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If there was one word which summarised last week, it would be courage. I saw it first in a team that was prepared to admit to a colleague they were wrong, but that they wanted to make things better. The second and third teams were facing presenting fears, with one person being brave enough to talk about a taboo subject. You could hear a pin drop as he spoke, and then the applause from his colleagues at the end...magic. Then finally, there was my courageous podcast guest. A social media influencer. He pushes his comfort zone daily and risks ridicule with his videos. With over 1 million followers, and a stammer he experiences negativity, but he carries on because he knows he's helping others. He's inspired my daughter to be less afraid of what people think about you, which has enabled her to go into restaurants, order food and study during her free periods at college, on her own. We can take something as simple as being able to pick up the phone, place an order for food, or foster relationships for granted, can't we? But what I took away from all my interactions last week, was a reminder that we mustn't let our fears about what people think of us, get in the way of progress or leading our very best work-life. The picture is of Theodore Roosevelt's Daring Greatly: 'It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena...' Search for 'Optimising Your Brilliance' to hear my latest podcast episode or see below. #OptimisingYourBrilliance #AchieveYourGoals #ImposterSyndrome

Learn How to Stop Overworking: Breaking the "Try Hard" Cycle of Burnout. List to the latest episode of Optimising Your Brilliance.

Lead with calm. Your best results come when you slow down. You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or see the links below. #CalmLeadership #StrategicLeadership #HighPerformance

From hustle to harmony: reset your energy, reclaim control. You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or see the links below. #WorkLifeBalance #EnergyManagement #LeadershipTips

Are you stuck in a cycle of relentless effort but feel like you're never doing enough? In this episode, we explore how the "Try Hard" habit fuels chronic overworking, perfectionism, and burnout. Discover the exact childhood messages driving your need to prove your worth today and learn how this unconscious pattern, (part of Adrienne Lee’s “Drowning Person” model in Transactional Analysis), might actually be sabotaging your professional success. What You Will Learn: 💡 Why "Trying Harder" Backfires: How over-effort can actually push people away instead of impressing them. 💡 The Childhood Origin: Uncover the core fear of being "lazy" or "inadequate" that triggers your fight-or-flight mode. 💡 Get actionable strategies to break the cycle including delegation techniques, time-blocking methods, and the gold standard approach for automatic behaviour change Whether you are an HR leader, entrepreneur, or high-achiever, this episode provides the tools to reclaim your energy without sacrificing your results. Tune in next week for the Hurry Up pattern. Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (01:55) The Hurry Up Pattern Explained (03:12) Core Fear: Missing Something Crucial (03:41) Personal Example: Balancing Retirement & Business (04:33) Origins: Urgency as a Safety Signal (05:01) Childhood Patterns from Parents (05:21) My Confession: Creating This Pattern in My Daughter (06:02) Parenting Stress: The School Run "Walk of Shame" (07:13) How This Pattern Affects Children (08:19) Problems in Adulthood: Rushed Decisions & Mistakes (09:30) DISC Profile Connection (11:15) Mental Health Impact: Baseline Stress (12:37) Warning Signs (13:02) Example: HR Leadership: Breaking the "Rush Mode" Cycle (14:23) How Coaching Transformed My Hurry Up Pattern (14:47) Six Weeks in a Mindfulness Shed (15:35) Learning to Eat Mindfully (16:48) Philly the Pheasant: Slowing Down at Lunch (17:59) Speaking Career: From Horse Commentator to Impactful Presenter (18:44) The Transformation: Disconnecting "Slow = Bad" (19:33) The Opposite Truth About Speed & Intelligence (20:20) Strategies for Overcoming in Adulthood (21:13) Tools: Micro Pauses (22:07) 7-11 Breathing Technique for Instant Calm (22:28) Mindfulness: The 4-3-2 Sensory Exercise (25:20) Scheduling Buffer Times (25:46) Resources: Mindfulness Apps & Havening (26:11) Next Episode Preview: The Please Me Pattern (26:28) Outro & Call to Action ⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️. ⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube: 🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/...stelleRead/podcasts ⭐Follow Estelle Read: linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee ⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call: ⁠estelleread.com/resources/⁠ ⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes: 🌟⁠The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE⁠ 🌟⁠The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL⁠ ⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book: ⁠Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⁠ ⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog: ⁠Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⁠ ⭐Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. #OvercomingBurnout #HighPerformance #LeadershipCoaching

Stop the burnout loop. Break the “try hard” cycle today. You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or see the links below. #BurnoutRecovery #LeadershipWellbeing #ProductivityMindset

Max Efforts, Director of Self, is feeling the pressure to perform. He has max. self-doubt about what he's about to say and it's impacting his performance in a moment that matters. Max isn't into podcasts and could have benefited from the latest 'pod ep', (he wouldn't know what that means, because he's not down with the kids 😉), from a MasterChef pro, who aced their performance under pressure, when it mattered. Search for, 'Optimising Your Brilliance' podcast to listen / watch on YouTube, or see comments below ⤵️ or the link in my bio ⬆️ * * * * * #OfficeMeme #Memes #Leadership #CorporateHumour #FunnyVideos #MaxEfforts #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipCoaching #Performance #Lawyers #Accountants #Surveyors #HR #LeadershipDevelopment #LeadershipTips #Management #LeadershipSkills #LeadershipCoach #CorporateLife

Irini Tzortzoglou is a UK MasterChef winner, author, olive oil and honey sommelier, and retreat host. In this episode, she shares her unlikely leap from the banking world to culinary excellence - and the mindset shifts that made it possible. You’ll learn how to recognize your sacred gifts, overcome limiting beliefs, and build a life aligned with purpose, even under high pressure. What you’ll learn: 💡 The real driver behind Irini’s MasterChef win (it’s about more than the food) and what that means for success in any field 💡 Reframing praise and overcoming imposter syndrome: a practical technique to accept recognition without self-doubt 💡 Emotional intelligence under pressure: how Irini stays calm, connected, and focused in high-stakes moments You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or see the links below. * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #MasterChef #EmotionalIntelligence #OptimisingYourBrilliance #SuccessMindset #ImposterSyndrome

Irini Tzortzoglou is a UK MasterChef winner, author, olive oil and honey sommelier, and retreat host. In this episode, she shares her unlikely leap from the banking world to culinary excellence - and the mindset shifts that made it possible. You’ll learn how to recognize your sacred gifts, overcome limiting beliefs, and build a life aligned with purpose, even under high pressure. What you’ll learn: 💡 The real driver behind Irini’s MasterChef win (it’s about more than the food) and what that means for success in any field 💡 Reframing praise and overcoming imposter syndrome: a practical technique to accept recognition without self-doubt 💡 Emotional intelligence under pressure: how Irini stays calm, connected, and focused in high-stakes moments You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or see the links below. * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #MasterChef #EmotionalIntelligence #OptimisingYourBrilliance #SuccessMindset #ImposterSyndrome

Irini Tzortzoglou is a UK MasterChef winner, author, olive oil and honey sommelier, and retreat host. In this episode, she shares her unlikely leap from the banking world to culinary excellence - and the mindset shifts that made it possible. You’ll learn how to recognize your sacred gifts, overcome limiting beliefs, and build a life aligned with purpose, even under high pressure. What you’ll learn: 💡 The real driver behind Irini’s MasterChef win (it’s about more than the food) and what that means for success in any field 💡 Reframing praise and overcoming imposter syndrome: a practical technique to accept recognition without self-doubt 💡 Emotional intelligence under pressure: how Irini stays calm, connected, and focused in high-stakes moments Ideal for professionals in high-performance roles who want to: • Break through performance ceilings • Lead with confidence under pressure • Cultivate resilience, clarity, and compassionate leadership Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Executive Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction to Irini Tzortzoglou (00:48) What makes Irini's days exciting and unpredictable (04:35) The reality behind social media influence (06:46) How Irini approaches content creation authentically (08:54) When did things take off? The algorithm and word of mouth (11:11) The story behind "Under the Olive Tree" (14:18) How childhood curiosity shaped emotional intelligence (15:50) Career Change: How a Banker won MasterChef (17:45) Life-changing moments and pivotal decisions (20:34) How to overcome Imposter Syndrome under pressure (21:13) The "sacred gifts" revelation (24:27) Learning to accept praise and acknowledge others (27:57) The moment her name was called as MasterChef winner (29:23) From MasterChef to meaningful retreats (38:30) The transformational power of connection (39:54) MasterChef lessons on teamwork and trust (41:58) Emotional Intelligence (EQ) tips for high-performers (42:00) Three lessons for career success (43:15) The importance of doing the work (44:24) Never resent where you are - it's preparing you (46:03) Practice gratitude behind the wheel (48:12) If you could invite three people to dinner... (52:06) The one belief that shaped you (54:46) Closing thoughts and staying connected ⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️. ⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube: 🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/...stelleRead/podcasts ⭐Follow or Find Out More: Irini Tzortzoglou irinicooks.com/ FB.com/Irinitzortzoglou/ www.instagram.com/irinitzortzoglou/ www.linkedin.com/...ortzoglou-aab9114/ ⭐Follow Estelle Read: linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee ⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call: ⁠estelleread.com/resources/⁠ ⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes: 🌟⁠The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE⁠ 🌟⁠The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL⁠ ⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book: ⁠Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⁠ ⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog: ⁠Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⁠ ⭐Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. #MasterChefUK #CareerChange #mindsetcoaching

FROM BANKER TO MASTERCHEF: MY SECRET TO HANDLING PRESSURE Irini Tzortzoglou is a UK MasterChef winner, author, olive oil and honey sommelier, and retreat host. In this episode, she shares her unlikely leap from the banking world to culinary excellence - and the mindset shifts that made it possible. You’ll learn how to recognize your sacred gifts, overcome limiting beliefs, and build a life aligned with purpose, even under high pressure. What you’ll learn: 💡 The real driver behind Irini’s MasterChef win (it’s about more than the food) and what that means for success in any field 💡 Reframing praise and overcoming imposter syndrome: a practical technique to accept recognition without self-doubt 💡 Emotional intelligence under pressure: how Irini stays calm, connected, and focused in high-stakes moments You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or see the links below. * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #MasterChef #EmotionalIntelligence #OptimisingYourBrilliance #SuccessMindset #ImposterSyndrome

How to Process Failure Without Spiralling (TOP ACT Method) I auditioned for TEDx and honestly, it didn't go as planned. I'm sharing what happened because the best learning comes from moments like these. In this episode, I walk you through my TOP ACT method - a powerful tool I use personally and with clients to process failure, silence imposter syndrome, and transform disappointment into growth. This isn't about perfection; it's about learning how to bounce back stronger. What You Will Learn: 💡 A framework to stop spiralling after setbacks – Learn the exact journaling method that helps you process negative emotions and move from rumination to action 💡 Why your brain sabotages you in high-pressure moments – Discover how to identify the hidden triggers that derail your performance (even when you're fully prepared) 💡 The secret to turning failure into fuel – Find out how to extract powerful lessons from disappointing experiences without getting stuck in self-criticism You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or see the links below. * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #ImposterSyndrome #Journaling #ProcessingFailure #GrowthMindset

How to Process Failure Without Spiralling (TOP ACT Method) I auditioned for TEDx and honestly, it didn't go as planned. I'm sharing what happened because the best learning comes from moments like these. In this episode, I walk you through my TOP ACT method - a powerful tool I use personally and with clients to process failure, silence imposter syndrome, and transform disappointment into growth. This isn't about perfection; it's about learning how to bounce back stronger. What You Will Learn: 💡 A framework to stop spiralling after setbacks – Learn the exact journaling method that helps you process negative emotions and move from rumination to action 💡 Why your brain sabotages you in high-pressure moments – Discover how to identify the hidden triggers that derail your performance (even when you're fully prepared) 💡 The secret to turning failure into fuel – Find out how to extract powerful lessons from disappointing experiences without getting stuck in self-criticism You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or see the links below. * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #ImposterSyndrome #Journaling #ProcessingFailure #GrowthMindset

How to Process Failure Without Spiralling (TOP ACT Method) I auditioned for TEDx and honestly, it didn't go as planned. I'm sharing what happened because the best learning comes from moments like these. In this episode, I walk you through my TOP ACT method - a powerful tool I use personally and with clients to process failure, silence imposter syndrome, and transform disappointment into growth. This isn't about perfection; it's about learning how to bounce back stronger. What You Will Learn: 💡 A framework to stop spiralling after setbacks – Learn the exact journaling method that helps you process negative emotions and move from rumination to action 💡 Why your brain sabotages you in high-pressure moments – Discover how to identify the hidden triggers that derail your performance (even when you're fully prepared) 💡 The secret to turning failure into fuel – Find out how to extract powerful lessons from disappointing experiences without getting stuck in self-criticism You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or see the links below. * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #ImposterSyndrome #Journaling #ProcessingFailure #GrowthMindset

How to Process Failure Without Spiralling (TOP ACT Method) I auditioned for TEDx and honestly, it didn't go as planned. I'm sharing what happened because the best learning comes from moments like these. In this episode, I walk you through my TOP ACT method - a powerful tool I use personally and with clients to process failure, silence imposter syndrome, and transform disappointment into growth. This isn't about perfection; it's about learning how to bounce back stronger. What You Will Learn: 💡 A framework to stop spiralling after setbacks – Learn the exact journaling method that helps you process negative emotions and move from rumination to action 💡 Why your brain sabotages you in high-pressure moments – Discover how to identify the hidden triggers that derail your performance (even when you're fully prepared) 💡 The secret to turning failure into fuel – Find out how to extract powerful lessons from disappointing experiences without getting stuck in self-criticism You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or see the links below. * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #ImposterSyndrome #Journaling #ProcessingFailure #GrowthMindset

Yesterday I auditioned for TEDx and honestly, it didn't go as planned. I'm sharing what happened because the best learning comes from moments like these. In this episode, I walk you through my TOP ACT method - a powerful tool I use personally and with clients to process failure, silence imposter syndrome, and transform disappointment into growth. This isn't about perfection; it's about learning how to bounce back stronger. Listen to the full podcast episode: Optimising Your Brilliance #TEDx #ImpostorSyndrome #JournalingForGrowth #ProcessingFailure #GrowthMindset #EmotionalIntelligence #SelfDevelopment #PerformanceCoaching #InnerCritic #resilience

Yesterday I auditioned for TEDx and honestly, it didn't go as planned. I'm sharing what happened because the best learning comes from moments like these. In this episode, I walk you through my TOP ACT method - a powerful tool I use personally and with clients to process failure, silence imposter syndrome, and transform disappointment into growth. This isn't about perfection; it's about learning how to bounce back stronger. What You Will Learn: 💡 A framework to stop spiralling after setbacks – Learn the exact journaling method that helps you process negative emotions and move from rumination to action 💡 Why your brain sabotages you in high-pressure moments – Discover how to identify the hidden triggers that derail your performance (even when you're fully prepared) 💡 The secret to turning failure into fuel – Find out how to extract powerful lessons from disappointing experiences without getting stuck in self-criticism Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (02:37) Welcome to the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast (05:17) Yesterday's TEDx Audition Experience (08:19) My Four-Year Journey to Become a TEDx Speaker (11:37) The Reality Check: 30 Applications on Average (14:39) Stage Three: The 10-Minute Audition (19:11) When Things Went Wrong: The Moment I Got Triggered (23:59) Post-Audition Feelings: Disappointment and Frustration (27:05) Introducing the TOP ACT Journaling Process (29:27) The Science Behind Journaling for Emotional Processing (32:00) The TOP ACT Method (65:57) Final Reflections: Learning, Growing, and Sharing (68:26) Outro and Resources ⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️. ⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube: 🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/...stelleRead/podcasts ⭐Follow Estelle Read: linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee ⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call: ⁠estelleread.com/resources/⁠ ⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes: 🌟⁠The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE⁠ 🌟⁠The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL⁠ ⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book: ⁠Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⁠ ⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog: ⁠Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⁠ ⭐Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. #TEDx #ImpostorSyndrome #JournalingForGrowth #ProcessingFailure #GrowthMindset #EmotionalIntelligence #SelfDevelopment #PerformanceCoaching #InnerCritic #Resilience

Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast: Imposter Syndrome: End the Need to Prove Your Worth What You Will Learn: 💡 The hidden childhood pattern that's making you overwork - and the 7-minute technique that can ‘erase’ it from your nervous system 💡 Why your brain keeps you trapped in the same stress cycle - and the neuroscience-backed method that creates lasting change in minutes, not 66 days (which is how long it takes the average person to change) 💡 The five imposter syndrome types sabotaging your success - discover which one is driving your burnout and how to stop the domino effect before it damages your health, happiness and wellbeing You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or: 🎙️Listen Here estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺 Watch here: youtube.com/@estelleread * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #ImposterSyndrome #Burnout #StressManagement

Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast: Imposter Syndrome: End the Need to Prove Your Worth What You Will Learn: 💡 The hidden childhood pattern that's making you overwork - and the 7-minute technique that can ‘erase’ it from your nervous system 💡 Why your brain keeps you trapped in the same stress cycle - and the neuroscience-backed method that creates lasting change in minutes, not 66 days (which is how long it takes the average person to change) 💡 The five imposter syndrome types sabotaging your success - discover which one is driving your burnout and how to stop the domino effect before it damages your health, happiness and wellbeing You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or: 🎙️Listen Here estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺 Watch here: youtube.com/@estelleread * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #ImposterSyndrome #Burnout #StressManagement

Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast: Imposter Syndrome: End the Need to Prove Your Worth What You Will Learn: 💡 The hidden childhood pattern that's making you overwork - and the 7-minute technique that can ‘erase’ it from your nervous system 💡 Why your brain keeps you trapped in the same stress cycle - and the neuroscience-backed method that creates lasting change in minutes, not 66 days (which is how long it takes the average person to change) 💡 The five imposter syndrome types sabotaging your success - discover which one is driving your burnout and how to stop the domino effect before it damages your health, happiness and wellbeing You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or: 🎙️Listen Here estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺 Watch here: youtube.com/@estelleread * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #ImposterSyndrome #Burnout #StressManagement

Imposter Syndrome: End the Need to Prove Your Worth If you’ve followed me a while, you will know that I’ve gone from not being able to climb the stairs to climbing Wainrights for fun, (well, sometimes fun – sometimes the hills are hell). I burnt out and got ME from overdoing life and work. The overdoing came from not feeling good enough and the urge to prove my worth. But when is enough, enough? The bar just keeps rising. This is an interactive episode. You’ll hear real-time audience scepticism and the changes they experience after applying the technique I share. They were fab, and they ask the questions you probably want answered about overcoming imposter syndrome. What You Will Learn: 💡 The hidden childhood pattern that's making you overwork - and the 7-minute technique that can ‘erase’ it from your nervous system 💡 Why your brain keeps you trapped in the same stress cycle - and the neuroscience-backed method that creates lasting change in minutes, not 66 days (which is how long it takes the average person to change) 💡 The five imposter syndrome types sabotaging your success - discover which one is driving your burnout and how to stop the domino effect before it damages your health, happiness and wellbeing Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (01:50) What is Imposter Syndrome? (02:08) Today's Agenda - Strategies to Regain Control (03:39) Meet the Parents - Estelle's Personal Story (04:51) Growing Up Different - Feeling Like an Imposter (06:06) Working as Head of HR - Still Feeling Like a Fraud (07:42) Chronic Fatigue & Recovery Journey (08:10) Writing a Book - Procrastination & Self-Doubt (09:03) Becoming a Bestselling Author (10:16) Dr. Gabor Maté Quote - The Message of Not Being Good Enough (11:24) The Imposter Syndrome Domino Effect (13:32) The Five Types of Imposter Syndrome (13:52) Type 1: The Expert (14:50) Type 2: The Perfectionist (15:10) Type 3: The Natural Genius (15:57) Type 4: The Soloist (17:35) Type 5: The Superhuman (18:31) Audience Poll - Which Type Are You? (19:48) How Imposter Syndrome Causes Workaholism & Stress (20:45) Case Study: The Perfectionist Lawyer (23:55) Where Imposter Syndrome Comes From (24:43) Personality Formation - Ages 0-7 Imprint Period (28:45) Why Change is Challenging - Neural Pathways (29:49) Antidote #1: Havening Technique (30:14) Havening Small Print - Does It Work? (32:26) Live Havening Exercise Begins (35:54) How Havening Works - The Neuroscience (39:51) Havening Results - The Lawyer's Transformation (44:26) Client Results - Million Pound Conversation (45:04) Resilient Leader Program SHINE Overview (48:55) Antidote #2: Inner Captain vs Inner Critic (50:15) The Science of Journaling (51:53) TOP ACT Journaling Process (55:11) Learning to Accepting Yourself (56:50) Q&A from the audience (61:42) Q&A - Estelle's Personal Phobias Story (62:48) Working with Estelle - Two Choices (64:50) Outro - Subscribe & Resources ⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️. ⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube: 🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/...stelleRead/podcasts ⭐Follow Estelle Read: linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee ⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call: ⁠estelleread.com/resources/⁠ ⭐Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes: 🌟⁠The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE⁠ 🌟⁠The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL⁠ ⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book: ⁠Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⁠ ⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog: ⁠Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⁠ ⭐Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.

How Birth Order Shapes Your Success with Clinical Psychologist, Dr Linda Blair You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or: 🎙️Listen Here estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺 Watch here: youtube.com/@estelleread * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalityDevelopment #Psychology #FamilyDynamics

How Birth Order Shapes Your Success with Clinical Psychologist, Dr Linda Blair You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or: 🎙️Listen Here estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺 Watch here: youtube.com/@estelleread * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalityDevelopment #Psychology #FamilyDynamics

Which one are you? I'm a stereotypical first born 😆. You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or: 🎙️Listen Here estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺 Watch here: youtube.com/@estelleread * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalityDevelopment #Psychology #FamilyDynamics

Which one are you? I'm a stereotypical first born 😆. My next guest’s work reshaped my understanding of personality, why we are the way we are, and what birth order has to do with it. Dr. Linda Blair is a Chartered clinical psychologist, writer, speaker, and broadcaster who has authored five self-help books. She’s also appeared on television programs such as The One Show, The Vanessa Show, and Child of Our Time. You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or: 🎙️Listen Here estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺 Watch here: youtube.com/@estelleread * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalityDevelopment #Psychology #FamilyDynamics

The significance of this red rug today 😆. Here we go. To be continued… #TEDx

Which book changed your life? My next guest’s work reshaped my understanding of personality, why we are the way we are, and what birth order has to do with it. Dr. Linda Blair is a Chartered clinical psychologist, writer, speaker, and broadcaster who has authored five self-help books. She’s also appeared on television programs such as The One Show, The Vanessa Show, and Child of Our Time. In this episode, we dive into family dynamics, birth order psychology, and sibling relationships - exploring how your place in the family can influence personality, career choices, and leadership style. Linda shares insightful findings from her research on mother–infant bonding, her surprising collaboration with Professor Stephen Hawking, and practical strategies for lasting happiness. What You Will Learn: 💡 Discover why your birth order position (firstborn, middle child, or youngest) influences your career success, stress levels, and relationship patterns - and how understanding this can transform your self-awareness 💡 Learn the surprising research finding about what truly makes a "good mother" (hint: it's not what you think) and how this applies to leadership and knowing when to step in versus let go 💡 Uncover the exact age when you were most authentically yourself and how revisiting that period can help you rediscover your passion, purpose, and what brings you into "flow" Here’s to your leadership development and personal growth! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction - Birth order insights preview (00:58) Welcome to Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast (02:02) Introducing Dr. Linda Blair (03:19) Linda's typical day and morning routine (07:49) The four-hour creative focus principle (08:05) Grounding practices and mindfulness (08:11) Linda's origin story - from Kansas to Cambridge (12:03) Working with Professor Stephen Hawking (13:12) Studying mother-infant relationships in monkeys (15:44) How broadcasting and writing opportunities emerged (15:36) The privilege of being a psychologist (17:28) Lessons from Stephen Hawking on humility (18:31) What makes a good mother - research findings (21:32) Family dynamics fascination and finding your passion (22:56) The age when you're most truly yourself (25:00) How adolescence disrupts authentic self (27:32) Rediscovering who you were before adolescence (28:57) The concept of "flow" and being fully engaged (29:51) Birth order book origins and Linda's three firstborn children (32:02) Firstborn characteristics and burnout (35:01) Middle child characteristics (38:08) Youngest child characteristics (40:48) Child of Our Time television experience (42:49) Steps to lead your best life - saying yes to opportunities (44:00) Treating everyone as equals (47:12) Linda's workshops and how to connect (49:09) The "real Linda Blair" story (49:29) Closing thoughts ⭐Help Us Keep Growing & Going: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe wherever you listen or watch, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. Thank you ❤️. ⭐Listen or Watch on YouTube: 🎧Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/...stelleRead/podcasts ⭐Follow or Contact Linda Blair: www.linkedin.com/...da-blair-15187a31/ lindablair.co.uk/ ⭐Follow Estelle Read: linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee ⭐Access Resources or Book a Free Discovery Call: ⁠estelleread.com/resources/⁠ ⭐ Estelle Read’s Coaching Programmes: 🌟⁠The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE⁠ 🌟⁠The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL⁠ ⭐Buy Estelle Read’s Bestselling Book: ⁠Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism and Stress ⁠ ⭐Subscribe to Estelle Read’s Blog: ⁠Receive my free workbook: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress, when you sign up. ⁠ ⭐Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.

Feeling like we don’t belong, we’re an outsider or imposter begins when we’re small. Listen to my inspiring guest Neil Jinks talk about what it was like growing up as gay man & how he has come to belong ❤️. See the Optimising Your Brilliance podcast.

This episode is about optimising your health. We got into snoring. The spare room is always made up in our house, in case I need to sneak off because I'm tired of rolling Mr R over, but on a more serious note there are consequences for those of us that suffer with sleep apnoea. You can hear the full episode on your favourite platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to, ‘Play the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast' or: 🎙️Listen Here estelleread.com/podcast/ 📺 Watch here: youtube.com/@estelleread * * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #BrainHealth #HealthOptimisation #SleepApnea