In this episode of the Lead to Soar podcast, Michelle Redfern and Mel Butcher examine the internal stories many women carry at work, stories often labelled as “lack of confidence” or “imposter syndrome,” but which are more accurately shaped by experience, feedback, and workplace conditions.
They talk candidly about the internal dialogue that tells capable women they’re not ready, not enough, or about to be found out. More importantly, they challenge the idea that this is a personal flaw to be fixed, rather than a predictable response to biased systems, mixed messages, and inconsistent standards.
This conversation is about recognising the stories that influence judgement, risk-taking, and visibility, and learning how to interrupt narratives that limit decision-making and progression.
What this episode covers
Why so many women internalise doubt despite strong performance
How workplace feedback and culture reinforce unhelpful self-narratives
The difference between healthy self-reflection and self-undermining stories
How internal narratives affect decisions about speaking up, applying, or stretching
Practical ways to shift the story without pretending conditions don’t exist
Key leadership ideas
Internal stories are shaped by context, not just mindset
Changing the story starts with naming what influenced it
Better judgment comes from clearer narratives, not forced confidence
Who this episode is for
Women who second-guess themselves despite evidence of capability
Leaders who want to understand how culture shapes confidence
Anyone tired of being told to “just believe in yourself”
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