Stepping Into the Spotlight - How to Raise your Visibility with Susan M. Barber [S5 E7]

Today, Karen Williams, The Book Mentor, sits down with Susan M. Barber, a leading visibility coach and former Kraft Heinz executive. With over 25 years of corporate leadership experience under her belt, Susan has turned her journey – from battling imposter syndrome to becoming an influential author and podcast host – into invaluable lessons for quiet, high-achieving professionals looking to step into the spotlight. In this conversation, Susan shares the story of how blogging about her own struggles and triumphs led to writing her influential books and building a business centered on helping others embrace their unique strengths. You’ll hear insights about her signature “Rise” framework for gaining visibility, why she wrote a workbook to accompany her main book, and practical tips for anyone struggling with self-promotion – especially those who identify as introverts. If you’ve ever wondered how to authentically share your achievements without feeling like you’re bragging, or what it takes to go from corporate life to author and entrepreneur, this episode is full of honest advice and inspiration. ** Upcoming Events ** If you’d like to find out more about how we can support you with your book, come along to one of our free monthly online networking events, the Coffee and Connect Café, held on the first Tuesday of each month. You’ll get learning, ideas, and the chance to connect with other authors. We also run an annual writing retreat and our next event in Spain is from 25 April to 2 May 2026. Join us for a week in the sun writing your book! You can find out more about all our upcoming events at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Or contact Karen Williams to find out how she can help you via www.librotas.com. Key TakeawaysVisibility Is a Skill, Not Just a Trait: Susan shared how her own struggles with imposter syndrome and being “too quiet” inspired her to develop authentic strategies for visibility that work—even for introverts and reluctant self-promoters.Your Story Resonates More Than You Think: By openly sharing her personal and professional stories through blogs, books, and her podcast, Susan found her vulnerability created connection—and clients saw themselves in her journey.Books (and Workbooks!) Create Ecosystems: Publishing her story unlocked new opportunities—including speaking gigs, workshops, and international connections. Her recent workbook goes beyond inspiration, providing practical prompts and resources to help readers implement real change.BioSusan M. Barber is a leading visibility coach who helps quiet, high-achieving corporate leaders step into the spotlight and become visible, valued, and influential. With over twenty-five years of leadership experience at Kraft Heinz, Susan understands the challenges of corporate life. She’s the author of Your Journey to Visibility Workbook, The Visibility Factor and the host of The Visibility Factor podcast. Through her coaching and work, Susan empowers professionals to embrace their unique strengths, grow their influence, and take their careers to the next level. Website: https://susanmbarber.com Book link: The Visibility Factor and Your Journey to Visibility Workbook Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanbarbercoaching Time stamped overview: 00:00 From Imposter Syndrome to Business05:45 Prioritizing My Role as Author09:06 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Visibility12:44 Career Clarity for Decision Making16:27 Share Impact, Not Ego18:54 Inspiring Others to Try Boldly20:29 Embracing a Voice to Help24:47 Guidance Unlocks Limitless Potential Keywords: visibility coach, imposter syndrome, authentic leadership, personal branding, career success, blog writing, storytelling, book writing, workbook creation, influence growth, author mindset, podcast hosting, visibility challenges, pandemic career impact, career transition, career clarity framework, introverts in business, book publishing, developmental editing, business ecosystem, public speaking, business networking, marketing books