Quietly Visible

A few thoughts for International Women's Day 2023.

Being proud of who you are is associated with confidence, accomplishment and self-worth. If you are introverted and haven't embraced your introverted strengths, what impact is this having on you? In this first episode of the Quietly Visible podcast, I talk about why I am introvert and proud and you should be too.  If you are an introverted women and a senior leader and want to identify what you can do to increase your confidence, influence and impact, take my Confidence, Influence and Impact Assessment for Introverted Women Who are Senior Leaders here. Subscribe to my Quietly Visible newsletter on LinkedIn here. 

In this episode of Quietly Visible, Carol Stewart is joined by Melissa DinWiddie—Juilliard-trained dancer, jazz singer, improviser, author of The Creative Sandbox Way, and creativity consultant for global brands like Google, Meta, and Salesforce.Melissa shares her powerful journey from believing she “wasn’t creative” to embracing her artistry and building a career helping leaders and teams unlock their boldest ideas. She opens up about the perfectionism that held her back for years, how self-compassion became her game-changer, and why she now proudly calls herself an “intentional imperfectionist.”💡 In this conversation:Why creativity is much more than painting or musicHow perfectionism differs from the pursuit of excellenceThe role of self-compassion in overcoming fear and self-doubtHow introverted leaders can thrive by lowering the bar and starting messyPractical tools to embrace play, experimentation, and risk-takingMelissa’s story is a testament to the fact that creativity lives in everyone—and that letting go of perfection can open doors to joy, innovation, and authentic leadership.Connect with Melissa DinWiddie:https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissadinwiddie/Website: melissadinwiddie.com https://melissadinwiddie.com/Instagram: @a_creative_life https://instagram.com/a_creative_lifeYou Tube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRFDQEc5Rj6SU3FTprqohLQTake Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influencehttps://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by consultant psychotherapist, writer, and founder of Stilled Therapy & Consultancy, Monique Thomas. Together, they explore what it means to lead with grace and why this is such a powerful approach for introverted women in leadership.Monique shares her personal journey from teaching and performing to psychotherapy, weaving in lessons about authenticity, stillness, and the importance of connection. She unpacks how leaders can move beyond performance and pressure, create psychologically safe environments, and thrive without pretending to be someone they’re not.Key takeaways from this conversation:Grace in leadership means moving away from performance-driven cultures and embracing authenticity.Stillness isn’t about inactivity—it’s about finding safety, acceptance, and deep connection even in motion.Authenticity is powerful—real change begins when we accept ourselves as we are.Connection is essential—introverts need belonging and safe spaces just as much as anyone else.Challenging performance culture can prevent burnout and help leaders lead with compassion and sustainability.This is an inspiring listen for introverted women leaders who want to thrive by leading with authenticity, compassion, and courage—without losing themselves to performance pressures.Connect with Monique:hello@stlldtherapy.comLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/monique-thomas-ma-5541b429/Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influencehttps://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

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

Carol Stewart is joined by Dr. Lynise Green, integrated wellness and leadership consultant, wellness strategist, and award-winning expert. Together, they explore how introverted women in leadership can reclaim their energy, authority, and authenticity without giving in to performative expectations.Dr. Green shares her fascinating journey from engineer to naturopath to consultant, and how her own experiences with burnout shaped the work she does today. She unpacks the myths around productivity, visibility, and hustle culture, showing why sustainable success isn’t about always being “on” but about managing and optimising your energy.Highlights from the conversation:The danger of performative leadership and why authenticity is more impactfulHow burnout shows up physically, emotionally, mentally, and spirituallyWhy presence and intentional energy are more powerful than constant hustlePractical strategies for setting boundaries without guiltHow introverted leaders can thrive by valuing quality over quantity in their visibilityWhy managing energy—not just time—is the key to living and leading wellThis episode is a must-listen for introverted women who want to lead with impact, protect their energy, and build a leadership style rooted in clarity, purpose, and authenticity.Connect with Dr. Lynise Green:https://www.wellwithl.comLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lynisegreenndTake Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influencehttps://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

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

In this episode, Carol explored the impact of stress on women's health, distinguishing between acute and chronic stress and sharing personal stories to illustrate how stress can manifest physically and emotionally. She emphasised the importance of recognising early signs of stress and developing resilience as a way to manage stress and improve overall well-being, while also discussing strategies for emotional regulation and building a support network. Carol concluded by highlighting the benefits of gratitude and self-reflection, encouraging listeners to practice self-care and make time for personal development through various stress management techniques.Take Carol's Confidence, Influence, and Impact Assessment at https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/🎵 ©️Julie Ann Smith

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

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

In this episode, Carol explored the concept of comfort zones and their negative impact on personal and professional growth, sharing examples of how staying within one's comfort zone can lead to stagnation and missed opportunities for advancement. She provided practical advice and strategies for overcoming fears that keep people trapped in unsatisfying jobs, including the importance of self-reflection, seeking support, and gradually stepping out of one's comfort zone through manageable challenges. Carol emphasised the value of regular self-challenge and personal growth, sharing her own experiences of stepping outside her comfort zone, and encouraged listeners to consider similar opportunities to increase their confidence and impact.Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith

Carol Stewart is joined by PR and personal branding expert Ronke Lawal, founder of Ariatu PR. Together, they delve into how introverted women leaders can cultivate a powerful and authentic personal brand, without pretending to be someone they’re not.Ronke shares wisdom from two decades of helping professionals and entrepreneurs amplify their voices. From wardrobe choices to digital presence, she unpacks practical strategies for owning your identity, communicating with confidence, and making your leadership visible in a way that aligns with your personality, not drains it.💡 Key takeaways include:Why personal branding isn’t about being famous, it’s about building trustHow introverted leaders can show up without faking extraversionWhat authenticity really means in today’s attention-driven worldUsing fashion and styling as a form of self-expression and confidenceHow to develop a legacy-driven brand rooted in purpose and clarityActionable tips to elevate your presence both online and in the workplaceWhether you’re hesitant about visibility or unsure how to self-promote authentically, this episode offers guidance to help you be remembered, for all the right reasons.Connect with Ronke Lawal:Website: ronkelawal.com https://ronkelawal.com/Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influencehttps://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by Dr. Tosin Bowen-Wright, a consultant clinical psychologist, leadership coach, and advocate for women’s wellbeing. Together, they unpack the myths surrounding resilience and explore how introverted women can lead confidently—without burning out.Tosin shares her own story of navigating senior leadership, pushing through exhaustion, and ultimately redefining what it means to be resilient. Her experience sheds light on the emotional toll of high-pressure roles, especially for Black women and introverted leaders, and how honouring your boundaries, energy, and emotional needs is key to sustainable success.Topics include:The harmful effects of the “push through” narrative in leadershipRecognising the signs of burnout before they take holdPractical strategies for tuning into yourself and protecting your energySetting clear boundaries and embracing self-care as leadership toolsWhy resilience is about awareness, not enduranceThe difference between introversion and confidence—and how knowing the difference changed her lifeThis episode is essential listening for any woman navigating leadership in environments that demand visibility, while craving calm and authenticity.Connect with Dr. Tosin Bowen-Wright:Website: www.doctortbw.co.ukLinkedIn: Tosin Bowen-Wrighthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-tosin-bowen-wright/Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influencehttps://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this episode of the Quietly Visible Podcast, I delve into a common challenge faced by introverted women leaders—setting and enforcing boundaries.Whether it's saying yes when you want to say no, avoiding difficult conversations, or overcommitting out of guilt or people-pleasing tendencies, the cost of poor boundaries can be high—emotionally, mentally, and professionally.I explore:✔️ Why boundaries are essential for wellbeing, confidence, and effective leadership✔️ The emotional and societal pressures that stop women from setting them✔️ What happens when boundaries are absent✔️ How to communicate and reinforce your boundaries clearly and assertively—without the guiltYou’ll hear practical examples, coaching insights, and simple yet powerful strategies to help you protect your time, energy, and peace of mind.“Your needs matter just as much as anyone else’s. Saying ‘no’ is not selfish—it’s self-preservation.”📥 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.🔗 Plus, download my free Confidence, Influence & Impact Assessment at aboundingsolutions.com to explore how you're showing up in your leadership.🎵 - ©️ Julie Ann Smith#QuietLeadership #IntrovertedWomen #SettingBoundaries #CarolStewart #QuietlyVisiblePodcast

Carol Stewart speaks with Dr. Sharon Melnick, business psychologist, executive coach, and author of In Your Power: React Less, Regain Control, Raise Others. Together, they explore how introverted women—especially those in senior executive roles—can reclaim and embody their personal power in workplaces that often favour extraversion and dominance.Dr. Melnick unpacks what it truly means to be "in your power," sharing practical strategies to move from being a reactive thermometer to a proactive thermostat—the leader who sets the emotional climate in any room.Highlights from the episode include:The 3 foundations of personal power: agency, sovereignty, and efficacyWhy introversion is a strength—not a shortcoming—in leadershipHow to stay calm and centred under pressure using techniques like cooling breathHow burnout is more about lack of power than workloadWhat to do when you're the only introverted woman in a male-dominated, extravert-driven environmentHow to influence without being the loudest in the roomWhether you're navigating boardrooms, burnout, or bias, this episode is packed with actionable insight to help you reclaim your energy, communicate with intention, and lead powerfully—on your own terms.Connect with Dr. Sharon Melnick:Sharonmelnick.com https://sharonmelnick.com/Try the Power Profile Quiz and download the Burnout-Proof ChecklistBook: In Your Power: React Less, Regain Control, Raise OthersLinkedIn – Sharon Melnick PhD https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharonmelnickTake Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influencehttps://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

“Confidence isn’t about being louder. It’s about being more of yourself.” — Beatrice KabutakapuaIn this enriching episode of Quietly Visible, Carol Stewart is joined by Beatrice Kabutakapua, business storytelling coach and founder of the Business Storytelling Centre. Together, they explore how storytelling can empower introverted leaders to connect, communicate, and lead with greater influence—without needing to act like extraverts.Beatrice shares her personal journey from journalism to coaching, how she rediscovered her own voice through story, and why introversion is not the same as shyness. She reveals how leaders can use lived experience—not flashy performance—to create compelling stories that inspire trust and foster connection.Key topics include:The difference between introversion and shyness—and why it mattersUsing storytelling for self-awareness, influence, and team engagementHow to share stories even when the topic is “dry” or data-heavyWhy confidence comes from being more of yourself, not lessThe storytelling structures that suit introverts bestBeatrice’s new book Lead with Your Story (coming October 2025)Whether you’re hesitant to be visible or simply want to communicate more powerfully as an introverted leader, this episode is filled with supportive insights and practical advice.Connect with Beatrice Kabutakapua on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/beatrice-ngalula-kabutakapua/Website https://www.beatricekabutakapua.com/Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influencehttps://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of the Quietly Visible podcast, Carol Stewart shares her journey from denying her introversion to becoming unapologetically introvert and proud. She reflects on her childhood experiences with shyness and self-doubt, the societal misconceptions that shaped her early understanding of introversion, and the pivotal moments that led her to embrace her quiet strengths.Carol also discusses how her professional evolution—from senior leader to award-winning executive and leadership coach—helped her specialise in supporting introverted women to lead with confidence, influence, and impact. She dives into her academic research on belonging and psychological safety for introverted women in the workplace and how workplace culture often overlooks introverted strengths.Whether you're early in your career or an experienced leader, this episode will inspire you to own your introversion, see it as a superpower, and lead authentically and proudly.🎧 Tune in to discover:✔️ Why introversion is often misunderstood✔️ How introverted women can thrive in leadership✔️ The importance of psychological safety and belonging✔️ What led Carol to create The Impact Club, a supportive community for introverted leadersTake Carol's free assessment to improve your confidence, impact, and influencehttps://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeaders

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

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

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