Show Notes
In this episode, we explore what self-respect actually means, beyond confidence, beyond success, beyond applause.
For years, today’s guest chased respect externally, having thoughts like: If you liked me, I liked me. If you approved, I felt safe.
But as she shares, that way of living slowly disconnects you from yourself. I’m joined by Dr Katherine Iscoe to unpack:
• Why people-pleasing is often rooted in the “fawn” trauma response
• How you might be subtly trading yourself away in everyday moments
• The restaurant “steak” example that reveals more than you think
• How to audit your calendar to see if you truly respect yourself
• Why boundaries aren’t just with other people, they’re with yourself
• How overthinking steals years of your life
• The difference between chasing happiness and building self-respect
• What it actually looks like to make decisions from self-respect
Self-respect isn’t loud.It isn’t aggressive.It isn’t about becoming selfish.
It’s about choosing yourself in small, daily ways, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Because the truth is, confidence might get you in the room... but self-respect is what keeps you standing tall.
If you’ve ever felt like: * You say yes too often * You overthink simple decisions * You care more about others’ opinions than your own * You don’t feel fully like yourself anymore
This episode is for you.
The life you want doesn’t start with more discipline. It starts with self-respect.
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST
Dr Katherine Iscoe's book - https://www.drkatherine.com/self-respect-playbook
Dr Katherine Iscoe Website - https://www.drkatherine.com
TIME STAMPS
(01:50) Introduction (05:40) Taking back ownership over your life (09:29) Obvious Ways you are trading yourself away (14:43) First time you felt proud of yourself (17:37) Self Respect Zones (21:49) Does your calendar show you respect yourself? (25:58) Top Skills for Mastering your Self Respect (29:11) Advice for people to move into self respect (31:57) Resilience vs Abandon ship (36:25) Leaving CEO Role (39:27) How do I make decisions with self respect? (44:19) Why do we lose momentum? (49:17) Define Self Respect
WHO AM I?
I’m Erika, an Australian living in Dubai, a mum and the creator and host of this podcast. After almost a decade in law, I’ve stepped into a new chapter centred on what I love - helping people understand themselves, grow and build lives that feel aligned. As someone with big ambitions, I’m passionate about pursuing what matters and to do so, we need to create our own lives intentionally. This channel is a space for honest conversations, curiosity and practical tools to support that journey. Welcome - I’m glad you’re here.
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RESOURCES
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