Grounded and Aligned™

Taking on a broader mandate at VP or SVP level is rarely accompanied by clear operational boundaries. The remit expands, visibility increases, and expectations accumulate often faster than they are explicitly discussed.In the early phase, scope is shaped less by formal agreement and more by behavior.Leaders make themselves available.They absorb unresolved issues.They step into gaps to keep momentum and avoid disruption.Over time, those choices define the role as much as the job description does.In this episode of Grounded and Aligned™, Karen Gombault examines what needs to be decided early when responsibility increases — before workload, availability, and accountability become assumed rather than intentional.Karen looks atHow expanded scope is often established through early responsiveness rather than explicit mandateWhy boundaries at VP–SVP level are rarely clarified unless the leader clarifies themThe effect of sustained availability on judgment and decision quality as volume increasesWhy effectiveness at senior level depends on maintaining capacity outside the roleHow postponing delegation keeps senior leaders in execution longer than the role requiresFrom the episode: “No one is going to set a boundary for you. If you say yes, people will take advantage of your time.” - Karen GombaultSenior roles usually become difficult through accumulation, not crisis.Small, reasonable decisions made early tend to define the long-term operating model of the role.At this level, leadership is demonstrated less by responsiveness and more by discernment, particularly around scope, ownership, and what no longer is of your responsibility.Use this link to book your 2026 Atelier call before Jan. 31, 2026: https://calendly.com/kareng-coaching/introductionNext stepsIf you are stepping into a larger remit, or recognising that your current role has expanded beyond what was originally agreed, a short Executive Pulse Call can help you take stock of where expectations need to be clarified.Fifteen minutes.One current situation.Clear perspective on scope, boundaries, and delegation.🧭 Book an Executive Pulse Callhttps://calendly.com/kareng-coaching/executive-pulse☕ Grounded and Aligned™ Daily Coffee ChatConcise weekday reflections on senior leadership, expanded mandates, and executive decision-making.https://www.karengombault.com/offers/wuqAChoZ/checkout🤝 Connect on LinkedInFollow Karen’s writing on senior leadership roles, authority, and sustainable scope.https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

In this episode of Grounded and Aligned™, Karen Gombault reflects on leadership through an unexpected but instructive lens: observing how people respond when authenticity, vulnerability, and respect are consistently present, without scripting or control.This is not a conversation about celebrity, though it is based on observations of Taylor Swift.It is an examination of why some leaders generate followership effortlessly, while others rely on position, polish, or performance.The episode uses real, observable moments to explore how leadership energy is experiencedand why it cannot be manufactured.What this episode examinesWhy authenticity is recognizable immediately—and difficult to fakeHow vulnerability can exist without undermining authorityThe leadership impact of spontaneous, human decisionsWhat happens when respect and passion are consistently visibleWhy people choose to follow leaders who feel real, not managed“People want to follow her because they want to be in that energy, in that positive energy.” - Karen GombaultAt senior levels, leadership is not only about decisions and outcomes. It is also about presence, and how others experience themselves in your energy.That experience compounds.Next stepsIf you are entering a new year with complex expectations and limited space to think, I offer a free 15-minute Executive Pulse Call.One situation.Clear perspective.A grounded decision on what matters next.🧭 Book an Executive Pulse Callhttps://calendly.com/kareng-coaching/executive-pulse☕ Join the free Grounded and Aligned™ Daily Coffee Chathttps://www.karengombault.com/offers/wuqAChoZ/checkout🤝 Connect with Karen on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

This episode was recorded on December 31, 2025. It’s a simple pause at the end of the year to look at what actually made a difference, personally and professionally. In this solo episode of Grounded and Aligned™, Karen Gombault walks through how she reviewed 2025: time with people she cares about, a full year living in the south of France, and a business that now feels settled and right-sized. There is no push for reinvention here. No pressure to optimize. Instead, this is about noticing what already works—and making sure it stays protected. The episode also touches on a practical question she now asks clients and herself at year-end: What is one thing you don’t want to bring with you into the next year? What this episode looks at: 1. What a full year outside Paris clarified about this moment in life 2. How space, boundaries, and reduced travel reshaped daily life and life decisions 3. Why stability and continuity can be a deliberate strategic choice, not a lack of ambition “There is nothing that I would change about this year.” — Karen Gombault Today's reflection is about discernment...knowing what deserves attention, and what to leave behind. January 2026 Live Atelier : Grounded Expansion A powerful moment to reflect, envision, and choose the priorities that will shape your year ahead. Register here: https://www.karengombault.com/atelier Next steps Other ways to connect: I offer a free, 15-minute Executive Pulse Call. One situation. Clear thinking. No performance theatre. 🧭 Book an Executive Pulse Call https://calendly.com/kareng-coaching/executive-pulse ☕ Join the free Grounded and Aligned™ Daily Coffee Chat https://www.karengombault.com/offers/wuqAChoZ/checkout 🤝 Connect with Karen on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

The meeting is scheduled for the next day.A decision needs to be made. Teams are waiting for direction.As you review the materials one final time, you see it immediately:the analysis is incomplete. Key inputs are missing. Several assumptions haven’t been tested.This is not new.You’ve been clear about expectations before. And there is no time left to send it back without delaying the decision.So you make a choice.In this episode of Grounded & Aligned™, Karen Gombault examines a pattern common at Director–SVP level: stepping in to protect outcomes, and the longer-term cost that decision quietly creates.This is not about commitment or competence. It is about what happens when responsibility repeatedly shifts toward you, without being explicitly agreed, named, or corrected.The episode explores how consistent intervention changes accountability, increases cognitive load, and alters how authority is experienced, not visibly, but structurally.If you often find yourself compensating so the business does not absorb the impact of someone else’s gaps, this conversation will feel familiar.What this episode looks at:How repeatedly absorbing work that isn’t yours reshapes accountability — even when done for sound reasonsWhy unresolved performance issues persist when consequences never land where they belongHow authority erodes quietly through accumulated mental load, not overt challengeThe difference between short-term decision protection and long-term organizational strengthWhen stepping back is not avoidance, but an intentional leadership decision“Staying accountable to outcomes is of course part of senior leadership. But taking on work that isn’t yours repeatedly, that is not.” — Karen GombaultAt senior levels, leadership is not demonstrated by how much you absorb.It is demonstrated by where responsibility sits and how you install boundaries.Next stepIf this pattern shows up in your job, I offer a 15-minute Executive Pulse Call.One situation.Clear perspective.A grounded decision on what to do about it.🧭 Book an Executive Pulse Call https://calendly.com/kareng-coaching/executive-pulse🤝 Connect with Karen on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

There’s a shift happening in leadership—and in this podcast.In this episode of Stepping Into the Arena, Karen announces powerful changes coming to the show, all rooted in what modern leaders truly need today: clarity, calm, and grounded strength. Drawing on 28 years in corporate leadership and three years coaching successful executives, Karen shares five critical trends she sees in the market and how they are shaping the future of effective leadership.If you're tired of reactive change, surface-level motivation, and leadership that costs your health and well-being, this is your invitation to something deeper. Get ready for a more aligned, intentional way to lead.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:Leaders are exhausted. The current pace and intensity of corporate life is unsustainable—burnout is not a leadership strategy.Trust is the new currency. Steady, grounded presence matters more than high energy or charisma.Reactive change is harming teams. Organizations need to shift from chaos-driven change to structured, respectful transitions.Clarity beats complexity. Clear expectations, decisions, and communication reduce friction and boost performance.Growth needs grounding. As responsibilities increase, inner capacity must grow too—emotional regulation and self-leadership are essential.“I want to promote leadership that isn’t going to cost people their health, their relationships, their self-confidence.” – Karen GombaultModern leadership isn’t about working harder—it’s about showing up in a way that is steady, ethical, aligned, and human. That’s why this podcast is evolving too. Karen shares her decision to rename the show and introduces a new daily format designed to meet you where you are—offering practical insights and grounded energy every weekday.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:🧭 1:1 Executive Coaching Serviceshttps://www.karengombault.com/workwithme🗓️ The Monthly Atelier https://www.karengombault.com/atelier🎙️ New Daily Podcast (coming in December 2025)Grounded & Aligned Coffee Chat — More news soon.🤝 Connect with KarenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

You can be grateful—and still feel dissatisfied.In this episode of Stepping Into The Arena, Karen unpacks a powerful phrase shared by her mentor: “You can be grateful and dissatisfied.” At first glance, those emotions may seem contradictory, but they often show up together at pivotal career moments.Karen shares her personal experience of having a successful job, a fulfilling personal life, and yet feeling something wasn’t right. That subtle dissatisfaction was a signal—one she followed more than once, leaving high-level roles (even CEO) to pursue something bigger.If you’ve ever felt conflicted by your desire for more while also recognizing how fortunate you are, this conversation will give you clarity and courage.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:Gratitude doesn’t mean you have to stay. You can be thankful for your job, your team, and your life—and still know it’s time for change.Dissatisfaction is often the first signal. Karen noticed a pattern in her career: every few years, a quiet feeling would emerge, pushing her toward growth.Acting on dissatisfaction leads to expansion. Each time Karen made a bold move—whether it was a job switch or moving to southern France—life got better.Guilt is part of the process. Leaving “good” roles brought emotional weight, especially as the main earner. But staying would have led to boredom and resentment.Trust your intuition. Even when timing isn’t ideal or others question your decision, that inner pull is worth listening to."It is 100% okay to feel grateful and dissatisfied." – Karen GombaultThis episode is a reminder that your next chapter may begin with a subtle nudge—not a crisis. And acting on that feeling could lead to more satisfaction than you imagined.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:Set up a call to explore working together: https://calendly.com/kareng-coaching/introductionFree Resource: Build Your Visibility At Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticed1:1 Executive Coaching – Explore private coaching options: https://www.karengombault.com/workwithmeConnect with Karen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

Your next level of leadership might just start with one conversation. In this episode of Stepping Into The Arena, Karen shares why mentorship—formal or not—is essential for sustainable growth and powerful leadership. With personal stories, real-life examples, and a clear call to action, this episode will inspire you to find your next mentor (or become one).Whether you're navigating a new role or aiming to evolve your leadership style, this conversation will shift how you think about influence, inspiration, and the hidden power of being both mentee and mentor.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:Mentorship isn’t always official—but it’s always impactful. Some of the most powerful growth comes from people you admire and informally learn from.Different mentors serve different needs. From money mindset to business strategy, having mentors for specific stages accelerates your evolution.Energy and perspective matter. Today, mentorship is less about tactical advice and more about mindset, energy, and modeling leadership behavior.You are likely already mentoring someone. By simply showing up, sharing your truth, and leading authentically, you influence others more than you realize.Mentorship is seasonal. It’s okay to outgrow mentors. When one phase ends, another guide will appear if you’re open to it."Be a mentor, find a mentor, and the growth and the change that you experience will be mind-blowing." – Karen GombaultGreat leaders don’t grow alone. If you’re feeling stuck, uncertain, or simply ready for more, finding the right mentor could be the key to your next breakthrough. And remember: someone is probably looking up to you right now.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:Book a call to discuss potentially working together → https://calendly.com/kareng-coaching/introductionFree Resource: Build Your Visibility At Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticedExplore 1:1 Executive Coaching → Work With MeConnect with Karen on LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

What actually happens when you bet on yourself? In this deeply personal year-in-review podcast episode, Karen shares the six most important lessons she’s learned after going all-in on executive leadership coaching. If you’re a senior leader stepping into a new role or a bigger scope, this is the episode that will help you feel seen—and give you pragmatic insights to navigate the messy middle of growth and transition.These are hard-won truths from a year of courage, discomfort, and intentional leadership—and they’re exactly what you need to hear if you're building something bold.🔑 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:It never goes as planned. New jobs and bold moves always come with surprises—adaptability is your most valuable asset.Discomfort is normal. Growth doesn’t feel easy—and that’s how you know it’s working.Discipline builds sustainability. Setting boundaries and protecting your time is essential to success and well-being.Credibility isn't handed to you—it’s earned. Even with a strong title or track record, relationships and follow-through matter most.Networking is non-negotiable. Building genuine connections is what opens doors, builds trust, and makes the impossible happen.Whether you’re one month into a new role or one year into a new chapter, this episode reminds you that leadership is a long game. The lessons that matter most aren’t flashy—but they’re transformative. And you don’t have to figure it all out alone. You just have to keep showing up with intention, connection, and courage.📌 RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:Book a 1:1 Coaching Consultation – Strategic support for new execs: https://zcal.co/karengombault/connectFree Resource: Build Your Visibility at Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticedExecutive Coaching with Karen – High-impact leadership coaching for senior execs: https://www.karengombault.com/privatecoachingConnect with Karen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

When You’re Not Confirmed in Your Role: What Now?You took the leap. A big new role. A new company. A bold career move. And then, a few months in, the call comes: they’re not moving forward with you. You’re not being confirmed in your position. It’s unexpected, it’s brutal—and it can shake your confidence to its core.In this podcast episode of Stepping Into The Arena, Karen Gombault breaks down what not being confirmed really means, why it happens more often than people talk about, and how to leave with your leadership identity intact. It’s a raw, honest, and powerful conversation for any senior leader navigating transition, misalignment, or professional rejection.If you’re carrying shame, questioning your worth, or wondering how to explain it—this episode is for you.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:Being let go at the end of a confirmation period is not evidence of failure. It’s often a misalignment between values, expectations, or evolving business needs.Reframe the story. It's not rejection—it's redirection. You get to own the narrative you carry and share.Mandate shifts and cultural misfit are real. The job you were hired for might not be the job you walked into—and that’s on them, not you.Extract the learning. Use this moment to clarify your non-negotiables, your ideal work environment, and what you now know about yourself as a leader.Your leadership identity is intact. Your track record doesn’t vanish because one role didn’t work out. Walk away with your head held high."The danger isn't that the company asked you to go. The danger is that you made it mean something about yourself and your worth instead of seeing it as an opportunity for growth." – Karen GombaultThis episode is your invitation to rewrite the story. To stop shrinking, and start reframing. To take the data and carry it forward—to a role that truly aligns with who you are and how you lead.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:Set up a call to discuss potentially working together:👉 https://zcal.co/karengombault/connectFree Resource: Build Your Visibility At Work →👉 https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticed1:1 Executive Coaching – My high-level, science-backed coaching partnership:👉 https://www.karengombault.com/privatecoachingConnect with Karen on LinkedIn:👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

Awareness is only the beginning—real leadership transformation happens when you take bold, intentional action. In this powerful podcast episode of Stepping Into The Arena, Karen Gombault lays out the exact steps you need to plug the four most common power leaks senior executives face.If you've recently stepped into a bigger role, and you're juggling visibility, credibility, and pressure, this is your tactical guide to reclaiming control, sharpening your presence, and protecting your energy.You don’t need to do more—you need to do different.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:Audit your altitude. Upgrade your calendar and your mindset. Shift from doing manager work to operating at strategic, high-level leadership altitude.Reframe your meetings. Stop the updates. Start making decisions. Ask the questions that move your team—and your influence—forward.Use the 3P Filter. Before saying yes, ask: Does this serve my Priorities, my People, or my Positioning?Don’t let discomfort fester. Use a 48-hour rule to address tough conversations fast and with clarity. Avoiding conflict erodes your credibility.Stay in your lane. Focus only on what you can control. Redirect drama and noise into decisions and action that strengthen your presence.“Every time you reclaim your energy from things that are draining it, your presence, your authority and your credibility become much cleaner and sharper.” — Karen GombaultEvery time you close a power leak, you’re not just being more efficient—you’re strengthening your leadership identity. You’re teaching people how to treat you. You’re building trust, credibility, and authority.Choose one leak this week and stop it. You’ll feel the shift instantly.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:💬 Ready for personalized support? Let’s connect to see if 1:1 executive coaching is the right fit for you.Book your call here → https://zcal.co/karengombault/connect💬 Let’s Work Together: Book a private executive coaching call to support your leadership growth: https://zcal.co/karengombault/connect🎁 Free Resource: Build Your Visibility At Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticed👤 Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

When executives lose influence, it rarely happens in one dramatic crash—it fades away slowly, almost invisibly. In this episode of Stepping Into The Arena, Karen Gombault reveals the four most common ways senior leaders leak power in the first six months of a new role. These aren’t obvious failures; they’re subtle habits that silently drain your credibility, clarity, and presence. Learn how to plug these leaks so you can lead with stronger influence, more confidence, and measurable impact from day one.Whether you're navigating a promotion, expanded scope, or a brand-new role, this episode is your wake-up call to take back your power—before it slips away.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:Old habits don’t serve new roles. Operating from your previous identity keeps you stuck in the weeds—and undermines your strategic presence.Saying yes to everything weakens your authority. Over-accommodating others’ expectations may feel productive but signals a lack of boundaries.Avoiding discomfort erodes leadership. Postponing hard conversations or difficult decisions chips away at your credibility and decisiveness.Focusing on what you can’t control drains energy. Redirect attention to what’s in your lane to reclaim influence and protect your well-being.Power leaks aren’t fixed with big moves. Small, conscious decisions restore authority—one shift at a time.“Every time you close a leak, you reclaim a piece of your authority. You're going to walk into the room taller, your words are going to carry more weight, and you'll start to feel completely aligned with your job.” — Karen GombaultPlugging power leaks isn’t about being perfect. Tt’s about becoming aware and choosing differently. Start by identifying one area where your influence is slipping and commit to a single action this week. Over time, those micro-adjustments compound into massive leadership credibility.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:📞 Book a strategy call for 1:1 executive coaching : https://zcal.co/karengombault/connect🎁 Free Resource: Build Your Visibility At Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticed💼 Explore Private Executive Coaching: https://www.karengombault.com/privatecoaching🔗 Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

In this episode of Stepping Into The Arena, Karen reveals why senior leaders hesitate to delegate and how it costs you time, authority, and impact. You’ll learn a simple, practical framework to define when you should decide, when you should collaborate, and when your team should take the lead.If you’ve been holding on too tightly—or becoming the bottleneck—this podcast episode gives you the tools to reclaim your calendar, empower your team, and scale your leadership influence.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:Delegation isn’t just workload relief. It’s about building a team that thrives without your constant involvement.The three delegation traps: lack of trust, guilt about overloading your team, and unclear boundaries.Credibility is at stake. Holding too tightly signals a lack of trust and slows down execution.The “I decide, we decide, you decide” model. This framework accelerates decisions, boosts team confidence, and frees up your time.Delegation is a multiplier. It doesn’t reduce your control—it strengthens it by focusing your influence where it matters most.“Remember that delegation is not an abdication of your power. It is a multiplier of your impact.” – Karen GombaultLeadership isn’t about doing it all yourself—it’s about knowing when to step in, when to collaborate, and when to step back so your team can lead with you.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:Set up a call to discuss potentially working together: https://zcal.co/karengombault/connectFree Resource: Build Your Visibility At Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticed1:1 Executive Coaching – My high-level, science-backed coaching partnership → https://www.karengombault.com/privatecoachingConnect with Karen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

When your calendar is packed back-to-back, you may think you’re maximizing your value. In reality, you’re draining your influence. In this podcast episode of Stepping Into The Arena, Karen Gombault shares why white space—the intentional pauses in your day—is not a luxury but a leadership essential.If you’ve just stepped into a bigger role and feel like you’re always behind, this conversation will help you reset your rhythm, reclaim your energy, and show up as the steady, strategic leader your team needs.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:White space isn’t wasted time—it’s fuel for focus, composure, and strategic thinking.Without pauses, you operate reactively and risk losing credibility by appearing rushed or scattered.Over-responsibility, carryover from old roles, and fear of looking disengaged often crowd out white space.Protecting your nervous system matters. When you’re constantly “on,” you deplete presence, authority, and team trust.Practical strategies include defending calendar blocks, inserting micro-pauses, canceling nonessential meetings, and anchoring white space at the time of day when you’re most creative.“White space isn’t about absence. It’s absolutely what gives you shape and power to everything else. Protecting it is not indulgent. It is a conscious act of authority and self-leadership.” – Karen GombaultWhite space is the difference between leading reactively and leading with intention. Start treating it as non-negotiable, and you’ll amplify both your leadership impact and your well-being.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:Set up a call to discuss working together: https://zcal.co/karengombault/connectFree Resource: Build Your Visibility At Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticed1:1 Executive Coaching – My high-level, science-backed coaching partnership → https://www.karengombault.com/privatecoachingConnect with Karen on LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

Influence doesn’t happen in the meeting—it happens before it.In this week’s Stepping Into The Arena podcast episode, Karen reveals why the real work of influence happens long before you step into the boardroom. She breaks down the three arenas of influence—before, during, and after the meeting—and shows you why shaping decisions ahead of time is the key to expanding your authority, credibility, and impact.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:Most of your leadership impact happens before. Pre-wiring, seeding ideas, and anticipating objections is where influence is won.Authority in the room comes from presence, not polish. How you listen, challenge, and carry yourself matters more than slides and data.After the meeting is where momentum sticks. Follow-up ensures decisions hold and builds long-term credibility.Common missteps weaken influence. Over-preparing content, under-preparing relationships, and assuming your title guarantees buy-in.Five steps to engineer influence. Map stakeholders, seed perspectives early, anticipate resistance, align with top priorities, and build momentum so decisions feel inevitable."By the time you walk into an important meeting, the decision has already been made. The only question is, were you part of shaping that decision?" – Karen GombaultMeetings don’t make decisions—leaders do. And the leaders who shape decisions before the meeting are the ones who consistently expand their authority and impact.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the 3-Day Influence Lab (October 20–24) → https://www.karengombault.com/budgetlabEarly bird pricing until Sept. 20th, use coupon code BUDGET💼 Book a 1:1 Executive Coaching Call → https://zcal.co/karengombault/connect📘 Free Resource: Build Your Visibility At Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticed🔗 Connect with Karen on LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

You’ve got the seat—now what?This premiere episode of Stepping Into the Arena is not just a rebrand—it’s a bold invitation to own your executive presence and expand your influence. Karen Gombault shares why this evolution matters and what it means for ambitious leaders facing high-stakes transitions.Whether you’re stepping into a new executive role, inheriting a larger team, or navigating a merger, this episode is your strategic reset. Karen walks you through the four essential lessons she’s seen time and again in leaders who rise to the challenge with confidence, clarity, and credibility.If you’re ready to stop playing small and start leading at the level your role demands, this is your moment.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:1. Your new title is just the beginning. What matters most is how you lead from day one—not the title itself.2. Self-identity has to catch up with the responsibility. Success depends on intentionally stepping into who the role requires you to become.3. Authority is earned by behavior, not by title. Your credibility is built daily through how you show up and how you carry yourself.4. Influence is your leadership multiplier. It’s less about what you do and more about how you guide decisions, conversations, and outcomes.5. This podcast is for high-stakes transitions. It’s no longer just about your first promotion—it's about navigating leadership at the highest levels with confidence and strategic depth.“Your value is measured by how you shape conversations, guide stakeholders and move decisions forward. It’s about influence.” —Karen GombaultThis is your next chapter.Stepping Into the Arena is for experienced executives stepping into bigger scopes, more visibility, and more pressure. Each week, Karen shares the real strategies, mindset shifts, and lessons from decades of executive leadership and VIP coaching clients. Get ready for actionable insights grounded in real-world experience—and learn how to lead with power and purpose.The arena is yours. Step in and make it count.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:Schedule a call to discuss potentially working together: 50 Minute Connection Meeting - zcalFree Resource: Build Your Visibility At Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticedStart with Catalyst – A focused 6-week coaching sprint to solve one real leadership challenge with strategy, momentum, and results. Learn more: https://www.karengombault.com/catalystGo deeper with 1:1 Executive Coaching – A high-level, science-backed coaching partnership to lead with unshakeable confidence and protect your energy while delivering at the top. https://www.karengombault.com/privatecoachingConnect with Karen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

You’ve just been promoted—and now you’re leading the people who were your peers last week. It’s one of the most awkward, emotionally charged leadership shifts out there.In this episode of Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading, Karen Gombault walks you through how to manage this transition without losing authority, overcompensating, or shrinking yourself. If you’ve ever wondered how to handle blurred lines, shifting dynamics, or that one colleague who wanted the job you now have—this episode is for you.Walk away with real-world strategies to lead former peers with clarity, fairness, and the kind of authority that doesn’t require arrogance.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:1. Awkwardness is normal—and temporary. Acknowledge the discomfort openly. Avoid pretending nothing changed.2. Set expectations and boundaries early. Be clear, calm, and specific to avoid confusion or favoritism.3. Authority comes from action, not approval. You don't need to "prove" you’re the boss—you already are.4. Recalibrate relationships. Keep it human, but professional. Avoid gossip, oversharing, or clinging to old dynamics.5. Use your insider knowledge wisely. Leverage what you know to lead with empathy, not nostalgia.“Navigating through the discomfort is one of the most powerful leadership skills that you can develop.” – Karen GombaultStepping into leadership from within your own team is uncomfortable—but it’s also one of the biggest growth opportunities in your leadership journey. Start leading like the boss you are.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:Free Resource: Build Your Visibility At Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticedStart with Catalyst – A focused 6-week coaching sprint to solve one real leadership challenge with strategy, momentum, and results. Learn more: https://www.karengombault.com/catalystGo deeper with 1:1 Executive Coaching – My high-level, science-backed coaching partnership begins with The First 180™, a strategic deep dive into your first six months in role to help you lead with unshakeable confidence and protect your energy while delivering at the top. https://www.karengombault.com/privatecoachingConnect with Karen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

In this powerful episode of Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading, Karen Gombault dives deep into one of the most frustrating realities for new leaders—having a difficult boss. Whether they're a micromanager, invisible, indecisive, or political, these leaders can block momentum, drain your energy, and make you question your authority.The truth is that your boss doesn’t need to change for you to lead effectively.Karen shares six clear, actionable strategies to help you navigate the dynamic with clarity, protect your energy, and shift from reacting to leading. If your leadership is being tested by the person above you, this episode will give you the tools to regain control, show up with authority, and build influence even in less-than-ideal conditions.You don’t have to shrink—you can lead anyway.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:You can’t control your boss—but you can control your boundaries. Shift from reaction to intention by owning your choices, energy, and influence.Difficult bosses come in many forms. Recognize the patterns—micromanaging, absence, indecision, or political behavior—and adapt strategically.Communicate with discipline. Stick to short, fact-based updates that limit meddling and position you as clear, steady, and outcomes-focused.Build allies beyond your boss. When your manager isn’t a true sponsor, you need advocates across the organization to protect your progress and reputation.Use the situation to grow your executive presence. It’s a training ground—practice patience, sharpen influence, and lead in a way that reflects who you truly are.“Your success doesn't depend on fixing your boss. Your boss is not going to change most likely. What is in your control is how you choose to respond.” – Karen GombaultHaving a tough boss doesn’t mean you’re stuck. It means you’re being invited to step more fully into your leadership. These strategies don’t require permission—they require intention. Make one shift this week in how you manage up, and notice how the dynamic begins to change.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:Free Resource: Build Your Visibility at Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticedStart with Catalyst – A focused 6-week coaching sprint to solve one real leadership challenge with strategy, momentum, and results. Learn more: https://www.karengombault.com/catalystGo deeper with 1:1 Executive Coaching The First 180™ – My high-level, science-backed coaching partnership to lead with unshakeable confidence while protecting your energy. https://www.karengombault.com/privatecoachingConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

First impressions in a new leadership role are powerful—they can define your influence, trust, and freedom to lead. In this podcast episode of Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading, Karen Gombault walks you through the seven pillars of early leadership impact so you can focus your energy where it matters most."You don't have to be perfect on anything, but you do need to create some awareness around what your strengths are and where there are areas for improvement that will give you the most return." – Karen GombaultWhether you’ve just stepped into a bigger role, inherited a new team, or expanded your scope, this episode helps you cut through the overwhelm and take deliberate action that shapes your reputation from day one.7 DIMENSIONS:1. Confidence and Decisiveness Under Pressure – Make timely decisions with confidence, even when the data isn’t perfect, to show you can lead under pressure.2. Clarity of Direction – Over-communicate priorities and direction so your team feels secure and aligned.3. Strategic Influence – Shape outcomes beyond your direct control and navigate organizational politics effectively.4. Visibility – Be seen in the right rooms at the right moments to control the narrative of your value.5. Stakeholder Trust – Build trust through consistency, follow-through, and delivering early value.6. Adaptability in Transition – Adjust quickly to new environments, teams, and expectations—update your “operating system” as needed.7. Energy and Focus Management – Protect time for strategic thinking and well-being, keeping your focus on what drives long-term results.If you want to create early impact in your new role, these seven dimensions are your roadmap. You’re not aiming for perfection—you’re aiming for awareness, focus, and intentional leadership that amplifies results.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:Free Resource: 20 Ways to Build Your Visibility Without Feeling Self-Promotional → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticedStart with Catalyst – A focused 6-week coaching sprint to solve one real leadership challenge with strategy, momentum, and results. Learn more: https://www.karengombault.com/catalystGo deeper with 1:1 Executive Coaching – My high-level, science-backed coaching partnership to lead with unshakeable confidence and protect your energy while delivering at the top. https://www.karengombault.com/privatecoachingConnect with Karen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

In this podcast episode of Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading, Karen Gombault dives into the leadership essential no one talks about enough—protecting your energy through clear, actionable boundaries.Whether you're stepping into a new role or leading at a higher level, your ability to stay grounded, focused, and well-rested isn't optional—it's strategic. Karen shares powerful personal stories and practical examples from her executive career to help you avoid burnout, stay intentional, and create a culture of respect around you.This episode kicks off a new mini-series on workplace wellness—starting with one of the most powerful tools in your leadership toolbox: boundaries.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:Boundaries aren’t barriers—they’re leadership tools. Knowing what you’ll accept and not accept at work protects your energy and keeps you in the game long-term.Start with self-respect. If someone cuts you off in a meeting or yells, use your voice calmly and clearly: “Excuse me, I haven’t finished.”Consistency builds culture. Start meetings on time, stick to your rules, and expect the same from others—it sets the tone for how people show up.You teach people how to treat your time. Even in leadership, you can—and should—say, “I have five minutes,” to protect your focus and flow.Fuzzy boundaries are still boundaries. Give yourself grace with the 80/20 rule—be firm most of the time, flexible when it truly matters.“It is your job as the boss of yourself to set that boundary, to communicate it, and to know also when you accept that the boundary is fuzzy.” – Karen GombaultProtecting your wellness at work isn’t optional—it’s your responsibility.This episode invites you to take radical ownership of your energy and leadership presence. Whether it’s saying no to after-hours client calls or insisting on respectful meeting behavior, the first boundary you set might just be the most powerful step you take this week.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:Free Resource: Build Your Visibility At Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticedStart with Catalyst – A focused 6-week coaching sprint to solve one real leadership challenge with strategy, momentum, and results. Learn more: https://www.karengombault.com/catalystGo deeper with 1:1 Executive Coaching – My high-level, science-backed coaching partnership to lead with unshakeable confidence and protect your energy while delivering at the top. https://www.karengombault.com/privatecoachingConnect with Karen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/

Stepping into a new leadership role often starts with excitement and ambition—but what happens when reality doesn’t match your expectations?In this raw and honest episode of Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading, Karen shares how to navigate those destabilizing moments when the shine of a new role wears off, and things get messy. Whether you’re two months or a year into the job, this episode is your playbook. It’s time to stop waiting for perfection and step into your power, right in the middle of the mess.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:1. Clarify before you catastrophize. Have calm, fact-based conversations with your boss or HR to understand what changed and what’s expected now.2. Your tolerance for ambiguity matters. Knowing whether you thrive in structure or can lead through chaos is key to making intentional decisions.3. Messy = Opportunity. Leading when it’s unclear is your chance to stand out—ask yourself, “What would a VP or department head do?”4. Take the lead on expectations. If you're frustrated with your team’s performance or unclear communication, it’s time to step up and clarify expectations—again if needed. 5. Make a plan, not a panic. Decide how long you’re willing to stay, what you need to feel grounded, and what action you’ll take. That decision alone brings relief."You can control how you show up and how you want to be, act, and what your attitude is when things are messy." — Karen GombaultWhether you’re wondering if this is the right job or realizing it’s time to take more ownership, this episode helps you see that leadership is forged in these exact moments. Mess doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it means you’re growing.🎧 Want more on this theme? Listen to Episode 28: Navigating Ambiguity for more on leading through unclear environments.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:🎯 Join Catalyst – A 6-week coaching sprint to clarify what’s next and take confident action. Secure your spot before July 31st (special offer) → https://www.karengombault.com/catalyst💡 Free Resource: Build Your Visibility at Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticed🧭 Go deeper with 1:1 Executive Coaching – Tailored, science-backed coaching for senior leaders ready to protect their energy and lead with impact → https://www.karengombault.com/privatecoaching💼 Connect with Karen on LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/