Best Softskills Podcasts (2025)

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Practical Self-Promotion Tips That Actually Work in Meetings and in Networking (Brag-Free) 37:26

Play Pause

1d ago37:26

37:26

What’s the right way to self-promote without sounding arrogant? How do you confidently speak about your work (and get credit for it)? How do you talk about your achievements assertively? In this episode, you’ll discover: What to do when your boss takes your idea and runs with it How to get credit at work (even if you’re overlooked) Why your team ge…

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What Does AI Mean and How Does It Relate to Accounting 25:45

2d ago25:45

25:45

Welcome to The CFO Project Podcast, where host Adam Lean dives deep into the challenges and opportunities facing today’s accountants, CFOs, and firm owners. Each episode is designed to help you break free from the “accountant’s trap” by exploring strategies, tools, and insights that fuel sustainable growth. If you want to scale your firm, elevate y…

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How To Bridge Cultural Divides And Cultivate Respectful Conversations? (with Dr. Shaun Carver) 39:59

3d ago39:59

39:59

How can leaders can bridge cultural divides, welcome diverse team members, and cultivate respectful conversations? How can you be civil with uncivil people? These are some of the questions that Dr. Shaun Carver, Executive Director of International House at UC Berkeley, answers in this episode. He’s spent over two decades leading in global education…

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243. The Game-Changing Moments That Define Your Professional Presence (And How to Master Them) 22:11

6d ago22:11

22:11

What if your entire career trajectory could change based on how you show up in just seven specific moments at work? In this episode, we're breaking down the crucial situations where your professional presence either fast-tracks your success or keeps you stuck, and more importantly, how to master every single one of them. The Professional Presence R…

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20 Power Moves for High Impact Leaders: Elevating Your Leadership Voice 28:40

9d ago28:40

28:40

Have you ever walked out of a meeting thinking, I should have said something. They didn't take me seriously. Someone else said what I wanted to say, and then they got credit for it. Most smart, capable people struggle to make themselves heard, to be respected, to be taken seriously, especially when we are naturally thoughtful, humble, or we priori…

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242. When Social Anxiety Gets You Labeled as “Difficult” at Work 12:52

13d ago12:52

12:52

Are your coworkers misreading you? If you’ve ever been labeled “difficult,” “standoffish,” or “arrogant” when you’re actually anxious or nervous, you’re not alone. Many high-achieving professionals with social anxiety unintentionally send signals that others interpret the wrong way—hurting their reputation, relationships, and career opportunities. …

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241. The Mirror Test: How Self-Aware Are You? 18:59

17d ago18:59

18:59

How shocked were you by your last performance review? If the feedback felt like it came out of nowhere, you might have some self-awareness blind spots that are silently sabotaging your career progress. What I'm Covering: The shocking truth that only 10-15% of people are actually self-aware (despite 95% thinking they are) Why your analytical superpo…

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Resilient Voices: Overcoming Adversity & Self-Doubt With A Growth Mindset (with Dhwani Trivedi) 49:27

17d ago49:27

49:27

How can we build resilience when facing adversity, and build a growth mindset to push through intimidation to have a voice? In this episode, we welcome Dhwani Trivedi, Program Manager and Business Operations Director at a Global Aerospace and Defense organization. Dhwani shares her experience of managing self-doubt, leveraging feedback, maintaining…

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10 Common Beliefs I Stopped Following in my 30s To Become Bold 29:19

17d ago29:19

29:19

Discover the top 10 pieces of career and leadership advice you should ignore. 'Feel-good' advice can hinder career growth and personal expression. These 10 beliefs can sabotage your confidence, boldness, and opportunities. The episode encourages you to critically evaluate the advice you follow and take ownership of your career and life. 00:00 Intro…

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240. The Manners You Mock Are Making Your Competition Rich 23:33

25d ago23:33

23:33

While others dismiss professional etiquette as old-fashioned, you can use these skills as a competitive advantage. The person who knows how to use both their fork AND their MBA will always win over someone who only knows one. Note: This episode focuses specifically on North American business customs and expectations. ** Don’t even know where to beg…

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How to Identify and Communicate Your Personal Brand Authentically - Even If You're Not Sure What Makes You Unique (with Andrea Wojnicki) 57:05

1M ago57:05

57:05

How can you communicate your unique personal branding to advance your career without feeling like a fraud? In this episode, Andrea Wonjnicki, an executive communication coach at Talk about Talk, shares how to develop and communicate your authentic personal brand. You’ll learn and easy three-step framework for self-introductions and how to not sound…

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What to Say When Someone Cuts You Off in a Meeting (Without Sounding Rude) 25:49

1M ago25:49

25:49

Are you tired of being talked over, cut off, or interrupted in meetings and not knowing how to respond without sounding rude, emotional, or aggressive? In this episode of Speak Your Mind Unapologetically, you'll learn exactly what to say and how to say it when someone interrupts you at work, whether it's a peer, a manager, a client, or someone you …

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239. Your Reputation: The Career Asset You Can't Afford to Ignore 22:08

1M ago22:08

22:08

What if there's one asset more valuable than your education, more powerful than your network, and more influential than your job title—but you're managing it by accident instead of by design? Your reputation capital is working for you or against you 24/7, and it's time to take control. What I'm Sharing With You: Why your reputation is a tangible as…

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Becoming Your Own Best Advocate: Strategies To Elevate Yourself (with Laura Colón) 56:09

2M ago56:09

56:09

Are you your own best advocate? In this episode, Laura Colón, VP of Sales and Alliances at Vonage, shares her personal journey of overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome, self-promoting both internally and externally, and building a personal brand to advance her career. 02:07 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome 04:15 Embracing a Growth …

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238. You Dont Have To Be the Loudest To Lead 17:03

2M ago17:03

17:03

Tired of feeling like you need to be someone else to succeed professionally? This episode is for everyone who's ever said "I'm just not really a people person," or felt awkward at office parties while watching more outgoing colleagues get ahead. What I'm Covering: Why the things you think are holding you back (like thinking before you speak) are ac…

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Assertive or Aggressive? 20 Mindset Shifts That Change Everything 21:34

2M ago21:34

21:34

How can you be bold without being a bully? If you have ever been told you’re “too much” when you speak up, or worried about being seen as rude, pushy, or bossy when you advocate for yourself, this episode is for you. Assertive communication starts with belief. Let’s upgrade yours. Discover the surprising 20 mindset differences between Assertive vs.…

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Why Vulnerable Leadership Is the Future of Accounting 22:05

2M ago22:05

22:05

Welcome to The CFO Project Podcast, where host Adam Lean explores the evolving world of CFO services and accounting leadership. Each episode features insights from professionals who are redefining what it means to grow an accounting practice, offer real advisory value, and build a firm that lasts. Whether you're a firm owner, CFO, or aspiring leade…

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237. The Belief Shift: How to Rewire Your Brain for Social Success 19:22

2M ago19:22

19:22

What if the only thing standing between you and effortless social confidence isn't your personality or past experiences—but simply what you believe to be true about yourself as a social being? In this transformative episode, I'm revealing how your thoughts create your social reality and giving you the blueprint to rewire your brain for social succe…

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How to Stop Being the Best-Kept Secret at Work (with Sandra Dorsey) 48:11

2M ago48:11

48:11

What’s the worst career advice you’ve received? Cybersecurity GRC Risk Manager Sandra Dorsey discusses her worst career advice and how she learned the importance of self-promotion, negotiating for oneself, dealing with confusing feedback, and advocating for others in the corporate world. Sandra shares her journey from following advice to 'keep her …

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236. Stolen Words: How to Reclaim Your Voice After Interruptions 22:06

2M ago22:06

22:06

Have you ever been cut off mid-sentence, had your idea hijacked, or been completely misunderstood with no chance to recover? If you're someone who already finds speaking up challenging, these moments can feel devastating. In this episode, I'm sharing exactly how to reclaim your voice and communicate with unshakeable confidence. What I'm Covering: W…

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Want to Be a Better Ally — And Find Allies Too? Start Here (with Wendi O'Neill) 40:22

2M ago40:22

40:22

In this episode, we delve into the critical role of allyship in the workplace with Wendy O'Neill, Head of Business Development at CDW, who shares her personal experiences and practical strategies for becoming a better ally. Wendy discusses how to recognize and support colleagues whose voices are often unheard, how to foster allyship within a team, …

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12 Polite Phrases That Destroy Trust and Connection (And What To Say Instead) 37:01

2M ago37:01

37:01

"With all due respect..." "I understand how you feel." "That's an interesting idea" "Noted." Sometimes the nicest words can feel dismissive and silence people. Find out small changes you can make for people to feel heard and encouraged to speak up. 00:00 Introduction: Polite Phrases That Destroy Trust 05:11 Phrase 1: 'I Understand How You Feel' 07:…

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235. It’s Not a Speaking Problem, It’s a Thinking Problem 24:12

3M ago24:12

24:12

Join me for episode #235 where the discussion is all about how the key to speaking in public is more about your thoughts about your ability to speak coherently and less about the words you say. ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your interpersonal skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you…

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CFO Case Study: Rob Tokay 23:43

3M ago23:43

23:43

In this special case study episode of The CFO Project Podcast, host Adam Lean sits down with Rob Tokay to explore how implementing CFO advisory services transformed his business. Rob shares his journey from traditional accounting work to building a more profitable and impactful practice using the CFO model. You'll hear firsthand how Rob shifted his…

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234. How to Enter Any Room and Feel Like You Own It 26:02

3M ago26:02

26:02

Episode #234 is all about cracking the code to instant belonging—and trust me, it's not about changing who you are, it's about sending the right signals that say "I belong here" before you even speak. What I'm Sharing With You: Why the secret to belonging is acting like you already do (and the psychology behind why this works) The 90-second window …

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233. Why the Hardest Worker in Your Office Will Never Be CEO 28:48

3M ago28:48

28:48

In episode #233, we take a look at the truth about why technically brilliant professionals get stuck while less talented colleagues zoom past them—and shares the exact social strategy that changes everything. The Shocking Truth: Harvard research reveals that job performance accounts for only 10% of career advancement decisions. The other 90%? It's …

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How To Bring Your Authentic Voice To Work When You Feel Like You Can't (with Amy Ewbank) 26:19

3M ago26:19

26:19

Sometimes it doesn't feel safe to bring our full, authentic self to work. In this episode, our guest Amy Ewbank, co-CEO of Verve The Voice Advisory Service, shares what's holding you back and the three key elements you need to find and express your true voice in a professional setting. 01:38 Understanding the Barriers to Authentic Voice 02:27 The T…

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232. Resistance Revealed: The Reason You Don't Speak Up, Show Up, or Step Up 24:47

3M ago24:47

24:47

In episode #232 we explore how resistance is the invisible force keeping you from social confidence and authentic self-expression. What You'll Learn: How resistance shows up specifically in social situations and career advancement The completion exercise: "I'll do anything to prove I'm socially confident, except (______)" Why resistance gets strong…

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Mastering Influence: How to Get Your Ideas Approved 21:47

3M ago21:47

21:47

Do you ideas ever go unnoticed? Are your ideas ignored? Sharing your ideas is not enough. Discover strategies to influence your higher-ups to take your ideas seriously. 00:00 Introduction: Getting Your Ideas Heard 02:15 Understanding the Power of Influence 04:37 Identifying the Decision Maker 07:10 Building Belief in Your Idea 09:35 Handling Reject…

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231. The Hidden Cost of Skipping Happy Hour: Why Face Time Matters More Than You Think 23:26

3M ago23:26

23:26

In this eye-opening episode, we'll look at how taking a pass on after-work social events could be costing you money, missed opportunities, new business, and promotions. What You'll Learn: The psychological principles that make face time so powerful for career advancement Why remote workers need to be even more intentional about creating social conn…

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Assertiveness vs. Aggression: Navigating Professional Interactions with Confidence 21:57

4M ago21:57

21:57

Are you perceived as assertive or as aggressive? What's the difference? stressing the difference between assertive and aggressive communication. Gain actionable tips on asserting yourself confidently in various settings, particularly when dealing with authority figures or intimidating situations. Practical advice includes speaking early and often i…

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BONUS: Special Invite - The Meant for More Masterclass 3:22

4M ago3:22

3:22

Meant for More Masterclass Registration Link: Join Today!

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230. From Stagnation to Momentum: Mastering the Social Side of Career Advancement 25:43

4M ago25:43

25:43

It can be frustrating watching others advance while feeling stuck in your career. Today we reveal how social skills and confidence play a much bigger role in professional advancement than most people realize. What You'll Learn: The four hidden reasons professionals get stuck in their careers Why technical skills might get you hired, but social skil…

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Finding Your Reason For Being In Career and Life Transitions (with Kavita Ahuja) 30:13

4M ago30:13

30:13

Career transitions take a lot of energy. How do you ensure you're putting your energy in the right direction, to avoid regrets later? How can you use your work purpose to amplify your voice? In this episode we speak to certified career and life transitions coach, and host of the Midlife Reinvention podcast, Kavita Ahuja. Kavita shares her journey o…

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229. Beyond 'What Do You Do?': Social Questions That Make You Unforgettable at Any Business Event 21:44

4M ago21:44

21:44

Ever walked into a networking event and immediately felt your confident professional persona dissolve into awkwardness? In this episode, we tackle the art of conversation at business socials and reveal how accomplished professionals can transform these dreaded events into genuinely enjoyable—and valuable—experiences. What You'll Learn: Why "What do…

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Do You Speak Like a High Impact Leader? 21:25

4M ago21:25

21:25

Do you communicate like a high impact leader? Find out if your communication style is earning you the respect, influence, and results of a high impact leader. Tune in to discover: ✔️ How to respond assertively and effectively to criticism about your communication style. ✔️ Optimal ways to handle interruptions and disagreements in meetings. ✔️ Strat…

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228. The Hidden Cost of Hesitation: Why Successful Professionals Need to Act Now 20:37

4M ago20:37

20:37

In episode #228, we tackle the uncomfortable truth about why smart, accomplished professionals hold themselves back socially—and the far-reaching consequences of this hesitation. If you've been telling yourself that your social skills are "just how you are" or that it's "too late to change," this episode will challenge those beliefs and offer a cle…

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Amplify, Elevate, Dominate: Leadership Frameworks to Transform Your Career (with Dr. Karen Pruden) 25:35

4M ago25:35

25:35

Learn how to use proven frameworks to articulate your value, elevate your influence, and dominate your field. In this episode, Dr. Karen Hills Pruden shares her expertise from 30 years in professional development and leadership training, offering practical tips and real-life examples to help you transform your career. From amplifying your value thr…

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227. Why That School Play Moment Still Haunts Your Executive Presence (And How to Fix It) 24:56

4M ago24:56

24:56

In this episode, we explore how those seemingly small social moments from childhood continue to shape your professional behavior decades later. If you've ever wondered why you hold back in meetings, avoid the spotlight despite your expertise, or feel anxious before networking events, this episode reveals the surprising connection to childhood socia…

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Starting a CFO Advisory Practice vs. an Accounting or Bookkeeping Practice 28:31

5M ago28:31

28:31

On this episode of The CFO Project Podcast, Adam Lean and Jeff Prager dive into the key differences between launching a CFO advisory firm and starting a traditional accounting or bookkeeping business. While many professionals default to offering tax or bookkeeping services, they often overlook the more scalable and fulfilling opportunity of CFO adv…

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14 Ways to End Conversations: The Art of the Graceful Exit 29:12

5M ago29:12

29:12

Ever been stuck in a never-ending conversation and felt trapped? Learn 14 powerful, graceful, and guilt-free ways to end conversations you don't want to be in without burning bridges. Whether it's saying no to invitations, stopping gossip, ending endless email chains, or gracefully exiting networking conversations, this episode covers it all. Hear …

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226. When Beliefs and Actions Clash 28:55

5M ago28:55

28:55

In this episode, we explore cognitive dissonance—the psychological discomfort that occurs when our beliefs and actions don't align. We discuss how this phenomenon affects our daily lives, decision-making, and personal growth, featuring insights from leading experts and practical strategies for managing cognitive dissonance. Key Topics Covered Defin…

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From Prey to Partner: Communication Strategies for Positive Influence (with Amy Carroll) 26:24

5M ago26:24

26:24

How can you protect your power, status, and influence in communication? Learn from Amy Carroll, a communication coach and author of 'Ego Tango,' on how to advocate for yourself, manage pressure, and communicate with strength. She explains the cost of Predator and Prey and how to step into Partner to neutralize the invisible power game. She demonstr…

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225. The Psychology of First Impressions and Authentic Likability 24:52

5M ago24:52

24:52

In episode #225 of the Social Skills Mastery podcast we explore the science behind creating lasting positive impressions and developing genuine likability in professional contexts. Episode Highlights: Discover why Maya Angelou's insight that "people will forget what you said and did, but never how you made them feel" is the foundation of true likab…

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10 Proven Strategies to Get Your Ideas Heard at Work 12:13

5M ago12:13

12:13

Ever felt like your ideas are ignored or misunderstood? It's not because your ideas aren't good enough, but rather how you share them at work. Tune in to discover: ✔️10 bold, practical, and eye-opening ways are discussed to get your ideas heard, supported, and championed without being pushy or over-explaining. ✔️Actionable tips to lead with your id…

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The 3 Specific Reasons our CFO Advisory Firm Was a Huge Success 28:22

5M ago28:22

28:22

In this episode of the CFO Report, host Adam Lean sits down with Jeff Prager to reveal the three key reasons their CFO advisory firm achieved massive success. With years of experience guiding businesses toward financial clarity and profitability, Adam and Jeff break down the specific strategies that helped them stand out in a competitive market. Wh…

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224. Thought Architecture: The Hidden Cost of Negative Comments 23:18

5M ago23:18

23:18

In this powerful episode, we explore the common refrain among socially reserved professionals: "I hate people." Rather than a simple expression of misanthropy, we unpack how this phrase often masks deeper emotions like social anxiety, overwhelm, and vulnerability. We examine how this mindset creates a self-fulfilling prophecy, generating negative e…

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8 Signs You're Earning Less Than You're Worth 26:20

5M ago26:20

26:20

Are you working long hours but still feel like you're not earning what you're worth? In this episode of the CFO Project Podcast, hosts Adam Lean and Jeff Prager reveal the eight key signs that accountants and bookkeepers are undervaluing their services. From being trapped in a pricing war to offering services that clients see as a necessary evil, w…

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7 Powerful Strategies to Instantly Overcome Performance Anxiety and Silence Self-Doubt (Even If You Made a Mistake) 27:35

5M ago27:35

27:35

Have you ever stayed awake at night replaying something you did or said, worried about how you came across? Are you the kind of perfectionist that doesn’t want to disappoint others? In this episode, you will discover seven strategies to overcome worry and rumination about mistakes or negative perceptions in professional settings. Perfect for leader…

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223. From Dreading to Doing: Overcoming Avoidant Tendencies at Work 28:42

5M ago28:42

28:42

In episode #223, we look into the avoidant behaviors that hold socially reluctant professionals back from reaching their full potential. What you'll learn: Why "can't" thinking is actually a lie your brain tells you to avoid discomfort The 10 most common social avoidance behaviors among professionals with social anxiety A proven framework to transf…