Diary of an Executive Coach - Refreshing Leadership, Career Clarity & Life Design with Maya Gudka

In this solo episode, Maya takes you behind the scenes of her own 2025 year in review  and shares an easy, data-informed method you can borrow for your own reflection.Instead of relying on fuzzy memory or end-of-year recency bias, Maya uses a monthly “Ta Da List” (a done list), Apple Notes, and a touch of AI support to create a much more accurate picture of what actually happened this year: in work, life, family, health, money, and more.She also shares what surprised her most when looking at the honest ‘data’If you’re a high achiever who tends to underestimate what you’ve done (and rush on to the next thing), this episode will help you slow down, take stock, and see just how much your effort has really created💡 You’ll LearnA simple monthly reflection method (the “Ta Da! List”) you can start nowHow to use notes + tech to make your year-end review more accurateWhy we underestimate our progress when we only review at the end of the yearHow seeing the full picture of your year shapes your 2026 goals for what’s nextYou can connect and find out more about Maya on her website www.mayagudka.com or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/m/in/mayagudkaPlus find her on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE8JBk-eQ0dA8zv1eWJZelA/

If you hold many roles but want to do so with clarity, calm, and joy, this episode gives you a rare behind-the-scenes look at Sarah Hart-Unger’s systems, mindset, and rituals. In this episode, Maya sits down with one of her long-time planning and productivity influences: Sarah Hart-Unger, a physician, mother of three, podcaster, planner, blogger, and now author. Sarah shares the practical planning habits that make her life work, how she avoids burnout, and why she believes planning should feel fun, not rigid. From morning routines to nested goals, daily rituals to quintiles, this episode is packed with insights to help you design a life that aligns with your values, ambition, and reality,  not someone else’s expectations. You’ll Learn:How Sarah manages multiple roles without burning outWhy planning doesn’t need to be rigid and can actually create joyWhy not being a perfectionist is a key to Sarah’s successYou can connect and find out more about Maya on her website www.mayagudka.com or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/m/in/mayagudkaPurchase or pre-order her book here: https://amzn.eu/d/95dhVyL Connect and find out more about Sarah on her website www.theshubox.com 

What does it really look like to be fully supported as a high achiever and how do you know if this is your moment to do it? Whether you’re considering coaching for the first time, thinking about your next career or life chapter, or simply craving more alignment and ease, Maya breaks down the common hesitations and mindsets that hold people back and how to move past them.💡 You’ll Learn:How to recognise the signs it’s time to seek supportThe real reason high achievers delay getting helpThe difference between being “fine” and being fulfilledYou can find out more about Maya's programmes belowVision Unblocked - https://www.mayagudka.com/vision-unblockedVision Code - https://www.mayagudka.com/vision-codeUnwritten Rules - https://www.mayagudka.com/unwritten-rulesLife Work Design - https://www.mayagudka.com/lifework-design

If you’ve ever wondered why certain triggers, conflicts, or self-sabotaging habits keep reappearing, this episode will help you understand them at a deeper, transformative level.By the end, you’ll have a clearer sense of how to access your own shadow, reclaim lost parts of yourself, and unlock a level of self-awareness that elevates both your leadership and your life.Every high achiever has a few “derailers” lurking beneath the surface, patterns that show up under stress, exhaustion, or uncertainty. In this episode, Maya and Steven D’Souza explore how your shadow influences your leadership, your choices, and your career path… often without you realising it.Drawing on psychology, Jungian theory, embodiment, biology, culture, and meaning-making, Steven explains how the shadow forms, how it shows up in adulthood, and why ignoring it keeps leaders repeating the same patterns on autopilot.You’ll Learn:What the shadow is — and why high achievers often overlook itThe link between shadow work and career choices, fulfilment, and identityYou can connect and find out more about Maya on her website www.mayagudka.com or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/m/in/mayagudkaConnect and find out more about Steven on his website https://stevendsouza.com/ or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-d-souza-5351712/

If you’re a high achiever who has built success through relentless doing, pushing harder, and staying “always on,” this episode will challenge and transform the way you think about achievement.Maya is joined by bestselling author and leadership thinker Steven D’Souza, whose book Not Doing explores how pausing, letting go, and working with natural rhythms can lead to more success, not less. Together, they unpack the paradox every high achiever eventually faces: you can’t think, act, or lead clearly from a place of frenetic action.Steven offers a radically refreshing perspective on leadership, ambition, creativity, and sustainable performance. This is not about sacrificing drive, it’s about discovering a more effective, easeful way forward.If you’ve been feeling burnt out, reactive, overstretched, or like the world is pushing you faster than you want to go… this conversation is for you.You’ll Learn:Why high achievers become trapped in over-actionThe concept of negative capability and why leaders need itA new, calmer relationship to time that unlocks creativityYou can connect and find out more about Maya on her website www.mayagudka.com or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/m/in/mayagudkaConnect and find out more about Steven on his website https://stevendsouza.com/ or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-d-souza-5351712/

Confidence isn’t one thing, it’s many. There’s confidence in your expertise, confidence in being visible, confidence in your new identity, and even confidence in speaking your truth.In this episode, Maya breaks down three things she often finds herself saying to clients about confidence. From treating confidence like a muscle you can train, to understanding how external factors (like a disengaged boss) can chip away at your self-belief, she reveals what truly helps high-achievers rebuild confidence that lasts.You’ll also hear why fluctuating confidence is actually a good sign, one of self-awareness, not weakness and how to reframe imposter syndrome as a useful inner signal rather than an enemy to silence.You'll LearnThe three types of confidence every high-achiever needsWhy confidence is built through doing, not waitingHow toxic dynamics (or poor managers) quietly erode confidenceWhy confidence naturally fluctuates and why that’s normalHow imposter syndrome can reveal valuable self-awarenessA small communication tweak that signals confidence instantlyDownload the free Career Blindspots Checklist (https://www.mayagudka.com/career-blindspots-checklist)designed for high achievers who want to uncover the subtle habits that quietly hold them back.To find out more about Maya you can connect with her at www.mayagudka.com and https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayagudka/

If you’re waiting for a promotion, title, or recognition before you start showing up as a leader, this episode will change your approach.In this short and powerful reflection, Maya shares how one simple shift in energy and self-perception helped a client step into leadership long before the title arrived - and how that ripple effect transformed his time management, confidence, and balance.Through personal stories from her own career at KPMG and lessons from coaching hundreds of senior leaders, Maya unpacks the truth: people promote you when they can already see you at that next level. The secret is to embody it first.You'll LearnWhy confidence and energy signal leadership readinessHow to “act as if” without being inauthenticThe real power of executive presence  and how it’s builtHow others start to see you differently once you shift your own energyA simple daily exercise to embody your next-level selfTo find out more about Maya you can connect with her at www.mayagudka.com and https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayagudka/

If you’ve ever been told “let your work speak for itself,” “say yes to everything,” or “stay out of office politics,” this episode will change the way you think about career success.Maya breaks down three of the most common and well-meaning pieces of advice that secretly hold high achievers back. These beliefs can quietly limit your visibility, overload your schedule, and block your access to real influence inside your organisation.Through client stories, practical insights, and mindset shifts, you’ll learn what to do instead so that your career effort actually moves the needle without burning out or playing the political games you’ve avoided.What You'll LearnWhy “let your work speak for itself” is career sabotage in disguiseHow to stop saying yes to everything and protect your focusThe truth about “office politics” — and how to build influence authenticallyThe mindset shifts that free you from invisible effort and help you riseA simple next step to identify what’s keeping you stuckDownload the free Career Blindspots Checklist (Career Blindspots Checklist | Maya Gudka ExecCoach) designed for high achievers who want to uncover the subtle habits that quietly hold them back.To find out more about Maya you can connect with her at www.mayagudka.com and https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayagudka/

In this final part of our mini-series, Maya and Graziela dive into two of the most common and misunderstood patterns in high-achievers, especially those in leadership or caregiving roles. You’ll discover why avoiding conflict and over-giving can erode your confidence, your clarity, and your career and most importantly, how to shift into the sage mindset that restores power, presence, and peace.We cover:The hidden costs of people-pleasing and conflict avoidanceHow these saboteurs undermine leadership and wellbeingA 4-step framework for having difficult conversations with graceWhy boundaries are not selfishHow to activate your “sage” powers to lead with empathy and impactThe hidden costs of people-pleasing and conflict avoidanceHow these saboteurs undermine leadership and wellbeingA 4-step framework for having difficult conversations with graceWhy boundaries are not selfishHow to activate your “sage” powers to lead with empathy and impactTo find out more about Maya you can connect with her at www.mayagudka.comConnect with Graziela on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracoaching/

In part two of the Positive Intelligence mini-series on The Executive Coach Podcast, Maya Gudka and executive coach Graziela Cajado-Ogland explore two saboteurs that organisations often reward: the Hyper-Achiever and the Hyper-Rational.These patterns can fuel incredible performance, but left unchecked, they distort our sense of self-worth. Maya's clients are increasingly coming to her specifically wanting to work on their self-worth, and this conversation explores why that matters.Maya shares openly how these saboteurs have impacted her personally, and Graziela brings insights about the real cost of overusing these patterns in leadership and life.The conversation covers how we link our value to our results and what happens when we fail, why being overly rational can leave people feeling unheard, and the three magic words for high-achievers: "Do you want to be heard, hugged, or helped?" They discuss treating emotions as data rather than distractions, and redefining success on your own terms.This episode is particularly relevant for leaders who feel their self-worth is tied to outcomes, high-performers struggling to connect emotionally, anyone navigating career transitions or identity shifts, and coaches and executives ready to lead with more empathy.You’ll Learn:Why hyper-achieving can erode self-worthHow hyper-rationality limits emotional connection and leadership effectivenessThe link between internal judgment and judgment of othersPractical ways to redefine success and reclaim your self-worthHow to treat emotions as data—not distractionsHow to honour your values without burning outWho This Is For:High performers who feel pressure to constantly prove themselvesLeaders who feel emotionally disconnected or misunderstoodCoaches, execs, and entrepreneurs ready to build more sustainable successAnyone navigating transitions in identity, career, or relationshipsYou can connect and find out more about Maya on her website www.mayagudka.comConnect with Graziela on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracoaching/

If you're a high-achiever, what's holding you back likely isn’t a lack of ambition or skill—it's the unseen internal patterns running in the background. In this powerful episode, we explore the Positive Intelligence framework by Shirzad Chamine to reveal the 9 "saboteurs" that drain your energy, impact your leadership, and quietly sabotage your success.Executive coach Graziela Cajado-Ogland joins Maya to lay the foundations of this framework and introduce the Judge the master saboteur. Together, they share real-world leadership examples and personal stories that make this framework immediately relatable and practical.If you’ve ever struggled with perfectionism, people-pleasing, over-control, or being overly rational, this episode will leave you with a whole new lens on yourself and the people around you.What You’ll Learn:The 9 saboteurs and how they show up in high-achieversWhy the Judge is the most damaging of allHow empathy, not judgment, transforms leadershipThe difference between high standards and self-sabotageHow to begin shifting these patterns to lead with more clarity, confidence, and calmThis is the first of a 3-part mini-series exploring Positive Intelligence and how it can elevate your leadership, relationships, and inner peace.You can connect with Maya on her website www.mayagudka.comConnect with Graziela on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracoaching/

🎙️ Welcome back to The Executive Coach Podcast where we help high-achievers design careers and lives they’re excited to wake up to.This episode is designed to help you finish the year strong, with clarity, confidence, and a sense of grounded momentum.In this episode, I’ll guide you through a reflective yet practical process to:Revisit your original goals with fresh eyesScan your calendar to recognise hidden winsDefine what a "strong finish" looks like for YOUSet high-leverage, tiny actions that create momentumClear space by deleting what no longer matters🔍 Whether this year has gone to plan or not, you still have time to make it meaningful, without burning out or overhauling everything.This isn't hustle. It's conscious design. Let’s get intentional and end the year proud of how you showed up.✨ Helpful Resources MentionedCareer Blind Spots Checklist https://www.mayagudka.com/career-blindspots-checklistVision Unblocked https://www.mayagudka.com/vision-unblocked

Are you feeling a little scattered post-summer? Forgot your word of the year? Lost track of your goals? You’re not alone and it’s not too late.In this short but powerful episode, Maya offers a grounded and inspiring 90-day reset to help you finish the year with clarity, intention, and pride. With just one question “What’s the one thing I want to toast to on New Year’s Eve?” you’ll be able to cut through perfectionism, reconnect with what matters, and focus your energy on something truly meaningful.This reset is designed to help high-achievers like you design the kind of year-end that sets the tone for a spacious and exciting 2026. Whether it’s a personal challenge, a professional pivot, or nurturing a relationship, this approach keeps it simple and powerful.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:The one question that will reset your focus and energyWhy 90 days is the perfect window for meaningful changeHow to choose a single goal that feels doable and deeply satisfyingThe difference between input vs. outcome goals (and how to choose wisely)Ideas for work, personal growth, and relationships to inspire your “one thing”You can find out more about Maya’s short and powerful program to help you clarify your next chapter Vision Unblocked here https://www.mayagudka.com/vision-unblocked

We often talk about the magic of morning routines, but the real secret? They start the night before. In this episode, Maya shares her simple, soulful evening routine, designed to help high achievers wind down, recharge, and set the tone for a spacious, focused, and exciting tomorrow.From screen-time boundaries and stretching rituals to her favourite journaling question and the genius app that finally broke her WhatsApp habit, Maya offers a refreshingly imperfect yet intentional look at how she ends her day. You’ll also hear about the small tweaks, like planning protein or dimming the lights that make a big impact on energy and clarity.Whether you’re ready to overhaul your nights or just want a few realistic ideas that actually fit a busy life, this episode has you covered.What You’ll Learn:Why your evening routine is the true foundation for a great workdayMaya’s personal “power down hour” and how she makes it doableThe Clear Space app that changed her digital habitsA better way to reflect on your day (spoiler: it’s not a basic gratitude list)How small wins (like charging headphones!) add up to big calmConnect with Maya over on Linkedin https://uk.linkedin.com/in/mayagudka or at her website https://www.mayagudka.com/

Welcome back to The Executive Coach Podcast, where we help high achievers move beyond box-ticking busyness and into careers that feel spacious, fulfilling, and exciting to wake up to.In today’s episode, I’m diving into a bold but essential truth:Senior-level promotions aren’t earned - they’re negotiated.This insight struck a nerve when I first shared it on social media, and for good reason. If you’ve been working tirelessly, delivering results, and still feel overlooked this episode is for you.I share behind-the-scenes stories from my own career and from recent client breakthroughs to show how promotions really happen at the top.We’ll explore:Why relying on merit alone can stall your progressThe role of strategic sponsorship and visibilityHow executive presence is often code for "playing the game"Why trust, timing, and negotiation matter more than you thinkThe questions you must ask if you're not advancingYou’ll also hear the hard-won lessons that helped me and my clients, move into senior leadership by design, not default.💡 If you’ve ever felt like you're doing everything right and still being passed over, this episode will shift your mindset and your strategy.👉 Unwritten Rules of Career Success Program can be found here https://www.mayagudka.com/unwritten-rules – Learn how to build influence, identify sponsors, and make your promotion inevitable.

Do you ever feel like you’re working hard, doing all the right things, even exceeding expectations and yet, somehow, you still feel behind?Maybe colleagues are being promoted, someone just landed a board role, or LinkedIn is buzzing with achievements that make you question your own progress. You’re not underperforming… but something still feels off.In this episode, Maya Gudka breaks down:✨ 3 hidden reasons high achievers feel behind✨ Why not having a personal vision leaves you vulnerable to comparison✨ How being strategically bad at some things is the key to growth✨ Practical questions to help you reset and refocus on your pathThis is not about hustling harder or fixing yourself overnight, it’s an invitation to prune back, clarify your vision, and create success that feels expansive and meaningful.💡 Want to take this further?Check out Maya’s Vision Unblocked here https://www.mayagudka.com/vision-unblocked

Maya Gudka shares how to reset your morning routine for success—without the guilt, the 12-step rituals, or the 5AM alarms.✨ Whether your mornings start with a school run, Zoom call, or you’re just wondering where your coffee mug went—this is for you.You’ll learn:✅ The only two things your morning really needs (backed by science)❌ The one habit you can drop—and even benefit more by doing it later☀️ Why daylight and gentle movement are non-negotiables for your energy🧠 How to tap into your "deep work" brain before distractions set in☕ A surprising tip to pair your morning coffee with productivity📓 Why reflective journaling might actually belong in the eveningThis is not about doing more—it’s about doing what works. Maya also shares how she’s personally adjusting her own mornings for better flow (even with a busy family life!).🟡 Ready to reclaim your mornings with clarity and calm?Check out Maya's Vision Unblocked program – a 3-day audio micro-course designed for busy professionals ready to reconnect with their long-term goals: https://www.mayagudka.com/vision-unblocked

We’re doing something a little different this August on The Executive Coach Podcast:Welcome to the August Rejuvenation Series!Every weekday you will receive one tiny, super doable tip, to help you switch gears this August and, as we coaches like to say, rest hard!I’ve searched for the tiniest actions (often 60 seconds or less!) that can have the biggest rejuvenation impact and layered up to create a fabulous set of August rituals!You can log each daily here:www.mayagudka.com/rejuvenationDon’t forget to screenshot me your progress - you can message me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayagudka/

We’re doing something a little different this August on The Executive Coach Podcast:Welcome to the August Rejuvenation Series!Every weekday you will receive one tiny, super doable tip, to help you switch gears this August and, as we coaches like to say, rest hard!I’ve searched for the tiniest actions (often 60 seconds or less!) that can have the biggest rejuvenation impact and layered up to create a fabulous set of August rituals!You can log each daily here:www.mayagudka.com/rejuvenationDon’t forget to screenshot me your progress - you can message me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayagudka/

We’re doing something a little different this August on The Executive Coach Podcast:Welcome to the August Rejuvenation Series!Every weekday you will receive one tiny, super doable tip, to help you switch gears this August and, as we coaches like to say, rest hard!I’ve searched for the tiniest actions (often 60 seconds or less!) that can have the biggest rejuvenation impact and layered up to create a fabulous set of August rituals!You can log each daily here:www.mayagudka.com/rejuvenationDon’t forget to screenshot me your progress - you can message me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayagudka/