IT´S IN YOU! Career & Leadership Coaching for Women

Confidence Before Visibility: Breaking Taboos and Leading with Psychological Safety with Tina Holmes

Katharina Engelhardt Season 3 Episode 1

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0:00 | 34:55

What comes first in a career — confidence or visibility?

In this episode of It’s In You, I sit down with Tina Holmes to explore one of the most misunderstood dynamics in women’s careers. Together, we unpack why so many capable women wait to feel “ready,” why confidence often grows after action (not before), and how breaking taboos can become a powerful leadership tool.

Tina brings a refreshing mix of clarity, honesty, and experience from working in complex organisational environments. We talk openly about vulnerability, psychological safety, and the hidden impact of company culture on self-confidence and growth.

This conversation is an invitation to stop waiting, start trusting yourself — and become visible without losing authenticity.

Key Takeaways

  • Confidence is not a prerequisite — it is built through action
  • Many women systematically underestimate their own capabilities
  • Breaking taboos creates trust, credibility, and stronger leadership
  • Vulnerability is not weakness; it is a leadership skill
  • Psychological safety is essential for performance and innovation
  • Organisational culture deeply influences individual confidence
  • Diversity in leadership leads to better decisions and outcomes
  • Mentoring plays a key role in women’s career development
  • Visibility is a choice — not a personality trait
  • Open conversations create healthier, more human workplaces

Sound Bites

“Confidence comes first — internally.”
 “It’s time to care, and it’s time to speak up.”
 “If we don’t talk about taboos, they continue to hold power.”

Episode Chapters

00:00 – Introduction & personal background
02:56 – Confidence and career development
05:43 – Taboo topics in the workplace
08:35 – Why psychological safety matters
11:07 – Leadership and organisational culture
14:14 – Change and uncertainty at work
17:02 – The role of diversity in leadership
19:59 – How taboos impact women at work
22:43 – Personal experiences & leadership style
25:13 – Success, fulfillment & redefining achievement
28:03 – Closing reflections and outlook

About Tina Holmes

Tina Holmes is a senior HR leader and trusted voice on modern leadership, organisational culture, and psychological safety. With deep experience across complex corporate environments, she is known for addressing uncomfortable topics with clarity and courage — and for creating spaces where people can grow without pretending.

Connect & Continue the Conversation

You can find Tina Holmes on Linkedin and her personal website.
More information regarding the Taboo Talker can be found here.



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Contact: katharina@katharinaengelhardt.com