Episodes

What keeps leaders from burning out when the pressure never lets up? In this episode, Susan and Tessa flip the script on traditional leadership advice by exploring what it truly means to make your work sustainable. Instead of pushing harder, they share stories about planning for busy seasons, showing compassion to yourself when things get messy, and learning to let go of what no longer serves you. Discover how small rituals, personal notes, and asking for help can help you hold onto what matters...

Are you running on empty or refueling for success? In this episode, Susan and Tessa ask leaders to confront a common blind spot by exploring the secret ingredient that unlocks better decisions, stronger relationships, and sharper thinking. Through candid stories about missing sleep for deadlines, life’s unexpected crises, and the myth of playing catch-up on weekends, the conversation blends science, humor, and heartfelt advice. Discover how sleep deprivation slowly erodes your leadership, why pr...

This episode delivers a memorable lesson on the power of restraint and thoughtful leadership. Susan and Tessa reflect on moments both big and small, starting with a real-life story at the airport, where choosing connection over convenience made a lasting impact. They highlight how true leadership means slowing down and walking beside others, even when it would be easier to race ahead. Through personal anecdotes, practical wisdom, and reflective challenges, you are encouraged to pause and ask you...

As the clock ticks down on the year, Susan and Tessa challenge listeners to stop playing the waiting game. This episode is all about harnessing the final stretch, reflecting on routines and habits, and deciding what to keep, refine, or leave behind before a new year arrives. Through memorable stories and a football comeback metaphor, you will find encouragement to make changes now instead of delaying until January. Tune in for an energizing conversation packed with reflection prompts and inspira...

Imagine stepping into a world where technology helps lighten your leadership load one click at a time. In this episode, Susan and Tessa invite you to dip your toes into the future, exploring how artificial intelligence can transform the way you work. Whether you are using AI to draft your first letters, analyze mountains of data, or simply take care of the small details, you will find practical wisdom on embracing new tools while keeping your leadership authentic and human. They discuss the impo...

Not all leaders are cut from the same cloth. In this thought-provoking episode, Susan and Tessa pull back the curtain on the world of leadership to reveal the difference between truly inspiring action and simply playing the part. They invite listeners to step out of the spotlight and into authentic leadership, where accountability, follow-through, and real connection count far more than good optics or titles. With storytelling and practical insight, the hosts shine a light on the pitfalls of per...

In this encouraging episode, Susan and Tessa confront the inner critic that every leader faces. Drawing on personal stories and the wisdom of self-compassion, they challenge listeners to notice the negative chatter, name it, and gently turn down its volume. The hosts discuss how risk-taking, reflection, and courage are essential to growth, even when self-doubt creeps in. Listeners will find practical ways to replace self-judgment with understanding, embrace the discomfort of learning, and rememb...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa unpack the real-life frustrations that show up in work and life, such as a crying baby on airplanes to overwhelming leadership demands. Through a powerful story of compassion and reflection, they reveal how quickly judgment and assumptions can cloud our view of others and ourselves. The hosts explore what it takes to pause, notice the emotional loads people carry, and offer support—even if all you can do is a kind word. Tune in for insights on self-awareness, cur...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa shine a light on the confusing world of workplace jargon. They share stories about the pitfalls of acronyms, “legalese,” and insider language that can leave newcomers feeling lost or left out. Listeners will discover practical strategies for making communication more welcoming, like creating shared jargon sheets and building the courage to ask “What does that mean?” The hosts examine how simple, clear language helps teams connect, learn, and thrive, which makes s...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa share a vivid story about a lizard on the road to spark real talk about the unintended impact leaders sometimes have on others. Even with the best intentions, our words or actions can “squash” ideas, energy, or relationships without us even knowing. The hosts reflect on how easy it is to overlook the small moments that shape workplace culture—and why self-awareness, humility, and honest feedback are key tools for every leader. Tune in for memorable metaphors, pra...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa tackle the challenge all leaders face: how to keep important messages fresh when repetition feels relentless. They break down the “wash, rinse, and repeat” philosophy, being clear, reinforcing key ideas in varied ways, and living the principles you preach. Discover how to individualize communication for different team members, avoid message fatigue, and keep everyone truly engaged. With memorable stories and practical strategies, this episode reminds listeners t...

In this episode of Dips of Doubt, Susan and Tessa dig into what happens when passionate perspectives collide and everyone wants things done their way. Through a real-world committee story, the hosts explore how stubbornness, ego, and high stakes can fuel tension—but also how curiosity and small gestures of flexibility can spark authentic collaboration. Listen in for actionable steps on pausing the urge to win, naming conflict, staying open to others’ brilliance, and redefining success as a share...

In this uplifting episode, Susan and Tessa share why focusing on small victories can make all the difference for leaders feeling overwhelmed. With stories about recognizing the everyday wins—like a clean building, a heartfelt compliment, or a team that is working better together—they reveal how these moments fuel resilience, boost morale, and keep burnout at bay. Learn why celebrating even the tiniest successes can reset your mindset, encourage your team, and help you rediscover purpose when the...

In this uplifting episode, Susan and Tessa dive deep into the importance of self-belief, especially for leaders facing setbacks, doubt, and criticism. Through vulnerable stories, from high school math classes to challenges in career advancement, they share how having grit, building personal mantras, and making space for tiny wins can shift a leader’s mindset from “not yet” to “I’ve got this.” Discover creative strategies, like “I’ve got this” playlists and positive self-talk, for cheering yourse...

Who do you surround yourself with and how does it shape who you are as a leader? In this episode, Susan and Tessa dig into the powerful influence of your leadership circle. Reflecting on lessons from early teaching days and personal stories, they explore why the attitudes and habits of those around you can either energize your growth or hold you back. The hosts discuss the importance of seeking out mentors, thought partners, and peers who encourage challenge, accountability, and resilience. You...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa explore what it really means to take responsibility as a leader when tough conversations and blame come your way. They share personal stories—from being accused of not communicating clearly to facing challenging feedback—and reveal why defensiveness rarely leads to growth. Instead, listeners learn the power of pausing, getting curious, and asking for the other person’s perspective to truly understand the situation. The hosts offer practical strategies for shiftin...

What do your silent choices really say about your values as a leader? In this episode, Susan and Tessa take listeners behind the scenes of workplace culture, where unsaid words and overlooked actions send messages louder than policies and posters. Through memorable stories, from students testing the boundaries of a dress code to leaders missing the chance for a simple conversation, they reveal how a lack of consistency can quietly shape behavior and team dynamics. Susan and Tessa unwrap the mes...

In this interesting episode, Susan and Tessa use the metaphor of weather to navigate the ups and downs of team dynamics. Drawing on classics like forming, storming, norming, and performing, they bring each stage to life, such as sunny skies for new beginnings, clouds for conflict, shifting patterns as teams settle in, and clear momentum once collaboration clicks. Susan and Tessa share vivid stories, practical leader tips, and reminders that team “weather” is always changing, requiring leaders t...

In this Monday episode, Susan and Tessa explore the surprising power of asking for what you want. Inspired by a moment on an airplane, they discuss why so many people hesitate to “shoot their shot” and how self-doubt, fear of rejection, or assumptions can hold back authentic requests. The hosts share practical steps for getting clear about desires, reframing risk, and making brave asks with humility. Through candid stories, from career crossroads to unexpected wins, they highlight how transparen...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa dive into the simple but powerful habit of staying hydrated and why it matters for leaders. They share personal stories, from forgotten water bottles to dramatic lessons about dehydration’s impact on energy, focus, and even health. Discover practical tips for making hydration enjoyable, like adding fruit or choosing water-rich foods, and hear how a few mindful sips during the day can help reduce stress and boost resilience. Tune in for a lively reminder that smal...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa talk about why taking a purposeful pause is the secret to productive, mindful leadership. They share real-life stories about juggling busy schedules, the pressure to keep moving, and the moments that signal it is time to slow down. Learn simple ways to pump the brakes, set boundaries, and make intentional space for rest. Whether that is walking slower to a meeting or blocking out time away from emails. Discover how brief moments of reflection can restore energy, ...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa explore the real power of curiosity in leadership. They discuss how thoughtful questioning, such as “tell me more” or “what ideas do you have?”, can shift the focus from quick fixes to deeper understanding and real growth. By sharing practical strategies and personal insights, the hosts show how staying curious helps empower teams, foster creativity, and build trust. Tune in for relatable examples and inspiration to lead with an open mind, ask better questions, a...

A single “hello” can change the tone of an entire day. In this episode, Susan and Tessa uncover the quiet but powerful impact of being the first to greet others. From a smile in the hallway to a quick check-in that shows genuine care, they highlight how these small moments ripple outward, shaping trust, connection, and culture. Through stories and simple strategies, the hosts remind us that leadership isn’t always found in big gestures—it’s often in the everyday choice to see and acknowledge the...

Feeling drained before the day even begins? In this episode, Susan and Tessa tackle what happens when fatigue steals away the spark that leaders and teams need to do their best work. Susan shares a game-changing meeting ritual that resets energy and sets intention, while Tessa reveals the power of shifting your story and focusing on what fuels you. Hear why recharging is not just about managing time, but managing the energy and mindset that drive you. Discover how reconnecting with your “why” ...