Skip to content
Sign in
Artwork for Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos
BusinessCareersEntrepreneurshipKids & FamilyParenting

Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos

Karen Laos

Are you a leader holding back? What is that costing you? What if you could channel your fear and self-doubt? It’s actually possible. I know, because that’s my story. That’s what the Ignite Your Confidence podcast is all about. It’s for women in leadership who want to speak up and stand out. You’ll find both solo and candid conversations with real people sharing vulnerable stories to inspire you with simple tips to step into your confidence.

Play
Open in
  • 21 episodes
  • fortnightly
  • Avg 17 min
  • English

Episodes 21

NewestOldestLongest
All20Unplayed20In progress0Played0
Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.
  • #201
    Wednesday · 16 min

    How to Bounce Back After Rejection

    Rejection is part of business, leadership, and life. Whether you didn’t get the promotion, the client said no, your idea wasn’t chosen, or an opportunity went to someone else, it can sting. But a “no” doesn’t have to shake your confidence or make you question your value. In this episode, I share practical ways to bounce back from rejection, learn from it, and keep moving forward. Because rejection is information, not a verdict on who you are. And remember: you’re not for everyone, and you’re not supposed to be. You’ll learn how to: Separate rejection from your identity and remember who you are Feel the disappointment without creating a bigger story around it Get curious about what you can learn from the experience Ask for feedback without defending yourself Make your next move instead of letting one “no” cause you to retreat Reframe rejection as evidence that you’re stretching, taking risks, and putting yourself in the arena The goal isn’t to avoid rejection. It’s to trust yourself enough that rejection doesn’t stop you from making the next ask. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #200
    August 26 · 22 min

    How to Build Trust in Seconds and Influence the Room with Powerhouse Presence™

    People decide whether to trust you before they’ve had time to fully evaluate your expertise. Before they process your words, they’re reading your energy, pace, posture, eye contact, and certainty. The question is: Does the way you show up match the brilliance you bring? In this milestone 200th episode, I’m sharing seven practical ways to build trust quickly, strengthen your credibility, and influence the room with Powerhouse Presence™. 1. The Handshake Moment: Trust Starts Before Your Content Does People experience you before they process what you’re saying. Your posture, facial expression, eye contact, pace, and energy are already communicating a message. Before your next high-stakes conversation, ask yourself: How do I want to be experienced in this room? Choose three words, such as calm, credible, clear, and let those guide how you show up. 2. Calm Certainty Builds Credibility Powerhouse Presence™ isn’t about being the loudest or most charismatic person in the room. It’s about communicating: I belong here. I know what I bring. And I don’t need to prove it. Slow your pace. Finish your sentences. Let your words land. Confidence doesn’t rush. 3. Your First Words Matter Don’t waste your opening warming up, qualifying your opinion, or giving unnecessary backstory. Instead of: “I’ve been thinking about this, and I’m not sure everyone will agree, but…” Try: “Here’s what I recommend.” Use BLUF: Bottom Line Up Front. Lead with what matters most. 4. Remove the Language That Leaks Authority Pay attention to words and phrases that unintentionally weaken your message: just, sorry, I think, maybe, hopefully, or does that make sense? You don’t have to become aggressive or overly direct. The goal is to communicate with greater clarity and certainty. Before you speak, ask: Am I softening this because it needs to be softened, or because I’m uncomfortable owning it? 5. Stand Out by Being Concise Over-explaining can come from wanting to prove your credibility. Ironically, it can have the opposite effect. Make your point. Give the necessary context. Then stop. Challenge yourself to cut the runway and eliminate the first 20–30% of what you would normally say. The more important your point, the less you should bury it. 6. Make Sure Your Presence Matches Your Brilliance You can be exceptionally talented and still have a gap between what you know and how others experience you. I call this the Credibility Gap: the distance between the expertise you possess and the confidence, clarity, and authority others experience from you. Your goal isn't to become someone else. It's to make sure the room can see the value that's already there. 7. Build Trust Through Consistency Powerhouse Presence™ isn't something you turn on for the big presentation or board meeting. Trust is built in the everyday moments: keeping your word, being prepared, communicating clearly, handling pressure well, and saying what needs to be said. People trust leaders when they know what they can count on from them. Your Powerhouse Challenge This week, don't try to be more impressive. Be more intentional. Speak sooner. Say less. Slow down. Trust your own voice. Because when your presence matches your brilliance, you don't have to fight to command the room. People feel it. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #199
    August 12 · 22 min

    How to Command Respect at Work (Without Being the Loudest Person in the Room)

    Respect isn't something your title automatically earns. It's something people decide through every interaction they have with you. In this episode, Karen shares seven practical communication habits that help you command respect, build credibility, and strengthen your executive presence, without changing who you are. In this episode, we cover: 1. Speak First Don't wait until everyone else has shared their opinion. Contributing early positions you as someone who helps shape the conversation rather than simply reacting to it. 2. Stop Over-Explaining Lengthy explanations often sound like you're seeking permission. Learn how to state your recommendations with confidence and let your expertise speak for itself. 3. Be Clear Before You're Clever Lead with the bottom line first. Clear, concise communication earns trust and helps people make decisions faster. 4. Hold Your Boundaries Respect grows when your words and actions align. Learn how healthy boundaries reinforce your priorities and demonstrate self-respect. 5. Let Silence Do Its Job Confident leaders don't feel the need to fill every pause. Discover why a few seconds of silence can increase your influence in conversations. 6. Make Your Words Match Your Presence Your body language often communicates before your first sentence. Learn how calm, intentional presence reinforces confidence and credibility. 7. Keep Your Word Nothing builds respect faster than consistency. Following through on commitments and communicating early when plans change creates lasting trust. Your Challenge This Week Choose just one of these habits and practice it intentionally: Speak first in your next meeting. Stop over-explaining one recommendation. Pause before filling silence. Hold one healthy boundary. Lead with your bottom line. Walk into the room with calm certainty. Follow through on one commitment exceptionally well. Small communication shifts create big leadership results. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a colleague, leave a review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Every week you'll learn practical strategies to communicate with confidence, influence high-stakes conversations, and develop your Powerhouse Presence™. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #198
    July 29 · 13 min

    How NOT to Ask for What you Want

    Many people don't miss out on opportunities because they aren't qualified, they miss them because they don't ask effectively. In this episode, you'll learn how to strengthen every request you make. In this episode you’ll get five tips: Be discerning, not pushy. Confidence isn't demanding or entitled. It's knowing when an ask is appropriate, respecting the other person's perspective, and being willing to hear either yes or no with grace. Discernment is what separates confidence from pressure. Don't bury the ask. Stop spending minutes explaining the backstory before you get to what you actually want. Lead with the request, then provide context if it's needed. Don't negotiate against yourself. State your request with confidence instead of discounting yourself before the other person has even responded. Don't confuse hints with requests. Hoping someone picks up on subtle cues isn't the same as asking. Be clear and specific about what you need. Don't let fear choose your words. Replace hesitant language like "I was wondering if maybe..." with clear, confident communication that reflects your value. The biggest opportunities often belong to the people who are willing to ask clearly, confidently, and respectfully. Your next "yes" may be waiting on your next ask. Write a review If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #197
    July 15 · 16 min

    The Courage to Be Disliked (Part 2)

    In Part 2 of The Courage to Be Disliked, we're moving from mindset to action. If you've ever said yes when you meant no, over-explained a decision, or worried about disappointing someone, this episode is for you. I'm sharing five practical communication habits that will help you stop seeking approval, trust yourself more, and show up with greater confidence and clarity. In this episode, you'll learn how to: Pause before saying yes. Give yourself time to respond instead of reacting from guilt or people-pleasing. Stop explaining your decisions. A clear, respectful answer is enough, you don't owe everyone a lengthy justification. Replace approval-seeking with clarity. Focus on being understood rather than being liked. Let awkward silence do its job. Say what you need to say, then resist the urge to fill the silence or soften your message. Expect disappointment. Not everyone will agree with your decisions, and that's okay. Leadership requires the courage to disappoint people from time to time. If you're ready to stop managing everyone else's reactions and start leading with confidence, this episode will give you practical tools you can put into practice today. Write a review If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #196
    July 1 · 12 min

    The Courage to Be Disliked (Part 1)

    How much of your life is driven by the need to be liked? In this episode, I'm sharing why the courage to be disliked is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. When you stop seeking everyone's approval, you make room for confidence, authenticity, and the kind of leadership that earns respect. You'll walk away with five practical strategies to help you speak up, set boundaries, and trust yourself—even when not everyone agrees. In this episode, you'll learn: Ask yourself, "What's the cost of being liked?" Before staying silent or saying yes when you mean no, consider what it's costing you—your confidence, opportunities, time, energy, or credibility. Build evidence that you'll survive. Challenge yourself to do one uncomfortable thing each week, whether it's setting a boundary, asking for what you want, or sharing your opinion. Confidence grows through action. Notice your approval habits. Pay attention to the moments you over-explain, apologize unnecessarily, soften your message, or stay quiet to avoid disappointing someone. Get comfortable hearing "no." The more you practice asking for what you want, the less you'll fear rejection—and the more resilient and courageous you'll become. Remember that people recover. Most people move on much faster than we imagine. You don't have to carry the weight of managing everyone else's reactions. If you've been waiting for permission to stop people-pleasing and start trusting yourself, this episode is for you. Favor If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Amazon or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #195
    June 17 · 16 min

    How to Build Relationships Through Networking

    While it can feel awkward for some, it doesn’t have to! In my book, networking is about building meaningful relationships. Listen for six simple, powerful networking strategies to help you connect authentically, deepen relationships, and create opportunities that actually lead somewhere. Whether you're attending a conference, industry event, or meeting someone new over coffee, these practical tips will help you network with confidence and intention. The truth is, the best networkers aren’t the people working the room or talking the most, they're the people building real relationships. In this episode, I’m sharing 6 practical networking strategies that have helped me build genuine connections, create opportunities, and stay top of mind with the right people. Here’s three of the tips below: 1. Show interest. Ask questions. Be curious. People remember how you made them feel. Instead of thinking about what to say next, focus on learning about them. Ask thoughtful questions, listen deeply, and get genuinely curious about their story, work, and goals. 2. Be of service. One of the best networking questions you can ask is: “How can I support you?” or “Who can I connect you with?” Relationships grow faster when you lead with generosity instead of asking, What can I get from this? 3. Take a picture + save their number immediately. This may sound unconventional, but it works. Take a quick photo together so you remember who they are, put their contact information into your phone right away, and send a quick text while you're standing there. This makes follow-up easier and increases the likelihood that the connection actually continues. Key Takeaway: The best networking isn’t transactional, it’s relational. Be curious, be generous, find connection, and don’t wait to follow up. Small actions today can turn into meaningful relationships and unexpected opportunities tomorrow. If this episode resonated, share it with someone who wants to build stronger relationships and bigger opportunities through authentic connection. Favor If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Amazon or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #194
    June 3 · 14 min

    The Perfect Comeback: What to Say to Condescending or Awkward Comments

    Have you ever walked away from a conversation thinking, "I wish I had said something"? Whether it's a condescending remark, an inappropriate comment, or a socially awkward moment that catches you off guard, knowing what to say in the moment can feel impossible. In this episode, I share practical, powerful responses you can use to navigate uncomfortable conversations with confidence, without becoming defensive, escalating the situation, or shrinking yourself. You'll learn simple phrases that help you maintain your authority, set boundaries, and protect your peace when someone says something that leaves you speechless. Because confidence isn't about having the perfect comeback. It's about knowing how to respond in a way that reflects who you are. Key Takeaways How to respond when someone says something condescending Simple phrases to handle inappropriate or uncomfortable comments What to say when you're interrupted or talked over How to set boundaries without sounding rude Why pauses can be more powerful than comebacks The communication skill that helps you stay calm under pressure Memorable Quote "The goal isn't to win the moment. It's to protect your peace, your authority, and your presence." Challenge for the Week Choose one response from this episode and practice it until it becomes second nature. Confidence grows when preparation meets opportunity. Favor If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Amazon or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #193
    May 20 · 16 min

    The Cost of Talking Too Much (and how to fix it)

    Ever been trapped in the meeting that never ends, or the person who can’t seem to land the plane? In this episode, Karen unpacks the hidden cost of talking too much, and why even smart, successful people do it. You’ll learn how overexplaining and overtalking can unintentionally weaken your authority, dilute your message, and cost you influence. Whether you’re leading meetings, speaking on stage, or communicating in everyday conversations, this episode will help you say less and make a bigger impact. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✨ Why more words often equal less influence ✨ The surprising link between overtalking and insecurity ✨ How talking too much can slow decisions and erode trust ✨ The communication shift that makes people lean in and listen ✨ Why pauses, not more words, create presence and authority Key Reminder: The most powerful communicators aren’t the ones who say the most. They’re the ones who say what matters most. Call to Action: If this episode resonated, share it with a friend. Favor If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Amazon or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #192
    May 6 · 29 min

    Unshakable in Life’s Storms: The Power of Hope through Community

    What happens when life doesn’t just challenge you, but it completely upends you? In this episode, Karen and her husband Chris share their five-year journey through kidney failure, dialysis, and ultimately a life-saving transplant (through a chapter they wrote in the book Unshakeable). What began as a medical crisis became a profound lesson in resilience, faith, and the power of community. This conversation will shift how you think about hope. Because hope isn’t always something you feel, it’s something that can be carried for you until you’re strong enough to hold it again. 🔑 Key Takeaways Hope doesn’t thrive in isolation, it grows in community You don’t have to feel strong to keep going The hardest battles are often internal, not visible Support isn’t just words, it’s presence, action, and consistency Sometimes others hold belief for you until you can reclaim it Love in action is what sustains people through the darkest seasons 💬 Powerful Moments “Sometimes, hope is just showing up.” “You won’t face whatever comes next alone.” ❤️ What This Episode Will Do for You If you’re walking through something heavy, this episode will remind you: You are not alone You are allowed to lean on others Your story isn’t over And if you’re supporting someone else, it will show you exactly how powerful your presence truly is. 📣 Call to Action If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who may need hope right now. And ask yourself: Who can I show up for today? Because hope isn’t just something we feel— …it’s something we give. Favor to Ask If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Amazon or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #191
    April 22 · 16 min

    The Hidden Cost of Indecision

    Indecision isn’t neutral, it’s expensive. In this episode, Karen breaks down how hesitation shows up in leadership and why waiting for certainty is often the very thing costing you opportunities, confidence, and influence. If you’ve ever overthought a decision, delayed action, or stayed quiet when you knew you had something to say, this episode will challenge you to move differently. Karen shares a powerful reframe: decisive leaders aren’t always right, but they are trusted. And trust is built through movement, not perfection. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why indecision doesn’t protect opportunities—it passes them to someone else How your hesitation impacts your team’s speed, clarity, and performance The subtle way indecision erodes your confidence over time Why overthinking keeps you busy but not impactful How to build trust through thoughtful, decisive action Key Takeaway: You don’t need more time. You need a decision. Decide, then refine. Action Step: Identify one decision you’ve been delaying. Make the call today, without overcomplicating it. Then adjust as needed. Favor to Ask If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Amazon or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #190
    April 8 · 12 min

    3 Steps to Convert Self-Doubt into Strategic Momentum

    Self-doubt isn’t something to eliminate—it’s something to use. In this episode, Karen shares how high-performing leaders turn doubt into forward movement by breaking it down and taking intentional action. Key Takeaways Self-doubt is a signal, not a stop sign Clarity comes from naming the fear behind the doubt Confidence builds through evidence and action, not waiting Simple Framework Label the doubt What fear is driving it? Challenge it with evidence What past wins prove this isn’t true? Take one small step forward What’s the next simplest action you can take? Why It Works When you break fear into clear, manageable steps, you reduce overwhelm and increase confidence. This is practical leadership psychology. Favor to Ask If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Amazon or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #189
    March 25 · 19 min

    The Power of Possibility: Expanding What You Believe Is Available to You

    What if the real limitation isn’t your ability—but what you believe is possible? In this episode of Ignite Your Confidence, Karen explores how expanding your sense of possibility transforms the way you think, speak, and lead. Many high-achieving professionals unknowingly operate within self-imposed limits that shape their decisions and hold them back from bigger opportunities. You’ll learn how to shift out of default thinking, speak with greater authority, and open new pathways for growth, influence, and impact. ✨ In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How to recognize where you’re unintentionally playing small The difference between speaking from permission vs. possibility Why possibility must come before strategy How your environment shapes what you believe is available The key to building confidence by acting before you feel ready 🎯 Key Takeaway Expanding what you believe is possible changes how you show up—and that changes everything. Favor to Ask If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Amazon or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #188
    March 11 · 15 min

    The Language Shift That Instantly Elevates Your Presence

    The words you choose shape more than your message—they shape your confidence, influence, and leadership presence. In this episode, Karen explores how positive language strengthens communication and leadership impact. Many accomplished professionals unintentionally weaken their message by focusing on problems, hesitation, or what could go wrong. You’ll learn simple shifts to speak toward outcomes, replace problem-focused language with solutions, and build stronger self-trust through the words you use every day—elevating both your executive presence and leadership communication. Speak toward what you want, not what you fear. Direct your language toward the desired outcome instead of focusing on what could go wrong. Replace problem language with possibility language. Acknowledge challenges without amplifying negativity. Focus on solutions and forward movement. Positive language builds self-trust. Your words shape how you see yourself. Speak with clarity and ownership instead of hesitation. Positive communication elevates leadership presence. Leaders who use solution-focused language create psychological safety and stronger collaboration. Positivity is contagious. The emotional tone leaders set through their words influences creativity, engagement, and team culture. Favor to Ask If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Amazon or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #187
    February 25 · 17 min

    Self-Trust: The Secret to Commanding Any Room

    You can be experienced, prepared, and highly capable—and still find yourself second-guessing your decisions, replaying conversations, or looking to others for validation. In this episode, we unpack what self-trust really is, why so many accomplished leaders struggle with it, and how it directly impacts your executive presence and influence. You’ll learn practical shifts to strengthen self-trust so you show up with calm certainty, clear thinking, and authority. 5 Practical Ways to Strengthen Self-Trust 1. Make Decisions Without Over-Collecting Opinions 2. Stop Replaying Conversations After They’re Over 3. Speak Before You Feel 100% Ready 4. Separate Outcomes from Self-Worth 5. Use Language That Reinforces Self-Trust When self-trust increases: Your pace slows Your message gets clearer You stop over-explaining You make decisions faster Others trust you more Because people don’t just respond to your expertise. They respond to your certainty about yourself. Favor to Ask If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Amazon or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #186
    February 11 · 20 min

    Why Smart Women Still Shrink in High-Stakes Rooms and How to Stop

    You can be smart, experienced, and successful—and still find yourself shrinking in high-stakes conversations. In this episode, we unpack why this happens to so many accomplished women and why it has little to do with competence. You’ll learn the subtle communication habits that quietly give away authority—and practical shifts you can use immediately to show up with calm certainty, clarity, and presence when it matters most. You’ll learn the three most common ways accomplished women unintentionally diminish their impact: over-explaining, softening the ask, and waiting to be invited into the conversation. More importantly, you’ll discover simple, powerful shifts that help you show up with clarity and calm authority when it matters most. This episode is for women executives and senior leaders who are ready to stop over-functioning and start leading from self-trust—without apology or second-guessing. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why over-explaining can dilute credibility—even when your ideas are strong How softening language undermines otherwise reasonable asks Why waiting to be invited costs influence in senior rooms The mindset shift from being granted authority to assuming it If this resonated, this is exactly the work I do with women executives who want to command high-stakes conversations with presence, clarity, and unshakable self-trust. If this sparked something in you, let’s talk. Favor to Ask If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Amazon or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Come to my first-ever retreat! If you’re an executive woman looking to become a more confident communicator and uplevel your presence and ability to command any room, join us HERE. It’s April 30-May 3. Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #185
    January 28 · 16 min

    What Confident Leaders Do Before They Speak

    In this episode, Karen shares 6 tips on what confident leaders do before they speak and how you can, too. These are things to do before even walking in the room to present or have a conversation. Learn how Karen’s failure in one of her first corporate training presentations was the catalyst to put a fire in her to realize the value of preparation, changing her behavior and results in her next presentation. Listen for examples and use these practical tips: Tip #1: They get clear on the outcome. Tip #2: They decide how they want to show up. Tip #3: They regulate their body (breath and posture) Tip #4: They choose simplicity over impressing Tip #5: They trust their experience Tip #6: Preparation creates presence (record yourself on video and watch it back!) Listen for more stories and examples to help you be more confident in your next conversation and be seen as the influential leader that you are. Favor to Ask If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Amazon or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Come to my first-ever retreat! If you’re an executive woman looking to become a more confident communicator and uplevel your presence and ability to command any room, join us HERE. It’s April 30-May 3. Get 3 Strategies to Speak Up in Meetings here. Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to silence self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #184
    January 14 · 17 min

    How to Speak up for Yourself in Tense Moments

    In this episode, Karen shares practical, real-world phrases and mindset shifts to help you hold your ground in conversations, redirect when needed, and communicate with calm confidence — without being confrontational or shutting others down. You’ll learn how to protect your time, set boundaries gracefully, and stay grounded even when dealing with over-talkers, poor listeners, or conversations that go off the rails. What You’ll Learn Why “Here’s what will work for me” is a powerful, confident phrase that moves conversations forward How to redirect conversations gracefully without offending or over-explaining Simple ways to include others and avoid being dominated by one voice Why silence can be one of your strongest communication tools How to share a differing perspective without sounding argumentative The mindset shift behind choosing relationship over being right Why clarity is kindness — to yourself and to others How confident communication is about being clear, not loud Key Phrases to Practice “Here’s what will work for me.” “Let’s change gears.” “I’d like to hear what others think.” “I see it differently.” “I have another perspective I’d like to share.” Big Takeaway Confidence isn’t about overpowering others — it’s about clarity, self-respect, and presence. You are allowed to take up space, set boundaries, and communicate your perspective with calm authority. Coaching & Practice These are skills that get stronger with practice. Inside Karen’s coaching and group programs, including The Powerhouse, leaders practice these exact conversations in a safe, supportive environment — because senior leaders rarely have space to rehearse real-life communication. Final Reminder You are worthy of taking up space simply because you exist. Confidence isn’t being loud. Confidence is being clear. Favor to Ask If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a review on Amazon or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people find the show and start communicating with greater confidence and ease. Some resources for you: Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #183
    Dec 31, 2025 · 25 min

    Create Your Best Year Yet: 2026

    Inspired by the book Your Best Year Yet by Jinny Ditzler, join me as I walk through 10 questions to help you reflect back on 2025 and look ahead to 2026, starting with celebrating! And ending with a letter to yourself, written as if it’s December 2026. *** Note: this is a replay from 2024 so that’s why I’m referencing different years - the info is still solid! Here are the questions: What did I accomplish in 2025? What fun things happened? What were my greatest disappointments? What did I learn? What intention will make me most successful in 2026? What one word will be my focus in 2026? How do I limit myself and how can I stop? What inner qualities would I like to nurture? What external outcomes will demonstrate that these inner qualities are deepening? What’s my “why”? Some resources for you: Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/ Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos About me: Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did." Why didn’t that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission? That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom. I’m now on a mission to eradicate self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins. Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™. This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos Connect with me: Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/ Episodes also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

  • #182
    Dec 17, 2025 · 12 min

    5 Micro-Behaviors That Instantly Boost Your Credibility

    Before you say a single word, your presence has already started communicating for you. And the truth is, credibility isn’t built in big, dramatic moments, it’s built in the tiny, everyday behaviors most people never even notice. Try these five to see your credibility soar!

Showing 1–20 of 21 episodes