Lead with Less

Becoming a manager early in your career can feel overwhelming - but it can also be a powerful advantage if you focus on the right skills and mindset.In this episode, I chat with Dylan Wallace, who shares his journey of becoming a manager at 22 and the lessons he’s learned helping young leaders step into their potential.In this episode, we talk about: - The biggest challenges young managers face (from imposter thoughts to leading older staff)- How to build respect and influence without decades of experience- Why inexperience can actually be a leadership advantage- The three core responsibilities every manager must master- Practical ways to set expectations, supervise effectively, and give feedbackThis conversation is full of insight, honesty, and practical tools for young or aspiring managers who want to grow into strong, capable leaders.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there something else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you.Connect with Dylan:https://www.instagram.com/leadwithdylanwww.leadwithdylan.comAre we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

AI is everywhere - but for managers, it’s not about learning prompts, it’s about learning principles. Used well, AI can help you think smarter, save time, and create space for more human leadership. Used terribly, it can strip out trust, connection, and authenticity.In this episode, you’ll learn: - The “line” every manager needs to know when using AI- Two big mistakes managers make when overusing AI- Why AI should never replace human connection or responsibility- Practical ways to use AI to challenge your thinking and improve conversations- How to free up your time with AI so you can focus on strategy, people, and performanceAI won’t make you a better leader - but how you use it can.This episode shows you how to leverage AI in ways that make managing easier, without losing the humanity that makes leadership work.If you are new to leadership and wondering how to “get it right”, have a listen What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Links and Resources Mentioned:V.I.P Leaders leadership program Interest List - the signature program that helps you strengthen your leadership identity, build trusted influence, and level up your emotional intelligence to become a leader people actually want to follow. The next round starts in March 2026. Join the interest list here. Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you! 

Happiness isn’t just an outcome - it’s a skillset you can practice, improve, and carry into every area of life.In this episode, I talk with Declan Edwards, happiness researcher, coach, author, and founder of BU Happiness College. Declan shares how he turned his own struggles into a global mission to teach the science of happiness and why these skills are essential for leaders today.In this episode, we talk about: - Why happiness is a skill, not an outcome- The 5 core skills every emerging leader needs to develop- How happiness at work drives productivity, performance, and retention- Practical ways to practice happiness skills daily that benefit your work and life- The ripple effect leaders have on their teams (and how to make it positive)If you’ve ever felt like happiness was just out of reach, or you’ve questioned how to balance being human with being a leader, this episode will give you the tools and the hope to start shifting things today.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there something else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you.Links and Resources Mentioned:How to be Happy Podcast (on Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/how-to-be-happy/id1361238593 How to be Happy Podcast (on Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/0zriwga04Rl0pbjFuDF6Hl?si=efa565f0d4704460 Personal Happiness Scorecard: https://buhappinesscollege.com/scorecard/Workplace Happiness Self Diagnostic: https://buhappinesscollege.com/workplace-happiness-self-diagnostic/Waitlist for Declan’s Book: https://s.pointerpro.com/bookwaitlistConnect with Declan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/declan-edwards-bu-happiness-college/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/declanedwards_bu Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

Sometimes you’re doing everything you can to be a great manager - but your own boss is dropping the ball. That’s when you need to learn the skill of managing up. Done well, it keeps your career moving forward and helps you maintain respect without overstepping.In this episode, I share:- How to understand your manager’s communication, decision-making, and work style- Why taking the lead (without doing their job) can transform your experience- The shift from asking for permission to driving outcomes- How to influence strategically and get buy-in faster- Why sometimes you need to accept the limitation and know when it’s time to move onManaging up isn’t about covering for a bad boss - it’s about protecting your growth, building influence, and making sure you don’t get stuck waiting for leadership that may never come. This episode gives you the tools to handle it with confidence.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Links and Resources Mentioned:Strategic Thinking and Decision Making Masterclass - Tired of hearing “you need to be more strategic” without anyone showing you how the hell to do that? Get ready to build the strategic thinking and decision making skills that’ll actually move your career forward - without the fluff. Get the masterclass here. V.I.P Leaders leadership program Interest List - the signature program that helps you strengthen your leadership identity, build trusted influence, and level up your emotional intelligence to become a leader people actually want to follow. The next round starts in March 2026. Join the interest list here. Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.com Instagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

What if being quiet was actually your greatest leadership advantage?In this episode, I’m joined by leadership communications coach Salvatore Manzi, who has spent over 20 years helping analytical, technical, and introverted leaders find their voice and lead with impact. Together we talk about why introverts often make some of the best leaders - and how you can embrace those strengths to grow your influence.In this episode, we talk about: - The biggest myths about introverts in leadership - and how to bust them- Why introverts bring unique value in meetings, decision-making, and team dynamics- Practical tools to “break the seal” and speak up with confidence- How leaders can create space that allows quieter voices to thrive- Tangible reframes and strategies introverts can use to turn their nature into a superpowerQuiet leaders are often the ones who bring thoughtfulness, emotional intelligence, and balance to a team. This episode will show you how to use those qualities as strengths and shift the way you think about leadership.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there something else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you.Links and Resources Mentioned:Clear and Compelling Book - www.clearandcompellingplaybook.com Connect with Salvatore:Website - https://www.salvatoremanzi.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/salvatorejmanzi/Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

Excuses might feel harmless in the moment - but they’re slowly eroding your credibility, your influence, and your team’s performance.In this episode, I break down the three most common excuses I hear from managers, why they’re holding you back, and how to replace them with leadership habits that build trust and respect.In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why “I don’t have time” costs you more time (and team engagement) later- How avoiding discomfort to “keep the peace” damages trust- Why “it’s easier if I do it” leads to burnout and a disengaged team- The mindset shifts and practical actions that replace excuses with influence- How to create the conditions for your team to thrive without micromanagingIf you are holding yourself back with excuses or wondering how the heck to stop making them so you can become trusted and respected - this episode is for you.If you are new to leadership and wondering how to “get it right”, have a listen What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Links and Resources Mentioned:VIP Leaders Leadership Program - the signature program that helps you strengthen your leadership identity, build trusted influence, and level up your emotional intelligence to become a leader people actually want to follow.  Enrol now for the next round starting in September. Early bird pricing on now. https://tashpieterse.com/vip-leadersThe 1:1 Playbook - Turn casual catch ups into meaningful conversations with your team members. Grab your free copy here. https://www.tashpieterse.com/1on1-playbookThe Workload Audit - Get rid of overwhelm, focus on what matters, and increase your impact. Grab your free copy here. https://tashpieterse.com/workload-auditAre we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you! 

What to Do When Things Go Wrong (Without Losing Credibility or Confidence)No matter how skilled or experienced you are, things will go wrong. Projects fall through. Expectations get missed. People behave badly. Or maybe... you mess up.This episode is your leadership reset for those exact moments. I walk you through five clear steps to handle mistakes, missteps, and uncomfortable situations — without spiraling, avoiding, or doing damage control on your own.In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why clarity is your best friend when things go wrong- The #1 thing to identify before you try to fix anything- Who you should talk to (and who you shouldn’t) when it’s messy- How to reset expectations and course correct with confidence- Why honesty, accountability, and communication will always beat silence- What to do if you’re the one who got it wrong - and how to lead through itThis is the kind of leadership work that builds trust - not just with your team, but with yourself.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Links and Resources Mentioned:VIP Leaders Leadership Program - the signature program that helps you strengthen your leadership identity, build trusted influence, and level up your emotional intelligence to become a leader people actually want to follow.  Enrol now for the next round starting in September. Early bird pricing on now. Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you! 

The Truth About Control: How to Lead With Influence Instead of FearIf you’re a manager who feels the urge to control everything - from performance to team behaviour - this episode is your wake-up call.Control might feel safe, but it kills trust, independence, and performance. In this episode, I break down what control really is, why it’s often rooted in fear, and how to shift into a leadership style based on influence instead.In this episode, you’ll learn: - What you actually control as a manager (it’s not your team)- The difference between control and influence - and why it matters- How fear drives controlling behaviours (and what to do about it)- Four practical shifts to lead with influence instead of micromanagement- Why emotional intelligence is the foundation of real leadership- How to build a high performing team by creating better conditions - not tighter rulesThe sooner you shift from control to influence, the faster your team will grow — and the less stressed you’ll feel every day.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Links and Resources Mentioned:VIP Leaders Leadership Program - the signature program that helps you strengthen your leadership identity, build trusted influence, and level up your emotional intelligence to become a leader people actually want to follow.  Enrol now for the next round starting in September. Early bird pricing on now. Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

Is AI taking over? Or is it just another tool we need to learn how to lead well?In this episode, I’m chatting with Annie Johnson, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer at Humaneer, to talk about what managers actually need to know about AI. Annie shares her journey from HR to AI builder, and how she helps managers navigate the messy, fast-moving space between human connection and emerging technology.In this episode, we dive into:- Why AI is more than ChatGPT - and how it’s already shaping your workplace- What differentiates early adopters from hesitant resistors- How managers can reduce fear and increase trust when talking about AI- Practical, ethical use cases for AI in day-to-day leadership- How to support your team’s curiosity and build safe experimentation into your culture- Why the most human managers are the ones who’ll lead best in the AI eraWhether you’re excited about AI or still unsure, this episode will help you think more clearly, act more intentionally, and lead your team through change with confidence.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there something else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you.Links and Resources Mentioned:VIP Leaders Leadership Program - the signature program that helps you strengthen your leadership identity, build trusted influence, and level up your emotional intelligence to become a leader people actually want to follow.  Enrol now for the next round starting in September. Early bird pricing on now. https://tashpieterse.com/vip-leadersConnect with Annie:Annie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-johnson-622540161/Humaneer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/humaneerapp/?viewAsMember=trueHumaneer App: https://www.humaneer.app/Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you! 

If you're overwhelmed, exhausted, or just stretched thin trying to keep up with your team - you’re not alone. The good news? Small shifts make a big difference.In this episode, I share 4 simple but powerful leadership habits that will help you reduce stress, save time, and build a more accountable, empowered team - without burning yourself out. These are the exact tools I teach my VIP Leaders and use in my own leadership journey.In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why most managers are stuck in reaction mode (and how to get out of it)- A habit to protect your focus and stop the notification chaos- The game changing power of asking questions before giving answers- How to build better boundaries (without dropping balls)- Why cancelling 1:1’s quietly damages trust and what to do insteadThese habits might sound small - but they compound. Implement just one, and you’ll start showing up more grounded, more strategic, and more respected by your team. What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Links and Resources Mentioned:VIP Leaders Leadership Program - the signature program that helps you strengthen your leadership identity, build trusted influence, and level up your emotional intelligence to become a leader people actually want to follow.  Join the waitlist for the next round starting in September. https://tashpieterse.com/vip-leaders1:1 Playbook - Turn casual catch ups into meaningful conversations that actually build trust and connection with your team. https://www.tashpieterse.com/1on1-playbook Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you! 

In this Career Stories episode, I chat with Elyse Verkuylen, a past client and now a people leader working in transformation and operations - about the winding, messy, and meaningful path to leadership.Elyse shares how growing up with limited resources shaped her resourcefulness, why she calls herself “career promiscuous,” and how she intentionally curated a leadership journey that aligns with her values and vision (even when the path didn’t always make sense on paper).In this episode, we talk about: - The power of building leadership skills before you have the title- Why curiosity and self-direction are career superpowers- How Elyse uses coaching to build self-sufficiency and momentum in her team- What it means to be a servant leader (and why it’s so damn hard)- Letting go of perfectionism and leading from the back of the room- Why emotional intelligence and self-awareness are non-negotiables for modern leadershipThis episode is packed with insight, humility, and real talk that will inspire any new or emerging leader to reflect, reset, and take that next brave step.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there something else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you.Links and Resources Mentioned:VIP Leaders Leadership Program - the signature program that helps you strengthen your leadership identity, build trusted influence, and level up your emotional intelligence to become a leader people actually want to follow.  Join the waitlist for the next round starting in September. Connect with Elyse:https://www.linkedin.com/in/elysewalkerAre we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you! 

How to Build Real Accountability in Your Team (Without Micromanaging)Accountability is one of the most common leadership challenges - and one of the biggest performance levers.If your team isn’t following through, taking initiative, or owning their work, this episode will show you how to fix that without slipping into control or micromanagement.I walk you through my 6-step framework to build a high-accountability culture and the specific leadership skills you need to model and develop to make it happen.In this episode, you’ll learn:- Why accountability is the foundation of performance and motivation- How to create a clear vision and goals your team can connect to- What managers get wrong about delegation (and how to fix it)- Why setting clear expectations changes everything- The underrated power of coaching over fixing- How to give feedback that creates ownership and motivates people- Why recognising wins is critical for accountabilityPick one skill to focus on this month and start creating the kind of team that follows through, steps up, and gets results - without the constant push.This episode isn’t just about improving performance, it’s about building a culture of ownership, trust, and real leadership. Start here, and the ripple effect will change everything.If you are new to leadership and wondering how to “get it right”, have a listen What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Links and Resources Mentioned:Strategic Thinking & Decision Making Masterclass - Learn the 6 key traits of strategic thinkers and how you can put it into action straight away. Get the masterclass here.  https://tashpieterse.com/strategicthinking-masterclass VIP Leaders - The signature leadership program that will help you build a clear identity, strong influencing skills, and high emotional intelligence so that you become a Leader people actually want to follow. Join the interest list for information when enrolments open. https://tashpieterse.com/vipleaders-interestEP67. Setting & Managing Expectations As A Leader - Listen to the full episode here. https://open.spotify.com/episode/42Uad6KrrbUq72AtaJjpG9?si=996929e891a740f1Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you! 

Leadership doesn’t start when you get a title - it starts with how you show up.In this Career Stories episode, I’m joined by Andrea Cayuela, an impact marketer with experience across Australasia, Latin America, and Europe.Andrea shares her career journey from Colombia to Bali and how her global experiences have shaped her views on leadership, conflict, communication, and self-awareness.Whether you're managing people or simply aiming to be a leader others want to follow, this episode is full of honest insights, practical advice, and real talk about what leadership really looks like in action.In this episode, we talk about: - Andrea’s global career story and what shaped her as a leader- What it means to lead without authority- Why self-awareness is the foundation of great leadership- Managing feedback, likability, and difficult conversations- Why courage and clarity matter more than being “right”- Real-world examples of mindset shifts that support leadership growthThis episode is packed with relatable insights for new and emerging leaders who want to lead with more integrity, emotional intelligence, and impact.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there something else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you.Links and Resources Mentioned:If you’re building your leadership foundation and want structured coaching and support, VIP Leaders is for you. Join the VIP Leaders Interest List to be the first to hear when the next round opens. Join here.Connect with Andrea:https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-cayuela/Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you! 

Feeling uncertain about managing someone older than you or someone with more experience than you? You’re not alone. This is one of the most common concerns new and emerging managers face, and it’s something I coach on regularly inside VIP Leaders.In this episode, I share six key strategies to help you manage these dynamics with clarity, confidence, and humility - so that you can lead well and create strong working relationships, no matter the age difference.In this episode, you’ll learn: - How your mindset shapes the way you manage- Common assumptions that can hold you back (and how to reframe them)- What to do when you're managing someone with more experience- Why being humble is your secret leadership superpower- How to build trust, set expectations, and delegate effectively- How to lead your whole team without getting stuck in people-pleasingWhether you’re stepping into your first leadership role or want to strengthen your foundation, this episode is your practical guide to navigating age dynamics and building influence the right way.Was this episode helpful or something else you want me to conver? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn. Links and Resources Mentioned:1:1 Playbook - Turn casual catch ups into meaningful conversations with your team members. Free download.The Leadership Blueprint - If this is something you’re navigating right now, coaching support can make all the difference. Check out The Leadership Blueprint - a focused coaching package to help you work through challenges like this with clarity, support, and a clear plan.Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you! 

It’s the 100th episode of Lead With Less! And we’re celebrating with 10 practical, doable wins you can implement right now to build your confidence, lead your team more effectively, and get some traction - even when things feel overwhelming.Whether you’re managing for the first time or just feel stuck in the day to day, these wins are designed to give you momentum, support your growth, and help you become a leader people actually want to follow.In this episode, you’ll learn: - How to build trust and traction with your team - fast- A one-on-one format that creates real connection (and keeps people engaged)- Simple scripts and tools for handling tricky conversations- How to delegate with clarity and confidence- Emotional regulation techniques that make a big difference day to day- Why being human (not perfect) is your leadership superpowerListen to the full episode and pick one to start with, put it into action, and notice how small quick actions can create noticeable quick wins!What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Links and Resources Mentioned:1:1 Playbook - Turn casual catch ups into meaningful conversations with your team members. Free download. The Leadership Blueprint - If this is something you’re navigating right now, coaching support can make all the difference. Check out The Leadership Blueprint - a focused coaching package to help you work through challenges like this with clarity, support, and a clear plan. Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you! 

When you manage a diverse team, a one size fits all leadership style doesn’t work - and trying to squeeze everyone into the same box can quietly cost you trust, performance, and innovation.In this episode, I’m joined by Laura Tretheway, HR consultant, workplace advocate, and founder of Spectrum Work Aotearoa - to talk about how managers can genuinely advocate for and support neurodivergent people at work (and why it matters for everyone).We break down why knowing your people is more powerful than any label, the dangers of unchecked assumptions, and what real advocacy and support actually look like inside teams.In this episode, we talk about: - Why advocacy isn’t just an HR problem - it’s a leadership skill- The real risks when managers ignore or misunderstand neurodivergence- Why labels can be helpful, but relationships matter more- How communication flexibility can make or break your leadership- 3 powerful ways managers can advocate for and support diverse teams- Why normalising conversations about accommodations is essential for trust- What happens when you lead with curiosity instead of assumptionsIf you want to lead a team where everyone can bring their best - no matter how they experience or navigate the world - this episode gives you the tools to start building that culture now.Are you leading a team that has neurodivergent people in it? Let me know your insights and if you have any questions. Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn.  Connect with Laura:ALL LINKS: https://linktr.ee/lauratrethewey LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauratrethewey/ Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you! 

You know you need to address it - the feedback you’ve been holding back, the boundary that’s been crossed, the performance issue you can’t ignore anymore.But rushing into tough conversations without prep? That’s where things often go sideways.In this episode, I’m sharing the four critical things you need to do before you dive into any tricky conversation or situation at work (or home). These practical steps will help you stay grounded, communicate clearly, and increase the chances of a productive outcome - even if emotions are running high.In this episode, you’ll learn:- Why addressing tricky issues too quickly can make things worse- The #1 emotional skill to build before giving feedback or setting boundaries- How to get clear on the real problem (and why it matters)- The importance of specificity - and what happens without it- The mindset shift that separates great leaders from reactive ones- A question that will instantly improve your listeningWhether you’re prepping for a tough conversation or trying to coach someone else through it, this episode gives you the clarity and structure to lead it well.Let me know what you thought about this episode, I always love hearing your takeaways and insights. You can message me on Instagram or LinkedIn or flick me an email.Links and Resources Mentioned:1:1 Playbook - Turn casual catchups into meaningful conversations and make tricky things easier to raise with your team. Grab a free copy here.V.I.P Leaders: Want to dive deeper into managing difficult situations and dealing with people challenges like a pro? Join the VIP Leaders interest list - the leadership development program for managers ready to build real skills (and real confidence).Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

It’s easy to fall into the habit of complaining - whether about work, leadership challenges, or life in general. But if you’re not careful, complaining becomes a cycle that drains your energy, undermines your leadership, and keeps you (and your team) stuck.In this episode, I’m unpacking the psychology behind why we complain, what it’s really costing you, and a simple four-step framework to move yourself (and others) from complaining to meaningful change.In this episode, you’ll learn:- Why our brains are wired to complain (and why it’s not all bad)- The hidden dangers of chronic complaining in leadership and life- How to identify the real problem behind a complaintFour practical questions to move from venting to taking action- How to coach your team (and yourself) out of a victim mindset- Why accountability and support are critical for change.If you’re tired of hearing complaints - from yourself, your team, or others around you, this episode will show you how to turn frustration into forward action.Let me know what you thought about this episode, I always love hearing your takeaways and insights. You can message me on Instagram or LinkedIn or flick me an email.www.instagram.com/tash_pietersewww.linkedin.com/in/tashpieterse Links and Resources Mentioned:Leadership Blueprint: A focused coaching package to help you identify your leadership strengths and gaps, create an action plan, and get tailored support to start leading with more clarity and confidence. Book your spot here.Leadership Style Quiz: Find out which iconic movie character best represents your leadership style.Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

If your inner critic is loud, draining your confidence, and holding you back from stepping into your leadership fully, this episode is for you.I’m joined by Dr Bex Bell, speaker, coach, and author of Inner Critic to Inner Coach, for a conversation on what really causes our self-doubt cycles and, more importantly, how to shift out of them. Bex brings her background in psychology, health, and coaching to explain why our inner critic forms, why it’s not actually the enemy, and how you can build a much more powerful and compassionate voice inside yourself.In this episode, we talk about:- Why your inner critic exists (and why it's not trying to ruin your life)- The real cost of ignoring self-doubt and perfectionism- How to spot the subtle signs you're stuck in an inner critic spiral- Practical ways to build your inner coach and rewire your thinking- Why leaders must manage their self-talk to lead others effectivelyBex also shares simple, practical strategies you can start using right away to quiet the noise, build more self-compassion, and move forward with confidence, even when you’re facing uncertainty, change, or new leadership challenges.If you’re ready to lead with more clarity, courage, and kindness toward yourself (and your team), this conversation will give you the tools to start.I’d love to hear your story and support your next step. Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn.  Links and Resources Mentioned:VIP Leaders Leadership Program - the signature program that helps you strengthen your leadership identity, build trusted influence, and level up your emotional intelligence to become a leader people actually want to follow.  Join the next round of VIP Leaders. Enrollments are now open. Connect with Bex:Book - Inner Critic to Inner CoachWebsite - https://www.remixcoaching.co.nz/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccabellremixcoachingandconsulting/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drbex_remixcoaching/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/remixcoachingandconsulting/ Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you! 

No one wants to be a terrible leader. But without realising it, even well-intentioned managers can start slipping into behaviours that erode trust, damage relationships, and impact team culture.In this episode, I walk you through three red flags to look out for as a leader and how to shift them before they do real harm.Whether you’re new to management or just want to check in on how you’re showing up, this episode will help you:- Recognise where your leadership actions might not match your values- Identify micromanagement and shift towards trust and autonomy- Understand why avoiding tough conversations is risky and how to address issues early- Reflect on your current habits and take steps to course correct when neededI also share a personal moment of realisation in my own leadership and what I did to make things right. This is a short but powerful check-in episode for any leader who wants to build trust, respect, and real results.Links and Resources Mentioned:If you’re ready to lead with less stress and more intention, join us inside VIP Leaders - the leadership development program that gives you exactly what you need to lead in a way that people actually want to follow. Enrollments are now open. Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!