
The Look & Sound of Leadership
An ongoing series of Executive Coaching Tips designed to help you be perceived in the workplace the way you want to be perceived.
Latest episodes

Sep 5, 2024 • 19min
Mastering Anxiety
Tom, a leader who bravely shares his personal battle with anxiety, delves into how perfectionism can fuel mental health challenges. He reflects on a near career-ending moment of nervousness and discusses the importance of self-compassion and understanding one's inner self. The conversation highlights using empathy to manage intense emotions and the transformative power of tools like MindShift CBT. With insights on nurturing our inner child, Tom empowers listeners to embark on their own journeys of healing and resilience.

Aug 8, 2024 • 23min
Coaching versus Therapy
In this discussion, Tom, a seasoned coach, and a leader candidly explore the distinctions and overlaps between coaching and therapy. The leader bravely shares her battle with impostor syndrome, revealing her intense feelings of being a fraud. Tom offers three insightful resources for managing these feelings, emphasizing the importance of active listening and long-term relationships in both fields. They also highlight the roles of curiosity and courage as essential tools for personal growth, encouraging listeners to embrace their own development.

Jul 11, 2024 • 22min
Giving Upward Feedback
Learn about the three-step model for giving upward feedback effectively to bosses. Dive into the challenges of providing feedback in a virtual work environment and reflections on privilege. Discover how to turn feedback into a learning conversation for better communication and collaboration in the workplace.

Jun 6, 2024 • 24min
Networking Conversations – Part Two
This podcast explores the importance of networking for career development, focusing on genuine and meaningful conversations over elevator pitches. It provides tips for effective networking, emphasizing mutual respect and curiosity. Strategies for improving networking skills, such as being concise and curious, are discussed, along with the transformational impact of networking on leadership.

4 snips
May 9, 2024 • 16min
Networking Conversations – Part 1
In this podcast, an ambitious leader seeks advice on networking without feeling slimey. Key points include the importance of knowing people, nurturing relationships, and making networking a weekly priority. The episode also provides resources for improving networking skills and building authentic connections for career success.

12 snips
Apr 4, 2024 • 24min
Mastering Nerves
The podcast discusses mastering nerves before testifying in a high-stakes case, sharing personal stories and tips for overcoming anxiety. They also explore Emma Stone's anxiety during an award acceptance speech, offering strategies for managing nerves effectively.

16 snips
Mar 7, 2024 • 26min
Conquering People Pleasing
A leader seeks tools to stop people-pleasing tendencies. Explore boundaries, conflict conversations, and setting boundaries. Learn to prioritize self-interest over constant approval-seeking behavior.

Feb 1, 2024 • 19min
Finding Management Courage
A vice president learns a technique for managing bad behavior from his coach and uses it with his high performers. Courage can be taught. Discover resources to build your skills and learn about managing difficult behaviors, holding people accountable, and managing performance.

6 snips
Jan 11, 2024 • 18min
5 Strategies for Dealing with Narcissists
Dave Stachowiak, expert on dealing with difficult bosses, joins the host to discuss strategies for dealing with narcissists. They explore frustrations with self-absorbed bosses, offer coping strategies, and emphasize not taking their behavior personally. They discuss strategies for adapting to narcissists, dealing with toxic people, and finding personal fulfillment outside of work.

Dec 7, 2023 • 22min
Leading with Political Savvy – Part 2
The podcast explores the perception of politics and its impact on one's career. It discusses strategies for dealing with manipulative individuals and the role of culture in shaping behavior. A guest star shares their harrowing experience working with a notorious actress. The chapter emphasizes the role of leaders in resolving conflicts and setting the tone. It provides suggestions for further resources and references previous episodes.