Episodes

7 days ago
7 days ago
173. What Happens if You Choose Invisibility?
This episode discusses the critical issue of visibility in the workplace. I explore the challenges faced by high achievers in communicating effectively with senior leaders and the detrimental effects of remaining invisible. I emphasize the importance of self-advocacy, effective communication, and empowering teams to ensure that their contributions are recognized. I encourage listeners to take actionable steps towards visibility and to reflect on their own roles in fostering a culture of openness and recognition within their organizations.
In this episode:
Communicating effectively with senior leaders is a challenge for many high achievers.
Many professionals feel they lack the 'secret language' to communicate with senior leaders.
Stories can hold people back from being visible and sharing their ideas.
If nothing changes, you risk remaining in the same role without recognition.
Sitting in silence can hurt your career and the organization.
You need to demonstrate your value to avoid being replaced.
Empowering your team to share their successes is crucial.
Visibility can lead to better results for the entire organization.
Every individual has the opportunity to make a shift towards visibility.
Taking action today can create a ripple effect in your organization.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
The Visibility Factor Episode 92 - The Power of Storytelling with Merri Beckfield
AJ Harper's Free Summer Reading Program
Thank you for listening to The Visibility Factor Podcast
Check out my website to order my book and view the videos/resources for The Visibility Factor book.
As always, I encourage you to reach out! You can email me at hello@susanmbarber.com.
You can also find me on social media everywhere – Facebook, LinkedIn, and of course on The Visibility Factor Podcast! I look forward to connecting with you!
If you liked The Visibility Factor, I would be so grateful if you could subscribe and rate it where you listen to podcasts! It helps the podcast get in front of more people who can learn how to be visible too!
Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The Visibility Factor Podcast!

Thursday Jun 19, 2025
172. Navigating Perception in the Workplace
Thursday Jun 19, 2025
Thursday Jun 19, 2025
172. Navigating Perception in the Workplace
This episode discusses the importance of perception in leadership and how it can be both a challenge and an opportunity. I share client examples to illustrate how managing workload, navigating confusion, and seizing leadership opportunities can enhance visibility and professional growth. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentionality in leadership roles and actionable steps to improve visibility in the workplace.
In this episode:
Perception can be both a challenge and an opportunity.
Managing workload effectively is crucial to avoid overwhelm.
Confusion in the workplace can lead to mistakes; clarity is essential.
Leadership opportunities often arise from challenging situations.
Authenticity is important, but intentionality is key in leadership.
Delegation is a vital skill for effective management.
Preparation for leadership roles can enhance visibility.
Communication and positioning are critical for professional growth.
High-impact moments should be leveraged for visibility.
Every opportunity can be a steppingstone for future leadership roles.
Thank you for listening to The Visibility Factor Podcast
Check out my website to order my book and view the videos/resources for The Visibility Factor book.
As always, I encourage you to reach out! You can email me at hello@susanmbarber.com.
You can also find me on social media everywhere – Facebook, LinkedIn, and of course on The Visibility Factor Podcast! I look forward to connecting with you!
If you liked The Visibility Factor, I would be so grateful if you could subscribe and rate it where you listen to podcasts! It helps the podcast get in front of more people who can learn how to be visible too!
Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The Visibility Factor Podcast!

Thursday Jun 12, 2025
171. Mid-Year Visibility Check-In
Thursday Jun 12, 2025
Thursday Jun 12, 2025
171. Mid-Year Visibility Check-In
This episode is focused on a mid-year check-in on personal visibility and growth. I reflect on my own journey through podcast appearances and encourage you to evaluate your progress over the past six months. I emphasize the importance of recognizing personal growth, setting goals, and taking action to enhance your visibility and confidence. I invite you to reflect on your experiences, learn from both your successes and missed opportunities, and consider what you want to achieve in the second half of the year.
In this episode:
Reflect on your visibility and growth halfway through the year.
Personal growth can be hard to see without reflection.
Evaluate your goals and the progress you've made.
Recognize both successes and missed opportunities.
Playing small can keep you safe but limits growth.
Take action to enhance your visibility and confidence.
Self-discovery is a continuous process.
Learning about yourself can lead to significant insights.
Share your journey with others to inspire and learn.
Embrace new opportunities for growth and visibility.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
Sue's Appearances on the !2 Minutes Convos with Engel Jones
Thank you for listening to The Visibility Factor Podcast
Check out my website to order my book and view the videos/resources for The Visibility Factor book.
As always, I encourage you to reach out! You can email me at hello@susanmbarber.com.
You can also find me on social media everywhere – Facebook, LinkedIn, and of course on The Visibility Factor Podcast! I look forward to connecting with you!
If you liked The Visibility Factor, I would be so grateful if you could subscribe and rate it where you listen to podcasts! It helps the podcast get in front of more people who can learn how to be visible too!
Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The Visibility Factor Podcast!

Thursday Jun 05, 2025
170. Are You Positioning Yourself for the Role You Want?
Thursday Jun 05, 2025
Thursday Jun 05, 2025
170. Are You Positioning Yourself for the Role You Want?
In this episode, I talk about the importance of positioning yourself for career advancement. I emphasize how crucial effective communication is, particularly in one-on-one meetings and presentations, and why it's essential to present your ideas with conviction. I also highlight the need to craft a compelling business case and the importance of preparation in leadership roles.
In this episode:
It's not just about what you do, but how you do it.
Effective communication can change perceptions.
Asking tough questions shows accountability.
Presenting with conviction influences decision-making.
Preparation is key to confidence in leadership.
Understanding your audience is crucial for success.
Crafting a business case requires thorough research.
Passion for your ideas can drive engagement.
Don't shy away from challenging the status quo.
Leadership challenges require ongoing preparation.
Thank you for listening to The Visibility Factor Podcast
Check out my website to order my book and view the videos/resources for The Visibility Factor book.
As always, I encourage you to reach out! You can email me at hello@susanmbarber.com.
You can also find me on social media everywhere – Facebook, LinkedIn, and of course on The Visibility Factor Podcast! I look forward to connecting with you!
If you liked The Visibility Factor, I would be so grateful if you could subscribe and rate it where you listen to podcasts! It helps the podcast get in front of more people who can learn how to be visible too!
Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The Visibility Factor Podcast!

Thursday May 29, 2025
169. Sustainable Ambition (with Kathy Oneto)
Thursday May 29, 2025
Thursday May 29, 2025
169. Sustainable Ambition (with Kathy Oneto)
In this episode of the Visibility Factor podcast, guest Kathy Oneto talks about her book, Sustainable Ambition. We explore the concept of sustainable ambition, emphasizing the importance of pacing one's ambitions, defining personal success, and the need for self-reflection in career development. Kathy shares her sustainable ambition method, which focuses on aligning the right ambitions with the right effort at the right time. The conversation also touches on overcoming societal norms around ambition, fostering a future-oriented mindset, and the importance of curiosity and experimentation in career transitions.
In this episode:
Sustainable ambition allows for personal success without the hustle culture.
Pacing ambitions is crucial for avoiding burnout.
Defining success on your own terms is essential for fulfillment.
Ambitions can change over time and should be revisited regularly.
Self-reflection helps in identifying personal motivators and values.
Testing ambitions can lead to clarity and renewed commitment.
The sustainable ambition method focuses on aligning ambitions with effort.
Curiosity and exploration are key to discovering future career paths.
External influences can shape our ambitions, but we can reclaim our definitions.
Building a regenerative career involves understanding what satisfies and stretches us.
Information on Kathy:
SustainableAmbition.com
Sustainable Ambition Book
Sustainable Ambition Podcast
Kathy Oneto on LinkedIn (in/kathy-oneto)
Kathy Oneto on Instagram (@sustainableambition)
Kathy Oneto on Linktree (@kathyoneto)
The Books that Kathy Recommends:
Tiny Experiments by Anne-Laure Lecombe
A Cure for the Common Company by Dr. Richard Safir
Emotionally Charged by Dina Denham Smith and Alicia Grandy
Thank you for listening to The Visibility Factor Podcast
Check out my website to order my book and view the videos/resources for The Visibility Factor book.
As always, I encourage you to reach out! You can email me at hello@susanmbarber.com.
You can also find me on social media everywhere – Facebook, LinkedIn, and of course on The Visibility Factor Podcast! I look forward to connecting with you!
If you liked The Visibility Factor, I would be so grateful if you could subscribe and rate it where you listen to podcasts! It helps the podcast get in front of more people who can learn how to be visible too!
Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The Visibility Factor Podcast!

Thursday May 22, 2025
168. Lead Boldly: The Role of Hard Questions in Leadership Visibility
Thursday May 22, 2025
Thursday May 22, 2025
168. Lead Boldly: The Role of Hard Questions in Leadership Visibility
This episode of the Visibility Factor podcast discusses the importance of visibility in the workplace and how to effectively challenge authority by asking hard questions. It emphasizes the need for preparation, data-driven discussions, and maintaining composure during difficult conversations. The episode provides actionable insights on how to build trust and respect through effective communication, ultimately leading to stronger relationships with managers and peers.
In this episode:
Visibility is crucial for professional growth.
Challenging authority can lead to better outcomes.
Asking hard questions shows courage and builds trust.
Preparation is key for difficult conversations.
Data supports your arguments and decisions.
Stay composed to foster productive discussions.
Propose solutions alongside your questions.
Creating visibility opportunities is essential.
Treat your manager as an equal during discussions.
Thank you for listening to The Visibility Factor Podcast
Check out my website to order my book and view the videos/resources for The Visibility Factor book.
As always, I encourage you to reach out! You can email me at hello@susanmbarber.com.
You can also find me on social media everywhere – Facebook, LinkedIn, and of course on The Visibility Factor Podcast! I look forward to connecting with you!
If you liked The Visibility Factor, I would be so grateful if you could subscribe and rate it where you listen to podcasts! It helps the podcast get in front of more people who can learn how to be visible too!
Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The Visibility Factor Podcast!

Thursday May 15, 2025
167. Build Your Brand
Thursday May 15, 2025
Thursday May 15, 2025
167. Build Your Brand
This episode of the Visibility Factor podcast discusses the three pillars of building a personal brand: establishing a powerful personal brand, showcasing value and confidence, and creating clear and consistent messaging. The emphasis is on the importance of self-acceptance, understanding one's unique value, and the impact of effective communication on personal visibility. The episode concludes with actionable steps for listeners to leverage these pillars to enhance their visibility and personal branding efforts.
In this episode:
Establishing a powerful personal brand is crucial.
Everyone has unique experiences and strengths to offer.
A personal brand statement can effectively communicate your uniqueness.
Authenticity is key in personal branding.
Showcasing your value demonstrates confidence.
You create the narrative about your professional image.
Reflect on your successes to recognize your value.
Clear and consistent messaging is essential for visibility.
Pay attention to the language you use about yourself.
Intentional actions can enhance your visibility.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
The Visibility Factor Episode 53 – What is a Personal Brand?
Thank you for listening to The Visibility Factor Podcast
Check out my website to order my book and view the videos/resources for The Visibility Factor book.
As always, I encourage you to reach out! You can email me at hello@susanmbarber.com.
You can also find me on social media everywhere – Facebook, LinkedIn, and of course on The Visibility Factor Podcast! I look forward to connecting with you!
If you liked The Visibility Factor, I would be so grateful if you could subscribe and rate it where you listen to podcasts! It helps the podcast get in front of more people who can learn how to be visible too!
Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The Visibility Factor Podcast!

Thursday May 08, 2025
166. Mindset Shifts Needed to Play Bigger
Thursday May 08, 2025
Thursday May 08, 2025
166. Mindset Shifts Needed to Play Bigger
This episode discusses the essential mindset shifts required for individuals to play bigger in their personal and professional lives. The importance of recognizing and challenging limiting beliefs, understanding the difference between fixed and growth mindsets, and the necessity of taking risks to foster self-belief. It highlights actionable steps listeners can take to redefine their approach to challenges and embrace their unique strengths.
In this episode:
Mindset shifts are crucial for personal growth.
Recognizing limiting beliefs is the first step to change.
Self-sabotage often stems from negative mindsets.
A growth mindset opens up new possibilities.
Embracing risks is essential for leadership development.
Self-belief is a key factor in achieving goals.
Asking for help can accelerate growth.
Taking action is more important than waiting for clarity.
Redefining rules can lead to innovation.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
Mindset by Carol S. Dweck
Thank you for listening to The Visibility Factor Podcast
Check out my website to order my book and view the videos/resources for The Visibility Factor book.
As always, I encourage you to reach out! You can email me at hello@susanmbarber.com.
You can also find me on social media everywhere – Facebook, LinkedIn, and of course on The Visibility Factor Podcast! I look forward to connecting with you!
If you liked The Visibility Factor, I would be so grateful if you could subscribe and rate it where you listen to podcasts! It helps the podcast get in front of more people who can learn how to be visible too!
Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The Visibility Factor Podcast!

Thursday May 01, 2025
165. Lead with Influence – Not Authority
Thursday May 01, 2025
Thursday May 01, 2025
165. Lead with Influence – Not Authority
Today’s episode discusses the critical role of visibility in achieving career success. It debunks the myth that hard work alone will lead to recognition and emphasizes the importance of being intentional about self-promotion. The discussion offers insights on how to recognize and communicate one’s achievements, create an intentional identity, and take actionable steps to enhance visibility in the workplace. The conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their contributions and to be proactive in showcasing their value to others.
In this episode:
Visibility is essential for career success, not just hard work.
Many professionals hold onto the myth that great work alone will lead to recognition.
It's important to communicate your achievements to be seen and considered for opportunities.
Comparing yourself to others can hinder your visibility and confidence.
Being intentional about your visibility can create a positive perception of you.
Recognizing even small achievements can help in self-promotion.
You need to capture your wins for performance reviews and discussions with managers.
People may not notice your contributions unless you highlight them.
Creating an intentional identity helps shape how others perceive you.
Consistency in visibility efforts is key to long-term success.
Thank you for listening to The Visibility Factor Podcast
Check out my website to order my book and view the videos/resources for The Visibility Factor book.
As always, I encourage you to reach out! You can email me at hello@susanmbarber.com.
You can also find me on social media everywhere – Facebook, LinkedIn, and of course on The Visibility Factor Podcast! I look forward to connecting with you!
If you liked The Visibility Factor, I would be so grateful if you could subscribe and rate it where you listen to podcasts! It helps the podcast get in front of more people who can learn how to be visible too!
Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The Visibility Factor Podcast!

Thursday Apr 24, 2025
164. Consistent Visibility Creates Intentional Impact
Thursday Apr 24, 2025
Thursday Apr 24, 2025
164. Consistent Visibility Creates Intentional Impact
In today’s episode, we explore the critical role that visibility plays in achieving career success. We debunk the common myth that hard work alone leads to recognition, and we emphasize the importance of being intentional about self-promotion. The discussion offers insights on how to recognize and effectively communicate your achievements, create a purposeful professional identity, and take concrete steps to increase your visibility in the workplace. As you listen, I encourage you to reflect on your contributions and to take a proactive approach in showcasing your value to others.
In this episode:
Visibility is essential for career success, not just hard work.
Many professionals hold onto the myth that great work alone will lead to recognition.
It's important to communicate your achievements to be seen and considered for opportunities.
Comparing yourself to others can hinder your visibility and confidence.
Being intentional about your visibility can create a positive perception of you.
Recognizing even small achievements can help in self-promotion.
You need to capture your wins for performance reviews and discussions with managers.
People may not notice your contributions unless you highlight them.
Creating an intentional identity helps shape how others perceive you.
Consistency in visibility efforts is key to long-term success.
Thank you for listening to The Visibility Factor Podcast
Check out my website to order my book and view the videos/resources for The Visibility Factor book.
As always, I encourage you to reach out! You can email me at hello@susanmbarber.com.
You can also find me on social media everywhere – Facebook, LinkedIn, and of course on The Visibility Factor Podcast! I look forward to connecting with you!
If you liked The Visibility Factor, I would be so grateful if you could subscribe and rate it where you listen to podcasts! It helps the podcast get in front of more people who can learn how to be visible too!
Thank you to the team at Sheep Jam Productions for the amazing support of The Visibility Factor Podcast!

It’s Time to Raise Your Visibility:
Welcome to the Visibility Factor podcast with Susan M. Barber – a show where business leaders and anyone seeking ways to raise their visibility can come to learn how to take action in their own authentic way. It’s time to raise your visibility, amplify your voice and be the confident leader you were meant to be.
Each week, author, former fortune 500 IT Director turned executive coach, Susan M. Barber will bring you inspiring guests, coaching, tips and tools to empower you to take action so that you can elevate your career and gain new opportunities.
Topics about visibility, authenticity, confidence, leadership, impostor syndrome, and career transition will be discussed each week with guests who are amazing leaders and are doing great things in the world. There are so many possibilities to do more than you think you can, so trust yourself and let’s take this visibility journey together!