Guest: Carol Stewart, Founder of Abounding Solutions and Creator of the Quietly Visible Conference
Host: Jennifer Kahnweiler
Duration: ~28 minutes
In this episode, Jennifer talks with Carol Stewart, a leadership coach, author, and advocate for introverted leaders. Carol shares her journey from the UK Ministry of Justice to becoming a globally recognized voice for introverts. Her passion for coaching, combined with academic rigor and lived experience, helped her create impactful spaces—like the Quietly Visible conference—that champion introversion as a leadership strength.
Carol also opens up about the “introvert pay gap,” how introverts can thrive on LinkedIn, and what it takes to be an introvert ally in today's workplace.
From Redundancy to Reinvention:
Carol transitioned from a senior government role into coaching after her position was eliminated. She leaned into her strengths and passion for helping others grow, particularly during career transitions.
Embracing Introversion as a Strength:
Like many introverts, Carol once resisted the label due to common misconceptions. Through deeper research and reflection, she came to see introversion as a source of power and authenticity.
The Introvert Pay Gap is Real:
Carol discusses emerging research showing that extroverts tend to earn more over the course of their careers, in part due to workplace biases.
Strategies for Allyship in Organizations:
Allies can:
Acknowledge the extrovert ideal bias.
Design meetings that allow space for introverts to reflect.
Share agendas in advance.
Encourage diverse thinking styles.
LinkedIn for Introverts:
Carol recommends it as a platform where introverts can:
Share thought leadership at their own pace.
Build visibility without being in the spotlight.
Connect deeply and authentically.
Social Justice and Personality Inclusion:
Carol views personality style inclusion—especially for introverts—as a social justice issue. She urges organizations to expand inclusion efforts beyond visible characteristics.
Carol hosts a unique in-person and virtual conference for introverted leaders each September in London. With panels, masterclasses, and even a LinkedIn branding session, it’s a powerful experience for introverted professionals across the globe.
Follow Carol Stewart on LinkedIn (search: Carol Stewart Abounding Solutions or Carol Stewart Quietly Visible)
Visit her website: aboundingsolutions.com to sign up for her newsletter and learn about the 2025 Quietly Visible Conference
Explore Carol’s work on leadership coaching, psychological safety, and inclusion
Become an introvert ally by:
Noticing and addressing bias
Encouraging balanced participation in meetings
Valuing authenticity over performance
