Ever been blindsided by feedback that didn’t feel like guidance, it felt like punishment?

In this episode, Sally shares the raw, very real story of the email that brought her to tears on a crowded train… and why it stayed with her for years (cough decades cough)

From being called “arrogant” in the most humiliating way to the slow erosion of self-trust that followed, Sally unpacks the difference between constructive feedback and weaponised control. This isn’t just about one email. It’s about the power dynamics so many women face at work...

When confidence is mistaken for arrogance, and “fitting in” means shrinking down.

You’ll hear:

• The unspoken rules women are taught about likability and leadership
• How feedback can chip away at identity, especially early in your career
• Why not all feedback deserves space
• What it really means to take your power back

This one’s for anyone who’s ever smiled through humiliation, thanked someone for disrespect, or made themselves small just to survive.

Because real feedback builds. It doesn’t break.

🎧 If this hit a little too close to home, share it with someone who needs to hear this today.

📩 DM @iamsallyfletcher on Instagram

💼 Connect on LinkedIn

📬 Or send a note to: sally@coachingbysally.com

You know that gut-punch moment when the person who’s meant to have your back goes completely silent? Yeah. Me too.

In this episode, I’m sharing the story of the job that looked incredible on paper and felt like slow-motion heartbreak in real life.

It’s about realising your boss isn’t on your side, crying on your commute, and finding the courage to back yourself when no one else will.

We’re unpacking:

• The red flags no LinkedIn job description will warn you about
• What happens when you’re the only woman in a room full of tech egos
• Why self-trust matters more than external validation

If you’ve ever sat in a meeting where someone questioned your worth, or stayed silent when they should’ve spoken up, I want you to know this:

You’re not imagining it. You’re not overreacting. And you’re not alone.

Take what you need from this episode and if it hits home, share it with someone who might need the reminder.

🔗 Links + Mentions:

• Let’s connect and continue the conversation on LinkedIn

• DM me on Instagram if this episode sparked something for you: @iamsallyfletcher

Welcome to Applied. Cried. Survived. The career podcast about work, burnout, and figuring it all out.

Let’s set some expectations here…

Think less TED Talk and more talking about work with your best mate, glass of wine in hand. 🍷

In this first episode, Sally Fletcher – The Career Coach, shares why she started the show, what the “messy middle” really means, and how she’s learning to find clarity in the chaos of modern careers.

Expect honesty, laughter, and the kind of conversations that make you feel a little less alone at work.

🎧 If you’ve ever felt stuck in a job you hate, burnt out, or ready for a new chapter, this one’s for you.

And don't forget to hit Follow or Subscribe so you never miss an episode. And you know that friend you were thinking of who would love this? Send it to them!