This week, we’re talking about something a lot of us experience but rarely admit—when the holiday that’s supposed to give us gratitude instead leaves us needing a vacation from our vacation. Between stuffing turkeys, juggling casseroles, and navigating tricky family dynamics, it’s easy to lose sight of the spirit of Thanksgiving. So, if you’ve ever found yourself feeling more exhausted than thankful, this episode is for you. We’re unpacking why that happens and what you can DO to actually enjoy the time with your family/friends—WITHOUT burning out. So, Let’s Start with This.. Thanksgiving should be a time of gratitude and connection, yet for so many of us, it’s stressful. The turkey’s not done on time, the mashed potatoes are cold, the in-laws are early, and that one relative always finds a way to talk politics. Add the stress of work deadlines before the holiday—and the mental load that women often carry when it comes to holiday planning—and you’ve got a recipe for burnout. So, if you’ve ever ended the weekend thinking, “I need a vacation from my vacation,” you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: there are ways to reclaim the joy of Thanksgiving and walk away from it refreshed, not frazzled. 1️⃣ Give Yourself Permission to Simplify Everything doesn’t have to be homemade. Choose one or two dishes that matter most to you, and delegate or buy the rest. Focus on connection over perfection. 2️⃣ Protect Your Peace—and Your Boundaries You can’t pour from an empty cup. Schedule breaks for yourself, even if it’s just ten quiet minutes on the porch with coffee. If a certain family topic always causes tension, give yourself permission to steer the conversation elsewhere—or quietly step away. 3️⃣ Practice Gratitude in Real Time Before everyone leaves the table, take a moment to go around and have each person share one thing they’re thankful for. It’s a simple exercise that recent studies show can boost mood and lower cortisol levels in less than a week. Gratitude changes the tone of the room—and the tone of your heart. That’s it for today, ShopTalkers! Let this be the Thanksgiving you actually enjoy—the one where you sit back, laugh a little louder, and remember what the holiday is really about. NEW HERE? Here are your “Must-Do’s:” Check out our Mentioned Videos: · The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde · Holiday Stress: https://youtu.be/5Zbu44vrfq8?si=tvKuxmpKccCYjwe2 · Forget Resolutions and Set your Dreams Instead: https://youtu.be/omCDMsVvJTY?si=0-WOWV_bk6ydI190 · Travel Tips for the Busy Career Woman: https://youtu.be/PBCrY8DwHgo?si=TxE5GVymwTI-lQAZ · Why Healthy Boundaries Keep you from Strangling your Loved Ones: https://youtu.be/tZfDoKDCejU?si=jirinUos4U-JW1Mf Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook Contact Me: https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/book-online Grab your Freebies: https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/career-secrets

You know that burst of excitement when you start something new — and then life happens? The energy fades, motivation slips, and suddenly your big goal starts gathering dust. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. In today’s episode, I’m sharing how to push past procrastination and finally finish what you start. Whether it’s a work project, a fitness goal, or a personal passion you keep putting off, these strategies will help you reignite your focus, cross that finish line. So come back and join me for Ep84, where we’ll talk about it all right here on The CWSPP! ________________________________________ Welcome Back everyone: So like I said in the intro, if you’ve experienced any of this, you are not alone and today, I’m going to give you some strategies so that you can start finishing what you’ve started to help you achieve your goals and to help build your confidence that you CAN do what you SAY you’re going to do. You see, here’s the deal…finishing what you start isn’t just about checking a box — it’s about building trust with yourself. Every time you follow through, you strengthen your confidence and prove that you can count on you. That carries over into every part of your life — your career, your relationships, your health, and even your peace of mind. When you leave things unfinished, it chips away at your self-belief. But when you complete what you set out to do, you’re sending a message to your brain that says, “I follow through. I get things done.” That kind of consistency — not motivation — is what creates real, lasting success both professionally and personally. So here are 3 Strategies to Help You Finish What You Start 1. Reconnect With Your “Why” When procrastination shows up, it’s usually because your purpose got blurry. I want you to pause and remind yourself why you started. Ask, “What made this important to me?” Then picture how it’s going to feel when you finish. When you reconnect with your why, you’ll reignite your drive and focus. 2. Shrink the Task, Not the Dream Big goals can feel overwhelming — that’s when most people stall out. Instead of trying to tackle everything at once, I want you to shrink it down. Focus on the next 15 minutes, not the next 15 steps. Smaller wins create momentum, and once that momentum builds, procrastination doesn’t stand a chance. 3. Create Accountability That Works Let’s be honest — it’s easy to break promises to ourselves, but harder to let someone else down. Tell a friend, colleague, or coach what you’re committing to this week. Set a clear deadline, and then follow up. That one extra layer of accountability can make the difference between “I’ll do it someday” and “I did it.” ________________________________________ Here’s the truth: finishing isn’t about being motivated all the time — it’s about staying consistent even when you’re not. The women who succeed aren’t the ones who never struggle; they’re the ones who keep showing up anyway. And if you need a little structure and accountability, I’d love to help you. Schedule a free consultation at https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/book-online. Together, we’ll build a plan that helps you stay focused, follow through, and actually finish what you start. ________________________________________ As I always say here on The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast: “If you’re not having a fantastic day, you have the power to make it one.” Because power starts with choice — and the moment you choose to take that next step, you’re already closer to your finish line. Until next time, this is Dr. Dawn reminding you: you’ve got everything it takes — now it’s time to see it through. NEW HERE? Check out our Mentioned Videos: • The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde • Mindset & Confidence Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klxaMDeQCXU&list=PLdguFjdYMwqXrgiI1YaB87uHu1gm_mczc • Upskilling Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm6ro9LlUMA&list=PLdguFjdYMwqX3gnuMSrLgaN7hXBSWhqmO • Building your Brand Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRK7Ep29SkQ&list=PLdguFjdYMwqVLPsFZjl-Do8eH7leltW8O • Ep61: What You Can do When Co-Workers Undermine You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ra3DcEIg6jY Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! • Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook Contact Me! • https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/book-online Grab your Freebies! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/career-secrets

If your to-do list never ends, your calendar’s packed, and you’re running on caffeine and sheer willpower, this episode is for you. Today, I’m sharing the three key strategies high-performing women use to manage their workload, protect their energy, and finally feel in control again — without burning out. Here’s the truth: busyness isn’t the same as productivity. Many women I coach aren’t struggling because they’re disorganized; they’re overwhelmed because they’re doing too much of the wrong things. Let’s change that. 3 Strategies to Get More Done Without Losing Your Mind 1. Focus on What Moves the Needle Not everything deserves your attention. Ask yourself: “If I could only get three things done this week that would make the biggest impact, what would they be?” Focusing on what truly matters is the key to working smarter, not harder. 2. Cut the Energy Drains Track what drains your focus — unnecessary meetings, saying yes when you mean no, or redoing someone else’s work. Eliminate, automate, or delegate anything that doesn’t earn its spot on your calendar. 3. Master Strategic Boundaries Burnout doesn’t come from overwork alone — it comes from over-giving. Boundaries aren’t rude; they’re professional. Try calm, confident scripts like: “I’d love to help, but my plate is full right now. Can we revisit this next week?” Your peace is priceless — protect it. When you focus on what matters, cut what drains you, and guard your time, you’ll feel lighter, sharper, and more in control — without sacrificing your wellbeing. Need help implementing these strategies? I help women build customized systems and scripts that simplify their week and protect their energy. Schedule your free consultation at https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/book-online . And if you haven’t listened yet, check out Episode 75: The Power of Saying No — Prioritization Done Right. It’s the perfect companion to today’s conversation. Because remember — you can’t always control your workload, but you can control your focus, your boundaries, and your mindset. NEW HERE? Here are your “Must-Do’s:” Check out our Mentioned Videos: The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde Ep75: The Power of Saying No: Prioritization Done Right! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=feFX1d5GeLk&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde&index=5 Ep52: The Warning Signs of Burnout https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLemMr_DDY0&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde&index=25&t=34s What’s Holding You Back Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg5oof2vv7Q&list=PLdguFjdYMwqUaLR6jMeDUgP0cntaIJJ-Y Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook Contact Me: https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/book-online Grab your Freebies: https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/career-secrets

Welcome ShopTalkers, I’m Dr. Dawn, CEO/Founder of Dr. Dawn ShopTalk—and today we’re putting it all together. In Episode 78 you mastered the voice, in Episode 79 the words, and now it’s time to own your executive presence. What is Executive Presence? • Built on 3 pillars: gravitas, communication, appearance. • Today, it’s not just about polish—it’s about trust, connection, and authenticity. • Gender gaps remain: women hold only about 30% of senior leadership roles globally and are often judged more harshly whether they lean “feminine” or “masculine.” 3 Strategies to Elevate Your Presence: 1. Anchor Gravitas – Project steadiness through tone, pauses, and eye contact. 2. Lead with Clarity & Connection – Confident register, powerful words, plus empathy and storytelling. 3. Reflect on Visibility & Trust – Seek feedback, notice how others respond, and make sure people feel heard and valued. That’s it for today, ShopTalkers—your voice, your words, and your confidence now form your executive presence. Until next time, this is Dr. Dawn reminding you: presence isn’t just seen—it’s felt. NEW HERE? Here are your “Must-Do’s:” Register for our Building your Brand Workshop 10/02/25 • https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/workshops Check out our Mentioned Videos: • The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde • Mindset & Confidence Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klxaMDeQCXU&list=PLdguFjdYMwqXrgiI1YaB87uHu1gm_mczc • What’s Holding You Back Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg5oof2vv7Q&list=PLdguFjdYMwqUaLR6jMeDUgP0cntaIJJ-Y • Public Speaking Videos: o https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gks9Z5Xxag o https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EGuVz2noipc • Building your Brand Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRK7Ep29SkQ&list=PLdguFjdYMwqVLPsFZjl-Do8eH7leltW8O Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! • Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook Contact Me! • https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/book-online Grab your Freebies! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/career-secrets

Your words have more power than you think. Hello there, and Welcome to another exciting episode of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast! I’m your host Dr. Dawn and this is YOUR place to get the secrets behind upleveling your career without sacrificing your sanity OR your work/life balance. If you joined us LAST week you know we tackled the sound of your voice—and how it can either project confidence or quietly chip away at it. So, THIS week, we’re going even deeper. Because even if your voice is strong, the words you choose could be undermining you. Words That Undermine—And What to Say Instead • I’m sorry, but| Starts with apology even when not needed | Lead with your point • Just checking| Minimizes your intent | I’d like to follow up • I may be wrong…” | Signals uncertainty | Here’s what I’m thinking • You know?| A conversational filler | Use a pause instead • Actually| Comes off as defensive or surprised | Here’s another way to look at it • I’m not an expert in this | Self-dismissal | Lead with your credentials 3 Strategies You Can Use Right Away 1. Capture & Reflect Record yourself in a meeting or presentation. Listen for softeners, apologies, or filler phrases. Awareness is the first step toward shift! 2. Practice Rewriting Rewrite an email or message using powerful language. Replace “just,” “sorry,” or “maybe” with confident alternatives. The more you practice, the easier it becomes. 3. Pause with Purpose Notice when you want to say “um” or “you know.” Pause instead. Pauses project control, confidence, and clarity. Remember, ShopTalkers: your career, your choices, your voice—and yes, even your day—are in your control, so don’t forget our motto and it’s this: “If you’re not having a fantastic day, you have the power to make it one!” NEW HERE? Here are your “Must-Do’s:” 1. Register for our Building your Brand Workshop 10/02/25 o https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/workshops 2. These are those Mentioned Videos: o The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde o What’s Holding You Back Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg5oof2vv7Q&list=PLdguFjdYMwqUaLR6jMeDUgP0cntaIJJ-Y o Put a Stop to Perfectionism Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klxaMDeQCXU o Building your Brand Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRK7Ep29SkQ&list=PLdguFjdYMwqVLPsFZjl-Do8eH7leltW8O o Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook Contact Me! o https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/book-online Grab your Freebies! o https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/career-secrets

Your voice isn’t just sound—it’s your personal brand. 🎙️ In Episode 78 of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast, Dr. Dawn Hamby, CEO/Founder of Dr. Dawn ShopTalk, shares why the way you speak can either boost your credibility or quietly erode it. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ Why women’s vocal register (pitch) can signal confidence—or undermine it ✅ The science behind vocal fry, uptalk, and how they affect credibility, trust, and referrals ✅ How your voice impacts networking, introductions, and your professional brand ✅ 3 practical tips to help you speak with clarity, authority, and poise 📊 Research shows: Women with slightly lower-pitched voices are more often perceived as leaders. Vocal fry and uptalk can make professionals sound less competent and trustworthy. Even technology biases have historically distorted higher female voices, shaping perceptions of women in leadership. 💡 Want to go deeper? Check out my YouTube playlists for more resources: o The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde o Upskilling Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm6ro9LlUMA&list=PLdguFjdYMwqX3gnuMSrLgaN7hXBSWhqmO o What’s Holding You Back Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg5oof2vv7Q&list=PLdguFjdYMwqUaLR6jMeDUgP0cntaIJJ-Y o Mindset & Confidence Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klxaMDeQCXU&list=PLdguFjdYMwqXrgiI1YaB87uHu1gm_mczc o Building your Brand Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRK7Ep29SkQ&list=PLdguFjdYMwqVLPsFZjl-Do8eH7leltW8O 📅 Save the date! On October 2nd, I’m hosting a Build Your Brand Workshop—join us in Little Rock or livestream from anywhere. This session will help you refine your professional presence and strengthen your career brand. DM me or visit [drdawnshoptalk.com] for details. ✨ Next week’s episode: we’ll dive into eloquence and word choice—how certain words can unintentionally give away your power at work, and what to say instead. About Dr. Dawn: Dr. Dawn Hamby is the CEO/Founder of Dr. Dawn ShopTalk, a consulting company specializing in organizational culture and leadership development. She is the host of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast, a speaker, trainer, and coach dedicated to helping women lead with confidence and thrive at work. Listen to the Podcast: 🎧 Spotify | 🎧 Apple Podcasts | 🎧 Google Podcasts Connect with Me: Instagram: @drdawnshoptalk LinkedIn: Dr. Dawn Hamby Website: www.drdawnshoptalk.com NEW HERE? Here are your “Must-Do’s:” 1. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook 2. GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! o https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com

In this week's episode of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast, I'm going to tackle one of the most underrated secrets to a better workday: getting (AND staying) organized! Whether your calendar is already color-coded or your desk is currently buried under three coffee mugs and a pile of sticky notes, this episode is PERFECT for you! Did you know, according to a study by The National Association of Professional Organizers, over 80% of people feel more productive in an organized workspace—yet most professionals lose nearly one hour a day to disorganization. That’s five hours a week (a part-time job’s worth of time... just vanished). Need a little MORE inspo? Consider Oprah Winfrey. If you've been following us for a while, you know we believe everything Oprah. Did you know that in multiple interviews, Oprah has credit being organized and having routines as 2 reasons why she has been so successful? Just saying - if you don't believe me, you gotta believe Oprah. And here's something else... We purposely drop our episodes on Monday, because we believe if you have a great Monday, that can set the tone for the entire week, so this is the perfect moment to reset! ________________________________________ In this episode, you’ll learn: 1. Clear Space = Clear Mind Start your Monday by cleaning your desk or digital workspace - clutter really is affecting you more than you think and we've got videos to help you on that! 2. Make a “Must-Do” List—Not a “To-Do” List We love a To-Do-List and I have even customized them for my clients, but they know that they really are "must-do's - there has to be some urgency to get things done, and think about how proud you would feel if you got some of your MIT (Most Important Tasks) done on a daily basis! 3. Time Block with Boundaries Use your calendar to protect your productivity, by building in buffers of time in-between your tasks. Whether it's a 90-minute work sprint or a 15-minute “breathe and reset” block, honoring your time helps others respect it too. ________________________________________ Try This Today: Before you jump into your next task, ask yourself: Is my space and schedule helping me win the day—or getting in my way? A small change today could lead to a much smoother tomorrow. ________________________________________ Final Thought: At Dr. Dawn ShopTalk, we believe that success doesn’t happen by accident—it happens by design. So let’s design a better workweek, starting today! NEW HERE? Here are YOUR “Must-Do’s:” 1. Check out the Videos: o The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde o Clutter May be Affecting You More than You Think: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMeSCrmyS3s&t=174s o Time Management Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hThB5rseaWU&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWxPZL2zYJh-dGW6jt4GsQx o You Teach People How to Treat You (Bloopers Included): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EkrOfDu3qo8&t=332s o Healthy Boundaries Keep You from Getting Arrested: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjxUIH2M9Wk&t=1s 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook 3. GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com 4. CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com

Hello ShopTalkers, it’s Dr. Dawn - today’s episode is going to be a little personal. I want to talk about a sneaky little emotion that can derail our success faster than we realize. And no, I’m not talking about fear, or even self-doubt. I’m talking about guilt. Specifically, the kind of guilt that creeps in when things are actually going well. The guilt that says, “How dare you feel proud of this accomplishment when someone you love never could?” This may sound a little cray cray, but I know this one well—because I’ve been living it. Many of you know that I lost my mom not too long ago. My mom struggled with her weight for most of her life - and that's where my guilt started to creep in. Before Mom passed, I had been open about my own health journey. When I turned 40, my weight started fluctuating like crazy. After checking my hormones and finding nothing to blame, I turned to intermittent fasting—and it worked. I lost 31 pounds. Now, I’m only 5’1” on a good day, so that kind of loss was huge. I went from a size 12 Petite to a size 4 Petite, sometimes even a size 2. I felt like myself again—confident, strong, and proud. But when Mom passed, I couldn’t help but feel this pang of guilt. Here I was, achieving something relatively easily that my mother struggled with for decades. The stress eating started, and the weight crept back on. I was proud that I didn't gain all the weight back and then some (which had been my pattern since I turned 40), but it still stung. Now, your guilt may not be the same as mine. But guilt is guilt. Maybe you feel guilty for making more money than your siblings, or guilty for getting a promotion when your friend got laid off. Or maybe you feel guilty for taking a vacation when your team is swamped. So today, I want to give you 3 concrete steps to stop letting guilt block your success—and since I love ya, 1 Bonus goal to really seal the deal! ________________________________________ Step 1: Set Bodacious and Fabulous Goals I’m not talking about small, “be realistic” goals. I’m talking about goals so exciting, so motivating, that you can’t help but get pulled toward them. Why? Because when you have something that lights you up, guilt has less room to take up space. Bold goals demand bold energy. ________________________________________ Step 2: Create a Concrete, Bite-Sized Plan Big goals can feel overwhelming—especially when guilt makes you question whether you deserve them. Break your goal down into small, manageable steps. And here’s the key: build in wins along the way. This keeps you motivated and reminds you that progress is happening, even if it’s gradual. ________________________________________ Step 3: Find an Accountability Partner Whether it’s your sister, your best friend, or a trusted co-worker, having someone in your corner can change everything. You share your goals with them, they share theirs with you, and you hold each other to it. When guilt tries to pull you back, your accountability partner will remind you why you started. ________________________________________ Bonus Goal: Give Yourself Permission—Out Loud I mean it—say it to yourself: “I am allowed to succeed. I am allowed to be happy. I am allowed to have the life I want.” When you speak your permission into the air, it’s harder for guilt to convince you otherwise. ________________________________________ And here’s the thing, ShopTalkers—I’m already doing these steps myself. I’ve decided I’m breaking free from this guilt once and for all. I’m back to my intermittent fasting, I’m making sure I’m getting my water in, I’m following a new strength-training routine my daughter designed that works for my knees, and I’m even adding in some longer fasts to help reset my body’s set point like before. And I’m filming this journey so I can take you along for the ride! I would love for you to be part of my accountability team of support, so I invite you to join me here’s my challenge to you: If guilt has been holding you back, post below what you’re going to work on so we can take this journey together. I’ll be cheering for you, and I hope you’ll cheer for me, too. ________________________________________ Thanks for tuning in to this special episode of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook, and don't forget our motto: "If you're not having a fantastic day, you have the power to make it one!" NEW HERE? DO THESE THINGS FIRST! 1. CHECK OUT our other Podcast Episodes! https://www.youtube.com/@drdawnshoptalk/podcasts 2. CHECK OUT our Health & Wellness Videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGd2qJ7vc0w&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWGgapGw6NyDDITEWav72Xa 3. CHECK OUT our What’s Holding you Back series: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg5oof2vv7Q&list=PLdguFjdYMwqUaLR6jMeDUgP0cntaIJJ-Y 4. GET YOUR COPY of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook 5. GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com 6. CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com

Welcome back to The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast—I’m your host, Dr. Dawn, and today’s episode is extra special. Not only is it our 75th episode, but it also marks my return to the mic after a much-needed, intentional break. After a season of rest, reflection, and realignment, The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast is BACK—with a powerful new episode on one of the most underused career tools: Knowing when—and how—to say NO. In this comeback episode, I’m sharing: ✔ Why I took a podcast break and prioritized paying clients over free content ✔ 3 simple scripts and strategies to protect your time ✔ A fresh new plan for how I’m showing up consistently (without burning out) If you’ve ever said yes when you really wanted to say no—this one’s for you. Ok you guys, so let me take you back to the beginning and share a personal story as to WHY I decided to take this break and HOW prioritization plays into all of this. It starts in Paris, France and ended in Cancun Mexico. That’s right, it started with 2 amazing family vacations I took this year. Let’s start in Paris… (Provence and Paris)…now let’s move on to the sandy beaches of Cancún, Mexico. After ALL was said and done, when I got back, I had a calendar full of coaching clients and workshops. So, I took my own advice and focused on the parts of my business that generate revenue and impact the most people one-on-one. This show—and my YouTube channel—are ad-free, by choice. And while that means I’m not monetizing these platforms yet, it also means I have to be fiercely protective of my time. But friends—I missed this. I missed you. So I’m back, and going forward, I’ll be simplifying things with shorter, more intentional episodes that still deliver value without burning me—or you—out. Let’s dive in! ________________________________________ Today we’re talking about when it’s OK to say no—and how to do it without guilt. As career women, we’re often expected to do it all, be everywhere, and say yes to everything. But let me tell you something I had to learn the hard way: saying no is not selfish—it’s strategic. Here are three powerful tips to help you start protecting your time and energy like the queen you are: ________________________________________ 💡 Tip #1: Ask Yourself — “Is this a yes to my bigger vision?” Every time you say yes to something, you’re saying no to something else. So ask yourself: “Is this in alignment with where I want to go?” This simple pause can save you from weeks of frustration or unnecessary obligation. ________________________________________ 💡 Tip #2: Use the “Soft No, Strong Boundary” Technique Here’s a script you can borrow: “Thanks so much for thinking of me, but I need to pass this time to stay focused on my priorities.” That’s it. Kind. Clear. No need to explain further. Boundaries build trust—with yourself and others. ________________________________________ 💡 Tip #3: Schedule your Time like a Meeting If your calendar has no white space, it means you’re always reacting, not leading. Block off time for thinking, resting, or just being. You wouldn’t cancel a meeting with your boss—so don’t cancel the ones with yourself. ________________________________________ These three tips will help you say no with grace and say yes to what actually matters. And that, my friend, is the key to a sustainable, fulfilling, and focused career. Don’t wait until you’re exhausted or overwhelmed to create boundaries. Use “no” like a filter—and protect the space you need to grow. Thanks for tuning in to this milestone episode of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook, and don't forget our motto: "If you're not having a fantastic day, you have the power to make it one!" NEW HERE? DO THESE THINGS FIRST! 1. CHECK OUT our other Monthly Motivation Interviews! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3wzWcwPM8w&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde 2. CHECK OUT our Summer Vacation Packing Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBCrY8DwHgo&t=3s 3. CHECK OUT our Are You an Overthinker Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BknGDCxq7-I&t=1s 4. GET YOUR COPY of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook 5. GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com 6. CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com ________________________________________ #CareerWomanPlaybook #SayNoToBurnout #Prioritization #WomenInLeadership #CareerSuccess

Are you considering a career change? If so, have you ever thought about working for a cause you truly believe in? If this sounds like you, you’re going to love today’s Monthly Motivation interview with Kelly Fleming, the Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas. Kelly left a high-paying job to find personal fulfillment in the nonprofit world. Her story will inspire you to not be afraid to take a leap of faith AND is a powerful reminder that salary isn’t everything. Kelly’s leadership and vision are a testament to the impact that women can have when they step into positions of influence and create opportunities for others. To our wonderful listeners: if you’ve been inspired by Kelly’s journey, I encourage you to look into ways you can support Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas. Whether it’s donating to The Restore, volunteering on a build, or simply spreading the word about their mission, you have the power to make a difference. Don’t forget our motto here at ShopTalk: “if you’re not having a fantastic day, YOU have the power to make it one!” AND don’t forget to subscribe, rate, review and share this episode! HOW TO CONTACT TODAY'S GUEST: KELLY FLEMING • Email: KellyF@HABITATCENTRALAR.ORG • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-fleming-4325097 • Website: https://www.habitatcentralar.org • Restore: https://www.habitatcentralar.org/restore NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out our other Monthly Motivation Interviews! o Want to Make Bold Moves in your Life? Interview with Best Selling Author and Award-Winning Journalist and Influencer Dominique Sachse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X80oNmJPG1E&t=513s o It’s Never too Late to Pivot: Interview with Commercial Real Estate Expert Tiffani Silvey: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4A4WlNyOBGo&t=11s o Taking Care of Family Business: Two Sisters Kristin & Devon McCrossin Share their Success Story in the Digital Media and Advertising Business: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&t=4s o Have you Ever Thought of Opening your Own Franchise? Interview with Chicken Salad Chick Franchise Owner Emily Gray: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOlEmZlyDZo&t=324s o Do you Want to Know How to Start your Own Business? Interview with Business Expert and Podcast Host Kimberly Brock: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXnOWe4NtT4&t=9s 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com

Dr. Dawn here, YOUR personal Career Coach and I want to welcome you to our Podcast! Now, if you’re feeling stuck in your career, unsure of your next step, OR simply craving a change of pace, but don’t know where to start—today’s episode is just PERFECT for you! I’m giving you 5 Power Tips that will help you get unstuck and regain your momentum. Tune in to today's episode to get ALL of this info, here are the highlights starting with why feeling stuck is actually a GOOD thing! Feeling stuck can be incredibly frustrating, but it’s also a signal that something needs to change—and that IS a good thing! It means you’re no longer happy with the status quo AND you’re ready for growth, new challenges, OR maybe just a fresh direction. Your next steps will be to start reframing your setbacks as comebacks and THEN move on to creating a powerful mindset shift so that you are ready for my favorite Power Tips to Get Unstuck: Ready? Here we go: 1) I want you to Do a Career Audit – In other words take an honest look at what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to change, 2) Reignite Your Passion – You guys, if you are struggling with this, not only do we have YouTube videos about this very topic, but I have a whole chapter devoted to it in my book AND even have a video class you can take on my website. 3) I want you to Invest in Growth – Whether it’s a new skill, networking, or mentorship, forward motion is key, and guess what, you are already doing this by taking the time to listen to a podcast about this subject, 4) Shake Up Your Routine - A small change in habits or environment can spark fresh perspectives, Last but not least, 5) take Bold Action – Don’t you love that? Betting on yourself is NEVER wrong and sometimes, you have to make the first move before clarity arrives! NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out the Videos: o The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde o How to NOT be an Overthinker: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BknGDCxq7-I o Want to Make Bold Moves in your Life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X80oNmJPG1E&t=513s o New Year to a New You Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qi8QjvRo2U&list=PLdguFjdYMwqVo8474vl_u7hMiaE_ctDt0 o Passion & Purpose Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdguFjdYMwqXQM8PrQlBP-AxrPX-bV2q8 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com

Our self-talk is the most potent drug you’ll ever take, and right now, you’re either using it to empower yourself, or tear yourself down. When you tell yourself you can’t do something, your brain literally shuts down the production of the neurotransmitters that would make it possible. Negative self-talk programs your cells to malfunction, your genes to express disease patterns, and your neural networks to strengthen pathways of limitation. Your internal dialogue isn’t just mental chatter; it’s a biochemical control system advancing or reversing your evolution with every single word. Most people live on autopilot, letting their inner voice repeat old programs. This voice isn’t harmless; it’s programming their future. Through intentional self-talk, you’re not just changing your mind—you’re rewiring your brain, reshaping your biology, and transforming your reality. Tune in to today's episode for all the specifics, but here are the 5 ways the top 1% of executives use positive self-talk to drive their success: 1. Reframing Challenges as Opportunities; 2. Affirming Confidence and Capability; 3. Visualizing Success; 4. Neutralizing Negative Thoughts; 5. Focusing on Their "Why." So, as we wrap up today’s episode, I challenge you to try this: Pick just one of these strategies and put it into practice this week. Whether it’s neutralizing a negative thought or visualizing your next big win. As the saying goes, 'Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.' So, let’s think like the top 1%, act like the top 1%, and step into that powerful version of ourselves. Don't forget our motto here at ShopTalk that reminds us of how much power we have over our day and it goes like this: if you’re not having a fantastic day, you have the power to make it one! Thanks for tuning in, and I’ll see you in the next episode where we’ll tackle even more ways to level up in your career. For MORE weekly tips, follow us @drdawnshoptalk - we're on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram! NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out the Videos: o The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde o Mindset & Confidence Secrets Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klxaMDeQCXU&list=PLdguFjdYMwqXrgiI1YaB87uHu1gm_mczc o Upskilling Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm6ro9LlUMA&list=PLdguFjdYMwqX3gnuMSrLgaN7hXBSWhqmO o Building your Brand Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRK7Ep29SkQ&list=PLdguFjdYMwqVLPsFZjl-Do8eH7leltW8O o What’s Holding you Back Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg5oof2vv7Q&list=PLdguFjdYMwqUaLR6jMeDUgP0cntaIJJ-Y 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com https://www.youtube.com/@drdawnshoptalk/podcasts