The Thoughtful Leader Podcast with Ben Brearley

In this episode, Ben explores how confidence is often linked to the conditions surrounding our work rather than being a fixed personal trait. When people lose confidence, it can feel as though something internal has changed. However, Ben suggests that confidence is frequently influenced by external factors such as preparation, clarity, experience and support. One practical approach is to reflect on situations where you previously felt confident and performed well. By identifying the conditions that were present in those situations, you can begin to recreate them and give yourself a better foundation for confidence again. This perspective helps leaders focus on shaping the environment and conditions that support confidence rather than trying to force confidence through willpower alone. Resources mentioned in this episode: Work with Ben.

In this episode, Ben addresses the tension between ambition and burnout for thoughtful leaders. He explains why ambition matters and why sustainable habits are essential for long-term success. Drawing on his own routines, he covers healthy habits such as meditation, exercise, sleep, and nutrition, as well as the concept of restorative niches from Brian Little's work. Ben also challenges rigid ideas of work-life balance, suggesting flexibility and long-term thinking instead. Resources mentioned in this episode: Restorative niches (Brian Little) Work with Ben: Coaching.

In this episode, Ben reflects on four of the most important things he did for his career and what thoughtful leaders can learn from them. He explains how mindfulness helped him manage frustration and build emotional regulation over time, why joining Toastmasters reduced his fear of public speaking, and how listening to informal mentors shaped key career decisions. Ben also shares how studying for an MBA while working full time built discipline, healthy habits, and ultimately created the space to start Thoughtful Leader. The episode encourages leaders to work on themselves so they are better equipped to handle whatever challenges arise. Resources mentioned in this episode: Headspace app Waking Up app – Sam Harris Toastmasters International Work with Ben: Coaching.

In this episode, Ben explores whether personal values can be changed and what to do when they seem to hold you back. He explains that while values are relatively stable, we can adapt our behaviour regardless of what our values are. Through examples of conflicting values like ease versus growth, he shows how leaders can consciously choose which values to prioritise in different situations. This episode offers reflection questions to help identify your own values and use them more intentionally. Resources mentioned in this episode: Lead With Confidence by Understanding and Using Your Values course Thoughtful Leader Coaching – work with Ben.

In this episode, Ben explores how deeply held beliefs shape behaviour and can quietly limit leadership confidence. Using personal stories about fitness, public speaking, and career choices, he illustrates how untested assumptions can become self-imposed barriers. Ben explains the difference between fixed and growth mindsets, the role of self-talk, and how beliefs often become baked into identity. He encourages leaders to notice when they say "I can't do that" and get curious about whether those beliefs are actually true. Resources mentioned in this episode: Lead With Confidence by Understanding and Using Your Values course. Thoughtful Leader Coaching.

Supporting your people doesn't have to be complicated. In this episode, Ben shares four key reminders leaders often forget. He explains why these fundamentals matter more than dramatic leadership techniques and how thoughtful leaders can use them to build trust and stability. Ben draws from coaching conversations and real workplace examples to help you support your team with confidence. Resources mentioned in this episode: How to Lead Effectively as a People Pleaser Make the Most of Motivation Models in Your Team Too Busy at Work? Try These Five Things Gallup StrengthsFinder assessment PRINT Assessment 16Personalities.com Episode 130: One-on-one Meetings Thoughtful Leader Coaching - work with Ben 1:1.

Many new leaders struggle when moving from individual contributor to leadership. In this episode, Ben breaks down why the transition feels so difficult, especially for thoughtful, high-performing people. He covers key mindset shifts including letting go of control, redefining success, prioritising relationships over tasks, and stepping into visibility even when it feels uncomfortable. Ben also shares stories from coaching clients who found leadership hard because they still identified as "doers", not leaders. Resources mentioned in this episode: Thoughtful Leader Coaching - work with Ben 1:1.

In this episode, Ben talks about the importance of balance in leadership: knowing when to step in and when to step back. He discusses common traps, like micromanaging or being overly hands-off, and helps leaders identify their "sweet spot" where they can provide enough guidance without stifling independence. Ben offers practical reflection questions and strategies to help you stay balanced, effective, and confident as a thoughtful leader. Resources: Work with Ben: Thoughtful Leader Coaching.