Lead with Less

Hosted by Tash Pieterse

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Episodes

119

Latest episode

Jan 2026

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EN-NZ

About the show

Lead with Less is THE podcast for People Leaders. Hosted by Tash Pieterse, Certified People Leadership Coach, Business Owner, and mother. Lead with Less is a podcast for people leaders who want to learn the skills they need to lead in way that people actually want to follow. With over 13+ years experience in Human Resources, leading her own teams, running her own business, and being a mother, Tash brings all of that experience and knowledge to the podcast so you can get everything you need to become a leader focused on adding value, making an impact, and empowering the people around you. This is the perfect spot if you're an established professional, new to leadership, business owner, or executive and want to Lead with Less overwhelm, confusion, and struggle so you can become a Leader people actually want to follow.

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60 recent

January 27, 202652 min

EP 118. Daily Acts of Leadership: How Small Actions Create Better Leaders

Leadership often feels harder than it needs to be, especially for busy and overwhelmed managers. In this episode, I sit down with Joel Bailey and Sean Craig from Impact Society to talk about how leadership can be simplified through small, intentional daily actions.In this episode, we talk about: - Why most leaders know what to do but struggle to take action- How daily micro-actions build leadership confidence and momentum- The impact leaders have on mental health, wellbeing, and culture- Why leadership is about influence, not titles or perfection- How the Daily Acts of Leadership approach helps leaders show up consistentlyIf leadership feels heavy, complicated, or out of reach right now, this episode will remind you that meaningful leadership is built in the small moments. You’ll walk away with a clearer, lighter way to think about leadership and practical ideas you can start using immediately.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there something else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you.Links and Resources Mentioned:Daily Acts of Leadership card deck - https://www.impactsociety.co/shop/product/daily-acts-of-leadership/ V.I.P Leaders leadership program Interest List - the signature program that helps you strengthen your leadership identity, build trusted influence, and level up your emotional intelligence to become a leader people actually want to follow. The next round starts in March 2026. Join the interest list here. https://tashpieterse.com/vipleaders-interestConnect with Joel and Sean:Website - https://www.impactsociety.co/Connect with Joel - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelxbailey/ Connect with Sean - https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigsean/ Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

January 13, 202618 min

EP 117. How to Lead with Less: 5 Strategies for Managers to Simplify and Succeed

If you’ve ever felt like leadership is just constant busyness - this episode will help you breathe again.In this episode, I share five practical strategies to help managers lead with less stress, less chaos, and more clarity.These are the exact shifts that help you show up as the kind of leader people actually want to follow.In this episode, you’ll learn: - The three traps managers fall into that make leadership harder than it needs to be- How to define your leadership identity and lead from your values and strengths- Why empowering your team (not overworking yourself) is key to success- How to delegate effectively and create space for real leadership- The mindset work that builds resilience, confidence, and influenceWhen you learn to lead with less, you make more impact - with more energy, more trust, and more time for what truly matters.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Links and Resources Mentioned:V.I.P Leaders leadership program Interest List - the signature program that helps you strengthen your leadership identity, build trusted influence, and level up your emotional intelligence to become a leader people actually want to follow. The next round starts in March 2026. Join the interest list here. The Doing to Delegating Masterclass - Learn how to delegate with confidence that grows your team and leaves you focusing on the things that matter. Grab it here. Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

October 14, 202520 min

EP 116. What to Do When You’re Burning Out as a Manager

Every manager feels tired and stretched sometimes - but when exhaustion becomes the norm, it’s a red flag for burnout. The good news? There are clear signs to watch for and proactive steps you can take before it spirals.In this episode, I share: - The key signs you might be on the edge of burnout (and what to look for in your team too)- Why talking to someone is the first step to lightening the load- How to use an energy audit to see what drains vs. fills your energy- Why workload audits and delegation are essential burnout-busters- How to bring joy back into your work and life to re-ignite energyBurnout doesn’t have to be the cost of leadership. This episode will show you how to recognise the warning signs early, take back control of your energy, and create space to thrive as a leader and a human.If you are new to leadership and wondering how to “get it right”, have a listen What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Links and Resources Mentioned:The Workload Audit - Cut through the noise and simplify your workload by focusing on what matters. Your free guide. Grab it here. https://tashpieterse.com/workload-auditThe Doing to Delegating Masterclass - Learn how to delegate with confidence that grows your team and leaves you focusing on the things that matter. Grab it here. https://tashpieterse.com/doingtodelegating-masterclassAre we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

October 7, 202517 min

EP 115. How to Run Better Meetings as a Manager (That People Actually Want to Attend)

We’ve all sat through terrible meetings - the kind that drag on, go nowhere, and make you wonder why you showed up at all. But as a manager, you have the power to change that.In this episode, I share six essential practices for running meetings that matter, so you can save time, get more engagement, and actually move things forward.In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why disorganised meetings destroy engagement (and how to fix it)- The power of a clear agenda and why it must go out in advance- How to ensure only the right people are in the room- Why everyone present must add value and how to make that happen- How to finish strong by clarifying actions, ownership, and deadlinesWhen you start practicing these, your meetings stop being time-wasters and start being productivity drivers. This episode will show you how to make that shift and free up more time for what really matters: leading your team and doing meaningful work.If you are new to leadership and wondering how to “get it right”, have a listen What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

September 30, 202546 min

EP 114. How Young Managers Can Become Strong Leaders with Dylan Wallace

Becoming a manager early in your career can feel overwhelming - but it can also be a powerful advantage if you focus on the right skills and mindset.In this episode, I chat with Dylan Wallace, who shares his journey of becoming a manager at 22 and the lessons he’s learned helping young leaders step into their potential.In this episode, we talk about: - The biggest challenges young managers face (from imposter thoughts to leading older staff)- How to build respect and influence without decades of experience- Why inexperience can actually be a leadership advantage- The three core responsibilities every manager must master- Practical ways to set expectations, supervise effectively, and give feedbackThis conversation is full of insight, honesty, and practical tools for young or aspiring managers who want to grow into strong, capable leaders.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there something else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you.Connect with Dylan:https://www.instagram.com/leadwithdylanwww.leadwithdylan.comAre we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

September 23, 202521 min

EP 113. The Right (and Wrong) Ways for Managers to Use AI

AI is everywhere - but for managers, it’s not about learning prompts, it’s about learning principles. Used well, AI can help you think smarter, save time, and create space for more human leadership. Used terribly, it can strip out trust, connection, and authenticity.In this episode, you’ll learn: - The “line” every manager needs to know when using AI- Two big mistakes managers make when overusing AI- Why AI should never replace human connection or responsibility- Practical ways to use AI to challenge your thinking and improve conversations- How to free up your time with AI so you can focus on strategy, people, and performanceAI won’t make you a better leader - but how you use it can.This episode shows you how to leverage AI in ways that make managing easier, without losing the humanity that makes leadership work.If you are new to leadership and wondering how to “get it right”, have a listen What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Links and Resources Mentioned:V.I.P Leaders leadership program Interest List - the signature program that helps you strengthen your leadership identity, build trusted influence, and level up your emotional intelligence to become a leader people actually want to follow. The next round starts in March 2026. Join the interest list here. Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

September 16, 202550 min

EP 112. The Skills of Happiness: How to Build a Happier Team and Lead Better with Declan Edwards

Happiness isn’t just an outcome - it’s a skillset you can practice, improve, and carry into every area of life.In this episode, I talk with Declan Edwards, happiness researcher, coach, author, and founder of BU Happiness College. Declan shares how he turned his own struggles into a global mission to teach the science of happiness and why these skills are essential for leaders today.In this episode, we talk about: - Why happiness is a skill, not an outcome- The 5 core skills every emerging leader needs to develop- How happiness at work drives productivity, performance, and retention- Practical ways to practice happiness skills daily that benefit your work and life- The ripple effect leaders have on their teams (and how to make it positive)If you’ve ever felt like happiness was just out of reach, or you’ve questioned how to balance being human with being a leader, this episode will give you the tools and the hope to start shifting things today.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there something else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you.Links and Resources Mentioned:How to be Happy Podcast (on Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/how-to-be-happy/id1361238593 How to be Happy Podcast (on Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/0zriwga04Rl0pbjFuDF6Hl?si=efa565f0d4704460 Personal Happiness Scorecard: https://buhappinesscollege.com/scorecard/Workplace Happiness Self Diagnostic: https://buhappinesscollege.com/workplace-happiness-self-diagnostic/Waitlist for Declan’s Book: https://s.pointerpro.com/bookwaitlistConnect with Declan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/declan-edwards-bu-happiness-college/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/declanedwards_bu Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

September 9, 202516 min

EP 111. How to Manage Up: What to Do When Your Boss Isn’t a Great Leader

Sometimes you’re doing everything you can to be a great manager - but your own boss is dropping the ball. That’s when you need to learn the skill of managing up. Done well, it keeps your career moving forward and helps you maintain respect without overstepping.In this episode, I share:- How to understand your manager’s communication, decision-making, and work style- Why taking the lead (without doing their job) can transform your experience- The shift from asking for permission to driving outcomes- How to influence strategically and get buy-in faster- Why sometimes you need to accept the limitation and know when it’s time to move onManaging up isn’t about covering for a bad boss - it’s about protecting your growth, building influence, and making sure you don’t get stuck waiting for leadership that may never come. This episode gives you the tools to handle it with confidence.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Links and Resources Mentioned:Strategic Thinking and Decision Making Masterclass - Tired of hearing “you need to be more strategic” without anyone showing you how the hell to do that? Get ready to build the strategic thinking and decision making skills that’ll actually move your career forward - without the fluff. Get the masterclass here. V.I.P Leaders leadership program Interest List - the signature program that helps you strengthen your leadership identity, build trusted influence, and level up your emotional intelligence to become a leader people actually want to follow. The next round starts in March 2026. Join the interest list here. Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.com Instagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

September 2, 202539 min

EP 110. Introverted Leadership: Why Quiet Leaders Make Powerful Managers with Salvatore Manzi

What if being quiet was actually your greatest leadership advantage?In this episode, I’m joined by leadership communications coach Salvatore Manzi, who has spent over 20 years helping analytical, technical, and introverted leaders find their voice and lead with impact. Together we talk about why introverts often make some of the best leaders - and how you can embrace those strengths to grow your influence.In this episode, we talk about: - The biggest myths about introverts in leadership - and how to bust them- Why introverts bring unique value in meetings, decision-making, and team dynamics- Practical tools to “break the seal” and speak up with confidence- How leaders can create space that allows quieter voices to thrive- Tangible reframes and strategies introverts can use to turn their nature into a superpowerQuiet leaders are often the ones who bring thoughtfulness, emotional intelligence, and balance to a team. This episode will show you how to use those qualities as strengths and shift the way you think about leadership.What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there something else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you.Links and Resources Mentioned:Clear and Compelling Book - www.clearandcompellingplaybook.com Connect with Salvatore:Website - https://www.salvatoremanzi.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/salvatorejmanzi/Are we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

August 26, 202518 min

EP 109. 3 Excuses That Will Ruin Your Leadership (And How to Stop Making Them)

Excuses might feel harmless in the moment - but they’re slowly eroding your credibility, your influence, and your team’s performance.In this episode, I break down the three most common excuses I hear from managers, why they’re holding you back, and how to replace them with leadership habits that build trust and respect.In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why “I don’t have time” costs you more time (and team engagement) later- How avoiding discomfort to “keep the peace” damages trust- Why “it’s easier if I do it” leads to burnout and a disengaged team- The mindset shifts and practical actions that replace excuses with influence- How to create the conditions for your team to thrive without micromanagingIf you are holding yourself back with excuses or wondering how the heck to stop making them so you can become trusted and respected - this episode is for you.If you are new to leadership and wondering how to “get it right”, have a listen What did you think of the episode? Was it helpful or is there anything else you want me to cover? Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn - I would love to hear from you!Links and Resources Mentioned:VIP Leaders Leadership Program - the signature program that helps you strengthen your leadership identity, build trusted influence, and level up your emotional intelligence to become a leader people actually want to follow. Enrol now for the next round starting in September. Early bird pricing on now. https://tashpieterse.com/vip-leadersThe 1:1 Playbook - Turn casual catch ups into meaningful conversations with your team members. Grab your free copy here. https://www.tashpieterse.com/1on1-playbookThe Workload Audit - Get rid of overwhelm, focus on what matters, and increase your impact. Grab your free copy here. https://tashpieterse.com/workload-auditAre we connected? If not, connect here:Website: tashpieterse.comInstagram: @tash_pieterseLinkedIn: tashpieterseAre you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!