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How Self-Esteem Can Be Improved: From Boardroom Doubts to Brilliance. Neil Jinks' Journey

My latest episode has just dropped which focuses on: How Self-Esteem Can Be Improved: From Boardroom Doubts to Brilliance. Neil Jinks' Journey to Self-Belief. All episodes from Season 3 are now available, so you can binge-listen to my book. It’s like audible, but free and with a bit of spontaneous chat in between. 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'. Alternatively, watch over on YouTube. See the link in my bio 👆 or deets below ⬇️. Here’s to your shining! * * * * * #Wellbeing #ImposterSyndrome #self-doubt #self-esteem #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment

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How Self-Esteem Can Be Improved

How Self-Esteem Can Be Improved: From Boardroom Doubts to Brilliance Neil Jinks Path to Self-Belief.

How Self-Esteem Can Be Improved: From Boardroom Doubts to Brilliance. Neil Jinks Journey to Self-Belief. In this episode of the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast, I sit down with the incredible Neil Jinks - a top legal influencer, brand ambassador, and champion of diversity and inclusion. We dive deep into Neil’s personal journey, from overcoming imposter syndrome to embracing his unique strengths and daily routines that fuel his success. Neil shares candid stories about his upbringing, the impact of his parents, and the life lessons that have shaped his approach to work, wellbeing, and happiness. Whether you’re struggling with self-doubt or looking for practical ways to rise to your next level, this conversation is packed with insights, inspiration, and actionable tips to help you shine. Summary: Discover how Neil transformed imposter syndrome into a source of strength - and how you can too. Learn the daily habits and mindset shifts that drive lasting success and happiness. Hear behind-the-scenes stories from Neil’s career, including his encounters with rock and pop royalty! Here’s to your shining! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & Welcome 00:41 – Meet Estelle Read and the Podcast’s Mission 01:04 – Introducing Neil Jinks: Background & Achievements 03:44 – Neil’s Origin Story: Family, Upbringing, and Early Lessons 09:05 – The Power of Being Yourself & Defining Brilliance 16:18 – Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Self-Sabotage 19:49 – The Role of Daily Routines, Compounding, and Wellbeing 35:57 – The CLEAR Process: Vision, Action, and Rising to the Next Level 59:00 – Final Thoughts, Takeaways, and How to Connect Listen on your favourite podcast platform by searching for or asking your smart speaker to play the, 'Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast'. Connect with Estelle Read: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. For free resources, book a discovery call or join The Resilient Leader Programme: SHINE, or The Optimised Leader Programme: NEXT LEVEL, visit ⁠www.EstelleRead.com⁠ Connect with Neil Jinks: www.linkedin.com/in/neiljinks/ Neil is the Brand Ambassador for Broadriver Group: www.broadrivergroup.co.uk The group includes: Controlaccount: www.controlaccount.com dataTrace UK: www.datatraceuk.com Sinclair Taylor: www.sinclairtaylor.co.uk Identeco: www.identeco.co.uk Harp Software: www.harpsoftware.co.uk Neil is also: Chair of the Chartered Institute of Credit Management (CICM): www.cicm.com Chair of the Civil Court Users Association (CCUA): www.ccua.org.uk President of the Institute of Revenues, Rating & Valuation (West Midlands): www.irrv.net/associations Thanks for listening to the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast! Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.

Inner Brilliance, Outer Shine: 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Stress and Workaholism

All episodes from Season 3 are now available, so you can binge-listen to my book. It’s like audible, but free and with a bit of spontaneous chat in between. 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'. Alternatively, watch over on YouTube. See the link in my bio 👆 or deets below ⬇️. Here’s to your shining! * * * * * #Wellbeing #ImposterSyndrome #Workaholic #StressManagement #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment

What are mindful practices?

What are mindful practices? I've never been one to sit still in silence, but what I did take away from my mindfulness training many moons ago, was practicing being 'in' what what I am in, whilst I'm doing something pleasurable. I love this weekly ritual of watering my plants. I take time to look out of the window, to appreciate our life. Paddleboarding has the same effect. Plants are good for our wellbeing and can give us a sense of purpose, by taking care of something. What mindful practices do you have? What do you do that calms you or forces you to stop? * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #Performance #Productivity #Sucess #Wellbeing #Mindfulness

Why Are Leadership Qualities Important?

My latest episode has just dropped which focuses on: Why Are Leadership Qualities Important? 4 Top Traits Every Leader Needs to Succeed from HR Veteran: Rachel Rainbow All episodes from Season 3 are now available, so you can binge-listen to my book. It’s like audible, but free and with a bit of spontaneous chat in between. 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'. Alternatively, watch over on YouTube. See the link in my bio 👆 or deets below ⬇️. Here’s to your shining! * * * * * #Wellbeing #ImposterSyndrome #LeadershipQualities #LeadershipTraits #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment

Why Are Leadership Qualities Important? 4 Top Traits Every Leader Needs to Succeed from HR Veteran

My latest episode has just dropped which focuses on: Why Are Leadership Qualities Important? 4 Top Traits Every Leader Needs to Succeed from HR Veteran: Rachel Rainbow. All episodes from Season 3 are now available, so you can binge-listen to my book. It’s like audible, but free and with a bit of spontaneous chat in between. 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'. Alternatively, watch over on YouTube. See the link in my bio 👆 or deets below ⬇️. Here’s to your shining! * * * * * #Wellbeing #ImposterSyndrome #self-doubt #self-esteem #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment

Why Are Leadership Qualities Important? 4 Top Traits Every Leader Needs to Succeed from HR Veteran

Why Are Leadership Qualities Important? 4 Top Traits Every Leader Needs to Succeed from HR Veteran: Rachel Rainbow In this episode, I interview Rachel Rainbow, a seasoned HR professional with 16 years of experience across multiple industries. Rachel shares her journey into HR, her passion for authenticity and integrity in leadership, and practical advice for managers and leaders. The conversation covers the evolution of HR, the importance of psychological safety, tips for handling underperformance, and the shift from work-life balance to work-life blend. Summary: • Discover the top four qualities that make leaders and candidates truly stand out—straight from an HR veteran who’s seen it all. • Learn why “work-life balance” is an outdated concept, and how embracing a “work-life blend” can transform your wellbeing and productivity. • Get practical, real-world tips for tackling underperformance and creating a psychologically safe workplace where everyone can shine. Here’s to your shining! Estelle Read Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the podcast and host 01:03 – Introducing Rachel Rainbow: HR background and leadership philosophy 02:59 – Rachel’s origin story: From Yorkshire to HR 04:19 – The impact of performing arts and singing on wellbeing 09:45 – Falling into HR: Early career lessons and challenges 11:42 – What makes people brilliant? Qualities admired in leaders and candidates 15:33 – The importance of authenticity, integrity, and psychological safety 17:36 – Addressing underperformance: Practical steps for leaders 21:46 – Unconscious bias and the “horns and halo” effect 24:54 – Learning styles, academic paths, and the value of experience 28:41 – The HR Ninjas community and peer support 31:24 – Work-life blend vs. work-life balance in the digital age 32:52 – Rachel’s future outlook and personal mission 33:37 – Closing thoughts Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: estelleread.com/podcast/ Connect with Estelle Read: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review or share it with someone who might benefit. For free resources, to join the SHINE Coaching Programme or to apply for a discovery call, visit www.EstelleRead.com Connect with Rachel Rainbow: www.linkedin.com/...w-chartered-mcipd/ Thanks for listening to the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast! Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice.

How to improve health, happiness and energy

Who else loves to batch-task? I watched Stacey Solomon batch task her kid's pack lunches for the whole week. She confessed to them being a bit soggy by Friday. I love anything that saves time, improves health or gives me more energy. Here's another Zoe recipe: Broccoli & Pea soup - it also had spinach in it too. I added some stilton...because it needed a little something to lift it. Like Stacey I like to make lunches ahead of time...otherwise I grab for whatever's quickest and not necessarily the healthiest! Anyone got any soup recipes they can recommend? Here’s to your shining! * * * * * 😇 Share this to help someone in your network. 🔔Follow me for more on optimising your brilliance & taking your work-life to the next level. #Optimise #Performance #Productivity #Sucess #Wellbeing #Shine

How to overcome stage fright

My latest episode has just dropped which focuses on how to overcome stage fright. I talk to performing veteran, Alex Wickens, who shares her advice. All episodes from Season 3 are now available, so you can binge-listen to my book. It’s like audible, but free and with a bit of spontaneous chat in between. 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'. Alternatively, watch over on YouTube. See the link in my bio 👆 or deets below ⬇️. Here’s to your shining! * * * * * #Wellbeing #ImposterSyndrome #StageFright #Presenting #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment

How to overcome stage fright

How to create work boundaries

Weekends create natural boundaries, especially if you’ve got a lot of work on or run your own business. However, if I don’t take time out then there are consequences the following week. Last weekend I took up an old hobby. My Nanna taught me how to knit when I was a kid. I suddenly got the urge to take it up again. I felt like Granny Clampett sat my rocking chair with my readers on. It started out rather complicated trying to watch instructions on YouTube but then it suddenly came back to me. It was quite meditative and calming once I got going. I think everyone’s going to get scarves for Christmas. Happy weekend everyone. #OptimisingYourBrilliance #LeadershipDevelopment #StressManagement #Workaholics

How to overcome stage fright

Podcast Episode 33: How to Overcome Stage Fright with Alex Wickens

Alex Wickens is fearless, positive, and resilient. She embodies these mindsets when facing challenges - on stage, in high-adrenaline sports, and through personal trials like recovering from cancer and losing a parent in the same year. She shares her stories with infectious humour and positivity. Alex is a true multi-hyphenate: interior designer, lecturer, senior business surveyor, community first responder, and amateur dramatics enthusiast. She’s also my “Cumbrian bestie.” In this episode: • Alex shares stories from her unique upbringing in Storrs Hall Hotel, surrounded by people from all walks of life - including well-known celebrities from the 80s with helicopters and powerboats! • Alex is one of the bravest people I know – she will give practically anything a go, which has shaped her career and personal life. • Alex is quite the local celeb herself – not that she would describe herself in that way. However, during the festive season you will see her face plastered around Windermere on posters for the Christmas panto. We get into how to overcome the fear of public speaking and she shares: • Her techniques for avoiding forgetting her lines on stage. • Insights on learning lines, handling mistakes on stage, and engaging an audience—plus how these lessons apply to business and life. • The importance of self-belief, competing with yourself, and striving for your personal best. • Navigating setbacks including cancer and the loss of a parent all in the same year, and the value of humour and positivity. Key Takeaways: - Brilliance is about authenticity, self-belief, and embracing challenges. - Mistakes are human - own them, use humour, and keep moving forward. - Every experience, good or bad, is an opportunity to learn and grow. - Stay positive, take baby steps, and don’t be afraid to “give it a go.” Connect with Alex Wickens: • www.linkedin.com/in/alexwickens/ • See the Lakes Players here: www.lakesplayers.co.uk/ Connect with Estelle Read, Find Out More or Book a Free Discovery Call: • linktr.ee/EstelleAtBeee I hope you’re enjoying the podcast! If you’d like to help it grow, you can: • Subscribe • Leave a review • Share it with someone who might benefit Thank you! Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction 01:04 – Meet Alex Wickens 02:08 – Growing Up in a Hotel 04:28 – Fearlessness & Taking Chances 07:11 – Adrenaline & Adventure 12:41 – Self-Belief & Competing with Yourself 16:53 – Getting Into Amateur Dramatics 27:45 – Handling Mistakes & Engaging the Audience 34:52 – Resilience Through Health Challenges 41:20 – Redefining Success & Letting Go 45:00 – Maintaining Positivity & Adapting to Change 48:23 – Defining Brilliance & Final Thoughts

Dont Let Fear Get iIn The Way Of Your Dream, Goal Or Ambition

1) Most goals, dreams or ambitions can be achieved with the right plan. 2) Don’t let fear get in the way. The first step / decision is often the hardest part. 3) Hear how to conquer the fear of public speaking on my latest podcast episode. Drops tomorrow: ask your smart speaker to ‘play the Optimising Your Brilliance podcast. #goals #BHAG #feelthefearanddoitanyway #stagefright #leadershipdevelopment #optimisingyourbrilliance

Weekends are natural boundaries for (ex) workaholics 😆.

Weekends create natural boundaries, especially if you’ve got a lot of work on or run your own business. However, if I don’t take time out then there are consequences the following week. I took up an old hobby. My Nanna taught me how to knit when I was a kid. I suddenly got the urge to take it up again. I felt like Granny Clampett sat my rocking chair with my readers on. It started out rather complicated trying to watch instructions on YouTube but then it suddenly came back to me. It was quite meditative and calming once I got going. I think everyone’s going to get scarves for Christmas. #wellbeingcoach #workaholic #stressmanagement #boundaries

Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast: How to Improve Your Health and Happiness

My latest episode has just dropped which focuses on optimising your health and happiness. All episodes from Season 3 are now available, so you can binge-listen to my book. It’s like audible, but free and with a bit of spontaneous chat in between. You can hear the full podcast episode on your favourite platform by searching for, 'Optimising Your Brilliance'. Alternatively, watch over on YouTube. See the link in my bio 👆 or deets below ⬇️. Here’s to your shining! * * * * * #Wellbeing #ImposterSyndrome #StressManagement #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment

Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast: How to Improve your Health & Happiness

Where Happiness Begins

Daily Habits & Goal Attainment

Podcast Episode 34: Chapter 10 – Access the Mess Deck & Conclusion

In this episode, I dive into Chapter 10 and wrap up my bestselling book Inner Brilliance: Outer Shine, 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress. I reflect on the importance of self-care, managing energy, and not letting work or stress steal our joy. I use personal stories, client examples, and research to highlight how our habits around food, sleep, movement, and self-compassion directly impact our wellbeing and performance. My goal is to encourage you to treat yourself with the same care you’d give a child, to make healthy choices, and to take mini-holidays every day so you can truly shine in work and life. I also share a glimpse of what’s next for the podcast, including upcoming interviews and new topics. Key Topics Covered: • Introduction to the podcast and book wrap-up • The importance of self-care and energy management • The "energy bank" analogy and how to make healthy deposits • The impact of food, sleep, and movement on health and performance • Recognizing and addressing inflammation and its effects • Personal and client stories about overcoming burnout and health challenges • Practical tips for better sleep, nutrition, and daily routines • The value of self-compassion and treating yourself like you would a child • Encouragement to take daily "mini-holidays" for wellbeing • Summary of key points and a heartfelt conclusion • Preview of future podcast episodes and guest interviews Here’s to your shining! Estelle Read x Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker Timestamps: • 00:00 – Introduction & Podcast Overview • 01:04 – Chapter 10: Access the Mess Deck • 03:02 – The Energy Bank Analogy • 08:22 – Good Energy Deposits & Withdrawals • 18:24 – Inflammation: The Root of Many Health Issues • 27:31 – Food, Mitochondria, and Energy • 40:06 – Sleep: Why It Matters and How to Improve It • 57:02 – Move Your Body: Exercise and Longevity • 1:01:20 – Daily Self-Care and Mini-Holidays • 1:03:12 – Summary of Key Points • 1:04:37 – Conclusion & Final Reflections • 1:10:01 – What’s Next for the Podcast Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: pod.link/1515648162 Connect with Estelle Read: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe and share it with someone who might benefit. For free resources, to join the SHINE Coaching Programme or to apply for a discovery call, visit www.EstelleRead.com Thanks for listening to the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast! Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. * * * * * #Wellbeing #Burnout #ImposterSyndrome #StressManagement #InnerBrillianceOuterShine #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #NextLevelLeadership #TheSHINECoachingProgramme

Hobbies create natural work-life boundaries

I didn’t used to have any hobbies. I don’t know whether it was because I’d not taken time to explore what I liked. Or whether it was easier to fill any spare time I had with work. Probably a combination of both. I started paddle boarding in 2019 on holiday in Crete. I enjoyed it enough to buy all the gear when I returned to the UK, but had quite low expectations. I thought it might be the equivalent of the souvenir which looks great on holiday but out of place at home. Paddle boarding has not been like that. It always exceeds my expectations. The beauty & calm of nature. Since taking it up, I’ve gained some fellow boarders. First MrR & now my brother & sister-in-law. We could have postponed yesterday’s trip because it was cold & threatening rain. So glad we didn’t. The weekends set you up for the week, don’t they? #worklifebalance #boundaries #hobbies #wellbeing

Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast

My latest episode has just dropped where I share how to manage your inner critic. You can hear the full podcast episode on your favourite platform by searching for, 'Optimising Your Brilliance'. Alternatively, watch over on YouTube. See the link in my bio 👆 or the comments below ⬇️. Here’s to your shining! * * * * * #Wellbeing #ImposterSyndrome #StressManagement #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment

Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast

Create a Memories Jar to Lock in Your Best Moments #happiness #present #wellbeing #wellbeingcoach

Podcast Episode 33: Chapter 9 - Learn How to Handle Rough Seas (Emotions)

In this episode, I dive into Chapter 9 of my bestselling book Inner Brilliance: Outer Shine, 10 Antidotes to Imposter Syndrome, Workaholism & Stress. I share how learning to handle life’s rough seas can shape our journey, both personally and professionally. I discuss the importance of managing our state of mind, processing emotions, and using practical tools to build resilience and find joy, even during challenging times. My goal is to help you become the captain of your own ship, steering toward greater wellbeing and fulfilment. Key Topics Covered: • Our state of mind directly impacts our actions, performance, and happiness. • Acknowledging and processing emotions is essential. I share how and the consequences of not doing this. • Tools like Havening and EFT can help reset limiting beliefs and manage stress. • Scheduling joy and making space for fun are vital for resilience. • You have the power to navigate challenges, no matter the circumstances. Here’s to your shining! Estelle Read x Bestselling Author, Coach & Speaker Timestamps • 00:00 – Introduction to the podcast and host • 00:40 – About Estelle and the episode’s focus • 01:04 – Reading from "Inner Brilliance Outer Shine" – Antidote #9 • 01:32 – The importance of state of mind • 02:26 – My friend’s skiing story: accessing positive states • 04:56 – State of mind: thoughts, feelings, body, neurochemistry • 06:03 – How to change your state • 08:03 – Personal story: perimenopause and HRT • 09:47 – Research: state of mind and leadership • 11:06 – Managing intense emotions • 12:24 – Story: emotions at a family funeral • 14:10 – Bottling emotions vs. acknowledging them • 16:00 – Meta-emotions explained • 18:00 – Emotional processing techniques • 22:47 – The “emotional bucket” analogy • 25:55 – Strategies for stress and resilience • 28:45 – Introduction to EFT • 31:17 – EFT resources and support • 32:41 – Cultivating and scheduling joy • 35:09 – Key takeaways and summary • 39:43 – Closing, resources, and next episode preview Listen on your favourite podcast platform here: pod.link/1515648162 You can find my EFT video mentioned on the podcast here: youtu.be/_PROjHMnKAg Connect with Estelle Read: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe and share it with someone who might benefit. For free resources, to join the SHINE Coaching Programme or to apply for a discovery call, visit www.EstelleRead.com Thanks for listening to the Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast! Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult a qualified professional for specific advice. * * * * * #Wellbeing #Burnout #ImposterSyndrome #StressManagement #InnerBrillianceOuterShine #OptimisingYourBrilliancePodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #NextLevelLeadership #TheSHINECoachingProgramme

Optimising Your Brilliance Podcast

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