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Courage Over Confidence: How to Speak Up and Step Into the Career You Want

Courage Over Confidence: How to Speak Up and Step Into the Career You Want Podcast featured image

 

In this episode of the Work It Like a Mum podcast, I chat with the inspiring Jennifer Spurr, an ICF-accredited career and leadership coach who helps women in leadership accelerate their careers and amplify their impact. With nearly 20 years in marketing, leading brands like Cadbury, Jennifer brings deep expertise and a passion for empowering women to speak up.

We explore what it really means to be courageous at work and why leaning in is not the full story. Jennifer explains why courage, not confidence, is the starting point for growth and how women can find their voice at decision-making tables that too often look the same.

You’ll hear us unpack:

  • Why “Lean In” missed a key piece of the puzzle
  • Courage vs confidence — and why courage comes first
  • How to act despite fear, not just “feel it and do it anyway”
  • Small, consistent actions that build your courage muscle
  • What to do if you’ve been “dry promoted” and how to ask for what you’re worth
  • How knowing your strengths makes it easier to speak up

Key takeaways:

Courage comes before confidence: confidence grows through action

Fear is normal: the aim is to act despite it

Small steps matter: they build lasting courage

Advocate for yourself: step up and make your case

Build your support system: Courage is stronger with allies

Why You Should Listen:

If you’ve ever felt stuck or overlooked at work, this episode offers a fresh perspective on approaching your career with bravery. Jennifer shares practical steps to turn fear into opportunity and help you speak up and step into the career you want.

Show Links:

Connect with our host, Elizabeth Willetts, here

Connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn here

Visit Jennifer’s website here