EP102. What It Really Takes to Be a Leader Today: Self-Awareness, Culture & Courage with Andrea Cayuela
Leadership doesn’t start when you get a title - it starts with how you show up.In this Career Stories episode, I’m joined by Andrea Cayuela, an impact marketer with experience across Australasia, Latin America, and Europe.Andrea shares her career journey from Colombia to Bali and how her global experiences have shaped her views on leadership, conflict, communication, and self-awareness.Whether you're managing people or simply aiming to be a leader others want to follow, this episode is full of honest insights, practical advice, and real talk about what leadership really looks like in action.In this episode, we talk about: - Andrea’s global career story and what shaped her as a leader- What it means to lead without authority- Why self-awareness is the foundation of great leadership- Managing feedback, likability, and difficult conversations- Why courage and clarity matter more than being “right”- Real-world examples of mindset shifts that support leadership growthThis episode is packed with relatable insights for new and emerging leaders who want to lead with more integrity, emotional intelligence, and impact.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there something else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you.Links and Resources Mentioned:If you’re building your leadership foundation and want structured coaching and support, VIP Leaders is for you. Join the VIP Leaders Interest List to be the first to hear when the next round opens. Join here.Connect with Andrea:https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-cayuela/Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!
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EP 101. Managing Older Team Members Without Losing Confidence or Respect
Feeling uncertain about managing someone older than you or someone with more experience than you? You’re not alone. This is one of the most common concerns new and emerging managers face, and it’s something I coach on regularly inside VIP Leaders.In this episode, I share six key strategies to help you manage these dynamics with clarity, confidence, and humility - so that you can lead well and create strong working relationships, no matter the age difference.In this episode, you’ll learn: - How your mindset shapes the way you manage- Common assumptions that can hold you back (and how to reframe them)- What to do when you're managing someone with more experience- Why being humble is your secret leadership superpower- How to build trust, set expectations, and delegate effectively- How to lead your whole team without getting stuck in people-pleasingWhether you’re stepping into your first leadership role or want to strengthen your foundation, this episode is your practical guide to navigating age dynamics and building influence the right way.Was this episode helpful or something else you want me to conver? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn. Links and Resources Mentioned:1:1 Playbook - Turn casual catch ups into meaningful conversations with your team members. Free download.The Leadership Blueprint - If this is something you’re navigating right now, coaching support can make all the difference. Check out The Leadership Blueprint - a focused coaching package to help you work through challenges like this with clarity, support, and a clear plan.Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!
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EP100. 10 Quick Wins That Will Make You a Better Manager This Week
It’s the 100th episode of Lead With Less! And we’re celebrating with 10 practical, doable wins you can implement right now to build your confidence, lead your team more effectively, and get some traction - even when things feel overwhelming.Whether you’re managing for the first time or just feel stuck in the day to day, these wins are designed to give you momentum, support your growth, and help you become a leader people actually want to follow.In this episode, you’ll learn: - How to build trust and traction with your team - fast- A one-on-one format that creates real connection (and keeps people engaged)- Simple scripts and tools for handling tricky conversations- How to delegate with clarity and confidence- Emotional regulation techniques that make a big difference day to day- Why being human (not perfect) is your leadership superpowerListen to the full episode and pick one to start with, put it into action, and notice how small quick actions can create noticeable quick wins!What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Links and Resources Mentioned:1:1 Playbook - Turn casual catch ups into meaningful conversations with your team members. Free download. The Leadership Blueprint - If this is something you’re navigating right now, coaching support can make all the difference. Check out The Leadership Blueprint - a focused coaching package to help you work through challenges like this with clarity, support, and a clear plan. Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!
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EP 99. Leading Neurodiverse Teams: Advocacy, Support, and Real Leadership with Laura Trethewey
When you manage a diverse team, a one size fits all leadership style doesn’t work - and trying to squeeze everyone into the same box can quietly cost you trust, performance, and innovation.In this episode, I’m joined by Laura Tretheway, HR consultant, workplace advocate, and founder of Spectrum Work Aotearoa - to talk about how managers can genuinely advocate for and support neurodivergent people at work (and why it matters for everyone).We break down why knowing your people is more powerful than any label, the dangers of unchecked assumptions, and what real advocacy and support actually look like inside teams.In this episode, we talk about: - Why advocacy isn’t just an HR problem - it’s a leadership skill- The real risks when managers ignore or misunderstand neurodivergence- Why labels can be helpful, but relationships matter more- How communication flexibility can make or break your leadership- 3 powerful ways managers can advocate for and support diverse teams- Why normalising conversations about accommodations is essential for trust- What happens when you lead with curiosity instead of assumptionsIf you want to lead a team where everyone can bring their best - no matter how they experience or navigate the world - this episode gives you the tools to start building that culture now.Are you leading a team that has neurodivergent people in it? Let me know your insights and if you have any questions. Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn. Connect with Laura:ALL LINKS: https://linktr.ee/lauratrethewey LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauratrethewey/ Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!
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EP 98. 4 Things to Do Before Handling Difficult Situations
You know you need to address it - the feedback you’ve been holding back, the boundary that’s been crossed, the performance issue you can’t ignore anymore.But rushing into tough conversations without prep? That’s where things often go sideways.In this episode, I’m sharing the four critical things you need to do before you dive into any tricky conversation or situation at work (or home). These practical steps will help you stay grounded, communicate clearly, and increase the chances of a productive outcome - even if emotions are running high.In this episode, you’ll learn:- Why addressing tricky issues too quickly can make things worse- The #1 emotional skill to build before giving feedback or setting boundaries- How to get clear on the real problem (and why it matters)- The importance of specificity - and what happens without it- The mindset shift that separates great leaders from reactive ones- A question that will instantly improve your listeningWhether you’re prepping for a tough conversation or trying to coach someone else through it, this episode gives you the clarity and structure to lead it well.Let me know what you thought about this episode, I always love hearing your takeaways and insights. You can message me on Instagram or LinkedIn or flick me an email.Links and Resources Mentioned:1:1 Playbook - Turn casual catchups into meaningful conversations and make tricky things easier to raise with your team. Grab a free copy here.V.I.P Leaders: Want to dive deeper into managing difficult situations and dealing with people challenges like a pro? Join the VIP Leaders interest list - the leadership development program for managers ready to build real skills (and real confidence).Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!
Lead with Less is THE podcast for People Leaders.
Hosted by Tash Pieterse, Certified People Leadership Coach, Business Owner, and mother.
Lead with Less is a podcast for people leaders who want to learn the skills they need to lead in way that people actually want to follow.
With over 13+ years experience in Human Resources, leading her own teams, running her own business, and being a mother, Tash brings all of that experience and knowledge to the podcast so you can get everything you need to become a leader focused on adding value, making an impact, and empowering the people around you.
This is the perfect spot if you're an established professional, new to leadership, business owner, or executive and want to Lead with Less overwhelm, confusion, and struggle so you can become a Leader people actually want to follow.
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