The Quiet Warrior Podcast with Serena Low

Serena Low, Introvert Coach for Quiet Achievers and Quiet Warriors

Are you an introvert who wants to be more and do more, beyond what’s safe, comfortable, and pleasing to others? Your host is Serena Low, and her life’s purpose is to help quiet achievers become quiet warriors. As a trauma-informed introvert coach and certified Root-Cause Therapist, Certified Social + Intelligence Coach, and author of the Amazon Bestseller, The Hero Within: Reinvent Your Life One New Chapter at a Time, Serena is passionate about helping introverts and quiet achievers grow into Quiet Warriors by minimising:- imposter syndrome, - overthinking, - perfectionism, - low self-worth,- fear of public speaking, and other common introvert challenges. Tune in every fortnight for practical tips and inspirational stories about how to thrive as an introvert in a noisy and overstimulating world.

  1. 2D AGO

    112. Why Empathy (Not “Nice-ness”) Drives Performance with Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller

    TEDx speaker, EQ coach, and author Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller joins Serena to challenge the myth that empathy is a “soft” extra. She shares her journey from French horn professor to empathy-in-leadership researcher after a toxic workplace experience, then breaks down the different types of empathy and how leaders actually apply them—especially in tough conversations and high-pressure environments.  Key Takeaways Empathy is multi-dimensional. Beyond “I feel what you feel,” leaders can (and must) use cognitive empathy (perspective-taking) and self-empathy (self-awareness and reflection). These forms help you understand others even without shared experiences. Empathy takes work—and courage. Many avoid it because stepping into someone’s world can be uncomfortable; only about a third will choose the empathy-requiring path. The “dual-route” model matters. Emotional empathy is fast and instinctive; cognitive empathy is slower and chosen. Effective leaders use both. Boundaries ≠ lack of empathy. Self-empathy means knowing your capacity and keeping boundaries so you can truly show up for others. Kind vs. nice. Empathy isn’t people-pleasing. It may require hard conversations (e.g., honest performance feedback) done with care so people can grow. Business case: When leaders genuinely employ empathy, productivity, innovation, and profit rise; performative “buzzword” empathy backfires and erodes trust. Empathy first, then EI tools. Consider empathy the precursor that helps you choose the right emotional-intelligence skill for the moment. Start with self-empathy. You can’t sustain empathy for others without it. Practical Takeaways for Introverted & HSP Leaders Use cognitive empathy prompts in 1:1s: “What might this look like from their side?” (choose to perspective-take). Check capacity before deep talks: if depleted, set a boundary and reschedule—this is self-empathy in action. Replace “nice” with “kind + clear”: deliver honest feedback that enables growth; skip people-pleasing. Lead with empathy, then select the EI tool (communication, motivation, etc.) that fits. Memorable Quote “Empathy is not always very nice—but it’s always kind.”  About the book The Empathic Leader: How EQ via Empathy Transforms Leadership for Better Profit, Productivity, and Innovation — a primer on what empathy is (and isn’t) and how to apply it in today’s AI-shaped workplaces.  Next Steps FIND OUT MORE about Melissa’s work: https://eqviaempathy.com/ SHARE this episode with a colleague who’s leading change. WORK WITH SERENA: I help introverted professional women be visible and valued without performing extroversion. Book a private Zoom call HERE. This episode was edited by Aura House Productions

    28 min
  2. FEB 8

    111. From Shy Introvert to “That Security Lady”: Dione Chan on Boundaries, Courage, and Leadership in a Male-Dominated Industry

    What happens when an introverted woman steps into one of the most male-dominated industries and learns to stand tall in her quiet strength? In this inspiring conversation, I speak with Dione Chan, a Filipino-Australian business owner, keynote speaker, and director of ICP Group Australia. From growing up shy with severe eczema to finding her voice in the security industry, Dione’s story is one of courage, resilience, and redefining what it means to lead as an introvert. She shares how a viral encounter with rapper Drake became the catalyst for teaching others about boundaries and self-respect, and how her SAFE framework (Scan, Acknowledge, Find, Engage/Escalate) is helping introverts and women hold their ground with quiet confidence. This episode is full of practical wisdom for anyone who has ever struggled with people-pleasing, cultural conditioning, or the fear of speaking up. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Dione transformed childhood shyness and self-doubt into resilience and leadershipThe surprising lessons she learned from working in the security industry as an introverted womanWhy setting boundaries is essential—and how to do it with compassionHow cultural upbringing and people-pleasing patterns can hold introverts backThe power of healthy anger and why it’s necessary for self-protectionDione’s SAFE framework for handling challenging situations with clarity and courageWhy putting yourself first is not selfish, but essential for authentic leadership About Dione Chan Dione Chan is a Filipino-Australian business owner, keynote speaker, and director of ICP Group Australia. With experience across safety, security, and training, she has built a career in spaces where women are rarely seen. Drawing on her own journey from self-doubt to self-leadership, Dione now speaks and teaches on boundaries, resilience, and quiet confidence—helping others become their own first responders. Instagram: @that_security_lady Facebook: @That Security Lady LinkedIn: Dione Aaliyah Chan Website: www.icpgroupaustralia.com.au Next Steps If you’re ready to become visible without acting extroverted, follow me on LinkedIn for introvert-friendly strategies to grow your career. This episode was edited by Aura House Productions

    38 min
  3. FEB 1

    110. Imposter Syndrome, Trust, & the Theory of Constraints: A Guide for Introverted Leaders (Simon Copsey)

    In this episode of The Quiet Warrior Podcast, Serena interviews Simon Copsey, a delivery and transformation consultant who helps organisations solve complex problems through scientific thinking and modern management theory. Simon shares his journey from software developer to consultant and opens up about experiencing imposter syndrome when stepping into advisory and leadership roles. Together, they explore how introverts and quiet achievers can thrive in consulting environments that require communication, relationship-building, and collaboration across different personalities and levels of seniority. A central theme of the conversation is the Theory of Constraints, a practical framework for clarifying organisational goals, identifying obstacles, and making assumptions visible so teams can work together more effectively. This episode highlights the importance of trust, curiosity, and understanding different perspectives at work — especially for introverted professionals who prefer thoughtful, reflective approaches to problem-solving. Key message: People are good. They act for a reason. And curiosity creates connection, clarity, and influence. As Simon says: “Be curious before furious.” Connect with Simon Copsey: Landing page: https://curiouscoffee.club/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simoncopsey/ For insights that light up your career and relationships without forcing you to change who you are: Subscribe to The Visible Introvert newsletter: https://serenalow.com.au Help more introverts find The Quiet Warrior Podcast by rating and writing a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-quiet-warrior-podcast-with-serena-low/id1635834564 Thank you for your support! This episode was edited by Aura House Productions

    44 min
  4. JAN 25

    109. 5 C’s of a Well-Crafted Story That Converts Leads to Sales with Dr. Danny Brassell

    In this uplifting episode of The Quiet Warrior Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Danny Brassell—international keynote speaker, coach, author of 19 books, and co-founder of The Well-Crafted Story Workshop. Known as the “Jim Carrey with a PhD” for his humour and energy, Danny has spoken to over 3,500 audiences worldwide and helps entrepreneurs, leaders, and professionals transform their presentations into powerful business and life opportunities. Danny shares how he pivoted from journalism to teaching, survived financial devastation, and built a thriving speaking career during one of the world’s toughest economic downturns. Most importantly, he shows us that speaking is a teachable skill—not an inborn talent—and anyone (even introverts and quiet achievers) can learn to tell a compelling story that moves both hearts and business outcomes. Together, we explore why storytelling matters more than statistics, why humour wins over tragedy when telling a story, and why humour and vulnerability are essential tools for connection. Danny also walks us through his signature 5 C’s process for creating a well-crafted story that inspires audiences to take the next step with you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Danny’s journey from journalist to educator to international speaker and coach.Why laughter is more powerful than tragedy on stage.The 5 C’s of a well-crafted presentation: Clarity, Connection, Content, Call-to-Action, and Close.Why speaking is a teachable skill—even if you’re introverted or fearful of the stage.How to use self-deprecating humour and vulnerability to connect with any audience.The importance of having one clear call-to-action instead of confusing your audience.A simple exercise to uncover your own stories and connect them to universal themes like love, loyalty, and perseverance. Resources and Links Free Story Guide: Get your own Well-Crafted Story Blueprint at freestoryguide.com. Learn more about Dr. Danny Brassell’s work: dannybrassell.com. For more tips and resources for introverts and quiet achievers, subscribe to The Visible Introvert newsletter at  serenalow.com.au. If this episode inspired you, please leave a 5-star rating and review so it can reach more introverts and quiet achievers. This episode was edited by Aura House Productions

    38 min
  5. JAN 18

    108. The Body-Mind Connection: Healing Emotional Pain and Trauma with Dr. Evette Rose

    In this inspiring and deeply personal episode of The Quiet Warrior Podcast, Serena Low sits down with Dr. Evette Rose—author, speaker, trauma recovery expert, and creator of Metaphysical Anatomy and Metapsychology Coaching. Evette shares her remarkable journey from studying law and working in male-dominated corporate environments to becoming a globally recognized healer, author of 21 books, and teacher of trauma-informed modalities. She opens up about overcoming childhood wounds, facing her fear of public speaking as an introvert, and discovering how emotional pain shows up in the body. Listeners will walk away with practical insights on using their strengths in times of stress, how subconscious beliefs impact health (especially for women), and why even the smallest act of presence can create powerful ripple effects. What You’ll Learn in This Episode The turning point: How Evette went from corporate life and atheism to rediscovering spirituality and healing.Overcoming fear as an introvert: Her struggle with public speaking and how focusing on her why and strengths helped her keep going.Strengths-based resilience: Why identifying and leaning on your strengths can reduce fear and build confidence in stressful situations.Stress and Women’s Health: The hidden link between “pushing through” stress, hormonal imbalances, and common health conditions.Healing subconscious patterns: Understanding how inherited beliefs about lack and struggle can keep us stuck.Writing as healing: Why each of her 21 books began as a personal journey through pain and how writing can be cathartic for introverts.Multiple purposes: How embracing different purposes across your life can be liberating and empowering. Resources and Links Visit Dr. Evette Rose’s website: metaphysicalanatomy.comFree gift: Restoring the Emotional Body (eBook + guided meditation) – available under the Books tab on metaphysicalanatomy.comSubscribe to The Visible Introvert newsletter at SerenaLow.com.au. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star rating and review to help more introverts and quiet achievers find The Quiet Warrior Podcast. This episode was edited by Aura House Productions

    51 min
  6. JAN 11

    107. Shaping Change and Breaking Barriers in Women’s Leadership with Ros Cardinal

    After more than 20 years in senior HR and organisational development roles, a life-changing cancer diagnosis inspired Ros Cardinal to step out of corporate and into her true calling: transforming leaders and reshaping the way organisations handle change. Ros is an award-winning executive coach, author of The Resilient Employee, and creator of the Women’s Leadership Archetypes model, now used worldwide to help women discover and embrace their authentic leadership strengths. In this inspiring conversation, Ros shares her journey from “accidental HR” professional to leadership mentor, her research into women’s leadership styles, and why introverts and quiet achievers are uniquely positioned to lead with authenticity, courage, and wisdom. Key Takeaways from this episode: Change begins at the top – organisational culture and transformation only last as long as leaders remain invested.Women in leadership still face barriers – from outdated expectations around work–life balance to systemic structures that don’t support those with families or outside commitments.Introverts can be powerful leaders – their thoughtful, measured approach often leads to deeper impact and stronger trust.Too much / not enough paradox – women in leadership are often labelled either too loud and bossy or not assertive enough, making self-trust and resilience vital.The Women’s Leadership Archetypes model – eight archetypes (four empowered, four shadow) that reveal both the strengths and challenges women experience in leadership.Trauma responses at work – patterns like overachieving, people-pleasing, or withdrawing often trace back to childhood conditioning; awareness allows leaders to interrupt these cycles.Energy management for introverts – pacing, picking your battles, and choosing when to speak up are essential to sustaining leadership presence.Creating psychologically safe workplaces – leaders must integrate humanity back into work, allowing people to bring their whole selves instead of leaving emotions at the door. Connect with Ros Cardinal Shaping ChangeWomen’s Leadership ArchetypesLinkedIn: Ros Cardinal Enjoyed the Episode? Leave a 5-star review to help more introverts discover the podcastShare it with someone who’s finding their voiceSubscribe to The Visible Introvert Newsletter at https://serenalow.com.au This episode was edited by Aura House Productions

    41 min
  7. JAN 4

    106. Competent to Captivating: Presence, Influence & the Courage to Be Yourself (John Ball)

    In this thoughtful and deeply grounded conversation, Serena is joined by John Ball, keynote speaker, presentation coach, and host of the Present Influence Podcast, to explore what it means to be impactful — especially for introverts and quiet achievers. John shares his unconventional journey from flight attendant to professional speaker, and how discovering coaching, communication, and improv reshaped not only his career, but his sense of self.  Together, Serena and John unpack the myth that confident speaking is about performance or extroversion, and instead reveal why presence, authenticity, and self-trust are the real foundations of influence. In this episode, we explore: Why so many introverts feel most energised by quiet, nature, and solitudeThe surprising link between improvisation and confidenceWhat “presence” really means when speaking or leadingWhy confidence comes from experience — not personalityThe importance of embracing the learning curve (and the dip)How humour and lightness create connection, even for serious thinkersThe difference between influence and persuasionWhy authenticity isn’t oversharing — it’s self-ownershipHow to build influence without pretending to be extrovertedWhat quiet achievers need to remember when stepping into visibility Memorable Quote “The best speakers aren’t trying to impress — they’re trying to connect. Influence comes from being real, not from performing.” — John Ball Key Takeaways for Quiet Achievers You don’t need to be loud to be impactful — presence speaks louder than volumeConfidence grows through practice, not perfectionBeing authentic doesn’t mean sharing everything — it means being grounded in who you areInfluence is built through warmth, clarity, and self-trustThe audience is usually rooting for you more than you thinkGrowth requires patience — and compassion for yourself along the way About John Ball John Ball is a keynote speaker, presentation coach, and host of the Present Influence Podcast. He helps speakers, coaches, and leaders move from competent to captivating by developing confidence, presence, and authentic communication. Learn more about John and his work at: https://presentinfluence.com Enjoyed the Episode? If this conversation resonated with you: Leave a 5-star review to help more introverts discover the podcast Share it with someone who’s finding their voice Subscribe to The Visible Introvert Newsletter at https://serenalow.com.au This episode was edited by Aura House Productions

    44 min
  8. 12/28/2025

    105. Rise Above the Script: Self-Sabotage, Identity, and Rewriting Your Inner Narrative with Dr Albert Bramante

    In this deeply thoughtful conversation, Serena is joined by Albert Bramante, a veteran talent agent, psychologist, and author of Rise Above the Script. With more than two decades in the entertainment industry and a PhD in psychology, Albert brings a rare blend of practical wisdom and psychological insight into how self-sabotage, trauma, and unconscious “scripts” shape our lives. Together, Serena and Albert explore how the stories we unconsciously inherit—often from childhood—can quietly dictate our behaviour, confidence, and sense of worth. While Albert’s work focuses on actors and performing artists, his insights resonate far beyond the stage, especially for introverts and quiet achievers navigating visibility, leadership, and self-belief. This episode is a powerful invitation to slow down, notice the inner narratives running our lives on autopilot, and begin the courageous work of rewriting them—with compassion rather than force. In this episode, we explore: What self-sabotage really looks like—and why it’s often unconsciousHow introverts and highly sensitive people can thrive in visible, high-pressure rolesThe concept of “scripts”: where they come from and how they shape identityWhy procrastination can be a trauma response, not a character flawThe link between generational trauma, identity, and self-doubtHow actors—and non-actors—can embody a new identity, not just think itWhy change requires being comfortable with discomfortThe role of accountability, coaching, and emotional clearing in real transformationHow to expand your comfort zone gently, without abandoning yourself What to remember: “You can change the script at any time. The moment you realise it’s a script—and not ‘just the way things are’—you take your power back.” Connect with Albert Bramante: http://www.albertbramante.com/ Support The Quiet Warrior Podcast: If this conversation resonated with you, please leave a five-star rating or review—it helps The Quiet Warrior Podcast reach more introverts and quiet achievers around the world. Find fellow introverts to network with: For resources, reflections, and community, join The Visible Introvert community at serenalow.com.au. Are you a podcaster looking for quality guests for your podcast? I’ve been using Podmatch since mid-2025 and it’s been the best use of my introvert time and energy. Instead of manually sourcing potential guests one by one, I receive pre-vetted high-quality matches daily from Podmatch. Here’s my affiliate link to explore if Podmatch is right for you. This episode was edited by Aura House Productions

    40 min
5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Are you an introvert who wants to be more and do more, beyond what’s safe, comfortable, and pleasing to others? Your host is Serena Low, and her life’s purpose is to help quiet achievers become quiet warriors. As a trauma-informed introvert coach and certified Root-Cause Therapist, Certified Social + Intelligence Coach, and author of the Amazon Bestseller, The Hero Within: Reinvent Your Life One New Chapter at a Time, Serena is passionate about helping introverts and quiet achievers grow into Quiet Warriors by minimising:- imposter syndrome, - overthinking, - perfectionism, - low self-worth,- fear of public speaking, and other common introvert challenges. Tune in every fortnight for practical tips and inspirational stories about how to thrive as an introvert in a noisy and overstimulating world.