Strategy Archives - Toni Collis

259: From Startup to Strategy: How to Spot Strategic Gaps & Lead with Confidence with Ashley Wright

Are you missing the strategic blind spots that could unlock your next big move?
What if the key to leveling up your leadership wasn’t in working harder—but in thinking more strategically?

In this episode, we sit down with serial entrepreneur and strategy expert Ashley Wright, who shares how to spot the hidden gaps that slow teams down—and how to shift from reactive mode to confident, forward-thinking leadership.

With stories from her time at General Mills, launching an AI-driven startup in the green industry, and guiding founders through major pivots, Ashley brings a rare mix of big-picture vision and tactical insight. Whether you’re leading a team or building your own thing, this episode will help you lead with clarity, context, and purpose.

250: Leading Through Change

Could your next big career move be one preparation habit away?

Most people plan for leadership—but the ones who actually get there prepare differently. In this episode, Chaitra Vedullapalli—tech executive, entrepreneur, and President of Women in Cloud—breaks down what it really takes to rise into senior leadership roles like VP or GM in the tech world.

From building business acumen to learning how to self-advocate without losing your authenticity, Chaitra shares the preparation playbook that helped her lead transformative initiatives and open economic access for thousands of women. Whether you’re early in your leadership path or preparing for your next big leap, this episode will give you the tools to show up like you’re already in the role.

234: Mastering LinkedIn for Career Advancement: Proven Strategies for Job Market Success

In this special episode, I have an honest and heartfelt coaching conversation with Madeleine Lambert, a young mom navigating the complexities of leadership, work, and family life. Together, we explore the challenges and triumphs of balancing a demanding career with personal responsibilities, touching on important topics like guilt, self-doubt, and the societal pressures of “having it all figured out.”

During a candid live coaching session, we dive into the realities of conflicting priorities and explore whether Madeleine’s struggles stem from a prioritization issue or an unrealistic workload. I share actionable strategies to help her feel more in control, such as implementing a task triage system and using tools like brain dumps to capture all tasks and reduce mental clutter.

Join us for these valuable insights and let 2025 be the year you stop “should-ing” all over yourself and give yourself permission to set boundaries and pursue ambitious goals.

230: Is Unemployment the Best Opportunity You’ve Never Realised You Have? with Erica Carder

In this episode, Erica Carder, co-founder of Talent Build Ventures, joins me to discuss why unemployment might just be the career opportunity you never saw coming. From mental health support to personalized career guidance, Erica challenges the outdated practices of traditional outplacement services. Her belief? With the right mindset and tools, you can use unemployment as a powerful reset to make bold, purposeful career moves.

Join us for Erica’s fresh perspective on framing unemployment as a golden opportunity and her insights to help you navigate the unemployment phase with clarity, align your career with your personal values, and build a strategic career plan to move forward with purpose.

229: Preparing for the New Year: Leadership Development or Job Hunt?

Have you thought about where your career is headed in 2025? Are you ready to elevate your leadership skills, or is it time to dive into a focused job hunt? This week I want to help you avoid a career drift and take control by identifying your goals for the year and planning strategically for them.

In this episode, I’ll guide you through deciding whether to focus on leadership development or a job hunt by identifying skill gaps, assessing your work environment, and understanding when job hunting becomes essential. I’ll also show you how to set clear, actionable career goals that align with your ambitions, whether it’s building executive presence, staying relevant in a fast-evolving industry, or finding a role that truly fulfills you.

If you’re ready to step up your leadership game or transition into something new, I’ll give you the tools to make this pivotal decision before the new year. Let’s set your career up for success in 2025!

228: Not Getting Promoted? Here’s the One Thing You Need to Stop Doing

Not getting promoted? You’re not alone. Many talented professionals—especially women—face this frustrating barrier, even when they’re excelling in their roles. Here’s the truth: being great at your work isn’t always enough to earn a promotion.

The good news? There’s a way to break this cycle and finally gain the recognition you deserve. In this week’s episode, I’ll reveal why excellence alone often falls short and share three essential strategies to give yourself a competitive edge in your next career step.

Tune in to learn how to avoid the common pitfalls that undermine your impact, overcome the fear of self-advocacy, and use my six-step guide to start effectively advocating for yourself in your career.

224: Creating your Encore: Why You Need a Plan For Using Your Skills When You Retire with Michelle Prince

In this episode, we’re diving into the concept of encore careers with special guest Michelle Prince, executive coach and author of “Creating Your Encore Career”. Together, we explore why your career shouldn’t end when you reach a certain age or financial milestone. Instead, this is the perfect time to transform, redefine your purpose, and make a lasting impact by leveraging the skills you’ve developed over your career journey.

Michelle shares insights from her book, guiding us through the importance of bringing your gifts to the world in new and meaningful ways. We discuss her career journey, how balancing family, career, and personal ambitions requires resilience and agility, and her practical advice on creating your own opportunities, regardless of age.

If you’re nearing retirement or simply curious about what your next chapter could look like, this episode is packed with actionable advice on how to redefine what retirement means to you and chart a path that feels purposeful and fulfilling.

221: The Strength of Quiet Leadership: Embracing Authenticity

Are you ready to challenge the misconception that leadership requires being loud, or always in the spotlight? The truth is, quiet leadership can be even more powerful, with authenticity at its core. If you’re a naturally quiet person, know that this doesn’t limit your potential—it enhances it.

In this episode, I dive into the myths around loud and quiet leadership, showing how leaning into your natural tendencies can make you a more authentic, impactful leader. Join me to explore the unique and powerful techniques of quiet leadership and how in the end, the best leaders are those who embrace their true selves, and in your quietness lies the power to inspire greatness in others.

217: The Job Market Rollercoaster: The Job Hunt Survival Guide for Women in Tech Leaders

Are you feeling the strain of job hunting? You’re not alone. This is a hard job market, but I’m here to help you navigate this challenging landscape with practical tips, my best advice, and the proven strategies that will help you survive the job market rollercoaster this year.

I dive into the current demand for AI expertise, key strategies for navigating today’s job market, including how to tailor your resume and cover letter for AI filters, and the mindset tips to keep you focused and resilient. l examine the shifting job market, from recessions and rebounds to the effects of widespread layoffs. What lessons can we learn from past boom and bust cycles? And what role does the tech industry play in global crises like climate change and AI advancements?

Whether you’re adapting to AI or refining your job search approach, this episode is packed with insights to help you stay persistent and strategically position yourself to land the job you’re after this year. Don’t miss it!

215: Practical Tips for Building Executive Presence: What Really Works For Us As Women In Tech

In today’s episode, I explore the critical link between executive presence, confidence, and the fine line between confidence and arrogance for women in tech. I break down the three key components of executive presence – appearance, communication, and gravitas – and how to leverage these pillars to build genuine confidence without falling into the trap of arrogance.

I also discuss strategies to enhance your executive presence through body language, mindful communication, and self-awareness. With real-world examples and insights, you’ll learn how consistent self-examination and inviting feedback can elevate your leadership style, why executive presence is crucial for career advancement, and practical tips for cultivating it to help you flourish and thrive at work.

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