Unstuck & Unstoppable (Sarah Archer)
Explore every episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07 Feb 2025 | Episode 13 How to develop your personal brand authentically | 00:14:44 | |
In this episode Sarah dives deep into a critical yet often challenging topic: personal branding. She explores why personal branding matters, how to create one authentically, and ways to navigate challenges such as the “likability conundrum.” If you’re ready to take control of your narrative and elevate your career, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways
Show Notes [00:00:00] - Introduction to the podcast and host, Sarah Archer. [00:01:00] - Why personal branding is vital and often overlooked. [00:02:30] - The benefits of having a strong personal brand. [00:03:30] - Challenges women face, including the likability conundrum. [00:05:00] - Strategies to overcome societal biases authentically. [00:06:00] - Controlling your narrative and crafting your brand story. [00:08:00] - Identifying your brand elements: value, skills, and impact. [00:10:00] - Opportunities to enhance visibility internally and externally. [00:11:00] - Networking strategies that work for introverts and extroverts. [00:12:30] - The importance of authenticity in leadership and self-promotion. [00:13:30] - Recap and actionable tips for developing your personal brand. Useful Links Watch this episode on LinkedIn Live Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Rate & Review the Podcast If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk Remember, you are capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be unstoppable. | |||
| 26 Nov 2024 | Episode 1 How to not hate networking | 00:16:54 | |
Welcome to the first episode of Unstuck and Unstoppable! In this episode, Sarah Archer dives into a topic many ambitious female leaders grapple with—networking. Love it or hate it, networking is essential for building relationships, advancing your career, and unlocking new opportunities. Sarah shares actionable tips to make networking more enjoyable and meaningful by shifting your mindset, setting clear goals, and navigating those awkward moments. Show Notes [00:00:00] Introduction Sarah introduces Unstuck and Unstoppable, a podcast for ambitious female leaders looking to create more impact, income, and influence without burning out. She outlines the themes of confidence, purpose-driven leadership, and career success. [00:02:00] The Networking Dilemma Why so many of us dread networking and how our mindset—promotion or prevention—shapes our experience. Sarah shares her personal evolution from a prevention to a promotion mindset. [00:05:00] Tip 1: Define Your "Why" for Networking Learn how understanding your purpose can make networking more meaningful, whether it's learning, making connections, raising your profile, or simply being curious. [00:08:00] Tip 2: Find the Right Networking Group Sarah discusses the importance of finding a group that aligns with your personality and goals. Experimentation is key to discovering the right fit. [00:10:00] Tip 3: Have Strategies for What You Dislike Practical advice to handle awkward moments, from starting conversations to gracefully exiting ones that aren't working for you. [00:13:00] Tip 4: Set Mini Goals Boost your confidence and sense of achievement by setting small, actionable goals for each networking event. [00:15:00] Tip 5: Follow Up Effectively Networking doesn't end when the event is over. Sarah highlights the importance of maintaining meaningful connections through follow-ups and collaborations. [00:16:00] Final Thoughts and Closing Sarah recaps the key points, encourages listeners to adopt a promotion mindset, and invites them to be strategic about networking as part of their leadership journey. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Rate & Review the Podcast If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: | |||
| 26 Nov 2024 | Episode 2: How to stop feeling like an imposter at work | 00:19:29 | |
Today Sarah dives into the common but often unspoken experience of imposter feelings at work. If you've ever felt like a fraud or doubted your achievements, you're not alone—and this episode will help you kickstart the process of overcoming those thoughts. Episode Show Notes:[00:00] Introduction Meet your host, Sarah Archer, leadership coach and career strategist. Overview of the episode: imposter feelings and their impact. [01:15] What Are Imposter Feelings? Statistics: 70% of adults experience imposter feelings at some point. Triggering situations: new roles, promotions, or stepping out of comfort zones. [04:20] The Disconnect Between Perception and Reality Telltale signs of imposter feelings: doubting accomplishments and fearing exposure. The role of internalized rules and harsh self-judgment. [07:00] Roots of Imposter Feelings Potential origins: childhood, early career experiences, or authority fears. Sarah shares her personal story of overcoming imposter feelings. [10:10] The Brain’s Coping Mechanisms Strategies like perfectionism, avoidance, and overworking to manage feelings of exposure. The exhausting impact on confidence, career growth, and mental energy. [13:00] Breaking the Pattern Understanding imposter feelings as a psychological pattern, not a permanent state. Levels of change: environment, capabilities, beliefs, and identity. [15:30] Real-Life Transformation: Sally’s Story A client’s journey from imposter feelings to confidence in a new leadership role. The importance of embedding new thinking patterns. [17:30] Actionable Strategy: Identify and Reframe Your Rules Unearthing unhelpful rules with prompts:
Reframing rules as if advising a friend. [18:50] Final Thoughts and Next Steps Take time to identify unconscious rules and seek support if needed. Resources and coaching opportunities available on Sarah’s website. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Rate & Review the Podcast If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk | |||
| 24 Jan 2025 | Episode 11 How to cope when you don't get the job | 00:15:17 | |
Job hunting can be a tough and exhausting journey, especially when you don’t land the offer after pouring so much energy into interview preparation. The sting of rejection can impact your confidence, motivation, and even your sense of direction. But don’t worry—there’s a way forward. In this episode, Sarah breaks down eight actionable steps to help you bounce back stronger. From managing the emotions of rejection and regaining your confidence to identifying common pitfalls and crafting a stronger personal brand, you’ll discover practical strategies to improve your interview performance. By the end, you’ll be ready to reframe rejection, embrace resilience, and approach your job search with renewed energy and clarity. If you’re feeling stuck after a job rejection, this episode will guide you toward turning the experience into a stepping stone for success. Show Notes[00:00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable [00:01:00] Why rejection can feel so hard and its impact on job seekers. [00:03:00] Step 1: Take time to recharge and regain perspective. [00:04:30] Step 2: Get actionable feedback and how to use it wisely. [00:06:00] Step 3: Analyze your fit and identify what’s missing. [00:07:00] Step 4: Review and refine your interview technique. [00:08:00] Step 5: Understand your personal brand and create impact. [00:10:00] Step 6: Reconnect with your confidence and quiet your inner critic. [00:11:00] Step 7: Build resilience to navigate rejection effectively. [00:12:30] Step 8: Get back out there and continue your job search journey. [00:14:00] The importance of seeking help, including interview coaching options. Useful Links Watch the episode on LinkedIn LIve Related Episode: [Episode 8: How to Be Successful at Your Next Interview] Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Rate & Review the Podcast If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk | |||
| 26 Nov 2024 | Episode 3 Three steps to kickstart your leadership job search | 00:14:36 | |
Sarah shares practical strategies to help you get unstuck and take the first steps toward securing your next leadership role. Sarah outlines three foundational steps to kickstart your leadership job search, focusing on motivation, clarity, and mindset. Whether you’re aiming for your first leadership role or planning a move to the next level, these actionable insights will set you on the path to success. Episode Show Notes[00:00] Introduction Meet Sarah Archer and her mission to help female leaders thrive. Overview of the episode’s focus: taking action on your leadership job search. [01:10] Step 1: Set a Goal with a Timeline Define a specific date for when you want to be in your new role. Plan backwards to allocate time for your job search. Identify "pull motivators" that inspire you to move forward. [04:30] Step 2: Define Your Ideal Role Clarify the elements of your next role: success factors, culture fit, stretch opportunities, and pay. How to narrow down non-negotiables to streamline your search. Using role criteria to make objective decisions during the offer stage. [09:15] Step 3: Manage Mindset Wobbles Overcome self-doubt and inner criticism that can hinder progress. Tap into your inner coach to remind yourself of your strengths and achievements. Strategies for staying motivated and confident throughout the job search process. [12:30] Recap and Closing Thoughts Summary of the three steps: setting a timeline, defining your ideal role, and managing your mindset. Invitation to connect for personalized coaching support. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Rate & Review the Podcast If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk | |||
| 13 Dec 2024 | Episode 5 Stay or Go? When to quit your job | 00:14:08 | |
Sarah tackles a dilemma that most professionals face at some point in their careers: Should I stay in my job, or is it time to leave? She explores the red flags that signal it’s time to move on, how to assess whether your dissatisfaction is fixable, and how to make a robust decision that aligns with your values and goals. Sarah also shares a step-by-step diagnostic to help you gain clarity and confidence in your next career move. Whether you’re feeling stuck, plateauing, or just unsure about your next step, this episode is packed with practical advice to guide you. Episode Show Notes: [00:00:00] Introduction: Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable. Sarah introduces the show and today’s topic, sharing why the decision to stay or leave a job is so challenging. [00:02:00] Clear Indicators It’s Time to Leave: Toxic work environments, mental health impacts, and lack of change or growth opportunities. [00:03:00] Subtler Signs of Dissatisfaction: Boredom, plateauing, or feeling stuck despite great perks or pay. [00:04:00] Diagnostic Questions to Gain Clarity: How to evaluate what’s wrong with your job and whether it can be fixed. [00:05:30] Assessing Growth Opportunities: Looking internally for new challenges, projects, or lateral moves within your organization. [00:06:30] Pros and Cons of Leaving vs. Staying: Weighing the benefits and trade-offs of each option. [00:07:30] Energy and Values Check-In: How energy levels and values alignment impact your career satisfaction and decision-making. [00:09:00] Conversations to Have: Talking to your boss, HR, mentors, or coaches to explore options and gain perspective. [00:10:00] Setting a Deadline for Decision-Making: Avoiding indecision by setting a firm timeline for your next steps. [00:11:00] Preparing for Your Next Move: Defining criteria for your next role, whether internal or external, and making time for your search or preparation. [00:12:30] Sarah’s Final Takeaway: “No decision is ever wrong; it’s simply the decision you made at the time.” Remember: Shine brightly. Lead boldly. Be unstoppable. Useful Links Stay or Go LinkedIn Live Recording Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Rate & Review the Podcast If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk | |||
| 26 Nov 2024 | Welcome to the Unstuck & Unstoppable podcast (trailer) | 00:02:02 | |
Welcome to the trailer of the Unstuck & Unstoppable podcast; a weekly career show for ambitious women. It's packed full of tips and strategies to help you thrive on your leadership career journey. Join Sarah Archer, an experienced leadership coach and career strategist as she explains what you can expect from the podcast. Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn or send me a DM at sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk | |||
| 06 Dec 2024 | Episode 4 How to Negotiate Your Worth | 00:22:32 | |
Sarah tackles a vital topic: negotiating your worth - whether it's asking for a payrise or negotiating a better salary at job offer stage. Sarah delves into the importance of preparing both practically and mentally for salary negotiations, sharing actionable strategies to help you confidently advocate for the pay you deserve. Episode Show notes[01:00] The Importance of Understanding Your Motivation
[5:00] Doing Your Research Learn where to gather salary data, including:
[09:00] Preparing a Strong Business Case Outline your desired salary and back it up with:
[14:00] Timing & Building Relationships Why timing is crucial: post-project success or organizational shifts can be opportune moments. The role of your boss as an ally in the negotiation process. [17:00] The Emotional Aspect of Negotiations Strategies to manage anxiety and rejection. Shifting your mindset to view the negotiation as part of long-term career development. [17:30] The Pension Pay Gap and Future Planning Learn why addressing salary negotiations is essential for closing the gender pension gap. Discover how cumulative salary decisions impact your long-term financial security [20:00] Backup Plans Alternative benefits to negotiate, such as flexibility, additional training, or future reviews. How to decide whether to stay or move on if your request is denied. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Rate & Review the Podcast If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk, and let Sarah know how your negotiation journey goes. Remember, you’re unstoppable! | |||
| 03 Jan 2025 | How to be successful in your next job interview | 00:18:57 | |
This episode focuses on mastering your mindset to increase your chances of success in job interviews. From mindset tips to practical strategies, Sarah provides the tools you need to ace your next interview and achieve your career aspirations. Show Notes [00:00:00] Welcome and Introduction [00:02:00] The Growing Complexity of Interviews
[00:03:00] Overcoming Negative Mindsets
[00:05:00] Harnessing Positive Experiences
[00:06:00] Reframing Nerves as Excitement
[00:09:00] Gaining Perspective
[00:11:00] Seeing Interviewers as Allies
[00:13:00] Power of Affirmations
[00:15:00] Visualization Techniques
[00:17:00] Final Encouragement and Resources
Remember, you are capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Be unstoppable! Useful Links Watch the episode on LinkedIn Live Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Rate & Review the Podcast If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk | |||
| 27 Dec 2024 | Episode 7 Career Change Made Simple: Should You Shift, Pivot, or Leap? | 00:12:54 | |
In this episode, Sarah delves into the concept of career change, exploring three different pathways—shift, pivot, or leap. She shares practical strategies, real-life client examples, and personal experiences to help you understand which type of change might be right for you. Episode Shownotes: [00:00:00] Intro: Welcome to the podcast, its purpose, and Sarah's mission to help ambitious female leaders thrive while staying true to their values. [00:02:00] Why Career Change Happens: Common reasons people consider career change, including boredom, misalignment of values, or feeling stuck. [00:04:00] Overcoming Career Change Fears: Addressing the fears that arise during career change, such as uncertainty, fear of judgment, and loss of identity. [00:05:00] Degrees of Career Change: Breaking down career change into three pathways: shift, pivot, or leap. [00:06:00] Shift: Examples of staying within your current career while making meaningful changes, such as a teacher moving into leadership or a marketer transitioning sectors. [00:08:00] Pivot: Stories of professionals using existing skills to move into new but related roles, such as a marketing manager becoming an employee engagement manager. [00:09:00] Leap: Transformational career changes, like a communications director retraining as a speech and language therapist. [00:10:00] Sarah’s Career Journey: Personal examples of shifts, pivots, and leaps in Sarah’s career, from HR to career coaching. [00:11:00] Emotional vs. Practical Aspects of Change: The importance of mindset, confidence, and motivation in making a successful career transition. [00:12:00] Final Thoughts: Encouragement to take action, explore free resources, and connect with Sarah for guidance on career changes. Useful Links Watch this episode on LinkedIn Live Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Rate & Review the Podcast If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk | |||
| 31 Jan 2025 | Episode 12 How to Get Your Leadership Mojo Back! | 00:17:16 | |
In this empowering episode Sarah dives into a challenge that many leaders face: losing their leadership mojo. Whether it’s burnout, feeling stagnant, or simply being overwhelmed, Sarah shares actionable strategies to help you rediscover your energy, passion, and leadership identity. Packed with practical tips and inspiring insights, this episode is your guide to regaining confidence and leading with purpose. Show Notes: [00:00:00] Welcome and Introduction [00:01:00] The Mojo Disappears
[00:03:00] Signs You’ve Lost Your Mojo
[00:06:00] Recognizing the Opportunity for Reflection
[00:07:00] Leadership Identity and Values
[00:09:00] The Energy Check-In
[00:10:00] Priming for Success
[00:12:00] Reframing Challenges as Growth Opportunities
[00:14:00] Transforming Your Language
[00:16:00] Recap and Closing Thoughts
Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Resources Insight Timer App: A tool for guided meditations to help you set the tone for your day. Rate & Review the Podcast If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk | |||
| 17 Jan 2025 | Episode 10 How to Avoid Leadership Burnout | 00:16:28 | |
In this episode, Sarah Archer explores the critical issue of Leadership Burnout. Sarah shares insights into what burnout looks like, why it happens, and why women in leadership roles are particularly at risk. She discusses the pressures of isolation, unrealistic expectations, multitasking, and work-life imbalance, as well as how traits like perfectionism and people-pleasing can exacerbate the problem. Sarah offers practical strategies to prevent burnout, including setting boundaries, building routines, and prioritizing self-care. Show Notes[00:01:30] Why Talk About Burnout? – Insights into burnout's prevalence among female leaders and its consequences. [00:03:00] Leadership Challenges – The additional pressures leaders face in times of change and high performance demands. [00:04:30] Burnout Statistics – McKinsey research highlights burnout's higher prevalence among women in management. [00:05:30] Defining Burnout – Symptoms, causes, and its definition by the World Health Organization. [00:07:00] Causes of Leadership Burnout – Isolation, lack of support, unrealistic workloads, multitasking, and power stress. [00:09:00] Recognizing Burnout Indicators – Personal signs and triggers to watch for. [00:10:30] Practical Tips to Prevent Burnout:
[00:14:30] Final Thoughts – Key takeaways and an invitation to connect and explore more resources. Remember: shine brightly, lead boldly, and be unstoppable. Useful Links How to Boost Your Wellbeing at Work E-book Women In The Workplace 2023 Mckinsey Report Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Rate & Review the Podcast If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk | |||
| 20 Dec 2024 | Episode 6 How to boost your leadership confidence | 00:17:33 | |
In this episode, Sarah tackles a common challenge: maintaining and boosting leadership confidence amidst high expectations, decision-making pressures, and self-doubt. Tune in for actionable strategies, real-life examples, and tips to help you build a strong inner foundation for sustainable confidence and success. Show Notes[00:00:00] Introduction
[00:01:00] Why Leadership Confidence Wobbles
[00:04:00] Common Challenges for Female Leaders
[00:05:30] The Foundation of Leadership Confidence
[00:07:00] Working on Beliefs and Narratives
[00:11:30] The Role of Triggers and Stories
[00:13:00] Amplifying Your Leadership Brand
[00:15:00] Key Takeaways
[00:16:30] Invitation for Support
[00:17:00] Closing Remarks
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could benefit. Useful Links Watch the LinkedIn Live Recording Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes | |||
| 10 Jan 2025 | Episode 9 How to Stop Being A Perfectionist At Work | 00:18:16 | |
In today’s episode, Sarah tackles a common challenge faced by high achievers: perfectionism. We explore why perfectionism can be a double-edged sword, the stress and anxiety it causes, and how you can overcome it without compromising on quality. She shares actionable insights, including a 7-step approach to embracing the concept of “good enough,” designed to help you reclaim your time, reduce stress, and achieve sustainable success. Show Notes[00:00:00] Introduction Why tackling perfectionism is crucial for female leaders. [00:02:00] The Downside of Perfectionism Perfectionism’s connection to imposter syndrome and stress. How it impacts performance, well-being, and relationships. [00:05:00] Personal Story: My Struggles with Perfectionism Balancing motherhood and a senior HR role. The transformative power of the “good enough” concept. [00:07:30] Case Study: Breaking the Cycle A perfectionist architect’s journey to embracing good enough. [00:08:00] The 7-Step Approach to Good Enough Identify Two Tasks to Experiment On Focus on low-impact tasks. Define Good Enough for Yourself Consider time and impact trade-offs. Give Yourself Permission to Experiment Use affirmations to reframe perfectionist tendencies. Focus on the Benefits Reclaim time for personal priorities like family or self-care. Monitor Your Progress Reflect on outcomes and celebrate success. Engage Support Seek feedback and accountability from peers or managers. Address Underlying Beliefs Work with a coach or therapist to reframe limiting beliefs. [00:17:00] Recap and Final Thoughts Quick summary of the seven steps. Encouragement to embrace imperfection and unlock your potential. Thank you for listening—remember, you’re capable of more than you know. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and unlock your extraordinary potential. Be unstoppable. Useful Links Sign up for Weekly Career Inspiration Learn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching Programmes Join The Love What You Do Facebook Group Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Rate & Review the Podcast If you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: sarah@careertreecoaching.co.uk | |||