats with Katie Radel, CEO of Ripple Consulting Group, about proven strategies to stop hiding and start leading with visible impact that advances your career and organization. What You Will Learn: 💡How to raise your leadership presence without feeling like bragging or inauthentic 💡Why confidently taking up more space is a vital leadership skill for greater influence 💡The real costs to your career and organization when you remain invisible—and how to change that Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Host of Optimising Leader Brilliance Timestamps: (00:00) – Welcome and Introduction to Episode Theme (01:45) – Estelle’s Personal Story: Being Invisible as an Introvert Leader (04:30) – Guest Introduction: Katie Radel, CEO of Ripple Consulting Group (06:15) – What is Executive Visibility and Why It Matters (09:00) – Katie’s Entrepreneurial Journey and Early Career Insights (12:30) – The Rollercoaster of Entrepreneurship: Faith and Resilience (15:45) – Katie’s Daily Routine and Connection as an Introvert Extrovert (19:00) – PR Misconceptions and What True PR Means for Leaders (22:45) – Early Lessons from Growing Up in a Funeral Home (27:00) – The Cost of Staying Invisible as a Leader in Business (31:15) – How AI and Earned Media Influence Executive Visibility (34:45) – Reasons Leaders Stay Hidden: Fear, Imposter Syndrome, and More (39:30) – Red Flags of Inauthentic Visibility and Ego-Driven Success (42:15) – Gender Differences in Imposter Syndrome and Visibility (46:00) – Overcoming the Fear of Being Seen and Embracing Leadership Brilliance (50:30) – Personal Challenges and Triumphs Around Visibility (54:45) – Practical First Steps to Build Your Executive Visibility (58:30) – Crafting Your Messaging: Who You Help, The Problem You Solve, The Result (01:02:00) – How to Show Up Authentically and Create Connections (01:06:15) – Value for Your Audience vs Ego-Driven Communication (01:10:30) – Building a Leadership Legacy That’s “Good and Kind” (01:13:45) – Final Advice and Reflective Practice Coaching Questions ⭐ GUEST: Katie Radel - RippleConsulting Group: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katieradel/ ⭐HOST: Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee or @EstelleReadCoach 🔧 ACCESS FREE RESOURCES & TOOLS: ⭐Want a summary of today’s learnings? Subscribe to Estelle Read’s blog, The Brilliant Leader’s Notebook , to get the key takeaways from every single episode: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r ⭐Find Out Which of the 7 LeadershipSaboteurs is Holding You Back by Completing the Scorecard: https://estelle-read.scoreapp.com/ ⭐Download Estelle’s Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal 🗓️ BOOK A 15 FREE DISCOVERY CALL: ⭐https://calendly.com/estelleatbeee/15-minute-discovery-call 🧠ESTELLE READ’S COACHING PROGRAMMES: ⬆️The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/ 🎇The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/ ⚠️ DISCLAIMER This podcast is for informational purposes only and shouldnot be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. Don’t suffer alone.
In this episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance, leadership coach Estelle Read dives into the "Overachiever" saboteur—the relentless drive to prove worth through endless achievements and output. Discover how this pattern creates burnout, toxic work cultures, and personal exhaustion by tying your value solely to performance. Drawing on over two decades of coaching, Estelle reveals the emotional roots of this trap and shares breakthrough neuroscience methods to reset your mindset. Learn how to reclaim balance, set healthy boundaries, and lead with calm confidence for sustainable success. What You Will Learn: 💡 Why overachieving can be a harmful leadership saboteur that stunts growth and damages well-being 💡 The deep emotional causes behind the need to constantly outperform and why rest feels like weakness 💡 Three practical strategies—like scheduling rest as non-negotiable and setting daily shutdown boundaries—to break free from burnout and thrive Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (01:16) Meet Your Host (01:42) The Seven Leadership Saboteurs (02:52) The Overachiever Pattern (03:51) Free Saboteur Scorecard (04:32) Impact & Root Cause of the Overachiever (08:46) The Science of Behavior Change (13:53) Client Case Study (14:20) Next Steps & Coaching Options (15:59) Three Strategies to Overcome It (17:40) Final Saboteur Rankings 📱FOLLOW OR CONTACT: ⭐Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee or @EstelleReadCoach 🔧 ACCESS FREE RESOURCES & TOOLS: ⭐Want a summary of today’s learnings? Subscribe to Estelle Read’s blog, The Brilliant Leader’s Notebook , to get the key takeaways from every single episode: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r Plus, you'll get a free bonus 🎁: The Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine Workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress . Click here to subscribe and download: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r ⭐Find Out Which of the 7 Leadership Saboteurs is Holding You Back by Completing the Scorecard: https://estelle-read.scoreapp.com/ ⭐Download Estelle’s Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Access Other Free Resources: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ❤️ CAN YOU HELP? We bring this show to you for free. You can help us keep growing and going by taking 30 seconds to: 🔔 Subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode. 📨 Share the show with a friend. ✍️ Leave a review to help others find us. Thanks for your support! 🗓️ BOOK A 15 FREE DISCOVERY CALL: ⭐https://calendly.com/estelleatbeee/15-minute-discovery-call 🧠ESTELLE READ’S COACHING PROGRAMMES: ⬆️The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/ 🎇The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/ 📓BUY ESTELLE READ’S BESTSELLING BOOK: Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Inner-Brilliance-Outer-Shine-Workaholism/dp/1789048036/ 🎧LISTEN OR WATCH ON ALTERNATIVE PLATFORMS📺 ⭐Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://pod.link/1515648162 ⭐Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⚠️ DICLAIMER This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. Don’t suffer alone ❤️.
In this episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance, leadership coach Estelle Read explores the “Chronic Harmonizer” leadership saboteur—a pattern where leaders avoid difficult conversations to keep the peace, often at great cost to their teams and businesses. Learn how this tendency to avoid conflict stems from deep emotional triggers and childhood survival mechanisms, and discover the neuroscience-backed technique that enables leaders to break free from this self-sabotage. With real-world examples and actionable strategies, Estelle guides you through reclaiming accountability, setting boundaries, and leading with clarity and confidence. What You Will Learn: 💡 Why avoiding difficult conversations stalls business growth and damages team accountability—and how to recognize this pattern in yourself 💡 The neuroscience behind breaking deep-seated conflict avoidance habits and why traditional willpower isn’t enough 💡 Three practical strategies—like the “24-hour feedback rule” and reframing conflict as clarity—to build your boundary muscles and foster a culture of accountability Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (01:37) Meet Your Host, Estelle Read (02:02) Welcome to the Saboteurs Miniseries (03:05) Let's Get Started (03:12) Saboteur #6: The Chronic Harmonizer (03:45) The George McFly Story Continues (04:03) Take the Free Saboteur Scorecard (04:30) Defining the Chronic Harmonizer Pattern (05:54) The Impact on Leadership & Teams (06:45) Real Client Example: The £1M Conversation (07:16) Root Cause: Childhood Origins (08:21) The Science of Behavior Change (13:28) Client Breakthrough with Havening (14:48) Coming Up: Practical Strategies (16:27) Strategy #1: The 24-Hour Feedback Rule (17:21) Next Episode: The Overachiever 📱FOLLOW OR CONTACT: ⭐Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee or @EstelleReadCoach 🔧 ACCESS FREE RESOURCES & TOOLS: ⭐Want a summary of today’s learnings? Subscribe to Estelle Read’s blog, The Brilliant Leader’s Notebook , to get the key takeaways from every single episode: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r Plus, you'll get a free bonus 🎁: The Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine Workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress . Click here to subscribe and download: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r ⭐Find Out Which of the 7 Leadership Saboteurs is Holding You Back by Completing the Scorecard: https://estelle-read.scoreapp.com/ ⭐Download Estelle’s Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Access Other Free Resources: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ❤️ CAN YOU HELP? We bring this show to you for free. You can help us keep growing and going by taking 30 seconds to: 🔔 Subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode. 📨 Share the show with a friend. ✍️ Leave a review to help others find us. Thanks for your support! 🗓️ BOOK A 15 FREE DISCOVERY CALL: ⭐https://calendly.com/estelleatbeee/15-minute-discovery-call 🧠ESTELLE READ’S COACHING PROGRAMMES: ⬆️The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/ 🎇The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/ 📓BUY ESTELLE READ’S BESTSELLING BOOK: Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Inner-Brilliance-Outer-Shine-Workaholism/dp/1789048036/ 🎧LISTEN OR WATCH ON ALTERNATIVE PLATFORMS📺 ⭐Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://pod.link/1515648162 ⭐Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⚠️ DICLAIMER This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. Don’t suffer alone ❤️.
In this episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance, leadership coach Estelle Read unveils the hidden leadership saboteur known as the "Strategic Procrastinator." Discover why many leaders get trapped in chaotic busywork as a way to delay critical, high-stakes decisions. Learn how underlying fears and old survival patterns block bold action and stunt your business growth. Drawing on over two decades of coaching experience and breakthrough neuroscience techniques like Havening, Estelle shares powerful insights and practical strategies to break free from procrastination, unlock your true potential, and lead with renewed confidence and focus. What You Will Learn: 💡 How the Strategic Procrastinator hides behind busywork to avoid costly but necessary decisions—and how this limits your leadership growth 💡 The neuroscience behind self-sabotage and why traditional willpower often fails to overcome entrenched procrastination habits 💡 Three actionable strategies—including “eat the frog first” and microstepping—to build momentum and create lasting behavior change Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (01:59) Welcome to the Saboteurs Series (03:08) The Strategic Procrastinator (03:55) Saboteur Scorecard (05:57) The Impact (06:50) The Root Cause (08:24) The Science of Habit Change (13:32) Case Study: Sales Procrastination (14:03) Next Steps & Options (15:15) Three Strategies to Overcome It (16:34) Outro 📱FOLLOW OR CONTACT: ⭐Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee or @EstelleReadCoach 🔧 ACCESS FREE RESOURCES & TOOLS: ⭐Want a summary of today’s learnings? Subscribe to Estelle Read’s blog, The Brilliant Leader’s Notebook , to get the key takeaways from every single episode: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r Plus, you'll get a free bonus 🎁: The Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine Workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress . Click here to subscribe and download: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r ⭐Find Out Which of the 7 Leadership Saboteurs is Holding You Back by Completing the Scorecard: https://estelle-read.scoreapp.com/ ⭐Download Estelle’s Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Access Other Free Resources: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ❤️ CAN YOU HELP? We bring this show to you for free. You can help us keep growing and going by taking 30 seconds to: 🔔 Subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode. 📨 Share the show with a friend. ✍️ Leave a review to help others find us. Thanks for your support! 🗓️ BOOK A 15 FREE DISCOVERY CALL: ⭐https://calendly.com/estelleatbeee/15-minute-discovery-call 🧠ESTELLE READ’S COACHING PROGRAMMES: ⬆️The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/ 🎇The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/ 📓BUY ESTELLE READ’S BESTSELLING BOOK: Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Inner-Brilliance-Outer-Shine-Workaholism/dp/1789048036/ 🎧LISTEN OR WATCH ON ALTERNATIVE PLATFORMS📺 ⭐Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://pod.link/1515648162 ⭐Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⚠️ DICLAIMER This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. Don’t suffer alone ❤️.
Do you live in a permanent state of frantic panic — forever putting out fires, running on adrenaline, and never quite reaching the strategic work that would actually move your leadership forward? If busyness has become your badge of honour, you may be trapped in the "Constant Firefighter" saboteur.In this episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance, leadership coach and bestselling author Estelle Read unpacks the second most common leadership saboteur — a reactive pattern that affects 18% of leaders and quietly places a false ceiling over your true potential. You'll discover how a chaotic childhood often wires this hypervigilant, crisis-addicted behaviour, why willpower alone rarely breaks the loop, and how a neuroscience-based approach (Havening) can reset the autopilot itself — so calm, confident, strategic leadership becomes automatic rather than aspirational. What You Will Learn 💡 Why you keep treating everyday tasks as emergencies — and the hidden root cause that keeps you stuck in "frantic panic" mode 💡 How the Constant Firefighter quietly damages your team, blocks your business from scaling, and drives you toward burnout 💡 Three practical tools to break the cycle fast — the Eisenhower Matrix, a daily 60-minute "strategic firewall," and the power of de-escalating your language — plus how Havening clears the pattern at a neurological level Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (02:41) The Constant Firefighter Explained (09:17) The Science of Behaviour Change (14:25) Case Study: Breaking the Firefighting Cycle (15:32) Next Steps & Free Resources 📱FOLLOW OR CONTACT: ⭐Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee or @EstelleReadCoach 🔧 ACCESS FREE RESOURCES & TOOLS: ⭐Want a summary of today’s learnings? Subscribe to Estelle Read’s blog, The Brilliant Leader’s Notebook , to get the key takeaways from every single episode: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r Plus, you'll get a free bonus 🎁: The Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine Workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress . Click here to subscribe and download: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r ⭐Find Out Which of the 7 Leadership Saboteurs is Holding You Back by Completing the Scorecard: https://estelle-read.scoreapp.com/ ⭐Download Estelle’s Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Access Other Free Resources: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ❤️ CAN YOU HELP? We bring this show to you for free. You can help us keep growing and going by taking 30 seconds to: 🔔 Subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode. 📨 Share the show with a friend. ✍️ Leave a review to help others find us. Thanks for your support! 🗓️ BOOK A 15 FREE DISCOVERY CALL: ⭐https://calendly.com/estelleatbeee/15-minute-discovery-call 🧠ESTELLE READ’S COACHING PROGRAMMES: ⬆️The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/ 🎇The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/ 📓BUY ESTELLE READ’S BESTSELLING BOOK: Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Inner-Brilliance-Outer-Shine-Workaholism/dp/1789048036/ 🎧LISTEN OR WATCH ON ALTERNATIVE PLATFORMS📺 ⭐Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://pod.link/1515648162 ⭐Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⚠️ DICLAIMER This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. Don’t suffer alone ❤️.
Do you hold yourself back from big opportunities even when the evidence says you're more than capable? If you've ever felt like a fraud waiting to be found out, you're not alone — 34% of leaders report this "doubting imposter" as their number one barrier, and it's quietly keeping careers, businesses, and incomes stuck below their true potential. In this episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance , bestselling author and leadership coach Estelle Read unpacks the third of the Seven Leadership Saboteurs: the doubting imposter. You'll discover where this relentless self-doubt really comes from, why willpower alone never seems to fix it, and the neuroscience-based technique that clears the pattern at the root — so calm, confident, strategic leadership finally stops feeling like something you have to force. What You Will Learn 💡 Why the doubting imposter keeps you passing up promotions, big clients, and projects you've already earned — and the hidden childhood patterns that created it. 💡 The neuroscience-based "Havening" technique that resets your nervous system and clears self-doubt at the neurological level, delivering faster, lasting change than traditional methods alone. 💡 Three practical strategies you can start today — a fact-based win log, accepting praise with a simple "thank you," and separating the stories in your head from the facts — to retrain your brain and break through your performance ceiling. Timestamps: 00:00) Introduction (02:45) The Doubting Imposter (04:53) How This Pattern Shows Up in Others (06:03) The Impact: Building a False Ceiling (06:54) The Root Cause (08:19) The Science of Behavior Change (09:57) The Autopilot Challenge (11:11) Havening: Modifying Your Autopilot (13:27) Client Case Study (14:31) Next Steps & Working With Estelle 📱FOLLOW OR CONTACT: ⭐Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee or @EstelleReadCoach 🔧 ACCESS FREE RESOURCES & TOOLS: ⭐Want a summary of today’s learnings? Subscribe to Estelle Read’s blog, The Brilliant Leader’s Notebook , to get the key takeaways from every single episode: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r Plus, you'll get a free bonus 🎁: The Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine Workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress . Click here to subscribe and download: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r ⭐Find Out Which of the 7 Leadership Saboteurs is Holding You Back by Completing the Scorecard: https://estelle-read.scoreapp.com/ ⭐Download Estelle’s Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Access Other Free Resources: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ❤️ CAN YOU HELP? We bring this show to you for free. You can help us keep growing and going by taking 30 seconds to: 🔔 Subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode. 📨 Share the show with a friend. ✍️ Leave a review to help others find us. Thanks for your support! 🗓️ BOOK A 15 FREE DISCOVERY CALL: ⭐https://calendly.com/estelleatbeee/15-minute-discovery-call 🧠ESTELLE READ’S COACHING PROGRAMMES: ⬆️The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/ 🎇The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/ 📓BUY ESTELLE READ’S BESTSELLING BOOK: Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Inner-Brilliance-Outer-Shine-Workaholism/dp/1789048036/ 🎧LISTEN OR WATCH ON ALTERNATIVE PLATFORMS📺 ⭐Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://pod.link/1515648162 ⭐Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⚠️ DICLAIMER This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. Don’t suffer alone ❤️.
In this episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance , coach and bestselling author Estelle Read unpacks the Relentless Perfectionist — the leadership saboteur that currently affects 4% of leaders and quietly sits in fifth place on the saboteur charts. If you recognise that endless urge to tweak, refine, and chase flawless work, this one's for you. Estelle reveals why impossibly high standards actually create a false ceiling over your true potential, how perfectionism slows execution and stunts team growth, and why the root cause often traces back to childhood environments where praise was conditional on being flawless. She then introduces a neuroscience-based technique called Havening that resets the nervous system and de-links the emotional triggers behind the behaviour — plus three practical, no-willpower strategies you can apply today. What You Will Learn: 💡 Why the Relentless Perfectionist sabotages exactly the thing it promises — high performance — and how it builds a false ceiling over your leadership potential. 💡 How this saboteur quietly causes overwork, team friction, and a risk-averse culture where innovation dies and growth stalls. 💡 Three practical antidotes — the "good enough" benchmark, the 15-minute time-box, and celebrating lessons from errors — plus how the neuroscience-based Havening technique clears the root cause without relying on willpower. Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (02:46) The Relentless Perfectionist Explained (04:05) The Impact of Perfectionism (06:59) Root Cause: Where This Pattern Comes From (08:39) The Science of Behavior Change (13:47) A Client's Transformation (15:55) Next Steps & Free Resources 📱FOLLOW OR CONTACT: ⭐Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee or @EstelleReadCoach 🔧 ACCESS FREE RESOURCES & TOOLS: ⭐Want a summary of today’s learnings? Subscribe to Estelle Read’s blog, The Brilliant Leader’s Notebook , to get the key takeaways from every single episode: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r Plus, you'll get a free bonus 🎁: The Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine Workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress . Click here to subscribe and download: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r ⭐Find Out Which of the 7 Leadership Saboteurs is Holding You Back by Completing the Scorecard: https://estelle-read.scoreapp.com/ ⭐Download Estelle’s Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Access Other Free Resources: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ❤️ CAN YOU HELP? We bring this show to you for free. You can help us keep growing and going by taking 30 seconds to: 🔔 Subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode. 📨 Share the show with a friend. ✍️ Leave a review to help others find us. Thanks for your support! 🗓️ BOOK A 15 FREE DISCOVERY CALL: ⭐https://calendly.com/estelleatbeee/15-minute-discovery-call 🧠ESTELLE READ’S COACHING PROGRAMMES: ⬆️The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/ 🎇The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/ 📓BUY ESTELLE READ’S BESTSELLING BOOK: Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Inner-Brilliance-Outer-Shine-Workaholism/dp/1789048036/ 🎧LISTEN OR WATCH ON ALTERNATIVE PLATFORMS📺 ⭐Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://pod.link/1515648162 ⭐Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⚠️ DICLAIMER This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. Don’t suffer alone ❤️.
In this episode, Estelle reveals how this unconscious pattern creates a false ceiling on your leadership potential — leading to burnout, disengaged teams, and stalled projects. She shares the neuroscience behind why willpower alone rarely fixes micromanagement, introduces the transformative Havening technique for resetting your nervous system, and gives you three practical, actionable strategies to break the cycle: the "What, Not How" Rule, low-stakes delegation experiments, and the 24-Hour Buffer Rule. If you're ready to stop being the bottleneck and start leading with calm confidence, this episode is for you. 🎙️ Full episode ➡️ search for the Optimising Leader Brilliance Podcast. What You Will Learn 💡 Why micromanagement isn't a personality flaw — it's an unconscious saboteur pattern often rooted in childhood experiences, and recognising it is the first step to breaking free 💡 The three practical strategies to stop micromanaging today: the "What, Not How" delegation rule, low-stakes trust experiments, and the 24-hour intervention buffer that rewires your leadership instincts 💡 How neuroscience-based techniques like Havening can reset your nervous system and delink the emotional past that created your control patterns — so change becomes automatic, not another exhausting item on your to-do list Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (01:30) Meet Your Host & Series Overview (02:59) The Microcontroller Saboteur (04:05) The Data & Statistics (07:35) The Root Cause (09:06) The Science of Behavior Change (14:14) Client Transformation Story (16:00) Next Steps & Coaching Options (19:02) Episode Wrap-Up 📱FOLLOW OR CONTACT: ⭐Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee or @EstelleReadCoach 🔧 ACCESS FREE RESOURCES & TOOLS: ⭐Want a summary of today’s learnings? Subscribe to Estelle Read’s blog, The Brilliant Leader’s Notebook , to get the key takeaways from every single episode: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r Plus, you'll get a free bonus 🎁: The Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine Workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress . Click here to subscribe and download: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r ⭐Find Out Which of the 7 Leadership Saboteurs is Holding You Back by Completing the Scorecard: https://estelle-read.scoreapp.com/ ⭐Download Estelle’s Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Access Other Free Resources: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ❤️ CAN YOU HELP? We bring this show to you for free. You can help us keep growing and going by taking 30 seconds to: 🔔 Subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode. 📨 Share the show with a friend. ✍️ Leave a review to help others find us. Thanks for your support! 🗓️ BOOK A 15 FREE DISCOVERY CALL: ⭐https://calendly.com/estelleatbeee/15-minute-discovery-call 🧠ESTELLE READ’S COACHING PROGRAMMES: ⬆️The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/ 🎇The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/ 📓BUY ESTELLE READ’S BESTSELLING BOOK: Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Inner-Brilliance-Outer-Shine-Workaholism/dp/1789048036/ 🎧LISTEN OR WATCH ON ALTERNATIVE PLATFORMS📺 ⭐Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://pod.link/1515648162 ⭐Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⚠️ DICLAIMER This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. Don’t suffer alone ❤️.
In this episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance , Estelle Read sits down with author and mental health advocate Bryan Sachetta to unpack high-functioning anxiety — the hidden struggle that drives so many ambitious leaders to appear confident and in control while internally battling stress, perfectionism, and relentless overthinking. Bryan, author of the Get Out of Your Head book series, reveals why the most common advice around anxiety is wrong, and what actually works to build a healthier relationship with fear without sacrificing your edge. If you're a high achiever who's tired of using busyness as a shield and ready to lead with calm confidence, this conversation is your starting point. What You Will Learn 💡 Why high-functioning anxiety is especially common in leaders and high achievers — and why trying to "solve" it makes it worse 💡 How to spot the coping strategies that once served you but are now quietly driving overworking and perfectionism — and what to do instead 💡 Three practical, immediate habits for managing anxiety in the workplace — from moving your body to doing a quarterly stress inventory to giving yourself permission to do nothing Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (01:22) Welcome & What Is High-Functioning Anxiety? (02:13) Interview Begins (10:43) Unpacking the Patterns – Behavioural Coping Strategies (15:20) A New Season of Anxiety – When It Gets Broader & More Nebulous (21:35) Keeping Up With Everything – Where Does It Come From? (28:21) Using Anxiety as a Gateway to Intimacy & Connection (37:36) Tools & Techniques – What Actually Helps (40:16) Early Influences – Writing, Music & Movement (42:15) Brian's Books (44:19) Question from the Previous Guest – Coping With Change & Uncertainty (46:25) Question for the Next Guest (47:17) Closing Tips & Words of Compassion (52:48) Pause, Reflect & Act – Mini Coaching Practice ⭐Download My Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Follow or Contact Brian Sachetta Instagram: @getoutofyourhead Facebook: @getoutofyourheadbooks Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/brian-sachetta ⭐Follow Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee ⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes: ⬆️ The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL 🎇 The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE ⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book: Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog: Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️. ⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube: 🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⭐Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.
In this powerful episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance, Estelle Read sits down with mental health speaker and former HR professional Laura Iles to explore what it really takes to move from surviving to thriving. Laura shares her personal journey through fibromyalgia, complex PTSD, and ADHD — and introduces her Triple A framework (Acceptance, Accountability, Authenticity) as a practical roadmap for leaders navigating chronic illness, trauma, and burnout. Packed with honest insight on workplace mental health, trauma-informed leadership, and nervous system regulation, this conversation challenges the myth that personal and professional lives stay neatly separate — and offers a compassionate, actionable path toward healing out loud, leading with empathy, and reclaiming your identity when it's been stripped away.What You Will Learn 💡 The Triple A System unpacked — how Acceptance, Accountability, and Authenticity form a step-by-step framework for shifting from survival mode into genuine thriving, and why skipping any stage keeps you stuck 💡 Practical energy-management strategies Laura uses to work with her body instead of against it 💡 How to lead through mental health conversations without getting it wrong — Laura's three tips for leaders: listen to understand (not to respond), validate feelings without fixing, and offer reassurance without shame — so your team feels safe, seen, and supported Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (01:14) Welcome & What to Expect (02:29) Episode Overview & Content Warning (02:29) Interview – Meet Laura Iles (16:32) Laura's Story – Living with Chronic Illness, Trauma & Burnout (1:18:20) Pause, Reflect & Act – Mini Coaching Practice (1:18:51) Coaching Questions with Laura Iles ⚠️ Content Warning This episode contains open and honest discussions about childhood sexual abuse, suicide ideation, complex trauma, and chronic illness. These topics are discussed with care and intention, but please look after yourself as you listen. If anything in this episode brings up difficult feelings for you, support is available: Samaritans — Call 116 123 (free, 24/7, UK & Ireland) NAPAC (National Association for People Abused in Childhood) — 0808 801 0331 MIND — 0300 123 3393 | mind.org.uk Crisis Text Line — Text SHOUT to 85258 ⭐Download My Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Follow or Contact Laura Iles: IG: @Surviving2Thriving_Laurailes FB: '@Surviving2Thriving Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-iles-4767981a/ ⭐Follow Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee ⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes: ⬆️ The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL 🎇 The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE ⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book: Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog: Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️. ⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube: 🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⭐Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.
What if the biggest threat to your strategy isn't a lack of data or intelligence — but your own brain? In this episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance , I sit down with Marja Fox — ex-McKinsey consultant, PhD chemist, and founder of Marja Fox Consulting — to uncover the evolutionary wiring that quietly sabotages executive decision-making. Known as the "executive team whisperer," Marja brings behavioural economics out of the textbook and into the boardroom, revealing why leaders default to loss aversion, groupthink, and short-term thinking — and how to break free. If you've ever felt stuck in circular strategic conversations or paralysed by the fear of being wrong, this conversation will transform how you lead with clarity, confidence, and decisive action. A must-listen for senior leaders ready to upgrade their strategic thinking and leadership mindset. What You Will Learn: 💡 Why your brain's evolutionary shortcuts — like loss aversion and fear of ostracisation — are the hidden derailers of smart strategic decisions, and how to recognise them in real time 💡 The practical facilitation techniques Marja Fox uses to move executive teams from ego wars and endless debate to decisions that actually stick 💡 How to apply a simple stakeholder analysis to uncover the human dynamics behind any "stuck" business problem — and why doing nothing is often the most dangerous decision of all Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (00:47) Welcome to Optimising Leader Brilliance (01:13) Episode Overview – Three Light Bulb Moments (02:24) Meet Marja Fox – The Story Behind Her Name (06:54) Marja's Average Day & Non-Negotiable Routine (16:25) How Marja Got Here – From Chemistry to Consulting (24:32) The Problems Marja Helps Clients Solve (41:25) Designing Conversations That Combat Decision-Making Biases (56:30) Pause, Reflect & Act – Mini Coaching Practice ⭐Download My Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Follow or Contact Marja Fox: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marjafox/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@marjafox ⭐Follow Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee ⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes: ⬆️ The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL 🎇 The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE ⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book: Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog: Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️. ⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube: 🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⭐Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.
In this inspiring episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance , leadership coach Estelle Read sits down with Lawrence Armstrong, artist, architect, bestselling author, and seasoned CEO, to explore whole-brain leadership. Lawrence shares his journey from building a company through recession and fear to mastering a creative, analytical, and balanced leadership style. Learn how cultivating both sides of your brain can fuel business growth, inspire your team, and secure your legacy. Discover practical strategies for developing your “number two,” delegating effectively, and blending creativity with strategic execution to lead your industry. What You Will Learn: 💡 How embracing whole-brain leadership—balancing creative vision with analytical rigor—drives sustainable growth and innovation 💡 The crucial role of developing a reliable “number two” to ensure business continuity and leadership longevity 💡 Practical insights from Lawrence’s career and creative pursuits to inspire your own leadership journey and foster a resilient, forward-thinking team Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (00:53) Welcome & Host Introduction (01:19) Guest Introduction (01:56) Lawrence's Routine & Non-Negotiables (03:20) How Work-Life Imbalance Cost Him His Health (07:12) What Is Whole Brain Leadership? (13:31) Practical Examples: Inspiring Strategy from Creativity (23:36) From Ohio to Architect, Artist & Author (35:04) The Challenge Behind the Book: Surviving a Recession (38:19) Lawrence's Framework for Growth & Succession (44:26) Key Takeaways & Final Advice (44:27) Developing Your Number Two — Overcoming Resistance (47:11) Pause, Reflect & Act — Mini Coaching Practice 📱FOLLOW OR CONTACT: ⭐ Lawrence Armstrong: larmstrong@waremalcomb.com | @lawrencerarmstrong ⭐Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee or @EstelleReadCoach 🔧 ACCESS FREE RESOURCES & TOOLS: ⭐Want a summary of today’s learnings? Subscribe to Estelle Read’s blog, The Brilliant Leader’s Notebook , to get the key takeaways from every single episode: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r Plus, you'll get a free bonus 🎁: The Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine Workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress . Click here to subscribe and download: https://mailchi.mp/a0cfa5a8a10c/8chmrywh3r ⭐Find Out Which of the 7 Leadership Saboteurs is Holding You Back by Completing the Scorecard: https://estelle-read.scoreapp.com/ ⭐Download Estelle’s Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Access Other Free Resources: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ❤️ CAN YOU HELP? We bring this show to you for free. You can help us keep growing and going by taking 30 seconds to: 🔔 Subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode. 📨 Share the show with a friend. ✍️ Leave a review to help others find us. Thanks for your support! 🗓️ BOOK A 15 FREE DISCOVERY CALL: ⭐https://calendly.com/estelleatbeee/15-minute-discovery-call 🧠ESTELLE READ’S COACHING PROGRAMMES: ⬆️The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL: https://estelleread.com/next-level-leadership-programme/ 🎇The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE: https://estelleread.com/the-shine-coaching-programme/ 📓BUY ESTELLE READ’S BESTSELLING BOOK: Inner Brilliance · Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Inner-Brilliance-Outer-Shine-Workaholism/dp/1789048036/ 🎧LISTEN OR WATCH ON ALTERNATIVE PLATFORMS📺 ⭐Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://pod.link/1515648162 ⭐Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⚠️ DICLAIMER This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. Don’t suffer alone ❤️.
In this heartfelt episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance, embodiment coach Maddie Brenner-Roach and host Estelle Read explore the vital connection between body awareness and leadership resilience. Discover how tuning into your body’s signals—like tension in the shoulders or tightness in the chest—can reveal hidden stress and guide you toward deeper self-trust. Maddie shares her transformative Inner Authority Framework to help leaders move from reactive habits to empowered, embodied decision-making. If you feel overwhelmed, close to burnout, or disconnected from yourself, this episode offers practical insights and reflective tools to reconnect with your true inner authority and step confidently into your leadership role. What You Will Learn: 💡 How to listen to your body’s stress signals and transform unconscious avoidance into conscious awareness 💡 The power of embodied leadership: making aligned decisions with a full-body yes or no, not just a mental yes 💡 Practical steps to build self-trust and shift from proving your worth to embracing your authentic, empowered self Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (00:58) Welcome & Show Introduction (01:23) Tribute to Asterios Drossos (03:04) Guest Introduction – Maddie Brenner-Roach (04:02) Interview Begins – What is an Embodiment Coach? (17:40) Subscribe Prompt (excluded) (18:15) Inner Authority Framework & Identity Shifts (52:03) CEO of Yourself & Embodied Yes/No (53:11) Three Actionable Tips for Leaders (55:35) Pause, Reflect & Act – Mini Coaching Practice ⭐Download My Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Follow or Contact Maddie Brenner-Roach: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/journeyoncoach/ Instagram and Youtube: @journeyoncoach ⭐Follow Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee ⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes: ⬆️ The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL 🎇 The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE ⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book: Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog: Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️. ⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube: 🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⭐Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.
In this episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance, leadership coach Estelle Read dives into science-backed, practical strategies to manage stress and reclaim control over your state of mind. Discover how shifting your inner dialogue can rewire your mindset, how simple changes in your body posture can instantly reduce stress hormones and boost confidence, and how everyday habits—from feeding birds to enjoying dark chocolate—can hack your brain’s neurochemicals to elevate wellbeing. Packed with engaging exercises and reflective coaching prompts, this episode guides you to empty your stress bucket and cultivate calm, confident leadership. What You Will Learn: 💡 How to transform your inner critic into an empowering inner captain for a positive mental shift 💡 Simple body posture techniques that decrease cortisol (stress hormone) and increase confidence hormone testosterone 💡 Everyday habits and activities that naturally boost dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins to lift your mood and resilience Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (02:25) About Optimising Leader Brilliance (02:51) The Stress Bucket — Understanding Your Stress (06:18) Mind, Body & State of Mind: The Factory Model (13:17) How Language & Inner Dialogue Rewire Your Mindset (16:53) From Inner Critic to Inner Captain (25:21) How Your Body Language Changes Your Hormones in Seconds (28:14) Hack Your Neurochemicals: Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin & Endorphins (34:41) Summary & Key Takeaways (36:02) The SHINE Resilient Leader Programme (36:41) Resources & Next Steps (37:45) Pause, Reflect & Act — Mini Coaching Practice ⭐Download My Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Follow Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee ⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes: ⬆️ The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL 🎇 The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE ⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book: Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog: Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️. ⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube: 🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⭐Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.
In this episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance, leadership coach Estelle Read unpacks the essential final piece of personal effectiveness: stress management. Discover what stress really is by understanding your nervous system’s gas and brake model, uncover hidden childhood triggers fueling your stress, and explore DISC-based stress triggers tailored to your personality type. Delve into the five types of imposter syndrome driving overwhelm and burnout, and experience the transformative psychosensory technique called Havening—a powerful tool that helped Estelle recover from chronic fatigue and ME by rewiring stress responses. Packed with practical insights, reflective coaching prompts, and free resources, this episode equips you to break free from stress patterns and reclaim calm, confident leadership. What You Will Learn: 💡 How to identify your unique stress triggers—both external pressures and deep-rooted internal patterns shaped by childhood 💡 The connection between imposter syndrome types and chronic overwhelm, with strategies to break the cycle 💡 Step-by-step introduction to Havening, a neuroscience-backed technique to rewire stress responses and heal emotional triggers Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (03:24) Welcome & Module Overview (04:20) What Is Stress? — Definitions & The Gas or Brake Model (08:42) Fight or Flight: The Sympathetic Nervous System (09:47) The Stress Bucket & Rest and Digest (10:08) The Human Function Curve & Burnout (11:23) The ABC Model of Stress (Dr. Albert Ellis) (14:36) External & Internal Stress Triggers (17:21) DISC-Based Stress Triggers (20:41) Reflection Activity: Identifying Your Stress Triggers (22:35) Section 2: Introduction to Havening (26:41) Imposter Syndrome Types & Their Connection to Stress (32:26) Why Change Is Challenging: The Autopilot Mind (38:25) The Neuroscience of Havening (43:28) Havening Live Practice (7-Minute Session) (53:41) Pause, Reflect & Act — Mini Coaching Practice ⭐ Access the Time Generator and save 500 + minutes a week here: https://mailchi.mp/beee.company/time-generator ⭐Download My Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Follow Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee ⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes: ⬆️ The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL 🎇 The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE ⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book: Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog: Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️. ⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube: 🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⭐Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.
In this episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance, leadership coach Estelle Read takes you deeper into time optimization by teaching how to align your diary with your natural energy levels, beat procrastination through accountability, and protect your time to boost productivity without burning out. Drawing from personal experience and practical strategies like time blocking, mono-tasking, and energy awareness, this episode empowers you to work smarter while honoring your well-being. Join a live leadership development session packed with actionable exercises and reflective practices designed to help you reclaim control of your time and focus. What You Will Learn: 💡 How to schedule tasks around your natural energy peaks for greater efficiency and less fatigue 💡 Proven accountability techniques to overcome procrastination and get important work done 💡 Practical methods to protect your time, set boundaries, and avoid distractions for sustained focus Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (01:42) Welcome to Optimising Leader Brilliance (02:09) Part 1: Optimise Your Diary Through Your Energy (13:03) Part 2: Eliminate Distractions & Establish Boundaries (16:09) Part 3: Managing Interruptions, Notifications & Mono-Tasking (22:46) Summary & The Time Generator Resource (24:09) Grab Your Free Time Generator (24:24) Pause, Reflect & Act — Mini Coaching Practice ⭐ Access the Time Generator and save 500 + minutes a week here: https://mailchi.mp/beee.company/time-generator ⭐Download My Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Follow Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee ⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes: ⬆️ The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL 🎇 The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE ⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book: Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog: Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️. ⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube: 🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⭐Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.
In this episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance, leadership coach Estelle Read dives into time optimization—sharing the one word that can save you hours every week, practical systems to cut overwhelm, and why blending time management with assertiveness can dramatically reduce stress. Drawing on personal stories and proven frameworks like the rocks, pebbles, and sand metaphor, Estelle guides you through prioritizing what truly matters, setting boundaries, and creating weekly rhythms that boost focus and energy. Whether you struggle with distractions, overwhelm, or balancing competing priorities, this episode equips you with actionable tools to regain control of your time and productivity. What You Will Learn: 💡 The simple yet powerful system that helps you prioritize key goals over busywork using the rocks, pebbles, and sand metaphor 💡 How to set effective time and people boundaries to protect your energy and reduce overwhelm 💡 Why combining assertiveness with time-blocking and batching tasks can save you over 500 minutes per week Access the Time Generator and save 500 + minutes a week here: https://mailchi.mp/beee.company/time-generator Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Leadership Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (01:21) Welcome (01:47) Module 7: Time Optimisation Overview (09:13) Activity: Time Audit (12:41) Awareness & Choice (15:36) The Rocks, Pebbles & Sand Metaphor (16:59) The Urgent vs Important Matrix (22:02) Planning, To-Do Lists & Diary Blocking (24:30) The 20/80 Pareto Principle (27:37) Weekly Routines & Habits (34:49) Time Blocking (35:36) Managing Your Production Line (36:47) Pause, Reflect & Act - Mini Coaching Practice ⭐Download My Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Follow Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee ⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes: ⬆️ The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL 🎇 The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE ⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book: Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog: Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️. ⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube: 🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⭐Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.
Unlock the power of assertive communication to reduce stress, protect your time, and build stronger relationships—at work and beyond. In this episode of Optimising Leader Brilliance, leadership coach Estelle Read guides you through balancing passive and aggressive communication with confident assertiveness. Learn the PAC model of communication, explore how past experiences shape your style, and discover practical frameworks for giving and receiving. Whether you’re leading a team or simply looking to communicate more clearly, this episode equips you with essential tools to say no without fear, resolve conflict amicably, and reclaim control over your and professional boundaries. What You Will Learn: 💡 How to recognize passive, aggressive, and assertive communication styles and find your assertive middle ground 💡 Practical strategies for saying no effectively to protect your wellbeing and manage your workload 💡 How to give and receive feedback that fosters growth, psychological safety, and stronger team culture Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (01:15) Welcome & Episode Overview (02:44) Understanding Assertive Communication (16:22) Communication Styles & Real-World Examples (31:26) The PAC Model: Parent, Adult & Child Communication (34:24) Pause, Reflect & Act – Mini Coaching Practice ⭐Download My Free Journal & Self-Coaching Tool: https://mailchi.mp/dab4b2568b71/free-inner-brilliance-outer-shine-journal ⭐Follow Estelle Read: https://linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee ⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call: https://estelleread.com/resources/ ⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes: ⬆️ The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL 🎇 The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE ⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book: Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog: Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️. ⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube: 🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: https://estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EstelleRead/podcasts ⭐Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.
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