How can you navigate difficult conversations with ease and assertiveness? By using the DESC script, you can effectively communicate your feelings and requests without appearing aggressive. In this episode, you’ll discover the four-step assertive script designed to make hard conversations smoother while increasing your influence. Tune in to discover: ✔️ How to use the DESC script to describe situations factually without judgment ✔️ Examples of the DESC assertive script ✔️ The importance...

Assertive eye contact can significantly boost your presence and confidence in the workplace. In this episode, we explore the power of eye contact with real-life examples and provide practical tips to help you enhance your communication skills. Tune in to this episode to discover: ✔️ How an assertive eye contact can amplify your voice ✔️ 7 practical tips for using assertive eye contact when speaking up at work   ✅ Free Resources FREE Training & presentation on How To Be...

Your words are your instrument and weapon if you know how to use them. They can support your leadership or backfire. In this episode, Indrani Halder, Senior Director of Population Health at Carillon Behavioral Health, reveals the power of words, the importance of self-awareness, and the impact of feedback on personal growth. Learn how to navigate challenging communication scenarios and become a more effective and mindful leader. Tune in to this episode to discover: ✔️The importance of...

How can you learn to elevate your voice by speaking up fearlessly? By using the Five-Minute Speak Up Debrief Ritual, you can systematically enhance your speaking skills and confidence. In this episode, learn how to make the most out of every speaking moment, ensuring no opportunity is wasted. Reflect on your interactions, understand your emotional triggers and fears, and get practical steps to refine your approach in speaking your mind assertively. Tune in to this episode to discover: ✔️ ...

Discover 33 rights you need to know and that that you forgot you had. Knowing these rights can empower you to become your best advocate. This episode unpacks vital rights that can transform how you communicate and advocate for yourself, ensuring you are treated with respect, can ask for what you want, and feel entitled to your emotions and decisions. From the right to be treated with dignity to the right to brag unapologetically, these rights will equip you with the courage to make a...

Have you ever been told you're too aggressive or difficult at work? Learn how to navigate and respond to unhelpful feedback and stereotypes. In this episode, you’ll find effective strategies and real-life examples to handle accusations like being abrasive or pushy, especially targeting underrepresented individuals in the corporate world. Discover the myth behind such labels and how to turn even poorly delivered feedback into actionable insights. Tune in to this episode to discover: ✔️ The...

How can you identify if someone is genuinely committed to your success? True commitment involves more than just compliments and gifts. In this episode, discover the real actions that indicate genuine support, focusing on political capital, financial investment, and engaged time. Learn how to recognize these signs and ask for meaningful commitment from those around you, ensuring your goals are met with authentic support. Tune in to this episode to uncover: ✔️ Strategies to request true...

How can you protect yourself from manipulation at work while maintaining your good-natured personality? You don’t have to change who you are to safeguard against manipulative colleagues or bosses. In this episode, you’ll discover the subtle and often overlooked signs of manipulation and learn seven smart, proven strategies to disarm and deflect these tactics while retaining your authenticity and kindness. Using real-life analogies and step-by-step advice, she equips you with the tools needed...

Are you struggling to find your bold voice in the workplace? Commit to these four essential actions and watch your confidence soar. In this episode you’ll find out the crucial commitments needed to discover and amplify your bold voice. Finding your bold voice requires dedication and the willingness to step out of your comfort zone. Just like overcoming the fear of the dentist or embracing public speaking challenges, you can master the art of assertive communication by committing to these...

How can you expand your communication style for greater influence and effectiveness? By experimenting with different approaches, you can adapt your communication to various situations and enhance your impact. Tune in to discover practical tips on utilizing feedback and using new environments to redefine your voice. Tune in to this episode to discover: ✔️ Strategies for experimenting with your communication style. ✔️ The importance of feedback in refining your communication skills. ✔️...

How can I overcome the fear of failure in my career? Embracing an experimentation mindset can transform your fear of failure into a powerful tool for growth and innovation. Ready to turn your fear of failure into your greatest asset? In this episode, we are joined by Engineering Leader and MIT grad Margaret Wang Johnston. Margaret shares her insights on how adopting an experimentation mindset can help you embrace uncomfortable, risky situations and overcome the fear of failure. Tune in to...

Do you know which communication style you naturally use and how it impacts your success? Understanding the different communication styles can help you navigate interactions more effectively and achieve your career goals. In this episode you’ll learn the four core communication styles: assertive, passive, aggressive, and passive-aggressive. You’ll see how these styles are shaped by societal influences and upbringing, and why it's crucial to recognize and adapt your communication approach to be...

How can you make sure that you don't allow imposter syndrome to hold you back? It's okay to have imposter syndrome, but it's not okay to allow it to halt your progress. In today's episode, you'll hear from four female leaders who have experienced imposter syndrome in their careers and the strategies they've used to overcome it so they could embrace opportunities and their wins. Discover how to find your advocates, overcome self-doubt, and celebrate your achievements with pride. Tune in to...

Can being assertive elevate your authentic self? Many people are afraid that assertive communication will change who they are, yet it enhaces your personality. Tune in to this episode and discover: ✔️ Why assertiveness won’t change your personality. ✔️ The 4 most common mistakes that people make when they don’t know the language of assertiveness. ✔️ Similarities and 1 key difference between French and assertiveness languages.   ✅ Listen on the Speak Your Mind Unapologetically podcast...

How to stay calm and maintain your integrity when handling challenging coworkers? Discover effective strategies to handle challenging colleagues without losing your sense of self. In this episode we explore real-life examples that will help you manage conflict, maintain professionalism, and stay true to yourself. From dealing with exclusionary tactics to addressing condescending behavior, this episode offers actionable advice to transform your work experience. Tune in to this episode to...

How can you redefine your personal brand for career advancement while staying authentic? By identifying and combining traits that reflect both your internal values and external perceived effective leadership, you can develop a personal brand that feels right and that gets you ahead. Tune in to this episode to discover: ✔️ The key difference between values and brand and why it matters ✔️ Positive brand traits that can hurt your career advancement ✔️ Brand traits associated with strong...

Ever wondered how to find the perfect mentor who can guide you on your career journey? Finding a mentor can nerve-wreaking, but with the right approach and examples, it's entirely possible. What are the best strategies for identifying and connecting with a mentor? In this episode you’ll find 8 real-life examples of actionable steps you can take to find your ideal mentor. Tune in to this episode to discover: ✔️ How to find mentors effectively using proven strategies ✔️ Tips on how to...

What happens when authenticity in the workplace goes wrong? Authenticity in the workplace can sometimes backfire, leading to professional pitfalls and misunderstandings. How can you be authentic at work without jeopardizing your career? this episode we explore the challenges of being authentic at work, the potential downsides of authenticity and practical strategies to maintain professionalism while being true to yourself. Tune in to this episode to discover: ✔️ Understanding authenticity...

Do you ever feel like giving up at work when your ideas are overlooked or your contributions undervalued? Persistence is often the key to success, but there's a fine line between being persistent and becoming a nuisance. How do you strike the right balance? This episode of the 'Speak Your Mind Unapologetically Podcast' dives into three compelling stories of professionals who mastered the art of persistence without stepping over the line. Tune in to this episode to discover: ✔️ How a simple...

How can you elevate your work discussions to make them more impactful? Being a good communicator isn't just about talking; it's about strategically engaging. Discover 13 effective techniques for value creation in workplace interactions that go beyond the typical advice of active listening, empathy, and asking open ended questions. Whether you're dealing with tough negotiations, seeking to build stronger team dynamics, or simply wanting to enhance your communication skills, this episode...

Do you ever wonder how to assert yourself while being humble? Dr. Monique Sendze, Vice President for IT and CIO at California State University, Chico, shares her experience on striking the perfect balance between confidence and humility in leadership.  Tune in to this episode to discover: ✔️ How embracing confident humility can propel your career forward. ✔️ Strategies to find and engage sponsors who will advocate for you. ✔️ The critical role of diverse sponsors in today’s...

How do you bounce back after speaking up backfires? Mastering the art of recovery can turn missteps into empowering moments. Curious how to handle the fallout gracefully and effectively? Tune in to this episode to discover: ✔️ The 8 critical steps to take immediately after your attempt to speak up doesn't go as planned. ✔️ Real-life strategies for making amends and effectively managing conflicts that arise from communication mishaps. ✔️ Insights into why expressing your thoughts, even...

Have you ever felt underestimated or sidelined due to subtle prejudices? This episode explores practical strategies to tackle such challenges head-on. Hang Black, Vice President of Revenue Enablement and author of 'Embrace Your Edge: Pave Your Own Path as an Immigrant Woman in the Workplace', dives deep into her personal encounters with microaggressions and offers actionable advice. Tune in to this episode to discover: ✔️ Effective techniques for using transactional analysis to shift...

How can you go from a timid voice to a bold voice so that you can confidently speak your mind? Many professionals struggle with the fear of voicing their thoughts, especially when it comes to challenging conversations. But what if you could turn that fear into fearless confidence? How can you assert yourself at work without the crippling anxiety? This episode will empower you with the hacks needed to reduce your speaking up fears. Tune in to this episode to discover: ✔️ 9 essential ways...

Do you find it challenging to express your needs in the workplace without causing friction? Whether you're expressing what you want or negotiating your role, it's vital to convey your thoughts clearly and persuasively. Tune in to this episode to discover: ✔️ How to articulate your professional desires confidently and without fear. ✔️ Strategies to align your manager with your goals, creating a supportive environment. ✔️ Insights into how self-promotion can lead to better compensation...