Welcome to the first ever episode of Dolly in My Pocket — a new solo series within The extra-Ordinary Leader podcast.

Each short episode is designed to offer a moment of pause: a thought, a reflection, a challenge you can carry into your day. These are not fluffy motivational quotes — they’re grounded insights that have shaped the way I lead, live, and support others to do the same.

If you’re new to the podcast, The extra-Ordinary Leader is a space where I explore what it really takes to show up as a modern leader — whether that’s in business, in the home, or in your own personal growth. Past episodes include honest conversations with senior leaders, practical tools for performance, and mindset shifts to move you through your own glass ceilings. If you want more impact, clarity, and energy, you’ll find something here for you.

In this Dolly in My Pocket episode, I start with one of my favourite quotes from Brené Brown and explore the concept of the mirror moment: a pause in time where you stop and really see yourself — beyond the emails, the roles you play, and the face in the mirror. I share my own moment of reckoning from six years ago, when I realised I’d buried the ambitious, purposeful part of myself under the noise of life. That moment became the starting point for the business I now run and the work I do every day.

If you’re feeling off-track or just a little disconnected, this episode might be the nudge you need.

And if it sparks something, I’d love for you to explore the wider podcast — there’s a whole back catalogue of wisdom waiting for you.

The extra-Ordinary Leader book is out now. Buy it here: https://www.dollywaddell.com/store/p/the-extra-ordinary-leader

For strategy, speaking or consultancy enquiries: [email protected]