Holly Golebiowski didn’t realize she was steamrolling people—until someone finally told her.
An extroverted leader by nature, Holly had always been the one speaking up, driving forward, and taking up space in the room. But with the help of her mentor—and her introverted life partner—she came to a powerful realization: she was unintentionally shutting people down.
Since then, Holly has become a fierce advocate for quieter contributors. As a founding facilitator of Leader Skills, she now helps other leaders become more self-aware, build healthier team dynamics, and create workplaces where introverts can thrive.
In this episode, Holly shares the practical tools and wisdom she’s developed—like how to use an “introvert safe word” to signal when you’re being talked over, what to do if you’ve been promoted beyond your comfort zone, and how to build relationships with “extrovert allies” who can amplify your voice.
Her journey from unaware extrovert to introvert ally demonstrates that self-awareness is the foundation of better leadership.
Key Lessons
People can be unaware that they’re stepping on others. Helping others see their impact can create space for everyone.
Speaking up can open a conversation—and lead to change. Calling attention to the behavior with empathy invites curiosity instead of defensiveness.
Letting someone know “I’m an introvert” can shift dynamics. It gives others context, builds empathy, and helps you advocate for yourself.
If you’ve been promoted beyond your comfort zone, don’t panic—get curious. Becoming a student of yourself is the path forward, not a sign of failure.
Preparation is power. For introverts especially, prepping for visibility helps build confidence and presence.
Bring an extrovert ally. Whether it’s a meeting or a networking event, having someone in your corner can amplify your voice.
Ask yourself what a coach would ask. Questions like “What am I afraid of?” or “What does success look like?” can help unlock stuck situations.
You may have more to offer than anyone speaking—but no one benefits if you stay silent.
Self-awareness isn’t weakness—it’s the foundation of better leadership.
Where to find Holly Golebiowski:
LinkedIn: Holly G. on LinkedIn
Leader Skills: leaderskills.com
In this episode, we cover:
(00:00) Intro and how Holly became “Student Zero” in leadership training
(03:00) Common leadership pitfalls—and the problem with assumptions
(06:30) How DISC profiles reveal your default style—and how to adjust
(10:00) Why most introverts feel steamrolled—and how to speak up with empathy
(12:00) The “introvert safe word”—making space in high-velocity meetings
(15:00) Reframing the Peter Principle—growing into leadership you don’t feel ready for
(18:30) Discomfort as a growth signal—for extroverts and introverts
(22:00) Why preparation is power—and how to build visibility in your own way
(26:00) The new mentorship—finding allies across the org
(30:00) How to self-coach when formal support isn’t available
(34:00) What makes change stick—and why curiosity leads
(38:00) Visibility, respect, and building quiet influence
(41:00) Why empathy starts with awareness
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