In this episode, I’m joined by Michelle Vandepas for a thoughtful conversation on bold leadership, self-expression and what it can look like to show up more fully as yourself.
Michelle brings decades of experience in leadership, publishing and coaching and together we explore the nuance behind “authenticity.” Because being yourself isn’t always as straightforward as it sounds. It can be layered, evolving and sometimes uncomfortable, especially when it involves unlearning old patterns.
We talk about how many of us hold ourselves back in subtle ways, not always because we lack ability, but because of fear, conditioning or simply not feeling ready yet. And what it might look like to begin shifting that, in ways that feel supportive rather than overwhelming.
Here’s what we covered
✅ A more grounded perspective on what bold leadership can look like
✅ The difference between expressing yourself and reacting from emotion
✅ How self-awareness and emotional regulation can shape the way we lead
✅ The ways holding back can show up in the body, not just the mind
✅ The connection between voice, expression and overall wellbeing
✅ Why many women downplay their gifts, even when they’re capable
✅ How writing things down can create clarity and reduce fear
✅ The idea of taking small, different actions as a way to open new possibilities
✅ The role of support and accountability when things feel unclear
✅ Why rest can sometimes be part of moving forward, not a distraction from it
✅ What it can look like to honour where you are while still growing
Michelle also shares parts of her personal journey, including how suppressing her voice once showed up in her physical health and how, over time, learning to express herself created shifts both internally and externally.
One reflection that stayed with me from this conversation is this:
Being yourself isn’t about getting it “right,” it’s about allowing space for who you are to emerge, in a way that feels honest and grounded.
Because when there’s less pressure to perform, it can feel easier to move forward in a way that actually feels aligned.
If you’ve been feeling a little held back, or thinking about how you show up in your life or business, this episode offers a perspective that feels both gentle and practical.
About Michelle Vandepas
Michelle Vandepas is a leadership coach, publisher and retreat host with over four decades of experience. She works with authors and entrepreneurs to help them step more confidently into their voice, share their stories and expand what they believe is possible for themselves.
📖 Download the Free Unmute Yourself Discussion Guide
If this episode resonated with you, you can download the free Unmute Yourself Book Club Discussion Guide for deeper reflection and more intentional conversations around voice, visibility, growth, and purpose.
Click here to download. 📖
Read the book, Unmute Yourself
Unmute Yourself explores identity, voice, growth and becoming the version of yourself that can hold what you’re building.
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What is Business Therapy™ With Joké?
BUSINESS Therapy™ is the podcast for creative entrepreneurs, women business owners, founders, and high capacity women who are ready to build a business that works without losing themselves in the process.
Hosted by Joké Durojaiye, Life Coach + Business Strategist and creator of BUSINESS Therapy™, the podcast brings together the personal and professional sides of entrepreneurship.
Joké brings more than two decades of experience turning creativity into business. But she didn't start with all the answers.
She did what most creative women do.
She worked harder when she should have thought clearer.
The shift from creative to CEO mindset was real.
Joké fumbled her way through turning her love for design into a real business that pays the bills.
Now, she helps creative women make that same shift, because building a business is never just about the business. The person running it matters too.
BUSINESS Therapy™ explores the strategy, mindset, and emotional realities of entrepreneurship, including the moments that don't make it into the business plan. The difficult client. The slow sales month. The negative review. The decision you've been avoiding. The comparison that makes you question your progress. The business that has grown, but somehow feels harder to run.
Joké brings these conversations back to one central idea: Separate the math from the drama.
Because you can be brilliant at what you do and still struggle with the business of doing it.
Expect practical business strategy, honest conversations, fresh perspective, and the questions that help you see what is really happening in your business so you can decide what to do next.
BUSINESS Therapy™ is business education and emotional intelligence for creative minds, designed to help you build with greater clarity, intention, and business intelligence.
BUSINESS Therapy™ With Joké is ranked among the top 10% of podcasts globally, according to Listen Notes, based on its Listen Score.
Listen when you need clarity under pressure, a better way to think about the business, or simply need someone to talk business with.