#BeMoreLobster

Louise Cartwright

Welcome to #bemorelobster.This podcast is for women in business who care deeply about what they do.Women with ideas as big as their hearts and a business they love and want to grow.Women who are brilliant at getting things done… but also know what it feels like to have twenty tabs open in your head.To wake up thinking about work.To feel excited by your business one minute… and completely overwhelmed by it the next.To be holding growth, family, grief, perimenopause, ambition, relationships, life… all at the same time… and still trying to show up well inside your business.That’s what we talk about here.The real stuff.Managing your brain when it’s spiralling.Making decisions when everything feels noisy.Building capacity without burning yourself out.Learning how to handle the discomfort that naturally comes with growth.Backing yourself when you can feel yourself wobbling.And creating a business that actually supports your life… instead of taking over it.Why #bemorelobster?Because discomfort is how the lobster knows it's time to grow. Its shell gets tight and it feels pressure.It never assumes somethings gone wrong - it knows it's time to grow a bigger shell.That’s the reminder here.The moments where you feel uncomfortable, emotional, unsure, vulnerable, frustrated or like you’ve completely lost your rhythm…It doesn’t automatically mean you’re off track or something's gone wrong. It means you’re right in the middle of becoming.So if you’re a woman building a business and also living a real, full, beautifully messy life…You’re in exactly the right place.Let’s get into it.With all my love, Louise xx

  1. 3d ago

    8 reasons why building your business feels harder than it needs to

    Welcome back to the Be More Lobster podcast! In this episode, I took you on a journey of tough love and actionable reflection, sharing insights and strategies I recently gave to my group program. My aim: to help you grow your business while building a life you truly love—never at the expense of your health, emotional well-being, or relationships. The conversation focused on the eight main reasons you might be struggling to find motivation and energy as you build your business and life, and I guided you to self-identify where these might be showing up for you. What We Covered Commitment to New Thinking and Behaviors: Any change you desire requires consistent application and new standards 00:01.Why Sacrificing Your Wellbeing Isn’t the Path: I’ll never encourage you to succeed in business at the cost of everything else 00:50.Identifying and Shifting Ineffective Thought Patterns: Self-identification is the first step to changing your narrative and energy 02:01.The Eight Reasons You Might Be Struggling Lack of Belief – Whether it's about your business or your investments, a lack of belief drains your energy, making progress feel impossible 02:56.Focusing Solely on the Goal, Not the Journey – When you only measure results by the goal, you miss the everyday progress and commitment that matters most 05:17.Delaying Joy and Fulfillment – Believing your best life is only available "later" keeps you stuck. Your emotions and joy aren't dependent on future circumstances 07:42.Not Using Your Resources – Sometimes the tools and practices you've already invested in gather dust, while you run on default settings that no longer serve you 10:40.Not Choosing Your Meaning – You have the power to reframe experiences and assign new, empowering meanings to challenges and setbacks 13:13.Valuing Doing Over Being – Productivity isn’t just about output. True progress comes from aligning who you are with what you want, not just constant action 15:32.Lack of a Marketing Schedule – On-the-fly posting drains energy and creativity. Having a plan allows space for fun and intentionality in reaching your audience 19:00.What You Believe Affects Problem Solving – Your beliefs determine what solutions you see and pursue, impacting your business outcomes directly 21:06.Reflection and Action A key theme that emerged was the importance of self-identification—noticing where these eight issues show up in your daily life and being honest about what’s holding you back 02:01. The conversation explored the importance of embodiment, alignment, and celebrating real progress—not just checking boxes. Several points were raised, including the impact of grief and life changes on priorities, the value of small wins, and the need for supportive routines and boundaries. Takeaway You already have everything you need within you and around you. Embody the future version of you that you know exists—she’s the reason you haven’t quit yet 23:37. Let’s make it a reality by committing to coherence, alignment, and consistent, aligned action. Grab your notepad, reflect honestly, and make today the starting point for the life and business you’re creating. Thank you for listening! If this episode sparked something for you, don’t forget to share, review, or message me your top insight. Let’s grow together and be more lobster every day! Follow me on Insta

  2. Jul 14

    From Aha to Action—How to Actually Level Up

    In this episode, I dive deep into the real magic (and trap) of those "Aha!" moments we all crave as entrepreneurs and high performers. The conversation focused on why AHAs can feel so powerful in the moment—a burst of possibility, a dopamine hit, a new vision opening up in your mind and body. But a key theme that emerged was that an AHA without action is nothing more than a fleeting feel-good sensation. One concept discussed was the RWID framework—Relative Weight of Importance and Duration—which explains how much influence we give thoughts or discoveries in our mind. The more attention and weight we assign to an AHA, the more our brain will seek to reinforce it for us 00:28. But unless we channel that energy into real action, the breakthrough remains out of reach. The discussion explored how easy it is to let AHAs fade as normal life, challenges, and discomfort creep back in 04:46. Several points were raised, including the idea that some people take their insights and run with them, creating true breakthroughs—while others let them gather dust. The difference? Those who succeed expect and train for discomfort, and keep themselves engaged with the process rather than obsessing over final goals 08:22. I shared actionable steps on how to harness your AHAs and turn them into real, lasting change: Frequently reconnect to what became possible in your AHA moment.Train yourself to meet discomfort head-on, rather than seeking only calm or comfort.Stay focused on progress and the journey instead of obsessing over distant goals 09:26.Ultimately, growth at every level requires embracing new AHAs, new wiring, and a new iteration of yourself. The only way to claim the "gift of gold" from your insights is to apply them—honoring the breakthrough by taking action 11:12. I'd love to know your thoughts! Connect with me via email or social media (all links below), and let me know how you're applying your AHAs from this episode. Have a great week and see you next time on Be More Lobster! Follow me on Insta and Facebook

    From Aha to Action—How to Actually Level Up
  3. Jul 8

    Overwhelm, Excuses, and What to Do When You Want to Quit

    In this episode, I dive into the exhausting and damaging effects of the start-stop cycle in business, especially for women entrepreneurs. The conversation focused on why we keep getting stuck in this loop, how it impacts our self-concept, and what it really takes to break free from it. One concept discussed was how commitment doesn’t happen in the decision itself, but in the consistent action that follows. I explored how making your commitment conditional—whether it’s based on having enough energy, support, or the perfect circumstances—leaves the door open for well-dressed excuses and leads us back into old, unhelpful patterns. A key theme that emerged was the importance of accepting our current experience, rather than resisting it or layering self-judgment on top. The discussion explored how resistance stems from the meaning we attach to our struggles, not the struggles themselves. Several points were raised, including: How wobbles and setbacks are normal and often a sign that you’re stretching into a new identityThe trap of thinking something has “gone wrong” just because you’re experiencing discomfort or a period of intense emotionThe powerful loop of resistance and self-judgment that keeps you stuckI also broke down three practical steps to help you stay committed: Acceptance – Stop fighting your current experience. Accept it without judgment and ask yourself what you need right now.Focus on Facts, Not Feelings – Your brain will often serve up thoughts that aren’t true. Anchoring yourself in facts makes it easier to move forward.Shift Your Focus to Service – When you’re in your own head, redirect your attention to how you can serve your clients right now.We also talked about practical ways to make your commitment unconditional—adapting your schedule and environment to support your goals, rather than letting circumstances dictate your actions. Remember, staying committed isn’t about feeling great all the time. Growth often feels uncomfortable. The willingness to accept that, be patient, and keep practicing these shifts will transform your identity and, ultimately, your business results. If you’re ready to ditch the start-stop cycle and go deeper into this work, reach out to me on social media or drop me a DM. Let’s create inevitable success, together. Thank you for listening to Be More Lobster. Until next time! Follow me on Insta

    Overwhelm, Excuses, and What to Do When You Want to Quit
  4. Jun 30

    Hitting Neutral: The Skill Every Business Owner Needs

    Welcome back to Be More Lobster! In this episode, I dive deep into an emotion that doesn’t get nearly the credit it deserves in business: neutral. I believe that the ability to access a neutral state—on command—is an absolute game-changer for entrepreneurs, especially when it comes to taking action and moving forward (even when your emotions are all over the place). Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Three powerful benefits of neutralityDiscover why regulating your emotions, especially during challenging or uncertain times, is essential for business success.Understand how being neutral opens up space for better choices, resourcefulness, and more empowered action.Learn how taking action from a neutral state trains your brain that you don’t always need to feel amazing—sometimes, neutral is more than enough.My step-by-step exercise for accessing neutralI guide you through my easy (and compassionate) process for finding your calm center, even on tough days or when your hormones are running wild.I break down a four-step emotional ladder to move from overwhelm to possibility, curiosity, and beyond—without trying to force yourself to leap instantly to excitement or joy.Real talk about the realities of emotional regulationI get honest about those days when you just can’t seem to access good feelings and remind you that compassion is key.Grab your brew and listen in for practical tools, mindset shifts, and a healthy dose of realness. If you’re ready to stop waiting for motivation or joy to strike before taking action, this episode is for you! If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and leave a review—your support means the world! Can’t wait to see you next time on Be More Lobster. Follow me on Instagram

    Hitting Neutral: The Skill Every Business Owner Needs
  5. Jun 23

    STOP settling. Ask for what you actually want

    In this episode, I dive into the topic of asking for what you truly want—without limitations or shame. I share a powerful exercise I recently took my one-to-one clients through at a retreat, exploring why so many people find it difficult to confidently declare their desires. I reflect on how, despite my invitation for clients to share what they wanted from the retreat, not one person responded—and what this reveals about our beliefs and internal barriers. A key theme that emerged is the discomfort many of us feel around the phrase “I want,” and how quickly we justify, downplay, or cap our own desires based on what we think is possible or allowed. The discussion explored the stories we tell ourselves—such as “I don’t want much” or “I’m content,”—and how these narratives can serve as subtle limitations masking fear, guilt, or self-imposed ceilings on our ambition. I share details of the campfire exercise, inviting you to imagine a scenario where anything and everything you wish for can be granted. This uncovers the “expectation ceiling” that we often place on ourselves, sometimes unconsciously. One concept discussed was the idea that your daily perspective—your mental “lens” or “frame”—shapes your experience of life, your actions, and ultimately your results. I encourage you to pay attention to the limiting frames you might be wearing, and how changing them can open up new possibilities for joy, success, and fulfillment. I guide you through the “Send Cinderella to Rehab” exercise from Amanda Owen’s book The Power of Receiving: finding a quiet space and writing three pages of sentences starting with “I want,” letting your desires flow freely and unapologetically. This exercise is designed not to craft your next five-year plan, but to clear the debris of guilt, embarrassment, and self-restriction from your inner world. Several points were raised, including: The difference between gratitude/contentment and settling for less than you truly desire The importance of owning your true wants, even (or especially) if they seem “greedy” or “unrealistic” How your vision for the future shapes your emotional state today, and how that emotional state creates your future If you feel openness or resistance as you do the exercise, notice what comes up—that’s where your breakthroughs and deeper self-knowledge are waiting. Give yourself full permission to want what you want. Thank you for joining me for episode 8 of Be More Lobster. If this episode resonated, try the exercise for yourself and see what comes alive for you. I’ll see you in the next episode!

    STOP settling. Ask for what you actually want
  6. Jun 15

    Why tough times can actually help you WIN!

    In this episode, I dive straight into the topic of challenge—not just talking around it, but meeting it head-on. The conversation focused on how challenges and obstacles aren’t just hurdles or roadblocks; they can be reframed as the very fuel that ignites our ambition and growth. One concept discussed was the idea of "the pinch"—those moments of pressure and discomfort where real change and growth become possible. I share why I encourage my clients (and myself) to lean into the pinch, even when it's uncomfortable, and how it reflects on our ability to hold space for difficult emotions: uncertainty, fear, frustration, disappointment, and more. A key theme that emerged was the importance of regulating not just to calm, but to hard—teaching ourselves how to find capacity and safety even in difficult states, rather than waiting to feel calm before taking action. The discussion explored my own story of overcoming trauma and physical challenge, such as returning to cold water swimming after my dad passed away, and how I learned to regulate myself inside the experience rather than outside of it. Several points were raised, including how, as business owners, we often seek quick answers to relieve discomfort, but real solutions come from open, expansive conversations and from shifting our identity away from passive consumer or employee mindsets [08:12]. Another significant idea was recognizing how we magnify the pain of challenges when we treat them as final results rather than as parts of the process. Trading up problems is inevitable as we grow; the bigger the challenge, the more we expand. Ultimately, the episode concludes with an invitation: to make challenge purposeful and powerful by changing how we think about it, to see adversity as an opportunity to step into new identities, test ourselves, and prove our resourcefulness . Key Questions to Reflect On: Who are you in a challenge, and how does that shape your life experience?How might you choose to experience challenge differently, starting today?Thank you for tuning in. I hope this episode helps you embrace your next challenge with fresh perspective and greater strength. Make sure you following me on Insta and Facebook

    Why tough times can actually help you WIN!
  7. Jun 8

    Slow down to speed up

    In this episode, I explored the topic of pressure and how it shows up for entrepreneurs and business owners. I explained why I named this podcast Be More Lobster—because lobsters know that the pain of outgrowing their shell is simply a sign it’s time to grow, and not something to fear. The conversation focused on: The different ways pressure manifests in business—whether it feels like the need to prove oneself, to move faster, or to constantly chase after results The tendency to believe that being more organized or disciplined will solve the problem, and the endless search for the perfect planner or strategy One concept discussed was what happens when we imagine giving up on our business dreams—the pressure doesn’t go away, and often intensifies, showing that the pressure is internal, not just about business circumstances A key theme that emerged was the fear of running out of time—not having enough time to succeed, to create the life or become the person we want to be The discussion explored the idea that rushing is just a symptom, not the core issue. The underlying story we tell ourselves—like believing we’re behind or not enough—creates the urgency and pressure Several points were raised, including: The most powerful shifts don’t come from new systems or more discipline, but from giving ourselves permission to slow down, breathe, and practice self-love The encouragement to reflect: Am I building my business from trust or urgency? From sufficiency or fear? The notion that the feeling of running out of time is just that—a feeling, not a fact. When we stop treating every feeling like it’s a fact, we open ourselves up to a different, more freeing experience of business and life I shared personal insights about getting more done when I slow down, feeling less exhausted, and actually enjoying the process more Reflection questions for you: Where do I notice unnecessary pressure in my work or life?What story am I telling myself that might be fuelling this pressure?What if I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be?If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with friends or colleagues, and leave a review—it means so much to me. Remember: you’re not behind, there’s enough time, and you’re exactly where you need to be. —See you in the next episode of Be More Lobster!

    Slow down to speed up
  8. May 31

    The reason you don't take the action you need to

    Welcome back to the Be More Lobster podcast! In this episode, I dive into the concept of why sometimes having no result can actually feel safer than putting yourself out there and risking possible failure. I open up with a client story and ask you to reflect: Have you ever had one of those mornings where you know exactly what needs to happen, but you end up feeling too tired or "off" to get started? You might find your brain offering up all kinds of logical reasons to avoid action, but what’s really underneath that? We look closely at how staying “busy” and stuck can actually be a clever way for our brains to protect us from vulnerability, disappointment, or uncertainty. I share real coaching insights from a recent group call where we uncovered how sometimes the exhaustion we feel isn’t physical, but emotional—stemming from the pressure of unfulfilled goals or the anticipation of taking bold steps. You'll hear me explore: How we unconsciously choose the discomfort we know, rather than risk the uncertainty of trying and potentially failingThe difference between genuine rest and avoidanceHow women in business (and all of us!) can stay busy tweaking and perfecting rather than taking real, progress-making actionThe importance of recognizing when we’re trading possibility for controlI leave you with simple, practical questions for self-reflection that you can journal about or ponder while walking: What’s the thing you’ve been putting off until you feel “ready”?What emotion might be sitting beneath that hesitation?Are you really tired, or is it a way of protecting yourself from uncertainty?If you stopped running the same old avoidance model, what’s the smallest next step you could take?This episode is all about noticing those moments where you choose a guaranteed "no" over a possible (but not assured) "yes"—and how you can gently challenge yourself to stretch into growth. Just like a lobster must shed its shell in order to grow, your growth comes from daring to be vulnerable and trying, even when the outcome is uncertain. Thank you for listening! I hope you find these insights valuable for embracing your own "lobster moments." If you loved the episode, don’t forget to subscribe and use the journaling prompts above.

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About

Welcome to #bemorelobster.This podcast is for women in business who care deeply about what they do.Women with ideas as big as their hearts and a business they love and want to grow.Women who are brilliant at getting things done… but also know what it feels like to have twenty tabs open in your head.To wake up thinking about work.To feel excited by your business one minute… and completely overwhelmed by it the next.To be holding growth, family, grief, perimenopause, ambition, relationships, life… all at the same time… and still trying to show up well inside your business.That’s what we talk about here.The real stuff.Managing your brain when it’s spiralling.Making decisions when everything feels noisy.Building capacity without burning yourself out.Learning how to handle the discomfort that naturally comes with growth.Backing yourself when you can feel yourself wobbling.And creating a business that actually supports your life… instead of taking over it.Why #bemorelobster?Because discomfort is how the lobster knows it's time to grow. Its shell gets tight and it feels pressure.It never assumes somethings gone wrong - it knows it's time to grow a bigger shell.That’s the reminder here.The moments where you feel uncomfortable, emotional, unsure, vulnerable, frustrated or like you’ve completely lost your rhythm…It doesn’t automatically mean you’re off track or something's gone wrong. It means you’re right in the middle of becoming.So if you’re a woman building a business and also living a real, full, beautifully messy life…You’re in exactly the right place.Let’s get into it.With all my love, Louise xx