# Episode 69 Influence Blockers -What's Really Holding Back Your Impact as a Leader

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/unstuck-unstoppable-7112840/episode-69-influence-blockers-what-s-really-holding-back-your-impact-as-a-leader
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/unstuck-unstoppable-7112840/episode-69-influence-blockers-what-s-really-holding-back-your-impact-as-a-leader.md
Podcast: [Unstuck & Unstoppable](https://stenobird.com/podcast/unstuck-unstoppable-7112840)
Published: 2026-03-06T07:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://unstuck-unstoppable.captivate.fm/episode/episode-69-influence-blockers-whats-really-holding-back-your-impact-as-a-leader
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/473c8649-9f98-4b71-9714-1fd76dc6e7f5.mp3
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Duration seconds: 822

## Resource

If you’re working hard but not getting the traction, visibility or progression you want, this episode will help you understand why. Sarah breaks down the four core Influence Blockers she sees repeatedly in senior female leaders - the hidden patterns that quietly limit confidence, authority, and advancement. Once you can spot your blocker, you can shift it. Timestamps [00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppabl- [02:00] Why Hard Work Isn’t Enough The unconscious patterns that hold capable women back. [03:30] The Four Influence Blockers Overview An introduction to the four key categories. [04:00] Blocker 1: Internal Confidence & Identity Second-guessing yourself, overthinking meetings, still feeling the need to prove your capability - and how this shrinks your influence. [06:00] Blocker 2: Communication & Presence Softening your message, over-explaining, speaking late in meetings, and why executive presence determines how much weight your words carry. [07:00] Blocker 3: Strategic Positioning Staying operational instead of visible at a strategic level. Why being excellent at delivery doesn’t automatically position you for promotion. (Referenced: Episode 66 on strengthening strategic thinking.) [08:30] Blocker 4: Environment & Power Dynamics Navigating dominant personalities, organisational politics, and male-dominated cultures - and how your response shapes your influence. [10:00] The Real Cost of Not Addressing Your Blocker Staying stuck, being overlooked, watching less capable peers move ahead - and the damage self-doubt can cause. [11:30] Your Action Step Identify your primary blocker and decide what action you’ll take to shift the pattern. [12:30] How to Get Support How coaching can accelerate your influence and position you for the next level. Key Takeaway…

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## Transcript

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