Unmasking Authenticity: Why Being Yourself at Work is a Leadership Superpower
- lmahrra
- Jun 8, 2025
- 2 min read
A candid conversation on confidence, culture, and showing up unfiltered
In this episode of Uncomfortable Conversations, we explore what it really means to be authentic at work. From squiggly careers and corporate masks to public speaking nerves and unlearning "professionalism," I sit down with Chelsea to reflect on how embracing vulnerability can help build trust, break stereotypes, and empower the next generation of leaders.
If you’ve ever been told to “tone it down” or felt like you had to wear a mask at work, this episode is for you. Me and Chelsea get real about what authenticity actually looks like in modern workplaces. From shaky interviews to red-faced presentations, toxic managers to trust-building moments. It’s vulnerable, empowering, and exactly the conversation many of us need to hear.
Key Talking Points
Authenticity vs. Professionalism: We unpack why we often feel pressured to “perform” at work—and how to balance being real with being respected.
Owning Your Voice (Even When It Shakes): From public speaking nerves to patronising feedback, hear how Louise turned her so-called flaws into her biggest strengths.
Squiggly Careers & Breaking the Mould: Chelsea shares her journey across sectors—from construction to fashion to tech—and how every pivot helped her find her authentic leadership style.
The Cost of Conforming: Why masking your true self leads to burnout, self-doubt, and lost potential—and what it takes to stop playing small.
A New Era of HR (and Leadership): Forget cold compliance. Chelsea shows how connection, honesty and humanity are reshaping how we lead people at work.
Tips for the Next Generation: Why being a sponge, asking better questions, and getting comfortable with discomfort are crucial for Gen Z entering the workforce.
Jump-to Timestamps
03:00 – 08:00: Chelsea’s non-linear career path and finding purpose through people
08:00 – 13:00: Falling into marketing and HR – and loving the messy middle
13:00 – 18:00: Masks, personas, and the pressure to conform in post-COVID workplaces
18:00 – 23:00: Louise’s jaw-dropping interview story – and why she spoke up
23:00 – 28:30: When managers try to dim your light – and how to reclaim your voice
28:30 – 35:00: Breathing techniques, confidence hacks & the red-faced presenter superpower
35:00 – 39:30: Authenticity ≠ oversharing – adapting without compromising who you are
39:30 – 44:00: Chelsea’s HR evolution – from policy enforcer to people-first leader
44:00 – 48:30: Jargon, connection, and why language makes or breaks trust
48:30 – End: Advice for Gen Z, lessons learned, and why authenticity is worth the risk
Listen Now
Ready to stop shrinking and start showing up as you? Hit play below, or jump to the sections above for the moments that matter most.
Get in touch!
I would love to get your questions, ideas and feedback about the Uncomfortable Conversations series, email lmahrra@gmail.com
What resonated with you? Share your thoughts in the comments, or connect with me. Don’t forget to subscribe for more candid, human-first marketing conversations.
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