38: 3 Steps for Ops Execs to Rebuild Confidence after Political Setbacks

Your Future Realized

#Business #Laura Malinowski

38:30

Chef Shuai Wang was the runner-up on the 22nd season of Bravo’s Top Chef and is the force behind two standout restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina—Jackrabbit Filly and King BBQ—where he brings together the flavors of his childhood in Beijing and the spirit of the South in some pretty unforgettable ways. He grew up just a short walk from Tiananmen Square, in a tiny home with no electricity or running water, where his grandmother often cooked over charcoal. Later, in Queens, New York, his mom taught herself to cook—her first dishes were a little salty, but they were always made with love. And somewhere along the way, Shuai learned that cooking wasn’t just about food—it was about taking care of people. After years working in New York kitchens, he made his way to Charleston and started building something that feels entirely his own. Today, we’re talking about how all those experiences come together on the plate, the family stories behind his cooking, and what it’s been like to share that journey on national TV. For more info visit: southernliving.com/biscuitsandjam Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

about a year ago 5:53

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Check out the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/38.
Operations execs often reach out to me when their confidence has been shaken by their superiors. Despite many years of expertise and dedication, being undermined is not uncommon, and it can be deeply disheartening.

How do you survive unfair criticism, missed promotions, or other brutal realities of office politics?

In a similar situation, I felt minimized, isolated, embarrassed, and off balance. And I still had to show up as if my self-esteem wasn’t just destroyed.

If this sounds familiar, I empathize with your situation. And, as an operations executive, perseverance is one of your core strengths. Your ability to bounce back is in your control. It’s time to tap into your innate resilience.

In this episode, I’ll share three steps to help you recover your confidence and get back on track personally and professionally.

91 episodes

38: 3 Steps for Ops Execs to Rebuild Confidence after Political Setbacks

Your Future Realized

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

How do you survive unfair criticism, missed promotions, or other brutal realities of office politics?

In a similar situation, I felt minimized, isolated, embarrassed, and off balance. And I still had to show up as if my self-esteem wasn’t just destroyed.

In this episode, I’ll share three steps to help you recover your confidence and get back on track personally and professionally.

91 episodes

#Business #Laura Malinowski

All episodes

1
90: 1 Simple Way to Make Your Value Visible in Operations 6:07

3 days ago6:07

6:07

Find the full transcript at: yourfuturerealized.com/90 . Have you heard this old joke?: “What do you call someone who hangs out with musicians? A drummer.” It always gets a chuckle, but anyone who’s ever been in a band knows the truth: The drummer is the backbone. Without them, the whole thing falls apart. They keep everyone in sync, set the pace, and hold it all together, even though they’re not out front with the mic. Just stop and think about that. It’s true, isn’t it? That’s operations in a nutshell. You might not be chasing the spotlight, but it’s important to be recognized where it matters: in your authority, your influence, and your next opportunity. In this episode, you’ll learn practical ways to make sure people notice the value you bring to the band, without feeling like you’re showing off or demanding a solo.…

1
89: A Guide to Accountability Conversations for Ops Leaders 6:23

10 days ago6:23

6:23

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/89 . “Ugh, I know I need to have this conversation. But I don’t want to sound harsh or make them defensive.” If your ops team is dropping the ball, that probably hits close to home. Accountability talks can be tough. They’re easy to put off because they’re just plain uncomfortable. But here’s the thing: when you handle them the right way, these conversations don’t just solve problems, they build trust and show your team what real leadership looks like. Let’s be honest, accountability is the glue that keeps operations running. When someone drops the ball, it doesn’t just affect one person. It can throw off the whole team. In this episode, I’ll share how to tackle those tough talks head-on: no tiptoeing, no drama, and no losing your team’s respect. If you’re dreading holding someone accountable, you’re not alone, and this episode is for you.…

1
88: Ops Leaders, Are You Ready to Lead Through the Chaos? 5:40

17 days ago5:40

5:40

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/88 . Some days it feels like you’re spinning plates on a windy day, and everyone’s counting on you to keep things from crashing. Whether your job title says “operations” or you’re just the person who quietly keeps the ship running, you know what it’s like to juggle all the moving parts, shifting priorities, and constant surprises. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay steady when everything around you is shifting, you’re in the right place. I’ve spent years coaching operations executives and other steady-hands-in-the-storm, people who are great at keeping things moving, even when the wind picks up. Good news is: There are practical ways to get a little steadier, make decisions with more confidence, and build trust with your team, even when things are messy. Stick around, because I’ve got something special to share that might just make your week.…

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87: Hey Ops Exec, Do You Need to Say 'No' More? 5:49

24 days ago5:49

5:49

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/87 . Most ops leaders I know have a hard time saying no. They don’t want to let people down and just know what needs to be done. It can feel easier, even automatic, to just step in to handle it. But that’s how you end up carrying everyone else’s load. It may sound counterintuitive, but your ability to say “no” is directly tied to your success as a leader. Research shows that leaders who manage their energy and set clear boundaries are more effective, especially during change.* Still, so many ops leaders get stuck taking on too much, especially in transition times, assuming good leadership means always being a bigger buffer than you need to be. In this episode, you’ll get a simple, practical way to set boundaries that actually stick so you can protect your energy and say “no” without guilt.…

1
86: How Ops Execs Can Stop Drowning in Priorities 6:19

4 weeks ago6:19

6:19

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/86 . If you’ve ever gone sailing, you know you can’t focus on every wave. You have to pick your course and stick with it, or risk spinning in circles, using up energy but not getting anywhere. Leading operations often means juggling too many things at once, with new priorities flying at you from every side. It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos, trying to keep everything afloat. But that’s a recipe for burnout, not breakthrough. The average executive makes about 70 conscious decisions a day at work.* That’s a lot of mental juggling. Not every plate deserves to stay in the air. The leaders who make the most impact aren’t doing everything, they’re focusing on what really matters. In this episode, you’ll get a clear and simple plan to stop drowning in priorities, so you can lead with intention, not just survive the daily flood.…

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85: Why Every Ops Decision Builds Your Reputation 5:24

5 weeks ago5:24

5:24

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/85 . Your reputation as an operations leader isn’t built in a single moment. It’s shaped by every decision you make, day in and day out. Over time, those choices add up, not just to results, but to the story people tell about you as a leader. Think about the leaders you most admire. Their expertise matters, but it’s how they show up in critical moments that really defines them. Research shows that executive presence (how you communicate and make decisions) is a top priority for leadership advancement. In fact, nearly 9 in 10 C-suite executives say executive presence helps you get ahead. Yet so many brilliant ops leaders remain invisible because they haven’t connected their decision-making style to their personal brand. Today, you’ll learn how every decision you make shapes your reputation, and how to make sure it’s the story you want people to remember.…

1
84: How Ops Execs Decide Fast Without Regret 6:05

6 weeks ago6:05

6:05

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/84 . You know that feeling when you’re stuck in a decision? The more you think about it, the harder it gets to move. I’ve been an Orioles fan since I was a kid. If baseball’s taught me anything, it’s that you can’t wait forever for the perfect pitch. Sometimes you just have to swing. In operations, you almost never have perfect information. Research shows that executives spend a huge chunk of their time making decisions, and a lot of that time is wasted on choices that could be made faster or delegated.* What really matters? Companies that make faster, higher-quality decisions pull ahead. They see bigger growth and better results than their slower peers.** This episode is all about how to cut through indecision without sacrificing quality, especially when everything around you is changing at warp speed.…

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83: The Secret to Ops Team Trust When Everything Changes 6:27

7 weeks ago6:27

6:27

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/83 . This spring, a pair of eastern bluebirds nested on my back deck for the fourth year in a row. I have no idea why they keep coming back, but I like to think it’s because they feel safe here. Safe enough to show up, even when the weather is unpredictable and the world is changing. If you’re leading an ops team, you know trust is just as important, and just as fragile. When everything is shifting, it’s easy for people to hold back and wait for someone else to make the first move. But the teams who weather change well are the ones where people feel safe to speak up, admit what they don’t know, and ask for help. In this episode, you’ll hear how to create that kind of safety and trust, even when you don’t have all the answers.…

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82: Unlocking Introvert Potential in Operations with Dr. Jennifer Kahnweiler 28:05

8 weeks ago28:05

28:05

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/82 . Speaking as an introvert who spent years working in operations, I wish I’d met today’s guest sooner. Dr. Jennifer Kahnweiler has been a champion for introverts at work for over 15 years, and I recently got to sit down with her for a great conversation. I know firsthand how easy it is for quieter voices to be overlooked at work! What’s cool about Jennifer is she’s actually an extrovert, but she’s all-in on supporting introverts. She brings a really balanced, fresh perspective to leadership and team dynamics. She’s written five books, translated into 18 languages, and she’s worked with big names like Amazon and NASA. We talked about how introverts can play to their strengths, and what companies can do to make work more welcoming for everyone. So, whether you’re an introvert yourself or you lead a team full of them, you’re going to get a lot out of this one.…

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81: How Ops Execs Can Stop Being Overlooked and Start Being Heard with 3 Actionable Moves 5:06

9 weeks ago5:06

5:06

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/81 . Melanie*’s job as an operations leader means she often has to say things people don’t want to hear. She got the role because she’s passionate, driven, and trusted to guide her company through some pretty big changes. But change always brings uncertainty, and how you show up and communicate can make all the difference. When we first met, Melanie’s passion was actually holding her back. She’d get interrupted in meetings, get flustered and leave feeling frustrated, even thinking, “Maybe after seven years, it’s time for me to just walk away .” But this week, she told me, “Honestly, now I welcome their interruptions. I’m ready for it.” It’s a huge turning point. If you’re stuck delivering tough news and feel caught between your commitment and the resistance around you, this episode is for you. It’s time to stop fading into the background. The three moves I’ll share today are your starting line. *Not her real name.…

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80: Should Ops Execs Stop Picking Up the Slack? 5:53

10 weeks ago5:53

5:53

Find the full episode at yourfuturerealized.com/80 . Yesterday someone kicked off our conversation by saying: " Why do I feel like I’m the one always picking up the slack? If I don’t step in, things fall apart. But if I do, I’m working every evening, drowning in work that isn’t mine!" If you’re an ops executive, and may sound pretty familiar, and it’s likely you’ve felt this way more than once. Accountability is crucial everywhere, of course, but especially in operations. Why? Because when someone doesn’t follow through, it’s not just them, or your ops team, that’s impacted. It can create ripple effects, slowing down others across the entire organization. Today, you’ll get tips on how to stop carrying the load for others by setting clear expectations and creating a culture of accountability. And I’ll share how you can make real changes without feeling like the bad guy.…

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79: Hey Ops Execs, Here’s the Time Management Hack You Actually Need 6:41

11 weeks ago6:41

6:41

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/79 . You know Florence Griffith Joyner, right? The fastest woman in history. What makes her legendary isn’t just her speed, but how she embraced her uniqueness. Early on, she struggled with her starts. Her coaches doubted her potential as a top sprinter. But Flo-Jo didn’t let that define her. She stopped trying to fit in and leaned into her own style, focusing on the most important races. Everything changed, and she became unstoppable. As an ops leader, what if you stopped trying to "win every race" and instead, focused on what makes the biggest impact? This week, I’m answering a question I get all the time: “How do I get it ALL done so I can carve out more strategy time?” Spoiler alert: You can’t. But redefining your non-negotiables and boundaries might be the edge you need.…

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78: 3 Ways Ops Execs Nail Presentations Without Self-Doubt 6:19

12 weeks ago6:19

6:19

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/78 . Once upon a time, there was an operations executive who was brilliant. For years, she’d been the go-to problem solver, building a collaborative workplace that made her indispensable. One day, she was asked to present her ideas on stage. She’d never done this on such a large scale before. Self-doubt crept in, whispering, “Who am I to do this? What if I look like an idiot?” She couldn’t stop imagining every mistake that might happen. It’s not surprising. Nearly 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point, those nagging feelings of self-doubt that hold you back. But what if those feelings aren’t proof you don’t belong? What if they’re just evidence that you’re growing into something bigger? In this episode, you’ll get tips to calm yourself when anxiety strikes so you can own your place on that stage.…

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77: What Happens When Ops Leaders Go Unnoticed? 5:58

13 weeks ago5:58

5:58

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/77 . You know how Chewbacca didn't get a medal at the end of the first Star Wars movie? I never understood that, considering how important he was in destroying the Death Star and saving the day. I do remember hearing that George Lucas had said medals don't matter to Wookiees. That they have different ways of honoring their heroes. Sound familiar, ops leaders? You are the backbone of your company, loyal and dedicated, making sure it all goes according to plan. Your work doesn’t typically get the medal, not because it's not valuable, but because everything just runs smoothly when you’re doing it well. But that doesn’t make you any less of a hero. In this episode, I'll share why the real heroes often work behind the scenes, in any galaxy. You'll hear how to make a big impact and stay energized, even when your contributions fly under the radar.…

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76: Are You an Ops Exec Who's Drowning in Team Drama? Here's How to Stay Afloat. 4:50

14 weeks ago4:50

4:50

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/76 . Picture this: You're in your office, and there's a knock on the door. It's Sarah from Accounting, and she's got that look on her face. You know the one. She's about to vent. Again. Is that ringing a bell? If you're an operations exec, I bet it does. You're the go-to person for getting things done, and that often means being the go-to listener as well. Whether it's a delayed project, a software glitch, or just a tough day, your team turns to you for a sympathetic ear. But how many times have you found yourself caught up in conversations that feel more like emotional dumping grounds than productive discussions? Have you been wondering how in the world to handle this better? Today, I’m diving into how to manage venting so they feel heard, without sacrificing your sanity or your strategic focus.…

Your Future Realized

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75: How to Lead Operations Through Change Without Being a Pushover 5:10

15 weeks ago5:10

5:10

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/75 . Ever catch yourself biting your tongue in a meeting, agreeing to yet another project when you're already swamped implementing big changes? You might be suffering from chronic people-pleasing, and it's costing you more than you think. In operations, efficiency is key. This habit of saying yes can be a real time-thief. That gold star for 'playing nice' isn't just costing you hours. It's eroding your credibility and control. It's like steering a ship while constantly avoiding every little wave. Before you know it, you are off course, wondering where your time went. These detours aren't just ineffective; they drain precious time that could be spent driving real change. Today, we're exploring how to drive change without getting caught in over-the-top niceness. You'll learn how to reclaim your time, set clear boundaries, and lead with purpose through transitions. Let's dive in!…

Your Future Realized

1
74: Why Ops Execs Should Brag More (Yes, Really) 5:10

16 weeks ago5:10

5:10

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/74 . Did you know that, according to Harvard Business Review , the average executive spends 23 hours a week in meetings*? Yet most of them have a hard time communicating their value? Think about it: 23 hours in conversation. But how much of that time is spent telling the story of what you bring to the table? If you’re an operations executive, this might hit close to home. You’re the one making sure things actually get done. But how often does your work get the spotlight it deserves? In this episode, you’ll learn why telling your story is one of the most powerful career moves you can make, and why storytelling isn’t just for marketers or salespeople: it’s for you , too. Plus you’ll get a simple but game-changing first step to help you start crafting your own narrative today.…

Your Future Realized

1
73: The Ops Leader's Guide to Projecting Confidence Under Pressure 5:15

17 weeks ago5:15

5:15

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/73 . A client reached out, caught off guard by her boss’s unexpected invitation for coffee the next morning. Out of the blue. No details, no hints. This was way out of the ordinary. In years working together, he'd never suggested such an informal meet-up. And their relationship had seen its share of tense moments. I could hear the uncertainty in her voice. She's used to all manner of tough challenges, but this threw her off balance. Her mind was racing: Why the sudden interest? Why is he being so vague? Is this bad news? Or is it something completely different? How do you prepare when you don't know what you're walking into? In this episode, I'll share what helped her move past worst-case scenarios and find confidence for that coffee meeting.…

Your Future Realized

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72: How Operations Leaders Shape Organizational Climate 21:37

18 weeks ago21:37

21:37

Check out the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/72. Are you feeling like you're always putting out fires instead of making real progress at work? I recently got to chat with Kristy Farewell, the brains behind Kairos Insights. She has over two decades of experience with Fortune 500 companies. We dug into how operations, culture, and performance are all connected and how you can move from just reacting to leading with intention. In this episode, Kristy breaks down the five key parts of a healthy culture and why you need to measure the things you can't always see. We also tackled the fast pace of change, the importance of mid-level leaders, and how to keep things efficient without losing the human touch. If you're dealing with outdated systems or confusing processes, this episode is packed with tips to help you build a workplace people are excited to join on Monday mornings.…

Your Future Realized

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71: The Human Side of Operational Leadership 5:25

19 weeks ago5:25

5:25

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/71 . One of the worst pieces of advice I ever got was from a boss who thought being powerful meant being detached. To her, emotions were messy, and leadership was all about cold hard logic. I tried her way during a tough re-org, but it backfired. I felt disconnected from my team, like a malfunctioning robot. I realized that being an effective leader in tough times doesn’t mean shutting down emotions, but acknowledging them, for both my sake and my team’s. Let’s face it: feeling overwhelmed is normal when you’re making tough calls, reorganizing teams, or carrying out orders you might not fully agree with. It’s a heavy burden. And hard emotions are part of being human. In this episode, I’ll tell you why normalizing these emotions matters and walk you through a simple 3-step process to build emotional resilience.…

Your Future Realized

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70: How Ops Execs Transform from Busy to Brilliant 5:41

20 weeks ago5:41

5:41

For the full transcript, visit yourfuturerealized.com/70 . What if you didn't have to choose between working hard and taking care of yourself? Is it possible to find that right balance? As an operations executive, you’re carrying the weight of such a demanding job, dealing with globalization, fierce competition, and limited resources among other things. There’s constant pressure to always be improving. But here's the truth: you can't do it all. And that's perfectly fine. Taking care of yourself is just as vital as completing your work. Many think, "I’ll focus on myself after I’ve finished my tasks." But there’s a fundamental flaw in that logic. Your feelings significantly impact your actions and how you perform, and that influences your results. Keep listening for an idea that can help you break the non-stop cycle of productivity and enjoy what you do again.…

Your Future Realized

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69: Mastering the Strategic ‘No’ in Operations 5:19

21 weeks ago5:19

5:19

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/69. Working with operations leaders has shown me time and time again just how essential you all are in transforming chaos into order. Your strength, creativity, and humility are the backbone of your organization. It's not just about multitasking. It's mega-tasking: handling complex tasks across various departments, while aligning them with company goals and culture. Does this sound like you? If so, you’ve got an incredible gift. But stretching too far and overusing this gift is an easy path to burnout. I often get asked: “How can I balance work and life better?" The key isn't figuring out how to get more done. It’s about knowing when to say 'enough'. In this episode for a simple strategy to lighten your load and sharpen your focus.…

Your Future Realized

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68: When Personal Branding Doesn’t Work for Ops Execs (and How to Fix It) 5:58

22 weeks ago5:58

5:58

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/68 . How often do you find yourself dwelling on a moment where you didn't quite shine? Perhaps it was a presentation that fell flat, a missed opportunity to highlight your team's achievements, or a hesitation that let a crucial opportunity slip away. It's not uncommon to revert to old patterns that once served you well but now hold you back. This is where personal branding becomes a powerful tool to help break free from outdated habits and level up to where you are now and where you want to go. Many operations execs embark on this journey on their own, driven by self-reliance, only to find they’re missing the mark. A successful personal brand is not built in a vacuum. In this episode, we’re going to crack the code on how to break those limiting patterns and craft a personal brand that resonates with your stakeholders.…

Your Future Realized

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67: How Shrewd Ops Execs Escape the Trap of People-Pleasing & Imposter Syndrome 5:32

23 weeks ago5:32

5:32

Find the full transcript and more resources for operations executives at yourfuturerealized.com/67. Being an operations executive is no easy feat. Your attention is constantly pulled in lots of directions to keep the gears of your company running smoothly. And, you’re human, dealing with a lot of change, so you’re handling all of that while battling internal challenges like self-doubt. This is much more common than you probably think. Many leaders are out there facing the same challenges, and dealing with the dual pressures of people-pleasing and imposter syndrome. This invisible rock-and-a-hard-place situation can disrupt your ability to manage your time, leading you to say "yes" to every request and then second-guess your decisions. The good news is: You can break free from this cycle. In this episode, I'll help you untangle these challenges, and you’ll get a straightforward plan to reclaim your time.…

Your Future Realized

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66: Empowering Your Ops Team with Clear & Effective Feedback 6:11

24 weeks ago6:11

6:11

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/66. Adam seemed like the perfect leader for a tech start-up: visionary, problem-solver, and a great team motivator. But as year-end neared, some cracks started to show. Adam had trouble giving feedback and often avoided it altogether. When he did give feedback, it was using the classic 'sandwich' approach: "Your attention to detail is great! It would be good if you could start being more proactive. I’m sure that you’ve got what it takes to get us on track!” His approach was too vague and ineffective. With a crucial OKR falling behind, rolling out new project software, Adam was at a crossroads. He felt like he was walking on eggshells and told me: "I don’t want to make things worse by saying the wrong thing." In this episode, you’ll learn how Adam upgraded his approach to feedback to retake the reins with his team.…

Your Future Realized

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65: 5 Survival Strategies for Overworked Operations Execs 5:59

25 weeks ago5:59

5:59

Find the full episode at yourfuturerealized.com/65. Operations executives usually love to solve problems. And why not? It’s not just about fixing issues. It’s about creating seamless systems, putting the kibosh on bottlenecks and breakdowns, and ultimately driving the organization’s success. It is so satisfying to see a well-oiled machine in action. It’s tempting to treat every problem like it’s urgent. But it’s also draining. It’s like a slow leak in a tire. Eventually, going full throttle can wear you down, particularly without good support systems in place. Even if you can keep it from affecting your work life, it tends to squirt out personally, with sleep and health issues. Even Superman needed his Fortress of Solitude from time to time. In this episode, I’ll ID five sneaky signs you might be headed for burnout and how to steer clear of them.…

Your Future Realized

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64: Networking Secrets for Introverted Ops Leaders 6:01

26 weeks ago6:01

6:01

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/64. Does the idea of networking make you cringe? I get it. I've often joked that I'd rather re-grout my bathroom tiles or even sit through a root canal than network. As an introvert, small talk feels tedious and social media interactions lack the depth that I crave. I just enjoy one-on-one chats much more. But networking is often the first step to those great one-on-one chats, so I've worked hard to shift my mindset and get better at it. In doing so, I've gotten to meet and work with some truly inspiring people. The topic of networking frequently comes up in my coaching sessions, especially with clients eager to explore new opportunities or transition to different paths. So today I’ll share five fun, practical ways polish your professional image and expand your network without stepping too far out of your comfort zone.…

Your Future Realized

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63: The Unseen Strength and Emotional Labor of Ops Leaders 27:40

27 weeks ago27:40

27:40

Find the full transcript and more resources for operations execs at yourfuturerealized.com/63 . To everyone out there leading operations: I see you being the glue holding your organization together! In this special episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Mira Brancu, a seasoned consulting psychologist with leadership experience across various industries. We discussed how today’s global issues, geopolitical tensions, economic shifts, and environmental concerns, are influencing the workplace and adding pressure on operations leaders. We also covered strategies for managing stress, setting boundaries, and finding strength through community support. And we explored the unique hurdles faced by women and people of color in leadership roles. Whether you're stressed about complex workplace dynamics or just ready to level-up your leadership skills, you’re in the right place. Keep listening for practical tips in these tricky times.…

Your Future Realized

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62: The Secret to Staying Overwhelmed in Operations 6:04

28 weeks ago6:04

6:04

Catch the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/62. Life in the fast lane. That is leading operations. Your calendar is a marathon of day-to-day firefighting and your to-do list stretches well past the hours in a day. You may not have had real breathing room for months or even years. You push yourself hard and feel guilty when things slip through the cracks. You think you’re bad at managing your time because you can’t get it all crossed off your list. Want to know a secret? It’s your mindset that really controls your time. Everyone has their own level of busy they’re comfortable with. It’s that ‘just right’ setting on your thermostat. Time management isn’t just what you put on your calendar. It’s how you direct your thoughts about time. In this episode, you’ll learn what traps you in a perpetual cycle of busyness, and how to break through it.…

Your Future Realized

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61: Decoding Tension in Your Operations Team 7:48

29 weeks ago7:48

7:48

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/61 . Someone recently confided in me: “No matter what I try with my team, there’s this constant rumble of tension that won’t go away. It’s stressing me out. What am I missing?” Frustrating, right? Team dynamics are rarely straightforward. Even genuine efforts to connect can cause friction unintentionally. Working in highly diverse teams, differences can be a double-edged sword. You’ve got a variety of valuable perspectives, but also a great risk of conflict. The real challenge lies in understanding the unspoken issues that linger beneath the surface. In this episode, I’ll show you how the Enneagram can shed light on these mysterious hidden dynamics. By learning more about your blind spots and the unique personalities on your team, you can see your team in a new light and watch the tension melt away.…

Your Future Realized

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60: How Operations Execs Master Mediocrity 5:39

31 weeks ago5:39

5:39

Find the full transcript at: yourfuturerealized.com/60 . Are you feeling stuck in the background, the unsung hero of your company? Ever wonder why your contributions seem to go unnoticed? You’re in good company. Many operations leaders find themselves in this position. It’s easy to blame this oversight on the nature of operations, often unnoticed until something goes wrong. With so much cross-functional collaboration, it can be difficult to pinpoint specific achievements. But here’s the kicker: ops leaders’ humility can work against them. By quietly getting everything done, your efforts can easily be lost in the corporate shuffle. In this episode, I’ll identify 9 habits that keep you in the shadows, perpetuating a cycle of obscurity. By stepping up to gain the recognition you deserve, you can redefine operations from a silent support system to the powerful engine it truly is.…

Your Future Realized

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59: The Ops Exec's Guide to Maternity Leave Success 5:18

32 weeks ago5:18

5:18

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/59. You've poured your heart and soul into leading operations. And things are humming along smoothly thanks to your expertise and dedication. So, when you’re expecting a little one, stepping away for maternity leave can of course be daunting. When someone is about to go on mat leave, they often wonder, "How will it impact my career and my reputation? How am I gonna manage it all? Am I gonna lose the professional edge that I've worked so hard to build?" Your life will certainly change and expand as you learn to balance caring for your baby with your career. This transition is the perfect time to reassess what success means to you now. In this episode I’ll talk about how to feel confident heading into mat leave so you can keep your professional mojo while embracing your new role as a mom.…

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58: How Not Having All the Answers Can Fuel Your Ops Team 5:46

33 weeks ago5:46

5:46

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/58 . As the person in charge of operations, you’re probably known as the one with all the answers. With rapid changes in technology and across industries, the pressure to know everything can be overwhelming. Can anyone really have all the answers? Many executives struggle without immediate solutions or a clear path to find them. This can leave you feeling exposed and anxious. Today, curiosity and adaptability matter more than having all the answers yourself. So what if advancing your team isn't about having all the answers, but asking the right questions? This shift in mindset can empower your team and ease the pressure on yourself. In this episode, I'll explore how embracing unpredictability can pave the way for your team's success. It's time to rethink leadership, starting with the courage to say, "I don't know."…

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57: Free Your Ops Leadership from the Burden of Over-Responsibility 6:30

34 weeks ago6:30

6:30

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/57 . Years ago, I led a growing department in a quickly-evolving business. It was a whirlwind experience, testing my limits, especially with a toddler at home. My boss once referred to me this way: "Whenever I toss anything even remotely in her direction, she just catches it and handles it!" I dined out on this complement for weeks and relished being known as the go-to problem solver. But I eventually realized that my drive had shifted into overdrive. It was in the way of my personal and professional growth. Can you ever be too responsible a person? Absolutely. But it’s also possible to let go and find a healthier way. In this episode, I'll show you why you might feel responsible for things beyond your control, and how to handle that. It’s time to stop taking on burdens that aren’t yours.…

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56: How Operations Execs Turn Self-Doubt into Strength 5:57

35 weeks ago5:57

5:57

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/56 . Do you sometimes question your right to be leading operations? You're not alone. I know that even though you are the backbone of your organization, it can be easy to feel out of place and question your own value. In a role like yours, where precision and leadership converge, even executives with lots of years under their belt have self-doubt. It’s easy to forget in the moment, but feeling out of place doesn’t mean that you’re inadequate. It's a normal part of stepping up and taking on new challenges. What if you could turn doubt into a driving force? It’s time to unravel the mystery of imposter syndrome so it’s no longer a burden but a badge of growth. In this episode, learn what imposter syndrome is, what it isn't, and how it can become one of the secrets to your success.…

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55: Mastering Self-Promotion in Operations 6:35

36 weeks ago6:35

6:35

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/55 . Leading operations is like running a mental marathon. You're constantly in motion to keep it all going smoothly. In the hustle of the day-to-day, it’s not unusual to look up and see others getting recognition and advancing, while you feel left behind. Other roles typically are more visible . So, how can you make sure you’re moving in the right direction too? Operations executives often come to me feeling stuck and wondering if it's time to throw in the towel to consider new opportunities. It’s a significant decision, but there might be unexplored avenues you can try first. In this episode, you’ll hear the story of an operations leader at a law firm who felt stuck while others moved forward. You’ll learn how he overcame his reluctance to seek recognition, increased his visibility and reshaped his professional identity.…

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54: How to Unlock Your Ops Team's Creative Potential 6:47

37 weeks ago6:47

6:47

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/54. Brainstorming sessions. They’re supposed to ignite creativity and bring out new ideas, right? In theory, it makes sense. For many, gathering with the team, with a whiteboard and markers, is a blast. The collective focus and the pressure to generate breakthroughs sounds fun. But for others, particularly the more introverted geniuses, these sessions have always been uncomfortable at best. Worst case, they actually stifle creativity. And they can make some feel out of place if they don’t love it or do it as well as the others. Your team might feel the same way. So, how do you make sure everyone is included generating ideas? The true power of brainstorming lies in its inclusivity. In this episode, you’ll hear how to structure brainstorming so every team member can contribute at their best.…

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53: How Top Ops Execs Achieve Peak Productivity with Archery Principles 6:49

38 weeks ago6:49

6:49

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/53 . What sets apart someone who manages their time gracefully from someone who gets lost in the daily grind? Maybe the answer can be found in the practice of archery. Since diving into archery earlier this year, I’ve noticed that hitting a bullseye has a lot in common with wrangling a busy schedule. This realization struck me when a client said: "I start every day determined to make a dent in something significant. But one email turns into a hundred. Before I know it, it's 5 PM and I’m just starting on my ‘real work’.” Mastering focus is like perfecting your aim: Both require discipline and precision. Could thinking like an archer be the key to mastering your time? In this episode, I’ll show you how archery strategies can help you tackle your most important tasks with precision so your priorities don’t get lost in the shuffle.…

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52: When Feedback from Your Ops Team Feels Like an Attack 6:13

39 weeks ago6:13

6:13

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/52. How good are you at handling feedback when it hits a nerve? When feedback feels more like an attack than constructive advice, it’s natural to feel defensive. Picture this feedback as a rough diamond. It’s abrasive at first, but underneath, there may be something super valuable. So, will you confront it to discover its value, or shy away and let it tarnish your confidence? Think of the most successful leaders you admire. Every one of them has gotten tough feedback. So, what if this feedback is the key to unlocking your next success? Your ability to handle feedback effectively can set you apart as a leader. It not only improves your performance but can inspire your team to do the same. In this episode, I’ll share strategies to help you maintain composure and extract the insights that will help you make the most of a difficult situation.…

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51: Elevate Your Ops Leadership from ‘Too Nice’ to ‘Just Right’ 5:55

40 weeks ago5:55

5:55

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/51 . Think of a company’s operations as the wheels on a bus. They keep everything moving forward. Your role is crucial ensuring it stays on track by maintaining strong relationships across teams. Building healthy interdepartmental relationships is a unique skill, and it comes with its own challenges. One client, a leader in research ops, shared her concerns about career stagnation with me, saying: “I feel trapped trying to make everyone happy. I’m overcommitted and they think I’m a pushover. Can you help me grow a spine?” This situation resonated deeply with me, and it might with you as well. If your career has stalled because you’re too accommodating, this episode is for you. I’ll show you how to transform your niceness into a strength that actually enhances your reputation. If you want others to respect you, you need to respect yourself first.…

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50: Empowering Your Ops Team Post-Reorganization 6:40

41 weeks ago6:40

6:40

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/50 . Not too long ago, an Ops team lead reached out to me, feeling overwhelmed by her company’s layoffs and shake-ups. Her team was having a tough time adjusting. Morale was taking a nosedive. With all the chaos, staying focused and productive felt nearly impossible. She said to me: “I have to somehow put the broken pieces together and keep everyone moving. Can you give me some best practices for rebuilding trust when half the team is still reeling from the changes?” Can you relate? It's a situation many leaders find themselves in at some point. How can you keep your team cohesive and motivated in the face of major disruptions like this? It requires a delicate balance. It’s tricky and the solution might surprise you. In this episode, I’ll share the principles my client used to address her team’s morale issues and rebuild trust so everyone could feel secure in their roles again.…

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49: 7 Steps for Ops Execs to Achieve Laser-Focused Productivity 6:21

42 weeks ago6:21

6:21

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/49. Are you overwhelmed by your schedule, struggling to focus on what’s truly important? You’ll never have more time than your focus and discipline allow. What if you could reclaim your day and direct your energy where it matters most? Think of a sculptor, creating a masterpiece. They focus on the fine details that bring their vision to life, not the rough outlines. I use an exercise with my clients that’s a blend of Zen mindfulness and strategic task management. It helps you zoom in and get organized around what’s essential. In this episode, I’m going to walk you through this process step by step, so you can protect your time and invest it where it counts. It's not about doing less. It’s about doing more of what drives operational success and meaningful results.…

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48: Resilience Strategies for Operations Execs 6:40

43 weeks ago6:40

6:40

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/48 . How often do you find yourself wishing for a seamless, hiccup-free day? Let’s face it. Your world will always be filled with challenges. From technology failures and workflow breakdowns to budget constraints and team conflicts, you’ve got a relentless stream of problems to solve. Over time, it can sap your confidence and reduce your effectiveness. It’s tempting to fantasize about a perfect world where everything flows smoothly! But what if you could shift your mindset to embrace the real world, instead? What if you concentrated on building your mental and physical resilience so you’re better equipped to face challenges head-on? Today, I’ll share 3 ways to gauge your resilience and some practical strategies to boost it. Time to dump the fantasies and turn those hiccups into success stories.…

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47: Advance Your Operations Career with Personal Branding 6:32

44 weeks ago6:32

6:32

Find the full transcript at yourfuturerealized.com/47 . As the ‘go-to person’ in your organization, do you struggle with feeling overwhelmed and underappreciated? Operations teams rarely get the spotlight unless something goes wrong. To change this, you need more than just hard work. You need to build a strong personal brand to get recognized and boost your credibility. Managing your brand isn’t just about showing who you are. It’s a smart way to get noticed and advance your career. It’s like designing a car. You choose the features, colors, and performance specifications. If performance doesn’t meet your expectations, you make modifications. With branding, you need to understand how you want to present yourself and the unique things you bring to the table. In this episode, you’ll hear seven reasons to update your personal brand and five steps to become the best version of yourself, so others see your true worth.…

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46: Ops Exec, Are You Over-Relying on the Usual Suspects? 6:05

45 weeks ago6:05