The Dips of Doubt

In this encouraging episode, Susan and Tessa confront the inner critic that every leader faces. Drawing on personal stories and the wisdom of self-compassion, they challenge listeners to notice the negative chatter, name it, and gently turn down its volume. The hosts discuss how risk-taking, reflection, and courage are essential to growth, even when self-doubt creeps in. Listeners will find practi...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa unpack the real-life frustrations that show up in work and life, such as a crying baby on airplanes to overwhelming leadership demands. Through a powerful story of compassion and reflection, they reveal how quickly judgment and assumptions can cloud our view of others and ourselves. The hosts explore what it takes to pause, notice the emotional loads people carry,...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa shine a light on the confusing world of workplace jargon. They share stories about the pitfalls of acronyms, “legalese,” and insider language that can leave newcomers feeling lost or left out. Listeners will discover practical strategies for making communication more welcoming, like creating shared jargon sheets and building the courage to ask “What does that mean?...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa share a vivid story about a lizard on the road to spark real talk about the unintended impact leaders sometimes have on others. Even with the best intentions, our words or actions can “squash” ideas, energy, or relationships without us even knowing. The hosts reflect on how easy it is to overlook the small moments that shape workplace culture—and why self-awareness...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa tackle the challenge all leaders face: how to keep important messages fresh when repetition feels relentless. They break down the “wash, rinse, and repeat” philosophy, being clear, reinforcing key ideas in varied ways, and living the principles you preach. Discover how to individualize communication for different team members, avoid message fatigue, and keep everyo...

In this episode of Dips of Doubt, Susan and Tessa dig into what happens when passionate perspectives collide and everyone wants things done their way. Through a real-world committee story, the hosts explore how stubbornness, ego, and high stakes can fuel tension—but also how curiosity and small gestures of flexibility can spark authentic collaboration. Listen in for actionable steps on pausing the...

In this uplifting episode, Susan and Tessa share why focusing on small victories can make all the difference for leaders feeling overwhelmed. With stories about recognizing the everyday wins—like a clean building, a heartfelt compliment, or a team that is working better together—they reveal how these moments fuel resilience, boost morale, and keep burnout at bay. Learn why celebrating even the tin...

In this uplifting episode, Susan and Tessa dive deep into the importance of self-belief, especially for leaders facing setbacks, doubt, and criticism. Through vulnerable stories, from high school math classes to challenges in career advancement, they share how having grit, building personal mantras, and making space for tiny wins can shift a leader’s mindset from “not yet” to “I’ve got this.” Disc...

Who do you surround yourself with and how does it shape who you are as a leader? In this episode, Susan and Tessa dig into the powerful influence of your leadership circle. Reflecting on lessons from early teaching days and personal stories, they explore why the attitudes and habits of those around you can either energize your growth or hold you back. The hosts discuss the importance of seeking ou...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa explore what it really means to take responsibility as a leader when tough conversations and blame come your way. They share personal stories—from being accused of not communicating clearly to facing challenging feedback—and reveal why defensiveness rarely leads to growth. Instead, listeners learn the power of pausing, getting curious, and asking for the other pers...

What do your silent choices really say about your values as a leader? In this episode, Susan and Tessa take listeners behind the scenes of workplace culture, where unsaid words and overlooked actions send messages louder than policies and posters. Through memorable stories, from students testing the boundaries of a dress code to leaders missing the chance for a simple conversation, they reveal how...

In this interesting episode, Susan and Tessa use the metaphor of weather to navigate the ups and downs of team dynamics. Drawing on classics like forming, storming, norming, and performing, they bring each stage to life, such as sunny skies for new beginnings, clouds for conflict, shifting patterns as teams settle in, and clear momentum once collaboration clicks. Susan and Tessa share vivid storie...

In this Monday episode, Susan and Tessa explore the surprising power of asking for what you want. Inspired by a moment on an airplane, they discuss why so many people hesitate to “shoot their shot” and how self-doubt, fear of rejection, or assumptions can hold back authentic requests. The hosts share practical steps for getting clear about desires, reframing risk, and making brave asks with humili...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa dive into the simple but powerful habit of staying hydrated and why it matters for leaders. They share personal stories, from forgotten water bottles to dramatic lessons about dehydration’s impact on energy, focus, and even health. Discover practical tips for making hydration enjoyable, like adding fruit or choosing water-rich foods, and hear how a few mindful sips...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa talk about why taking a purposeful pause is the secret to productive, mindful leadership. They share real-life stories about juggling busy schedules, the pressure to keep moving, and the moments that signal it is time to slow down. Learn simple ways to pump the brakes, set boundaries, and make intentional space for rest. Whether that is walking slower to a meeting...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa explore the real power of curiosity in leadership. They discuss how thoughtful questioning, such as “tell me more” or “what ideas do you have?”, can shift the focus from quick fixes to deeper understanding and real growth. By sharing practical strategies and personal insights, the hosts show how staying curious helps empower teams, foster creativity, and build trus...

A single “hello” can change the tone of an entire day. In this episode, Susan and Tessa uncover the quiet but powerful impact of being the first to greet others. From a smile in the hallway to a quick check-in that shows genuine care, they highlight how these small moments ripple outward, shaping trust, connection, and culture. Through stories and simple strategies, the hosts remind us that leader...

Feeling drained before the day even begins? In this episode, Susan and Tessa tackle what happens when fatigue steals away the spark that leaders and teams need to do their best work. Susan shares a game-changing meeting ritual that resets energy and sets intention, while Tessa reveals the power of shifting your story and focusing on what fuels you. Hear why recharging is not just about managing ti...

Fairness in leadership isn’t about keeping score or handing out identical treatment—it’s about building trust in the unseen moments and setting a standard your team can believe in. In this episode of Dips of Doubt , Susan and Tessa peel back the layers of what it really means to be a fair leader, weaving in real stories and hard truths from the workplace. They explore how favoritism (or even the p...

Some leadership challenges feel less like a straight path and more like an amusement park ride you didn’t choose—spinning, looping, and returning to the same spot over and over. In this episode, Susan and Tessa unpack the exhausting cycle of recurring conflicts and unresolved conversations that leave leaders dizzy and teams stalled. They offer practical ways to step off the ride, from asking bette...

In this episode of Dips of Doubt, Susan and Tessa explore what it really means to lead with courage. They discuss the challenges of speaking the truth, having difficult conversations, and creating a culture of clarity and respect. Drawing on ideas from Brené Brown’s  Dare to Lead , they share how being “clear is kind” can prevent misunderstandings, build trust, and unlock the potential of eve...

Some days, leadership feels like climbing a hill that keeps getting steeper—your legs burn, the air thins, and you wonder if you’re ever going to reach the top. In this vulnerable and energizing episode, Susan and Tessa talk about what it means to lead through the moments when doubt creeps in and progress stalls. Through honest storytelling and personal reflection, they explore how discomfort isn'...

In this honest episode of Dips of Doubt, Susan and Tessa share transparent reflections on the routines that shape their mornings and evenings as leaders. Susan explains how early morning exercise and a quiet start set her up for the day, while Tessa discusses the power of intentional habits like keeping a to-do list and writing down late-night thoughts. Together, they explore the impact of small m...

On this episode of Dips of Doubt, Susan and Tessa explore the difference between what you intend as a leader and how your actions are actually experienced by your team. With honest stories, including a lesson learned from feedback given behind closed doors. In addition, they highlight the importance of slowing down, being mindful, and making every interaction count. The hosts share practical tips...

Imagine this: the principal's office is empty. The nameplate is gone, the atmosphere feels lighter, and whispers of "finally" float down the hall. But just as the door closed on one chapter, a new one opens—and in walks you . Now what? In this episode, Susan and Tessa explore the unspoken tension of leadership transitions—when staff are hopeful for change but hesitant to trust again. They unpack w...