Big F*cking Dreams

The Big F*cking Dreams Podcast is a self-help podcast for high performers (without the cringe). This self-development podcast offers step-by-step actionable tips from one of Australia's leading life coaches, Hannah Kissel, who has worked with clients from LinkedIn, Pinterest, Canva, Uber, Gartner, DocuSign, MongoDB, and many more. This podcast is for the high performer who ties their self-worth to their job performance but deep down knows there has to be another way. It’s for those who want to expand their career AND live deeply by their values. This podcast is a RECLAMATION of confidence and personal power. Want more confidence? Less self-sabotage? Zero burnout? And a higher f*cking salary? Join Hannah every other Wednesday as she discusses topics like the truth about leaving your corporate job or how to stop self-sabotage. She explores how confidence and vulnerability can co-exist, the psychology of high performers, and shares actionable tools to achieve you’re big f*cking dreams (like moving to Mexico City, quitting the job you hate, or finally starting your own podcast).

78: The Money Mindset Shift High-Performing Women Need to Hear 04/21/2026

78: The Money Mindset Shift High-Performing Women Need to Hear "How you do money is how you do everything." If you've ever frozen when you should have acted, avoided looking at your bank account, or made a financial decision out of fear. This episode is going to hit differently. Hannah sits down with Julia Scott, Sydney-based financial advisor, wealth mentor, chartered accountant, and founder of Love Luck Wealth and the upcoming FinTech platform Jane, to talk about the real reason so many high-performing women are secretly sabotaging themselves financially. This is not your standard money podcast. Julia brings together financial expertise and emotional intelligence to explain why the traditional finance industry was built for men, why women freeze instead of act, and what to actually do about it. In this episode, they cover: Why self-sabotage shows up in your finances — and how to catch it The uncomfortable truth about women's historical relationship with money Julia's personal story: the divorce that tested everything she knew about finance — and why it became her mission Why you should never make a financial decision from a place of fear The case for prenuptial agreements (even if you're not wealthy) How to financially prepare for having children The 6–12 month safety cushion rule — and why most people skip it Practical tools for dealing with financial stress and anxiety The "50 ways to make money" exercise that unlocks creative income thinking Why perfectionism is an energy leak — and how to stop it costing you Raising your frequency to meet your financial goals (yes, there's science behind this) Two thirds of the world's wealth is forecast to be in women's hands. The question is, are you ready to hold yours? About Julia Scott Julia Scott is a Chartered Accountant, wealth educator, and founder dedicated to helping women build financial confidence and long-term wealth. After beginning her career advising ultra-high-net-worth families, Julia saw firsthand that many capable women had been left out of the financial conversations shaping their futures. Determined to change that, she founded Love Luck Wealth, where she teaches women how to overcome money blocks, invest wisely, and build meaningful wealth. Julia is also the founder of Money by Jane, an upcoming financial platform designed to give women easier access to banking, investing, and financial education. Her work is driven by a simple belief: when women understand money, they change the trajectory of their lives and the generations that follow. She lives in Sydney Australia and is passionate about empowering women everywhere to feel confident, capable, and in control of their financial future. Connect with Julia Love Luck Wealth: hello@loveluckwealth.com /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/40955125

77: Made Redundant and Lost Your Confidence? Here's What to Do Next 04/14/2026

76: Why Smart People Stay Stuck in Bad Careers 04/07/2026

76: Why Smart People Stay Stuck in Bad Careers In this episode, we unpack the sunk cost fallacy, the mental trap that keeps people stuck in jobs, relationships, projects, and decisions simply because they’ve already invested so much time, money, or energy. We explore why walking away can feel so hard, even when something is no longer working, and how identity, fear, loyalty, and past effort can cloud clear decision-making. Through personal stories and real-world examples, this episode helps you recognize when you’re holding on for the wrong reasons and how to make better choices based on where you want to go next, not just what you’ve already spent. If you’ve ever thought, “I can’t leave now. I’ve already put too much into this,” this conversation is for you. Key Takeaways: - What the sunk cost fallacy actually is - Why smart people stay stuck in the wrong things - How this shows up in careers, relationships, and personal goals - The role of identity, fear, and loyalty in bad decisions - Practical ways to break out of the trap - How to evaluate whether it’s time to stay, pivot, or walk away Timestamps: 1:35 – What the sunk cost fallacy actually means 2:35 – Real-life example: staying because of past investment 3:35 – Why people stay stuck in jobs they’ve outgrown 4:45 – How sunk cost shows up in more than just careers 5:30 – The personality patterns most affected by this trap 6:35 – Strategy #1: Set a decision deadline 7:30 – Strategy #2: The “Would I choose this today?” test 8:35 – Strategy #3: Calculate the cost of staying 9:45 – Strategy #4: Get an outside perspective 11:25 – Final thoughts and how to move forward Loved this episode? Leave a comment below with what resonated most! Rate & review the show on Spotify & Apple Podcasts. It helps more big dreamers find us! Share this episode on your stories and tag Hannah! Slide into Hannah's DMs on Instagram or LinkedIn, she loves hearing from listeners! ------- Gain Access to the free Career Confidence Course: https://www.hannahkissel.com/careerconfidence The Truth About Imposter Syndrome: https://open.spotify.com/episode/129YgMPuJWGLQK5VB9CncR?si=a352646dfec6411a Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahmaekissel/ Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahkissel/ Quiz: Discover Your Career Alignment Score: https://hannahkisselcareerquiz.scoreapp.com #highperformer #sunkcostfallacy #careertransition #bigdreamer #workplaceadvice #careerdecision #hannahkissel /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/40755385

75: Salary Negotiation: Building a Business Case That Gets You the Raise 03/31/2026

75: Salary Negotiation: Building a Business Case That Gets You the Raise You're delivering excellent work, taking on more responsibilities, and getting glowing performance reviews, so why is your salary still lagging behind? In this episode, Hannah responds to a listener who's 15K below the median for her level despite supporting nine executives and receiving zero critical feedback. Hannah breaks down exactly how to build a business case that gets results, even after you've already heard "no." Key Takeaways 1. If you don't advocate for yourself, no one else will 2. The $15K gap is bigger than it looks 3. Build a business case, not a conversation 4. The business case framework 5. Schedule a dedicated meeting and don't back out 6. A "soft no" is not a final no 7. Over-delivering without being compensated is a pattern, break it Timestamps: 00:45 - The most common salary question Hannah gets 01:00 - Two issues at play: practical skills vs. confidence and self-worth 01:30 - Listener question: underpaid HR Director, soft no from her boss 02:55 - Hannah's response: why you must re-approach this negotiation 04:10 - Step 1:Build your business case (the one-pager framework) 08:35 - How have YOU approached salary negotiation? 09:05 - Step 2:How to actually have the conversation 10:30 - Mindset: reinforcing your self-worth before you walk in the room 🚨 Got a career challenge? Submit your questions and frustrations to the Hannah Hotline! Email: hello@hannahkissel.com Gain Access to the free Career Confidence Course: https://www.hannahkissel.com/careerconfidence Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahmaekissel/ Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahkissel/ Visit Hannah's website: www.hannahkissel.com ------- Hannah Hotline is sponsored by dominiquejingles - where quirky, clever, and corporate branding is reimagined. A client says, ‘We just want something different.’ Dominique turns that into a jingle that sticks in your head all day. DM Dominique on Instagram @dominiquejingles or email dominiqueenglish04@gmail.com. #salarynegotiation #underpaid #howtonegotiatesalary #highperformer #peoplepleasingrecovery #bigdreamer #hannahkissel /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/40680445

74: Fear of Rejection? Tools High Performers Use to Bounce Back 03/24/2026

74: Fear of Rejection? Tools High Performers Use to Bounce Back Rejection hurts, but it doesn't have to stop you. In this episode, Hannah Kissel gets real about something she faces literally every single day as an entrepreneur and coach: rejection. If you've ever struggled with the fear of rejection or felt like being turned down means you're not good enough, this episode is for you. Hannah breaks down the neuroscience behind why rejection feels so painful (hint: your brain thinks you're being kicked out of the tribe), and walks you through powerful mindset tools to help you bounce back faster, build resilience, and keep putting yourself out there — even when it's hard. Whether you're job hunting, growing a business, navigating dating, or just trying to show up as your most ambitious self, learning how to deal with rejection is one of the most important skills you'll ever build. Because here's the truth: the more you go after big dreams, the more rejection you'll face. That's not failure — that's proof you're in the game. 🎯 In this episode, Hannah covers: - Why getting rejected is actually a sign you're doing it right - The brain science behind why rejection feels like a threat to your survival - 4 practical mindset tools to make rejection easier - Why your growth mindset is your biggest asset when facing rejection - How diversifying your identity beyond your career builds emotional resilience If this episode resonates with you, share it on your stories, rate and review the show on Spotify, and drop a comment — Hannah reads them and uses your feedback to shape future episodes! Timestamps: 00:27 — Introduction: Even coaches have bad days (and that's okay) 02:30 — Community shoutout & how to support the show 03:30 — Reframing rejection: Why getting rejected means you're doing it right 04:40 — The neuroscience of rejection: Why your brain treats it like a survival threat 06:10 — Focus on the process, not the outcome (the paperclip/pompom jar trick) 09:00 — Pause & understand your internal triggers (Internal Family Systems) 11:15 — Reconnect with your "why" 13:15 — Embrace a growth mindset (Carol Dweck's work) 15:10 — Why your career can't be your whole identity — and how to build emotional buffers Key Takeaways: 1. Rejection = proof of effort. 2. Your brain is wired to fear rejection. 3. Focus on the process, not the outcome. 4. Understand what's getting triggered inside you. 5. Know your "why." 6. A growth mindset is your superpower. 7. Get a life outside your work. Loved this episode? Leave a comment below with what resonated most! Rate & review the show on Spotify — it helps more big dreamers find us! Share this episode on your stories and tag Hannah! Slide into Hannah's DMs on Instagram or LinkedIn — she loves hearing from listeners! ------- Gain Access to the free Career Confidence Course: https://www.hannahkissel.com/careerconfidence The Truth About Imposter Syndrome: https://open.spotify.com/episode/129YgMPuJWGLQK5VB9CncR?si=a352646dfec6411a Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahmaekissel/ Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahkissel/ Quiz: Discover Your Career Alignment Score: https://hannahkisselcareerquiz.scoreapp.com #fearofrejection #highperformer #dealingwithrejection #rejectiontosuccess #effortmatters #hannahkissel #bigdreamer /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/40602965

73: Toxic Ambition vs. Healthy Ambition: Which One Is Driving You? 03/17/2026

73: Toxic Ambition vs. Healthy Ambition: Which One Is Driving You? Is work-life balance the secret to a fulfilling life or a one-way ticket to mediocrity? Join Hannah as she tackles one of the most provocative debates in high-performance culture head-on. Spoiler: it's not black and white. In this episode, she breaks down the difference between toxic ambition and healthy ambition, unpacks the concept of "greedy jobs," and gives you a practical framework for achieving excellence without burning your life to the ground. Key Takeaways: 1. Work-life balance and exceptionalism are not mutually exclusive 2. Toxic ambition has a look — do you recognise it? 3. Healthy ambition is the goal 4. Define success for yourself — or someone else will define it for you 5. You don't have to be exceptional at everything — just one or two things 6. Diversify your self-worth beyond your career 7. If you must sacrifice, do it intentionally Timestamps: 01:30 - The entrepreneurship rhetoric: "sacrifice everything" 02:30 - Emil Barr's Wall Street Journal op-ed (the 22-year-old with two $20M companies) 03:30 - What are "greedy jobs"? 05:00 - Can you achieve excellence with balance? 05:30 - The key to exceptionalism: choose your lane 06:00 - Why you MUST define success on your own terms 06:30 - Hannah's personal burnout story at 30 07:00 - Toxic ambition vs. healthy ambition 07:30 - 5 signs you're operating in toxic ambition 08:30 - The 85-year Harvard study on happiness & relationships 09:00 - The Wheel of Life, a holistic view of success 09:30 - Why tying self-worth to work performance is dangerous 10:30 - How to choose one or two things to be truly exceptional at 11:00 - Seasons of sacrifice: conscious vs. unconscious overwork 12:00 - Client story: reinvesting in life after burnout 13:00 - Wrap-up + Life & Work Transformation program References Mentioned: "Work-Life Balance Will Keep You Mediocre" — op-ed by Emil Barr, Wall Street Journal "Greedy Jobs" — research by Nobel Prize-winning economist Claudia Goldin Harvard Study of Adult Development — 85-year study concluding that relationship quality is the #1 predictor of happiness Wheel of Life — framework covering: career/financial, relationships, health, purpose, autonomy, joy, community & spirituality **Loved this episode? If this resonated, share it with a high-achiever in your life who might be running on fumes. And if you're ready to build ambition that actually works for you, check out Hannah's Life & Work Transformation program. /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/40510560

72: Why You Will Never Feel "Ready" (And What To Do Instead) 03/10/2026

72: Why You Will Never Feel "Ready" (And What To Do Instead) In this episode, Hannah shares a powerful mindset shift that high performers often struggle with: the myth of feeling “ready.” After a major career milestone—becoming a columnist for The Daily Telegraph—Hannah reflects on the idea that confidence, readiness, and clarity rarely come before action. Instead, they are built through action and experience. If you’ve ever told yourself you’ll start the business, make the career move, apply for the opportunity, or take the next step once things calm down or once you feel more confident, this episode is for you. Hannah explores the psychology behind perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and the fear of social judgment—along with practical frameworks to help you take action before you feel ready. This conversation is especially valuable for high performers navigating career transitions, entrepreneurship, leadership growth, or major life decisions. Key Takeaways Readiness is not a feeling—it’s a decision. Waiting to feel ready can keep you stuck indefinitely. Confidence is built through repetition and action, not before it. High performers often delay change by waiting for the “perfect time” that never comes. Fear of embarrassment or judgment can subconsciously prevent you from taking bold steps. Your identity shapes your behavior—who you believe you are determines the risks you’re willing to take. Mapping multiple life paths can help you evaluate whether you’re optimizing for safety or adventure in your current phase of life. Small experiments and informational conversations can help you test new directions without major risk. ------- Gain Access to the free Career Confidence Course: https://www.hannahkissel.com/careerconfidence The Truth About Imposter Syndrome: https://open.spotify.com/episode/129YgMPuJWGLQK5VB9CncR?si=a352646dfec6411a Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahmaekissel/ Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahkissel/ Quiz: Discover Your Career Alignment Score: https://hannahkisselcareerquiz.scoreapp.com /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/40381050

71: The Psychology of Imposter Syndrome at Top Tech Companies 03/03/2026

71: The Psychology of Imposter Syndrome at Top Tech Companies Why do some of the most capable, high-performing professionals feel like frauds behind closed doors? In this episode, Hannah Kissel responds to a listener working at a top tech company who is widely seen as calm, confident, and highly competent — yet privately feels anxious, ashamed, and emotionally exhausted. Despite promotions, glowing feedback, and exceptional executive presence, the listener is caught in relentless self-doubt, rumination, and fear of being “found out.” Hannah unpacks the psychology of true imposter syndrome, explaining why it’s especially common among high performers and women in elite environments — and how perfectionism, nervous-system dysregulation, and early responsibility patterns quietly fuel it. Using Internal Family Systems (IFS), behavioral exposure, and leadership-level mindset shifts, this episode offers practical, compassionate strategies for separating performance from self-worth — and for reclaiming confidence without burning out. ------- Key Takeaways: - Imposter syndrome often coexists with real competence and success - Promotions and performance data matter — your fear isn’t proof - True imposter syndrome is psychological, not skill-based - Early responsibility can wire competence with survival - Perfectionism and reassurance-seeking reinforce anxiety - Reducing compulsive checking builds confidence over time - Nervous-system regulation is as important as mindset - Joy and play are not indulgences — they are stabilizers - Confidence grows when self-worth is no longer performance-dependent ------- Timestamps: 00:02:30 – Normalizing imposter syndrome in elite environments 00:03:00 – Skill gaps vs. true imposter syndrome 00:03:30 – Promotions, performance, and proof you’re actually capable 00:04:30 – Internal Family Systems: polarized inner parts explained 00:05:00 – The competent part vs. the “fraud” part 00:06:00 – Where imposter syndrome often originates 00:06:30 – Early responsibility, caretaking, and competence as survival 00:07:00 – The “younger part” that’s stuck in time 00:08:00 – Why secrecy fuels shame and isolation 00:09:00 – Journaling and parts work as a healing tool 00:09:30 – Perfectionism, rumination, and compulsive checking 00:10:30 – Exposure therapy: reducing reassurance-seeking behaviors 00:11:00 – Validation addiction and asking others when you already know 00:11:30 – Trusting your own competence again 00:12:00 – Nervous system regulation after work 00:12:30 – The missing ingredient: joy, play, and fun #impostersyndrome #highperformer #worklifebalancetips #hannahkissel ------- 🚨 Got a career challenge? Submit your questions and frustrations to the Hannah Hotline! Email: hello@hannahkissel.com Gain Access to the free Career Confidence Course: https://www.hannahkissel.com/careerconfidence Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahmaekissel/ Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahkissel/ Visit Hannah's website: www.hannahkissel.com ------- Hannah Hotline is sponsored by dominiquejingles— where quirky, clever, and corporate branding is reimagined. A client says, ‘We just want something different.’ Dominique turns that into a jingle that sticks in your head all day. DM Dominique on Instagram @dominiquejingles or email dominiqueenglish04@gmail.com. /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/40295595

70: Thinking About Leaving Corporate? 3 Things You Absolutely Need Before You Start a Business 02/24/2026

70: Thinking About Leaving Corporate? 3 Things You Absolutely Need Before You Start a Business Thinking about leaving corporate for entrepreneurship — but unsure if you’re actually ready? In this episode, Hannah breaks down the three non-negotiables you need in place before you quit your corporate job and start a business. Drawing from her own transition after years in big tech, as well as coaching dozens of high performers through career pivots, Hannah gets brutally honest about what makes this leap successful — and what quietly derails it. This isn’t motivational fluff. It’s a grounded, strategic conversation about mindset, money, and courage, and why skipping any one of these can cost you years of momentum, confidence, and financial stability. If you’re ambitious, capable, and feeling called toward entrepreneurship — but battling fear, doubt, or timing questions — this episode will help you make the decision from clarity, not fantasy. Timestamps: 01:30 – Why leaving corporate requires a different framework 02:00 – The 3 non-negotiables for going out on your own 03:00 – Why mindset is the biggest predictor of success 03:30 – Belief, resilience, and evidence from past wins 04:00 – A personal story: leaving corporate income behind 04:30 – Why you are the determining factor 05:30 – Why mindset issues must be addressed before quitting 06:00 – Growth mindset vs. fixed mindset in business 06:30 – Why entrepreneurship requires rapid skill acquisition 07:30 – Resources for building a rock-solid mindset 09:00 – Understanding fixed vs discretionary costs 10:00 – Money clarity as a leadership skill 11:00 – Why timing and season of life matter 11:30 – Trade-offs: wealth building vs business building 12:00 – Opportunity cost of waiting too long 13:30 – The emotional cost of visibility 14:30 – Why wanting the outcome must outweigh fear 16:00 – Why community accelerates confidence 17:00 – Final encouragement + next steps Key Takeaways: - Entrepreneurship amplifies your mindset — both strengths and fears - Believing you can succeed is a measurable predictor of success - Growth mindset is essential when learning dozens of new skills - Financial runway creates safety, clarity, and better decisions - One year of living expenses is a strategic buffer, not pessimism - Timing and season of life matter more than motivation - Courage isn’t confidence — it’s acting with fear - Visibility and embarrassment are part of the process - Identity drives outcomes more than tactics ------- Gain Access to the free Career Confidence Course: https://www.hannahkissel.com/careerconfidence The Truth About Imposter Syndrome: https://open.spotify.com/episode/129YgMPuJWGLQK5VB9CncR?si=a352646dfec6411a Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahmaekissel/ Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahkissel/ Quiz: Discover Your Career Alignment Score: https://hannahkisselcareerquiz.scoreapp.com #careertransitions #highperformer #startingabusiness #bigdreamer #hannahkissel /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/40213185

69: Kiss & Tell: Heated Rivalry, My Relationship with Excellence, Pain vs. Attraction 02/17/2026

69: Kiss & Tell: Heated Rivalry, My Relationship with Excellence, Pain vs. Attraction In this personal Kiss & Tell episode of Big F*cking Dreams, Hannah shares an honest behind-the-scenes reflection on excellence, ambition, identity, and growth — and what it really looks like to raise your standards without returning to burnout. From becoming unexpectedly obsessed with Heated Rivalry, to re-examining her relationship with excellence after burnout recovery, to rethinking how pain-based thinking shapes work, marketing, and personal goals — this episode is a candid look at how high performers evolve when they stop swinging between over-pushing and pulling back. Key Takeaways: Burnout doesn’t mean excellence is gone — it means capacity needs rebuilding You can raise your standards without self-punishment Excellence and sustainability are not opposites Showing up at 70% is still leadership Passion often reveals identity, not distraction Focusing on pain keeps you stuck; focusing on transformation moves you forward What you pay attention to shapes what you create Ambition works best when paired with self-trust and internal safety Timestamps: 01:00 – A new (unexpected) obsession: Heated Rivalry 01:30 – A personal branding exercise that revealed a core truth 02:00 – Passion, intensity, and identity 02:30 – Falling into obsession — and what it reveals 03:00 – Why simple, focused storytelling works 04:30 – Courage, visibility, and self-acceptance 05:00 – Why this story mattered so deeply 06:00 – Shifting into excellence: watching the Taylor Swift documentary 06:30 – Rigor, discipline, and demanding excellence 07:00 – Burnout at 30 and stepping away from work 07:30 – Trauma recovery and rebuilding capacity 08:00 – Entrepreneurship after burnout 09:00 – “Just put it out” vs. “hold a higher standard” 10:00 – Raising the bar in content and leadership 10:30 – Excellence as identity — done healthily 11:30 – Living in the gray, not extremes 12:00 – Showing up at 70% instead of not at all 12:30 – Discipline without punishment 13:00 – The tension between excellence and consistency 13:30 – Why showing up still matters 14:00 – Pain-based vs. attraction-based marketing 14:30 – Trauma shaping how we see the world 15:00 – The reticular activating system explained 15:30 – Why focusing on what you don’t want backfires 16:00 – Shifting toward transformation and desire 16:30 – Helping people change their internal operating system 17:00 – Re-orienting toward possibility and growth ------- Gain Access to the free Career Confidence Course: https://www.hannahkissel.com/careerconfidence The Truth About Imposter Syndrome: https://open.spotify.com/episode/129YgMPuJWGLQK5VB9CncR?si=a352646dfec6411a Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahmaekissel/ Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahkissel/ Quiz: Discover Your Career Alignment Score: https://hannahkisselcareerquiz.scoreapp.com /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/40135670

68: Hannah Hotline: My Direct Report Keeps Making Huge Mistakes 02/10/2026

68: Hannah Hotline: My Direct Report Keeps Making Huge Mistakes What do you do when your direct report keeps making serious mistakes — and you freeze every time you need to give feedback? In this Hannah Hotline episode, Hannah responds to a senior associate at a top-tier firm who feels stuck between wanting to be kind and fearing being walked all over. A glaring client-caught error, missed instructions, and unspoken resentment all collide — revealing a deeper issue many high performers struggle with: conflict avoidance in positions of power. Hannah breaks down how to lead with clarity without becoming cold or cruel, using Radical Candor and Nonviolent Communication to help you give feedback that actually supports growth — for your team and for yourself. If you manage people, work with juniors, or feel responsible for protecting standards while staying human, this episode is a must-listen. -------- Key Takeaways: - Avoiding feedback doesn’t protect people — it creates confusion and resentment - Being “nice” without clarity is ruinous empathy - Radical Candor allows you to care deeply and lead effectively - Clear feedback is a form of leadership, not cruelty - Nonviolent Communication gives you language when emotions are high - High standards require explicit expectations, not hints - Great leaders are willing to feel uncomfortable for the sake of growth -------- Timestamps: 01:00 – Listener story: a major client catches a glaring mistake 02:00 – Resentment, self-betrayal, and fear of being a harsh boss 02:30 – Freezing instead of being direct 03:00 – Introducing Radical Candor 04:30 – Shame, anger, and fear underneath conflict avoidance 05:00 – The danger of “ruinous empathy” 05:30 – How avoiding feedback hurts your direct report’s career 06:00 – Why senior leaders must challenge directly 07:00 – Setting standards is caring 07:30 – Why silence guarantees repeat mistakes 08:00 – Introducing Nonviolent Communication (NVC) 08:30 – Step 1: Observation (facts without judgment) 09:30 – Step 2: Naming your feelings without blame 10:30 – Step 3: Identifying the real need (trust, accuracy, standards) 11:30 – Step 4: Making a clear, actionable request 12:00 – Example: setting a proofreading process 12:30 – Caring personally while challenging directly 13:00 – Removing ambiguity and passive aggression 13:30 – Why clarity creates better performance 14:00 – What’s really stopping you from speaking up 14:30 – Confidence, conviction, and leadership identity 16:00 – What reactions to feedback tell you about someone 16:30 – It’s never too late to address a mistake #nonviolentcommunication #RadicalCandor #HighPerformers #DifficultConversations #hannahkissel 🚨 Got a career challenge? Submit your questions and frustrations to the Hannah Hotline! Email: Gain Access to the free Career Confidence Course: Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram: Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn: Visit Hannah's website: /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/40056535

67: Lindsay Zohni on Entrepreneurship, Overcoming Anxiety, and Building Self-Esteem 02/03/2026

67: Lindsay Zohni on Entrepreneurship, Overcoming Anxiety, and Building Self-Esteem What happens when your self-worth has been built on performance, achievement, and external validation — and then that structure starts to crack? In this episode, Hannah sits down with Lindsay Zohni, CEO of The Growth Option, former LinkedIn top performer, and entrepreneur, for an unfiltered conversation about anxiety, imposter syndrome, entrepreneurship, and decoupling self-esteem from success. Lindsay shares her journey from corporate leadership into entrepreneurship, unpacking the deep psychological and somatic work required to step away from “golden handcuffs,” confront financial anxiety, and rebuild a sense of worth that isn’t dependent on titles, income, or productivity. This episode is especially resonant for high performers who look successful on the outside but feel stuck, anxious, or quietly dissatisfied on the inside. This is a powerful, honest exploration of what it actually takes to grow beyond survival-driven success — and into freedom, presence, and aligned ambition. Timestamps: 00:00 – Becoming CEO & releasing imposter syndrome 02:00 – The fear of being “not enough” without a title 04:30 – Corporate validation vs. entrepreneurial self-trust 06:30 – Limiting beliefs: “I’m just a salesperson” 08:00 – Fighting the system vs. fighting yourself 10:00 – Losing the corporate feedback loop 12:00 – Primal fear, money, and entrepreneurship 13:30 – Financial dysmorphia explained 15:30 – When self-esteem is tied to achievement 17:30 – Decoupling worth from performance 18:30 – Why success doesn’t disappear when self-esteem heals 20:30 – Feeling stuck despite “having it all” 22:00 – Anxiety, meditation, and the beginning of deep inner work 24:00 – Emotional completion vs. forgiveness 26:00 – Somatic healing and releasing stored trauma 29:00 – Why behavior change alone doesn’t last 31:00 – Childhood beliefs still running adult lives 33:00 – “Wherever you go, there you are” 35:00 – Advice for professionals considering entrepreneurship 37:00 – Building self-trust and listening to what lights you up 39:00 – Lindsay’s big dream: heart-centered leadership Key Takeaways: - Self-esteem tied to success creates anxiety, not fulfillment - Imposter syndrome often survives achievement - Entrepreneurship requires self-trust, not just competence - Financial anxiety can persist even when you’re objectively “safe” - Healing internal belief systems unlocks calmer, more sustainable success - Somatic work helps release patterns logic alone can’t solve - You don’t need to destroy ambition — you need to transform it - True freedom comes from internal safety, not external stability Connect with Lindsay: www.linkedin.com/in/lindsayzohni/ www.thegrowthoption.com ------- Gain Access to the free Career Confidence Course: https://www.hannahkissel.com/careerconfidence The Truth About Imposter Syndrome: https://open.spotify.com/episode/129YgMPuJWGLQK5VB9CncR?si=a352646dfec6411a Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahmaekissel/ Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahkissel/ Quiz: Discover Your Career Alignment Score: https://hannahkisselcareerquiz.scoreapp.com #entrepreneurmindsets #HighPerformers #careerdecision #ImposterSyndrome #anxietyrecovery #ceostories #selfesteemmatters #EntrepreneurshipJourney #hannahkissel /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/39976970

66: Hannah Hotline: "I Have Toxic Friends and Want New Ones" 01/27/2026

66: Hannah Hotline: "I Have Toxic Friends and Want New Ones" If you’re successful in your career but exhausted by your friendships, this episode of Hannah Hotline dives deep into why high-achieving women often attract toxic friends — and how to change the pattern. Hannah responds to a listener who is excelling in her corporate career but feels emotionally drained by toxic friendships. From people-pleasing patterns and the fawn trauma response to misaligned values and burnout, this conversation dives deep into why ambitious people often tolerate unhealthy dynamics — and how to change that without burning your whole social life to the ground. If you’re a driven professional who’s exhausted from always saying yes, carrying emotional labor for others, or feeling guilty for wanting better friendships, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - Why ambitious, exhausted professionals often tolerate unhealthy friendships - The hidden role of people-pleasing and the fawn trauma response - How to identify red flags in friendships (not just romantic relationships) - When to have a conversation — and when a slow fade is enough - How to set internal boundaries without guilt or dramatic confrontations - Ways to deepen healthy friendships instead of starting from scratch - How self-esteem impacts the quality of your relationships - Why outgrowing friends is painful — and still necessary Timestamps: 01:00 – Listener story: High performer, burnout, and toxic friendships 02:10 – The pattern: people-pleasing, over-giving, and exhaustion 03:30 – The fawn trauma response explained 05:00 – Taking responsibility without self-blame 06:20 – Step 1: Inventory your friendships and name the red flags 08:00 – Step 2: Define what an ideal friendship actually looks like 10:00 – Are you being the kind of friend you want to have? 11:20 – Boundaries without the word “boundaries” 13:00 – When to speak up vs. when to quietly step back 14:40 – Managing guilt, shame, and fear when you change dynamics 16:30 – Reinvesting in aligned friendships you already have 18:30 – Designing a social life that fits your energy and values 20:30 – Why self-esteem is the foundation of healthy friendships 22:00 – Invitation to the Life & Work Transformation program #ToxicFriendships #HighPerformers #PeoplePleasing #personalboundaries #CareerDriven #hannahkissel 🚨 Got a career challenge? Submit your questions and frustrations to the Hannah Hotline! Email: Gain Access to the free Career Confidence Course: Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram: Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn: Visit Hannah's website: /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/39894400

65: Jenny Child on Grief, Career Transitions, and Presence 01/20/2026

65: Jenny Child on Grief, Career Transitions, and Presence In this deeply human conversation, Hannah sits down with former Oroton CEO, Jenny Child, to explore what happens after the title, the success, and the carefully built career identity. Jenny shares her experience navigating grief, leadership, and major career transitions, and how learning to slow down, let go, and be present reshaped not just her work — but her sense of self. Together, they unpack what it means to lead through uncertainty, to grieve versions of ourselves we’ve outgrown, and to build a life that isn’t driven solely by achievement. This episode is for anyone who’s: - Stepping away from a high-level role - Moving through grief or loss (personal or professional) - Questioning who they are beyond their job title - Learning how to be present in seasons of change A powerful reminder that growth doesn’t always look like striving — sometimes it looks like listening, resting, and allowing space for what’s next. Key Takeaways: - Grief isn’t only about loss — it often shows up during career transitions - Leadership roles can deeply shape identity, making transitions emotionally complex - Presence becomes essential when control and certainty fall away - Stepping back doesn’t mean failure — it can mean integration - True success evolves as we evolve - Slowing down can reveal what achievement alone never could Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & Jenny’s career background 02:10 – Identity beyond leadership and success 05:00 – Grief as a teacher during life transitions 08:30 – Leaving a role that once defined you 12:15 – The emotional cost of high-performance culture 16:00 – Learning presence when certainty disappears 20:10 – Letting go of urgency and external validation 24:45 – Redefining success after loss and change 29:30 – Advice for leaders navigating transitions 33:00 – What it really means to trust yourself again #CareerTransitions #GriefRecovery #GriefAndGrowth #WomenInLeadership #ExecutiveLife #CareerChange #Presence #IdentityAndPurpose #HighPerformer ------- 🚨 Got a career challenge? Submit your questions and frustrations to the Hannah Hotline! Email: Gain Access to the free Career Confidence Course: Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram: Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn: Visit Hannah's website: The Truth About Imposter Syndrome: Quiz: Discover Your Career Alignment Score: /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/39796450

64: Hannah Hotline: "My Boss Calls Me Every Night at 7PM. Help!" 01/13/2026

64: Hannah Hotline: "My Boss Calls Me Every Night at 7PM. Help!" In this episode of Hannah Hotline, Hannah responds to a listener who feels trapped in nightly 7PM work calls that aren’t true emergencies — and are starting to take a real toll on her health, energy, and self-respect. On paper, everything looks great: a senior role, great pay, strong performance reviews. But behind the scenes, constant availability has become the expectation — and setting boundaries feels terrifying. This episode dives into how to tell the difference between what’s truly required in your role and what’s become an unhealthy pattern — plus how to stop apologizing for wanting basic boundaries like rest, health, and an evening to yourself. Key Takeaways: - Not every late-night work demand is a true job requirement — many are learned dynamics - Chronic stress and “always on” availability have real health consequences - You don’t need to justify or apologize for reasonable boundaries - Start small: clear availability, long explanations - People-pleasing often reduces respect, not increases it - If your values and your job are in conflict, something needs to change Want Support With This? If this episode hit close to home and you’re ready to stop over-functioning, people-pleasing, and burning out, Hannah’s Life & Work Transformation program dives deep into exactly this work. #WorkBoundaries #PeoplePleasing #ToxicWorkCulture #WorkLifeBalance #BoundarySetting #HighPerformers #HannahKissel Timestamps: 00:00 – The listener’s dilemma: nightly 7 PM calls 01:45 – Why this pattern feels so hard to change 03:00 – Is this a gravity problem or a boundary problem? 05:10 – When long hours are actually expected vs. optional 07:00 – The health cost of constant availability 09:00 – What happens if you do nothing 11:30 – People-pleasing, fear, and over-apologizing 13:45 – How to start setting boundaries (without overexplaining) 17:30 – What to do if your boss pushes back 20:30 – Identity shift: becoming someone who is calm and confident 23:00 – When it might be time to reassess the role itself 🚨 Got a career challenge? Submit your questions and frustrations to the Hannah Hotline! Email: Gain Access to the free Career Confidence Course: Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram: Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn: Visit Hannah's website: /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/39713575

63: Having an Investor Mentality 01/07/2026

63: Having an Investor Mentality In this episode, Executive Life Coach, Hannah Kissel discusses the importance of adopting an investor mentality in various aspects of life beyond just finances. She emphasizes the need for long-term thinking and balancing different areas of life, such as health, relationships, and career. By identifying with one's future self and shifting personal identity, individuals can create lasting habits and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. The conversation highlights practical steps to invest in oneself holistically, leading to a more fulfilling life. You'll learn in this episode: - Investing isn't just for finances; it applies to life. - Balance is key in the wheel of life. - Long-term thinking creates compound returns. - Identify with your future self for better decisions. - Your identity shapes your habits and choices. - Start small to build momentum in life changes. - Difficult challenges can lead to personal growth. - Self-control is a skill that can be developed. - Daily habits can transform your perception of self. - Investing in health and relationships is crucial. Timestamps: 00:00 - Investing in Life: Beyond Finances 03:14 - The Wheel of Life: Balancing Priorities 05:59 - Identifying with Your Future Self 09:06 - Shifting Identity: The Investor Mentality 12:04 - Embracing Difficulties for Growth 14:48 - Creating a Holistic Life Investment ------- Gain Access to the free Career Confidence Course: https://www.hannahkissel.com/careerconfidence The Truth About Imposter Syndrome: https://open.spotify.com/episode/129YgMPuJWGLQK5VB9CncR?si=a352646dfec6411a Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahmaekissel/ Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahkissel/ Quiz: Discover Your Career Alignment Score: https://hannahkisselcareerquiz.scoreapp.com #highperformer #investormentality #hannahkissel 🚨 Got a career challenge? Submit your questions and frustrations to the Hannah Hotline! Email: Gain Access to the free Career Confidence Course: Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram: Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn: Visit Hannah's website: /episode/index/show/def31703-3c1b-495f-bf86-46cfe2b32782/id/39637145