The Lipstick, Laughs & Leadership Podcast

Jodie Salt

Welcome to Lipstick, Laughter & Leadership — a leadership podcast for women who want to lead well, live fully and stop pretending everything’s fine when it isn’t. Lipstick, Laughs & Leadership is the podcast where real women talk real leadership without the corporate BS. Hosted by Emma and Jodie, two experienced executive coaches and leadership development consultants who’ve lived the highs, the mess, and everything in between, this is an honest, down‑to‑earth conversation from the sofa. Expect laughter, straight‑talk, and meaningful discussions about confidence, influence, wellbeing, burnout, ambition, and leading in a world that wasn’t always built for women like us. No jargon, no fluff, just relatable stories, practical insights, and leadership lessons that actually stick. Hosted by Emma Shepherd and Jodie Salt, two experienced executive and leadership coaches, this is a relaxed, sofa‑style podcast that explores real leadership, real life and real conversations — without the corporate BS. This podcast is for women in leadership, senior roles, business owners and ambitious professionals who care about success and wellbeing. We talk honestly about what leadership actually feels like behind the scenes — the confidence wobbles, the burnout warning signs, the pressure to perform, and the desire to do things differently. What you’ll hear on the podcast:Leadership without the corporate maskConfidence, credibility and influence at workBurnout prevention, recovery and sustainable successFeminine energy in a masculine, performance‑driven worldBoundaries, bravery and bold career decisionsNavigating senior leadership as a womanWellbeing, balance and leading as a human, not a robot This is not a polished, performative leadership podcast. It’s two women on a sofa, a cuppa (or a glass of something fizzy), and conversations most people are thinking but rarely say out loud. Emma and Jodie bring together decades of experience in leadership development, executive coaching and wellbeing, alongside real lived experience of burnout, career pressure, family life, ambition and recovery. Expect warmth, challenge, laughter and practical insight you can actually use. Whether you’re: A senior leader or executiveAn emerging leader or managerA business owner or consultantOr simply navigating work, ambition and life with heart…you’re in the right place. 🎧 New episodes released regularly 💄 Honest leadership conversations 😂 Laughter and humanity 🧠 Insight, challenge and support No jargon. No fluff. No pretending. Just leadership — done differently. Subscribe to Lipstick, Laughter & Leadership for honest conversations about leadership, wellbeing, confidence and creating success that doesn’t cost you your health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episodes

  1. May 18

    The Art of Influencing

    This episode explores the nuances of influence in leadership, emphasising influence without authority, building trust, and effective communication strategies. The hosts share insights on personal power, influencing techniques, and the importance of authenticity in leadership. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Influence and Leadership 05:53 Generational Dynamics in the Workplace 11:48 The Power of Personal Influence 17:54 Building Trust and Credibility 24:10 Influencing Through Passion and Authenticity 29:52 Reciprocity and Collaborative Influence 36:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Dale Carnegie's How to Win Friends and Influence People - https://www.amazon.com/dp/0671027034 ☕ Support the Podcast If you fancy buying us a coffee to keep us going while recording these podcasts, we’d massively appreciate it:👉 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/lipsticklaug...⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 📲 Follow Us Instagram:Jodie Salt – @jodes_salt Emma Shepherd – @emmashepherd23 Websites: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.jodiesalt.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.inspiredlearningltd.co.uk⁠

    40 min

  2. May 4

    Emotional Intelligence

    Exploring the vital role of emotional intelligence in leadership, this episode delves into understanding, developing, and applying EQ to enhance workplace relationships and decision-making.  KEY Topics The debate between EQ and IQ in leadership The four quadrants of emotional intelligence (self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship management) Practical ways to develop and enhance EQ The importance of self-awareness and self-regulation in leadership The role of empathy and social awareness in building relationships ☕ Support the Podcast If you fancy buying us a coffee to keep us going while recording these podcasts, we’d massively appreciate it:👉 ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/lipsticklaug...⁠⁠⁠⁠ 📲 Follow Us Instagram:Jodie Salt – @jodes_salt Emma Shepherd – @emmashepherd23 Websites: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.jodiesalt.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.inspiredlearningltd.co.uk⁠

    46 min

  3. Apr 20

    Handling Difficult Conversations

    This episode explores strategies and mindsets for tackling challenging discussions confidently and effectively. Whether you're a manager, leader, or team member, learning to navigate difficult conversations can transform your work relationships and organizational culture.In this episode: How to reframe 'difficult' conversations as 'meaningful' or 'important'The importance of mindset, including beliefs about conversations and emotionsPractical techniques like the Tactical Challenge Formula (TCF)How language, tone, and body language influence outcomesPlanning and preparation to reduce anxiety and increase clarityThe role of assertiveness and curiosity in constructive dialogueBuilding psychological safety and trust before facing tough topicsManaging upward and cross-team difficult conversationsThe significance of emotional intelligence and situational awareness ☕ Support the Podcast If you fancy buying us a coffee to keep us going while recording these podcasts, we’d massively appreciate it:👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/lipsticklaug...⁠⁠⁠ 📲 Follow Us Instagram:Jodie Salt – @jodes_salt Emma Shepherd – @emmashepherd23 Websites: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.jodiesalt.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.inspiredlearningltd.co.uk⁠

    1h 2m

  4. Apr 6

    How To Boost Productivity and Reach Goals Faster - Mastering the 12 Week Year

    Explore how breaking your year into 12-week cycles can revolutionise your goal-setting, productivity, and overall success. Emma and Jodie share practical insights, real-life examples, and actionable tips to help you implement this powerful methodology effectively. Main Topics: How the 12 Week Year differs from traditional annual planningTips for creating effective 12-week action plansThe importance of regular reflection and accountabilityUsing visual tools like calendars, vision boards, and TLAs (good, better, best)Managing flexibility and adapting goals when life throws curveballsExplore how breaking your year into 12-week cycles can revolutionize your goal-setting, productivity, and overall success. Emma and Jodie share practical insights, real-life examples, and actionable tips to help you implement this powerful methodology effectively.Main Topics: How the 12 Week Year differs from traditional annual planningTips for creating effective 12-week action plansThe importance of regular reflection and accountabilityUsing visual tools like calendars, vision boards, and TLAs (good, better, best)Managing flexibility and adapting goals when life throws curveballsThe pitfalls of annualized planning and the advantages of shorter cyclesHow to break down big goals into manageable 12-week sprintsThe role of the 13th week for review and course correctionPractical techniques for planning, tracking, and accountabilityPersonal stories demonstrating the impact of this approachIn this episode: The pitfalls of annualised planning and the advantages of shorter cyclesHow to break down big goals into manageable 12-week sprintsThe role of the 13th week for review and course correctionPractical techniques for planning, tracking, and accountabilityPersonal stories demonstrating the impact of this approach☕ Support the Podcast If you fancy buying us a coffee to keep us going while recording these podcasts, we’d massively appreciate it:👉 ⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/lipsticklaug...⁠⁠ 📲 Follow Us Instagram:Jodie Salt – @jodes_salt Emma Shepherd – @emmashepherd23 Websites: ⁠⁠https://www.jodiesalt.com⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.inspiredlearningltd.co.uk⁠

    45 min

  5. Mar 30

    Why they're promoted (and you're not!)

    In this episode, Jodie & Emma discuss the complexities of promotions in the workplace, particularly focusing on the visibility and sponsorship that often influence career advancement. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they highlight the challenges women face, especially during maternity leave, and emphasise the importance of maintaining professionalism and seeking sponsorship to navigate these dynamics effectively. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Promotions and Visibility 06:13 The Importance of Visibility and Personal Branding 11:50 Navigating Gender Dynamics in Promotions 17:52 Strategies for Career Advancement 23:59 Creating a Supportive Work Environment Takeaways Promotions can often feel arbitrary and influenced by factors beyond performance. Visibility in the workplace is crucial for career advancement. Sponsorship is more impactful than mentorship for career growth. Women often face unique challenges in promotions, especially during maternity leave. It's important to act as if you're in the role you aspire to have. Performance alone is not enough; personal branding and visibility matter. Maintaining professionalism after a colleague's promotion is essential. Cultural attitudes towards part-time work can hinder career progression. Women should seek sponsorship actively to enhance their career opportunities. Workplace dynamics are evolving, but challenges remain ☕ Support the Podcast If you fancy buying us a coffee to keep us going while recording these podcasts, we’d massively appreciate it:👉 ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/lipsticklaug...⁠ 📲 Follow Us Instagram:Jodie Salt – @jodes_salt Emma Shepherd – @emmashepherd23 Websites: ⁠https://www.jodiesalt.com⁠ ⁠https://www.inspiredlearningltd.co.uk⁠

    40 min
  6. Ditch the 'Good Girl' Energy

    Mar 16

    Ditch the 'Good Girl' Energy

    In this episode of Lipstick, Laughs and Leadership, Jodie and Emma explore the concept of 'good girl energy' and its implications in the workplace. They discuss how societal norms and gender expectations shape behaviour, particularly for women in leadership roles. The conversation delves into the challenges of assertiveness, the impact of unconscious biases, and the importance of self-awareness in navigating professional environments. The hosts provide strategies for empowerment, emphasising the need to shift mindsets and embrace authenticity in leadership. Takeaways Ditching good girl energy is essential for success. Gender norms impact behaviour from childhood. Women often face a double standard in the workplace. Assertiveness is key to effective leadership. Self-awareness helps in recognising biases. Leadership roles have traditionally been male-coded. Good girl energy can hinder career progression. It's important to set boundaries and say no. Passive-aggressive behaviour is counterproductive. Listening can be more impactful than speaking.  ☕ Support the PodcastIf you fancy buying us a coffee to keep us going while recording these podcasts, we’d massively appreciate it:👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/lipsticklaug...📲 Follow UsInstagram:Jodie Salt – @jodes_saltEmma Shepherd – @emmashepherd23Websites:https://www.jodiesalt.comhttps://www.inspiredlearningltd.co.uk

    40 min

  7. Mar 2

    International Women's Day Special

    In this special bonus episode for International Women's Day, Emma and Jodie explore the real meaning behind the day’s global themes of rights, justice, and action.   Together, they unpack the powerful concept of “give to gain” and what it truly looks like when we support women in leadership, champion inclusivity, and take meaningful action in our workplaces and communities.   Through honest conversation, personal experiences, and practical examples, Emma and Jodie discuss how small everyday actions can create lasting change. From advocating for women in meetings to amplifying each other’s voices and creating visibility for women at work, this episode highlights the ripple effect of confidence, support, and leadership.   They also share simple but powerful micro‑actions anyone can take to help move the dial forward for women, not just on International Women’s Day, but every day. If you’re passionate about empowerment, leadership, inclusivity, and supporting women, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. ✨   Because real change happens when rights are protected, justice is pursued, and action is taken.   What We Discuss  • The true themes of International Women’s Day: Rights, Justice, and Action • What “give to gain” really means in leadership and life  • Why visibility and advocacy for women matter in the workplace • How small gestures can create big cultural change  • Personal stories about confidence, support, and growth  • Simple micro‑actions that make a difference    Key Takeaways  💡 Supporting women can start with small actions 💡 Visibility and advocacy create opportunities 💡 Confidence spreads through encouragement 💡 Real change requires action, not just awareness   To celebrate International Women’s Day, we’re launching a special “Give to Gain” competition. We believe powerful stories create ripple effects, and this is our way of giving someone a platform to share theirs. If you have an inspiring story about women in leadership, lifting others up, or creating change in the workplace, we’d love to hear from you. One winner will be invited as an exclusive guest on our podcast to share their story with our community. To enter, simply complete the short questionnaire using the link below. Entries close at midnight on the 7th March and we’ll be announcing the winner on Sunday 8th March (International Women’s Day). We can’t wait to hear your stories and continue championing women who are making an impact. ✨https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/AeKABUsig4   ☕ Support the Podcast If you fancy buying us a coffee to keep us going while recording these podcasts, we’d massively appreciate it: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/lipsticklaughsleadership   📲 Follow Us Instagram: Jodie Salt – @jodes_salt Emma Shepherd – @emmashepherd23 Websites: https://www.jodiesalt.com https://www.inspiredlearningltd.co.uk

    50 min

  8. Feb 23

    You don't have Imposter Syndrome

    Summary In this episode, Jodie & Emma explore the concept of imposter syndrome, its origins, and its impact on individuals, particularly in professional settings. The conversation delves into the feelings associated with imposter syndrome, the importance of psychological safety, and how it manifests differently across demographics. They emphasise the need to embrace these feelings rather than overcome them, providing practical strategies for listeners to navigate their experiences with imposter syndrome. Takeaways Imposter syndrome is a common experience that many people face. The term was first coined in 1978 by Pauline Clance and Suzanne Imes. Imposter syndrome affects both men and women, despite its origins in women's studies. It's important to recognise that feelings of self-doubt are normal and shared by many. Embracing imposter syndrome can lead to personal growth and development. Psychological safety in the workplace can influence feelings of imposter syndrome. People often feel like imposters when they are in unfamiliar environments. Reframing negative self-talk can help combat feelings of inadequacy. Physical presence and body language can impact confidence levels. Letting yourself feel emotions can help them pass more quickly. Titles Understanding Imposter Syndrome: A Deep Dive The Origins and Impact of Imposter Syndrome sound bites "Do I really have imposter syndrome?" "You have to let yourself feel." "Courage to continue that counts." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Imposter Syndrome 05:55 Understanding the Feelings Behind Imposter Syndrome 11:48 The Role of Psychological Safety 17:57 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Strategies and Tips 30:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    33 min
  9. Episode 3: Back from the Brink of Burnout

    Feb 16

    Episode 3: Back from the Brink of Burnout

    In this episode, Jodie shares her personal experiences with burnout, discussing its definition, symptoms, and the societal pressures that contribute to it, particularly for women. The conversation explores the cycle of burnout and recovery, the importance of self-care, and practical tips for preventing burnout in both personal and professional settings. Jodie emphasizes the need for systemic change in workplaces to support mental health and well-being. Takeaways Burnout is a cycle that can lead to hospitalization. Recognizing the signs of burnout is crucial for recovery. Self-care practices, like finding a 'third place', are essential. Women often bear a greater mental load, contributing to burnout. Stress can manifest physically, leading to various health issues. Taking breaks and scheduling reflection time can improve productivity. Cortisol levels can indicate stress and burnout. It's important to set boundaries and say no to prevent burnout. Changing the environment is key to managing burnout. Burnout is a long journey that requires patience and self-compassion. Titles Back from the Brink of Burnout Understanding the Cycle of Burnout sound bites "Burnout feels like a Badge of Honour." "Your nervous system's f****d." "The answer isn't to become more resilient." Chapters 00:00 Understanding Burnout: A Personal Journey 09:11 The Cycle of Burnout and Recovery 18:03 Finding Your Third Place: The Importance of Self-Care 26:49 The Impact of Stress on Women: A Societal Perspective 39:44 Practical Tips for Preventing Burnout

    41 min
  10. What even is leadership these days?

    Feb 9

    What even is leadership these days?

    What actually is leadership — and why does it feel so misunderstood? In this episode of Lipstick, Laughs & Leadership, Emma and J***s strip leadership back to what really matters, beyond job titles, hierarchies and outdated corporate ideals. We unpack the difference between being a manager and being a leader, and why so many people don’t leave jobs — they leave managers. Drawing on real experiences, we share examples of leaders we’ve encountered over the years: the inspiring, the ineffective, and everything in between, and reflect on the behaviours that had the biggest impact (good and bad). We explore what great leadership looks like now, the traits that genuinely build trust and followership, and why leadership today is far less about control and authority and far more about connection, clarity and credibility. This is an honest conversation about human‑centred leadership, the responsibility that comes with influence, and how leadership shows up in everyday moments — not just in boardrooms. No buzzwords. No corporate performance. Just a real, thoughtful conversation about leadership as it’s actually lived. 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify 📺 Or watch on YouTube ☕ If you fancy buying us a coffee to keep us going while recording these podcasts, we’d massively appreciate it: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/lipsticklaughsleadership 📲 Come and say hi on Instagram: Jodie Salt – @jodes_salt Emma Shepherd – @emmashepherd23 🌐 Our websites: Jodie Salt – https://www.jodiesalt.com Inspired Learning – https://www.inspiredlearningltd.co.uk Welcome to Lipstick, Laughter & Leadership — a leadership podcast for women who want to lead well, live fully and stop pretending everything’s fine when it isn’t. Lipstick, Laughs & Leadership is the podcast where real women talk real leadership without the corporate BS. Hosted by Emma and Jodie, two experienced executive coaches and leadership development consultants who’ve lived the highs, the mess, and everything in between, this is an honest, down‑to‑earth conversation from the sofa. Expect laughter, straight‑talk, and meaningful discussions about confidence, influence, wellbeing, burnout, ambition, and leading in a world that wasn’t always built for women like us. No jargon, no fluff, just relatable stories, practical insights, and leadership lessons that actually stick. Subscribe for honest conversations about leadership, wellbeing, confidence and creating success that doesn’t cost you your health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    46 min
  11. You just need to be a bit more confident!

    Feb 2

    You just need to be a bit more confident!

    In this first official episode of Lipstick, Laughs & Leadership we start with exploring confidence. Where does it come from? How do you get it? Can you fake it till you make it? With hula hoops and ghyll scrambling as the backdrop, along with some stories of their own, Emma & J***s discuss how to step into your own confidence and some top tips to make it happen. Welcome to Lipstick, Laughter & Leadership — a leadership podcast for women who want to lead well, live fully and stop pretending everything’s fine when it isn’t. Lipstick, Laughs & Leadership is the podcast where real women talk real leadership without the corporate BS. Hosted by Emma and Jodie, two experienced executive coaches and leadership development consultants who’ve lived the highs, the mess, and everything in between, this is an honest, down‑to‑earth conversation from the sofa. Expect laughter, straight‑talk, and meaningful discussions about confidence, influence, wellbeing, burnout, ambition, and leading in a world that wasn’t always built for women like us. No jargon, no fluff, just relatable stories, practical insights, and leadership lessons that actually stick. Subscribe for honest conversations about leadership, wellbeing, confidence and creating success that doesn’t cost you your health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    39 min
  12. Introduction to Lipstick, Laughs and Leadership

    Jan 27

    Introduction to Lipstick, Laughs and Leadership

    Welcome to Lipstick, Laughs and Leadership! Lipstick, Laughs & Leadership is a sofa‑style leadership podcast for women who want to lead with confidence, credibility and humanity — without the corporate BS. Hosted by executive and leadership coaches Emma Shepherd and Jodie Salt, this podcast is all about real conversations, real leadership and real life. We talk honestly about confidence, influence, burnout, wellbeing, boundaries and navigating leadership in a demanding world — with warmth, challenge and plenty of laughter. This isn’t polished or performative. It’s two experienced coaches, a cuppa (or a glass of something fizzy), and the conversations most leaders are thinking but rarely say out loud. If you’re a woman in leadership, a senior professional, business owner or emerging leader who wants success without burning out, you’re in the right place. New episodes released regularly. Subscribe for leadership done differently. In this first mini episode, meet J***s & Emma and find out if they're for you... Welcome to Lipstick, Laughter & Leadership — a leadership podcast for women who want to lead well, live fully and stop pretending everything’s fine when it isn’t. Lipstick, Laughs & Leadership is the podcast where real women talk real leadership without the corporate BS. Hosted by Emma and Jodie, two experienced executive coaches and leadership development consultants who’ve lived the highs, the mess, and everything in between, this is an honest, down‑to‑earth conversation from the sofa. Expect laughter, straight‑talk, and meaningful discussions about confidence, influence, wellbeing, burnout, ambition, and leading in a world that wasn’t always built for women like us. No jargon, no fluff, just relatable stories, practical insights, and leadership lessons that actually stick. Subscribe for honest conversations about leadership, wellbeing, confidence and creating success that doesn’t cost you your health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    12 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

Welcome to Lipstick, Laughter & Leadership — a leadership podcast for women who want to lead well, live fully and stop pretending everything’s fine when it isn’t. Lipstick, Laughs & Leadership is the podcast where real women talk real leadership without the corporate BS. Hosted by Emma and Jodie, two experienced executive coaches and leadership development consultants who’ve lived the highs, the mess, and everything in between, this is an honest, down‑to‑earth conversation from the sofa. Expect laughter, straight‑talk, and meaningful discussions about confidence, influence, wellbeing, burnout, ambition, and leading in a world that wasn’t always built for women like us. No jargon, no fluff, just relatable stories, practical insights, and leadership lessons that actually stick. Hosted by Emma Shepherd and Jodie Salt, two experienced executive and leadership coaches, this is a relaxed, sofa‑style podcast that explores real leadership, real life and real conversations — without the corporate BS. This podcast is for women in leadership, senior roles, business owners and ambitious professionals who care about success and wellbeing. We talk honestly about what leadership actually feels like behind the scenes — the confidence wobbles, the burnout warning signs, the pressure to perform, and the desire to do things differently. What you’ll hear on the podcast:Leadership without the corporate maskConfidence, credibility and influence at workBurnout prevention, recovery and sustainable successFeminine energy in a masculine, performance‑driven worldBoundaries, bravery and bold career decisionsNavigating senior leadership as a womanWellbeing, balance and leading as a human, not a robot This is not a polished, performative leadership podcast. It’s two women on a sofa, a cuppa (or a glass of something fizzy), and conversations most people are thinking but rarely say out loud. Emma and Jodie bring together decades of experience in leadership development, executive coaching and wellbeing, alongside real lived experience of burnout, career pressure, family life, ambition and recovery. Expect warmth, challenge, laughter and practical insight you can actually use. Whether you’re: A senior leader or executiveAn emerging leader or managerA business owner or consultantOr simply navigating work, ambition and life with heart…you’re in the right place. 🎧 New episodes released regularly 💄 Honest leadership conversations 😂 Laughter and humanity 🧠 Insight, challenge and support No jargon. No fluff. No pretending. Just leadership — done differently. Subscribe to Lipstick, Laughter & Leadership for honest conversations about leadership, wellbeing, confidence and creating success that doesn’t cost you your health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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