Don't Let The Smile Fool You

Епізоди

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  You Think You Have Time. Don't Let the Smile Fool You EP33 11.08.2026 1год 19хв

  What are the decisions you should be making at 40? Most people will tell you to focus on career moves, chase promotions, and celebrate momentum. Few will admit that behind the doors of big organizations, your trajectory is being mapped in ways you may never see coming. In this episode of Don't Let the Smile Fool You, Uche sits down with Elsie Akinsola, an HR executive who has held top roles across global giants, to talk about what really shapes your next chapter after forty.We get real about midlife ambition, transitions, corporate cultures, and that moment you realize your next choice isn’t just about work—it’s about how you want to live. Elsie Akinsola takes us through life in the boardroom, the hidden conversations about “runway” and succession that leaders rarely hear, and the quiet power of sponsorship (not just performance) in getting to the top.This episode is full of hard lessons and candid stories—from walking away from a dream job over principle, to realizing too late you haven’t built what you need for your next transition. Uche and Elsie Akinsola talk about ambition, planning for your fifties, the reality behind financial flexibility, and why you need to stop letting your career “happen to you.”You’ll walk away knowing:Why women especially can’t just rely on performance for career growthHow organizations secretly decide your potential and succession potentialThe courage it takes to say no—even when the world says yesWhat gets lost (and gained) in reinvention after a big corporate jobPractical advice for building your “toolkit” before a career changeThis is a conversation for anyone asking, “so what’s next?” after hitting a milestone—but it’s also a warning to start building, planning, and defining the life you want before someone else does it for you.Chapters:00:00 Introductions, backgrounds, and the "planful" myth at 40.05:35 Navigating career vs. life choices in your 40s.10:29 Succession planning, talent categorization, and the power of sponsorship.15:09 Visibility, exposure, and earning genuine sponsorship.20:42 Claiming your work and avoiding the wallflower trap.26:19 Walking away from a dream role for family and identity.29:28 The DFI story: negotiations, principles, and knowing your worth.36:00 Navigating career transitions, lost status, and bridging toolkit gaps.49:52 Building a personal toolkit for surviving and thriving independently.55:56 Advice for 40-somethings: intentional planning for career, health, and finances.1:15:38 Ambition, seasonal priorities, and finding freedom and meaning in your 50s.1:19:51 What we would do differently at 40: planning and financial freedom.If you’re a woman with the title, income, and momentum but no real plan for what you want from your next decade, listen to this all the way through. Build intentionally. Be courageous. And don’t let anyone else decide what your next chapter looks like.Elsie Akinsanya offers executive coaching and transition coaching for mid-career to senior women. Find out more at www.elsieakinsanya.com. Her So What's Next programme is specifically designed for women navigating the questions this episode raises.#careertransition #womeninleadership #successionplanning #sponsorship #midlifeambition #executivecoaching #FinancialFreedom #lifeafter40 #corporatecareers #ENAHRAfricaConnect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  Apparently, I Had Terms and Conditions. Don't Let the Smile Fool You EP32 28.07.2026 12хв

  I still remember that phone call like it was yesterday. I had been CMO for a few years and, like most ambitious people, I knew what I wanted next — to become a CEO. So when a headhunter asked to meet, I was excited. After a great conversation, they called back and said they had a CEO role. All my teeth were showing. Then they revealed the job was in the DRC, and just like that, disappointment hit. For years I had built up this idea in my mind of exactly how my story should play out, never realizing there were unspoken terms and conditions attached to my ambition.This episode is not about becoming a CEO. It is about the hidden assumptions we carry, often without even knowing it, and how reality has a way of testing them. Whether it is thinking you want something "no matter what," or being adamant about not wanting international experience, or working toward a dream job with every career box ticked only to see someone else get it, we all have stories in our head about what matters and what does not. But when reality bites, it often exposes things in us we did not even realize were there.The conversation focused on three different career stories:The shock and humor of learning your ambition comes with unspoken termsWatching a colleague's certainty about staying local give way to a career-changing international opportunitySeeing a carefully planned career hit a wall despite all logic and preparationA key theme that emerged was that certainty about what we want, or what will make us happy or successful, is often an illusion. Reality tests us. And sometimes, the things we have been pushing aside or the plans we have carefully constructed are not as solid as we believed.This episode is your reminder to watch out for those unseen terms and conditions in your life and career. When reality shows up with an unexpected twist, sometimes the best thing to do is roll with it and see where it takes you.00:00 The CEO call and a reality check03:24 Uncovering hidden assumptions04:04 The DRC experience and a colleague’s story06:29 How an unexpected move changed a career08:06 The deliberate planner who didn’t get the outcome10:20 The real lesson about control, certainty, and surprises12:36 Wrapping up and embracing the journey
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  The Only Place She Could Be Herself Was at Work. Don't Let the Smile Fool You EP31 14.07.2026 1год 3хв

  What happens when your personal pain becomes invisible but starts leaking into every room you enter, even the boardroom? In this episode of Don't Let the Smile Fool You, we sit down with Ama Karikari to talk about the complexities many women face when dealing with emotional abuse like the silent treatment, especially when they're high-achieving professionals juggling work, ambition, and toxic relationships.Ama opens up about her fifteen-year journey, beginning with her honeymoon, when she first experienced the silent treatment from her husband—a pattern that would haunt her marriage and spill over into her professional and personal life. As a lawyer, consultant, and later a candidate for public office, she tried to compartmentalize her pain, showing up each day with a smile that concealed intense private struggles. We talk about how that energy drains your confidence, your ambition, and even your health.Through candid stories and sharp insights, Ama explains how the absence of true support at home doesn't just cause a loss, but might also erase achievements that could have been. She reflects on moments like running for office while feeling unsupported, and the toll of living with someone who weaponizes silence. We touch on the ripple effects—how children absorb this pain, how work suffers, and what it takes to finally say enough.Ama reveals the turning point: the moment it became clear that what she was enduring wasn’t a communication problem, but a pattern of covert abuse. She shares how naming the problem, moving from marriage counseling advice to the language of trauma and domestic violence, was key to her escape and healing. Now, after divorce, she's helping other women recognize these patterns in their own lives with her new workbook, Silenced to Soaring, and a supportive community.This conversation isn’t just about surviving abuse—it’s about reclaiming yourself, rebuilding your ambitions, and learning how to trust your instincts again. If you’re a woman grappling with the effects of a toxic relationship, whether in West Africa or anywhere in the world, this episode will give you the language, validation, and practical steps to start regaining your power and your smile.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Normalizing Silent Treatment05:35 Ama Karikari’s Honeymoon Story: When Abuse Begins06:57 Sharing with Family and Not Recognizing Abuse11:57 How Abuse at Home Impacts Confidence and Work17:04 Running for Office While Silenced at Home20:29 The Difference Real Support Makes—and What’s Lost Without It27:06 How Women Adapt and Compartmentalize Hurt30:27 The Limits of Compartmentalizing Pain at Work32:54 Finding the Breaking Point and Leaving39:19 The Cost of Staying: Health, Sanity, and Family Legacy44:45 What About Women Who Cannot Leave?47:22 From Surviving to Healing: The Power of Support and Self-Love52:47 Unlearning Old Behaviors After Abuse54:47 Why Silenced to Soaring is a Workbook56:34 Speaking Up: Finding the Courage to Share58:40 Where to Find the Book and Support Groups1:01:42 Reflecting on What Could Have Been—with the Right SupportIf this resonates with you or someone you know, reach out—Ama’s book and her soaring sister circles just might be the resource you’ve been searching for.Find her on Skool, Support, Accountability, and Mastermind Group: https://www.skool.com/silenced-to-soaringmoms/aboutSocials:Linkedin: @https://www.linkedin.com/in/amakarikariyawson/Instagram: @amakkarikariYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@amakkarikariTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amakkarikariConnect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  You Don’t Have 90 Days. 30.06.2026 12хв

  So let me share a secret. For years, I believed that when you start a new job, you have 90 days to simply observe, learn, and build relationships. But that belief cost me more than I ever expected.It starts even before your first day. While I was still doing paperwork for a new position, people from the company were already looking me up, checking my LinkedIn, assessing my background, and forming opinions about who I was. There’s no 90-day grace period. The truth is: the assessment starts before you even step in the door.In this episode, I talk about what really happens in those early days, drawing on real stories from my own career. There was the time a stakeholder called my company arrogant on the very first day and I realized one response would define our relationship for years. Another time, I walked into a turnaround and saw a team so obsessed with the competition they lost sight of their own strategy—I banned the competitor’s name from meeting rooms and yes, locked the door to start meetings on time. My intention wasn’t to embarrass anyone but to set a new standard, right from the start.By waiting too long to act, you risk coming across as inactive or invisible. I almost lost my job by being too cautious, waiting to understand everything before doing anything. Now, I spend weeks beforehand observing quietly—joining meetings, looking up my new team on LinkedIn, trying to understand the unofficial dynamics—because preparation counts for much more than time.One concept discussed here is that assessment is a two-way process. As much as people are assessing you, you are assessing them. When onboarding new hires, I ask them to get out and meet our people in the field before even coming to the office. Facts matter more than assumptions.A key theme is that meaningful first impressions are built in moments, not months. You don’t have 90 days. You have, maybe, a split second. So set your tone, declare your standards, and build trust from day one.Are you starting a new job, or stepping into a leadership role? Forget the 90-day myth. Take action, get intentional, and remember: the clock starts ticking before you ever arrive.Chapters:00:00 Book The First 90 Days and the reality of first impressions01:17 When people start assessing you before you even arrive02:35 The pressure of first stakeholder meetings and setting a new tone04:32 Why there is no such thing as a ‘courtesy call’05:43 Turnarounds, setting new standards, and changing team habits06:39 The importance of visible action over caution09:31 The dangers of being invisible by waiting too long10:08 Doing research before your first official day and assessing the team11:12 Why new hires should start in the field, not the office12:12 The real timeline of assessment and why nobody has 90 daysConnect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  Apologizing Doesn't Make You Weak. Doing It Wrong Does 16.06.2026 15хв

  So let’s talk about apologies. Not the awkward, forced ones, but real apologies in leadership and at work. A few days ago, I had a tough conversation with a colleague—I was rude, and I knew it. In that moment, apologizing felt like putting myself out there. Isn’t saying “I’m sorry” supposed to make a boss look weak?This question actually came up at my book event for Beneath the Leadership Infrastructure. It stuck with me, because for years, apologizing in the workplace was painted as a weakness, especially for women. You hold the line, you never apologize, you keep that “boss” energy at all costs. But what does that do to trust? What does it feel like to work with a boss who’s never wrong, never sorry?The episode dives into why apologies can actually be a strong show of leadership instead of a weakness. There are three classic traps to watch for: the leader who never apologizes and creates an environment of fear and corridor gossip; the performative apologizer, who says all the right things but makes no changes, eroding credibility; and the constant apologizer, often seen with women, apologizing for simply asking questions or taking up space, sending the signal of uncertainty.A genuine apology is completely different. We talk through examples—admitting when you’re wrong, actually holding yourself accountable, and following words with actions. It builds trust with your team and sets the foundation for a healthier culture.But you should never overdo it. If you’re apologizing every five minutes, that’s a behavior check. Use apologies when you mean them, not as a reflex. True leadership isn’t about never being wrong—it’s about taking ownership and making things right.If you’ve ever wondered how to handle mistakes at work, whether apologies really cost you authority, or how to find that balance between humility and self-confidence, this episode is for you.Chapters:00:00 Introduction—apologies and leadership mindset01:41 When apologizing goes wrong: never apologizing, performative apologies, and constant apologizing04:20 The impact on team trust and culture05:54 Corridor conversations and leadership erosion06:37 Performative versus genuine apologies07:34 Constant apologizing: especially among women leaders09:18 Story—admitting wrongdoing to a colleague10:55 Why genuine apologies build trust12:12 Apologizing without losing authority (real-life boss example)13:36 Why action must follow your words14:42 Wrapping up: the power and limits of a real apologyConnect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  What No One Tells You About Building Teams 02.06.2026 17хв

  There is this moment that no one tells you about when you step into a new leadership role. The strategy might be clear, the mandate written down, but your success depends on the people you surround yourself with. Does that sound familiar? On the surface, we love to talk about vision, performance, and strategy, but rarely do we tell the truth about what it actually takes to build the right team—one you can trust, not just one that looks great on paper.This episode is for every leader trying to figure out how to choose talent, who you keep close to you, and who you quietly move out. It’s about the difference between trusting your gut versus sticking with inherited teams out of politeness or fear of optics. The conversation uncovers why high-performing teams are more about trust and alignment than just competence.Many of us, especially women, arrive in new roles thinking, I’ll assess, I’ll wait, I don’t want to disrupt things. Those instincts come from a good place, but the hard lesson is this: leadership teams do not fall apart due to lack of competence, but because of a breakdown in trust, alignment, and judgment.You’ll hear personal stories of what happens when the wrong person sits close to the center of your operation, what it costs, and why being slow to act makes things worse. There’s a powerful reflection here—bringing the right people in, and moving the wrong people out, both require the courage to use the power you already have.If you’re thinking, competence is enough, think again. At a senior leadership level, competence without trust is a structural risk. You are not just looking for people who can do the job—you need people who will represent your thinking, protect the agenda, and never undermine you when you’re not in the room. Those critical qualities do not show up on a CV and rarely reveal themselves early.Drawing from real-life experience, this episode shares what really happens when you don’t trust your instincts, and what your reluctance to act actually costs your mandate, momentum, and credibility. If you are about to step into a senior role or are already in one, take this as your reminder that building a team starts with trusting yourself to make the hard calls. Choosing talent is not just about skills. It’s about judgment, alignment, and trust.Share this episode with anyone who is struggling with building their team or wrestling with decisions about who to keep close.00:00 Introduction and leadership realities00:58 Patterns leaders follow in team building02:03 Trust versus likability at senior levels03:33 Why teams break down—trust and alignment04:28 Story: Watching a leader reconstruct their team05:18 The impact of a wrong team fit06:25 What happens when you ignore your instincts07:14 The cost of keeping the wrong person08:30 Trusting yourself to make tough decisions09:06 Competence vs trust—what matters more10:05 The hidden risks of senior hires11:01 Dealing with sabotage from within13:28 What the wrong senior leader can really do14:15 The childhood lesson no one gives leaders15:20 The real stakes of senior team building16:11 Trusting yourself in team decisions16:56 Closing thoughts and sharingConnect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  They Called Me Aggressive. So I Went Silent. 19.05.2026 17хв

  Have you ever gone quiet in a meeting because of a single passing comment? Maybe it wasn’t even meant as criticism. Words like “you’re too loud,” “she’s too aggressive,” or “he’s too quiet” can stick longer than intended and slowly start shaping how we show up. These aren’t always said with bad intentions. Sometimes they're simple observations that turn into labels, slowly chipping away at our confidence without anyone really noticing.In this episode of Don’t Let The Smile Fool You, I reflect on the unintentioned effects of repeated descriptions and labels at work. I share how throwaway comments—even without negative intent—can shape, shrink, or silence us in our careers. I walk through personal stories of being called “too direct” or “too emotional” and how those labels turned from feedback into cages. We dig into the difference between healthy self-awareness and the damaging self-consciousness that sneaks in when we internalize what others say about us.If you find yourself holding back in meetings, second-guessing your tone, or shrinking to fit other people’s perceptions, this episode is for you. It’s time to unshrink yourself, to refine without losing your voice, and to pay attention to both the comments you receive—and the careless ones you give.Key themes in this episode: leadership, unintentions, labels at work, shrinking in the workplace, self-awareness vs self-consciousness, feedback, and reclaiming your authentic presence.Chapters:00:00 Introduction: The power of small comments00:35 Unintentions: When comments linger longer than intended02:11 How words shape leadership and self-perception04:42 Shrinking after labels and repeated descriptions06:51 The difference between self-awareness and self-consciousness08:37 The story that turned into folklore—and going mute for a year09:44 Silence as self-protection12:45 When shrinking goes unnoticed: The real cost of unintended labels13:21 Leadership, growth, and voice: What’s worth keeping15:04 Accumulation, stories, and building your own cage16:48 Final thoughts: Pay attention to unintentions and unsilence yourselfIf you’ve ever found yourself adjusting, editing, or even disappearing a bit at work just to avoid a label—know that you’re not alone and you can reclaim your place. Leadership asks for growth, not disappearance.Listen and join the conversation about unintentions, words, and finding your voice.Companion ResourceAre You Calibrating or Shrinking? — A recognition tool from this episode. Ten paired statements: calibrating on one side, shrinking on the other. Plus a section for people who may be shaping someone’s signal without realising it. smile-collective.kit.com/e5a38e0dd8Connect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  You're Not Bad With Money. You're Built to Protect It | Why Women Delay Financial Decisions with Lisa Aladekomo 05.05.2026 19хв

  Most conversations about money focus on tactics. This one focuses on the beliefs that stop high-earning women from building wealth.In this episode, Uche sits down with Lisa Aladekomo — entrepreneur, CFO, and someone she has known for thirty years — for a frank conversation about why women save but hesitate to invest, what it actually costs to delay financial decisions, and a practical system for starting where you are.They cover:Why women internalise caution while men externalise ambition — and what to do about itThe Three Thirds Rule — a simple framework for dividing income before you spend any of itThe emotional economy — the invisible costs that belong in the financial plan, not outside itWhy your partner's financial habits matter more than most people admitThe one behaviour that will shift your financial future — and why most people skip itThis conversation is for women who have capacity and haven't yet built the habit. If you are the primary earner — the person everyone else relies on — the same principles apply, but your starting point is different. Build the floor before you build the portfolio.Download the companion resource: You're Not Bad With Money. You're Built to Protect It | Why Women Delay Financial Decisions — The Money Framework[https://smile-collective.kit.com/64772e9dae — English and French versions available]Connect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  When Great Work Stops Being Enough. 21.04.2026 16хв

  Ever walked out of a meeting sure you just nailed it, only to watch as someone else quietly moves ahead while you’re left trying to make sense of what happened? I’ve been there, and today I want to share what really goes on behind the scenes when good work isn’t enough.In this episode of Don’t Let the Smile Fool You, I dig into those moments when you feel like you’re doing everything right, but opportunities and influence keep slipping through your fingers. It’s not always about performance. Sometimes, it’s about a whole other conversation that happens in the informal system—those hallway chats, coffees, conference dinners and even the group texts you’re not added to.We talk about what it really means to be “in the conversation,” why just putting your head down and proving yourself isn’t the only game in town, and why relationship-building (yes, even if you hate small talk) is a necessary part of the journey at senior levels. There’s nothing accidental about influence, and I’ll lay out the three clear roads you can take: go wide and work the room, go deep and build with intention, or stay out and protect your peace—just be sure you’re making a conscious choice about your path.If you’ve ever wondered why you’re not in the know, why your work isn’t being talked about when you’re not in the room, or why you feel invisible even from your seat at the table, this one is for you.Here are the chapters for this episode:00:00 Light bulb moment after a big meeting01:18 The role of informal systems and connections02:57 Signs you’re outside the real conversation04:41 Relationship capital at senior levels05:30 The three types of people at conferences and dinners06:19 Understanding why informal politics matter07:09 The cost of managing perceptions08:47 The myth about work being enough and its reality09:47 Building influence by presence and relationships10:27 Choosing your road: Go wide, go deep, or choose peace13:08 The cost and rewards of each approach15:34 Making an intentional choice about your pathIf you’re ready to stop leaving your career moves to chance and want to learn how to shift with intention, let’s get into it. No unicorns here, just the honest truth about what it takes to move from being a great performer to someone whose name carries weight when they’re not in the room.Don’t let the smile fool you—good work matters, but strategy, connections, and clear choices matter even more.
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  Friendship Is Not a Nice-to-Have. It’s Infrastructure. 07.04.2026 1год 18хв

  Your Friendships Are Your Real PowerWe talk a lot about success, resilience, and growth.But we don’t talk enough about the people who make those things possible.In this episode, I sit down with someone who has been part of my life for over two decades — not just as a friend, but as part of what I call my “infrastructure.”I’m joined by my sister and brilliant strategist, Nnenna Onyewuchi.This is a conversation about what it really means to have people in your life who are not just present, but consistent — people who are there through the seasons that test you.⸻We talk about: • What it actually means to be there for someone in real life — beyond words • How friendship evolves as you grow, change, and take on more • The role of honesty, accountability, and truth in long-term relationships • What it looks like to support each other through difficult moments • Why the people around you matter more than you think⸻This is not a conversation about surface-level friendship.It’s about the kind of relationships that hold weight — the ones that stay, that challenge you, and that support you when life gets heavy.⸻🔑 In this episode: • Friendship as “infrastructure” — what that really means • Showing up beyond words • Growing together over time • Truth vs comfort — and why it matters • The quiet power of consistent presence⸻🔗 Go deeperIf this conversation resonated, you’ll find more in my book, Beneath the Smile: Leadership Infrastructure™️, where I explore the personal systems, relationships, and forms of support that hold us up — especially in the moments no one sees.⸻💭 ReflectionWhen you notice a crack in your foundation, who are the people in your life who are truly there for you — and who you are there for in return?
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  Something Unexpected Is Happening With CEO of the Day. Don't Let the Smile Fool You EP23 31.03.2026 18хв

  This episode of Don't Let the Smile Fool You takes you behind the scenes of the CEO of the Day initiative. When we started in 2023, the hope was to do something meaningful—give a young woman the chance to not just shadow but to sit in the CEO chair and experience what leadership truly feels like. We began with seven companies, just a LinkedIn post and an idea, and over a few years have grown to over 100 companies across five countries.This journey hasn’t been about numbers or viral fame. It’s been about real change. Companies everywhere knew their boardrooms needed to look different, but lacked a clear mechanism. CEO of the Day gave them structure, visibility, and something concrete to show for their effort.You’ll hear how women who participated have gained confidence and visibility, how companies like UBA, Insia, and Canal Plus have been steady supporters, and how the ripple effect is turning participants into CEOs and ministers. There’s a network forming—one we didn’t design, but one that’s changing the landscape for women across industries. The impact report proves it isn’t just a vibe; women are getting promotions and new roles, sometimes updating their LinkedIn before the day is over.The episode brings it home with Nashata, who began quietly in her first meeting and, by afternoon, was chairing the executive committee, confidently leading and challenging. That shift didn’t come from a new skill, just from being moved into a position and having the seat for a day.We reflect on what really happens after—the shared experiences, the support systems, and the access these women now have to each other and to CEOs. With over 160 women across sectors and countries, it’s become much more than just a one-day event. The alumni network is taking shape, and in five or ten years, these women will be leaders and mentors for the next generation.CEO of the Day works because it’s simple. You don’t need a big budget. You need a CEO ready to give up the seat and a woman ready to take it. There’s now talk of attaching a mentorship program, deepening this experience and giving more support.If you’re looking for real stories of transformation, inclusivity, and lasting impact, this episode lays it all out. Listen in and see how a single day can shift perspectives and unlock networks that last a lifetime.Chapters:00:00 What sparked CEO of the Day in 202300:49 Growth from seven companies to over 100, expanding across five countries01:39 Why CEO of the Day resonates and shows real inclusivity02:32 Launching with just a LinkedIn post and seeing exponential participation03:19 The need for a room that looks different and giving organizations visible action04:00 How CEO of the Day gives confidence, visibility, and career impact05:27 Big brands join, a minister participates, and the program spreads06:14 Real proof: past participants become CEOs and defend the program publicly06:47 Former CEO of the Day participants connect and network07:27 Impact report results: confidence, promotions, LinkedIn updates08:11 Long-term supporters and the move from virality to real change09:01 Nashata’s journey from quiet to confident in a few hours09:43 The power of 24 hours—changing perspective, confidence, and self-image11:12 The network emerges: alumni, access, and growing influence12:00 Dr. Vivian Ok taps into the network for impact outside the initiative13:35 Access to companies, CEOs, and powerful networks14:21 The alumni network and its future15:00 The simplicity behind CEO of the Day’s success16:11 Building depth, mentorship, and a legacy17:35 Revealing a need, matching future programs to readiness18:27 Closing remarks and gratitude to participating companiesConnect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  From Doctor to CEO for a Day: Dr. Viviane Oke’s Leadership Story. Don't Let the Smile Fool You EP22 17.03.2026 41хв

  About This EpisodeDr. Viviane Oke is a medical doctor and digital health founder who was CEO of the Day for UNICEF Benin in 2025. In this episode, she shares the hospital moment that almost made her leave medicine, what it was like leading UNICEF’s child survival department for a day, and why she believes the “self-made” myth is holding young women back. We also talk about what she’s building with ELLES, how the CEO of the Day alumni network is showing up in ways neither of us expected, and the chain of introductions — starting with one woman’s decision to be a bridge — that changed her trajectory. This is one of those conversations where I had to remind myself I was talking to someone in her mid-twenties.About the GuestDr. Viviane Oke is a medical doctor and digital health innovator based in Benin. She is the founder of ELLES, a mobile health app providing African women with culturally adapted health information and instant telemedicine across 15 specialist areas. A UNICEF Youth Advocate, she served as CEO of the Day for UNICEF Benin in 2025.About CEO of the DayCEO of the Day is a leadership program that places young women in the CEO seat of participating companies for a full day — making real decisions, attending strategic meetings, and gaining visibility at the highest level. Since launching in 2023, over 60 young women have participated across companies in Benin and Ghana. In 2026, the program is expandingto 100 companies. To learn more or get your organisation involved, contactinfo@ceooftheday.com.Key Moments[02:00] The hospital shift that changed everything[04:00] Redefining health beyond the hospital[06:00] Leading strategic meetings at UNICEF as CEO of the Day[09:00] “You are living as if you have already been here”[15:00] The alumni network, a canoe, and Pink October[18:00] Turning CEO of the Day into a business strategy[20:00] Sent to Ghana at age eight[22:00] The Big Eyes story[27:00] “Self-made is a big, big, big lie”[29:00] “You need infrastructure”[33:00] The introduction that started it allConnect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  Does your boss do this? Don't Let the Smile Fool You EP21 03.03.2026 17хв

  So let me ask you a tough question. Does your boss really have your back? And if you’re a leader, are you truly covering your team, or are you unknowingly creating an environment where everyone feels like they have to hold their breath at work?In this episode of "Don’t Let The Smile Fool You," we’re looking beneath the surface of leadership and team dynamics. Uche shares real stories—from a friend who spent four years at work feeling unable to exhale, to her own unforgettable encounter with a direct report who branded their entire team as “useless” on day one. What does it actually mean to have your team’s back, and why is it so fundamental for high performance?We talk about leadership infrastructure, honest conversations, and why it’s not about lowering standards or covering up mistakes. Instead, it’s about truth-telling, trust, accountability, and giving your team the freedom (and cover) they need to shine. Uche also breaks down the difference between being a shield versus being a helicopter boss, why representation in rooms-that-matter matters, and the hidden impact of consistency and shielding your team from workplace noise.You’ll walk away with six practical questions to reflect on as a leader—and the stories to remind you why “cover” can be the difference between flourishing and shrinking at work.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction - What does it mean for your boss to have your back?00:42 The story of a friend finally able to breathe after a boss change02:38 Direct report calls team “useless”—why that matters for leadership04:32 Why teams shrink when they don’t have cover05:17 Redefining “having your back”—it’s not about lowering standards06:02 Truth-telling and building team trust07:25 How not micromanaging empowers teams to do their best09:02 Accountability and removing fear from leadership10:32 The importance of how your boss represents you in the rooms that matter13:08 Why consistency in leadership is essential for your team14:10 Shielding your team from workplace “noise”15:10 Quick recap: Six questions to ask yourself about giving cover16:26 Uche’s personal story—feeling paralyzed at work without trust17:00 Wrapping up: When people have cover, they deliver; without it, they shrinkIf you’ve ever felt unsupported at work or struggled to create the right environment for your own team, this episode is for you. Listen in, reflect, and let’s help each other climb the leadership ladder—together.Don’t forget to subscribe for more real stories and tips about thriving beneath the smile.Connect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  From baby to boardroom peer. Odia Okoumassoun. CEO of the Day. Don't Let the Smile Fool You EP20 24.02.2026 27хв

  If you would like your company to participate in CEO of the Day - please send us an email: Info@ceooftheday.comWhat happens when you take the leap from being an employee to sitting in the CEO’s chair—even if just for a day? In this episode of Don't Let the Smile Fool You, Uche sits down with Odia, who tells her remarkable story of stepping up as CEO of the Day. The conversation is filled with real moments of leadership growth, confidence, stakeholder management, and a surprising shift in family dynamics.Odia shares how her uncle, a CTO, began speaking to her as a peer after her CEO experience, and how her family’s respect for her changed overnight. She talks about leading performance meetings, tackling tough stakeholder conversations, and why being the CEO for just one day gave her a vision for her future career.The episode explores the challenges of leadership visibility in Africa and how young women can break stereotypes in business. Plus, Odia reveals how the role forced her to think bigger about her ambitions and helped her recognize her own capacity and capability. If you're inspired by stories of courage, ambition, and breaking barriers, this is one to watch.Whether you're a young leader, a woman looking for your next step, or someone who manages teams, Odia’s journey will show you just how much can change when you step into leadership—sometimes, even your family stops giving you pocket money!Chapters:00:00 Did leadership change the way your family saw you? Odia’s family reaction to her CEO moment05:35 The power of chairing the performance meeting and stepping into new rooms06:57 Stakeholder management: The skill Odia didn’t know she had until she was CEO for a day09:56 Gaining confidence hour by hour—how CEO for a Day retooled Odia's ambitions12:20 Visibility and expectations: How leadership brings both confidence and purpose17:06 Where does Odia see herself in 5 years? Reimagining career and private life19:31 Family shift: From receiving money to being asked for advice22:30 Quickfire round: One-word answers about leadership, stereotype-breaking, and advice for future CEOs25:55 Building a movement: CEO of the Day across Africa—share, nominate, become a leaderListen in for practical insights on career growth, breaking through stereotypes, and why visibility and confidence matter for young African women leaders.If Odia’s story made you smile, share this episode with someone who needs inspiration. Leaders and companies—your turn to help build the next pipeline of African women CEOs.Connect with Odia Okoumassoun:https://www.linkedin.com/in/odia-okoumassoun/Connect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  The CEO Who Closed Her Laptop. CEO of The Day. Odia Okoumassoun. Don't Let the Smile Fool You EP19 17.02.2026 18хв

  So let me share a story. What does it really mean to be the CEO of the Day, and what does it take to step up, let go of what is expected, and lead with authenticity—even when you feel nervous? In this episode of Don't Let the Smile Fool You, Uche sits down with Odia Okoumassoun, the very first CEO of the Day.Odia gets candid about the pressures of preparing a presentation and the surprising choice she made just minutes before her biggest career moment. Instead of following the crowd, she decided to shut her laptop, trust her instincts, and present herself exactly as she was, nerves and all. This vulnerability and honesty became the real start of her leadership journey.Uche and Odia talk openly about the self-doubt that creeps in when you’re selected for a pioneering role, what it feels like to walk into a room full of executives as the youngest or least experienced, and the impact of finding your own voice. Odia’s story highlights the importance of authenticity over polish, the value of peer support, and why being true to yourself is sometimes the boldest leadership move you can make.We also cover the behind-the-scenes process of being selected for the CEO of the Day program, how performance review meetings can stretch you, and the visibility and career shifts that come when you take your moment to lead—even just for one day.If you want to hear about real women's leadership, the challenges of being seen and heard, and how one bold step can shift your career, this episode is for you. The journey doesn't end with the chair—Uche teases what's to come in Part 2 as Odia explores what happens when the cameras stop rolling and you must lead for real.Key moments and chapters:00:00 Odia's bold decision before her presentation: choosing authenticity over a polished PowerPoint01:42 Introduction to Odia and the CEO of the Day program's origins03:00 Odia's first reaction and doubts about the program05:20 The selection process and why Odia chose a speech over slides06:57 The power of preparation and peer advice before the panel07:32 How it felt to make it to the final selection and the emotional moment of getting chosen09:12 What it's really like to be CEO for a day, including the performance review meeting12:34 Odia's insights on building confidence with senior leaders13:32 The special treatment: drivers, cameras, and the welcome at work15:01 How CEO of the Day made leadership dreams feel real15:27 What visibility in the workplace really looks like years later16:28 The unexpected LinkedIn connection and public recognition17:51 What's coming next in Part 2—challenges, visibility, and leading with impactIf you are inspired by stories of real leadership, young women stepping up, and what it truly means to find your confidence, subscribe to Don't Let the Smile Fool You. Share this with a young leader in your life or get your company involved in the CEO of the Day journey.For more content and upcoming episodes, make sure you’re subscribed and stay tuned for Part 2.Connect with Odia Okoumassoun:https://www.linkedin.com/in/odia-okoumassoun/Connect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  The Detour You Didn’t Ask For. Don't Let the Smile Fool You EP18 03.02.2026 15хв

  Your career probably won’t change in the way you expect. Forget the idea of a straight-line promotion. From sudden decisions to unexpected detours, this episode unpacks why the real shifts often arrive from moments you didn’t plan for—and what you can actually do when that happens.Let me share a few stories. Years ago, I took a job where I was promised a certain structure, only to have everything change and find myself reporting to someone else. I was upset, frustrated and confused. But that pivot, that detour, ended up putting me exactly where I needed to be, as Chief Marketing Officer. Detours aren’t always setbacks; sometimes they are redirections to something better.I talk about my friend who was moved out of her role without any feedback—forced into a new area just to make her quit. Instead, she leaned in, learned fast, delivered, and walked into a much bigger opportunity. Anger and disappointment can be powerful fuel for growth if you know how to redirect.The episode digs into the realities of workplace changes that feel unfair, destabilizing, or simply bewildering. We talk about having doors shut on you, doors never even opening, and why comfort from friends and family—while well-intentioned—is not a strategy. I lay out what you can actually do: Instead of chasing closed doors, put your energy into things you can control. Build new skills. Prepare for your next step. Strengthen your internal readiness, and don’t let setbacks keep you stuck.Key topics include how to deal with workplace detours, handling disappointment, why career paths are never straight lines, using frustration as motivation, and actively shaping your own redirection.Here are the chapters for easy listening:00:00 When your career takes an unexpected detour00:43 The illusion of straight-line career progress01:17 The reality of unfair career shifts01:31 Personal story: How an unwanted change led to a CMO role04:56 The structure changes again and the real promotion arrives06:02 Why some setbacks lead to exactly what you need06:27 Story of a friend pushed out but landing higher07:52 How to respond to forced redirection08:45 Let disappointment expand you09:33 Mentoring and dealing with closed doors10:15 Don’t chase the door—redirect your energy11:25 Building new skills and readiness for the next step12:40 Comfort isn’t a strategy: Take action after disappointment13:46 Detours mean you move differently, not sit still14:45 What to ask yourself after a setback15:03 Actively build your redirection15:50 Wrap up and next stepsIf you’re facing a setback at work or dealing with unexpected career changes, this episode is packed with practical advice and real stories about leadership and redirection. Listen in, share it with someone who needs support, and use every detour to build your next move.Subscribe for new conversations on growth, leadership, and navigating the paths nobody tells you about.Connect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  Don't call me resilient. Don't Let the Smile Fool You EP17 20.01.2026 26хв

  Download our Resilience Reality Check Diagnostic Tool: https://smile-collective.kit.com/1e4240019dSo let’s talk about resilience. We all love stories of grit, strength, and coming through tough times with a smile, but here’s the truth I wish someone had told me years ago: not all resilience is good resilience. In this episode of Don’t Let the Smile Fool You, I share the real story behind what happened when my boss praised my “resilience”—and how I realized that surviving something that should have broken me wasn’t a reason to celebrate.Have you ever wondered when resilience turns from healthy strength to unhealthy survival? I break down the difference between genuine resilience and performative resilience, and how easy it is for workplaces to slip into cultures that glorify exhaustion instead of genuine excellence.I talk about my own experience working in a high-pressure environment, suffering silently, and almost breaking under relentless stress—all while being praised for showing up and “enduring.” If you’ve ever felt like you’re applauded more for surviving pain than for actual performance, this episode is for you.This video is all about the real cost of bad resilience: how pretending everything is normal, not setting boundaries, and rewarding suffering leads to burnt out teams and organizations that lose their best people. I explain how leaders unintentionally build cultures where exhaustion equals excellence, and why it’s so important to recognize the signs of toxic resilience—like employees proudly going years without vacation or working tirelessly on weekends.You'll hear tips on how to identify unhealthy patterns, how managers and leaders can set a better tone, and what tools every employee should use to protect their well-being. I also share why rest is not weakness and how building personal infrastructure—like boundaries and support systems—can help everyone thrive rather than just survive.If you’re ready to rethink what resilience means in the workplace and in your own life, this conversation will give you practical steps to stop glorifying suffering and start supporting sustainable success.Chapters:00:00 The praise that didn’t feel so great 02:05 When resilience becomes survival, not strength 03:34 Life in a high-pressure work environment—behind the smile 05:20 Adapting to dysfunction and teaching pain as proof of performance 08:06 How toxic work cultures start—working late, weekends, and vacations 10:21 Performative resilience and its long-term costs 12:32 Leadership’s role in toxic resilience: setting the tone for culture 13:16 The shocking labor and email story—when boundaries disappear 15:12 How managers can support healthy boundaries and rest 17:51 Real leadership—spotting the signs of bad resilience 19:12 Tools to identify and stop bad resilience patterns 20:01 Rest is not weakness—protect your well-being 21:46 Organizations: Building a culture of healthy boundaries and sustainable performance 22:34 What “good” resilience actually looks like 24:28 Don’t confuse exhaustion with excellenceFor more insights, stories, and real talk about resilience, boundaries, and building healthy cultures, subscribe to Don’t Let the Smile Fool You and join the conversation. Drop your thoughts in the comments or share your experiences with #dontcallmeresilient.Connect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  Am I the drama? Don't Let the Smile Fool You EP16 06.01.2026 18хв

  Download the Drama Reduction Guide: https://smile-collective.kit.com/9a618e43daHave you ever stopped to ask yourself, Am I the drama? Maybe you’ve been called too direct or too intimidating, or perhaps it’s your presence that sets off reactions even when you don’t mean it. This episode of Don’t Let the Smile Fool You dives deep into the three types of drama we might find ourselves in: unaware drama, misunderstood drama, and self-imposed drama. Inspired by Cardi B’s album and a personal journey with workplace interactions, Uche shares honest stories and advice on how to reflect, own your impact, and stop shrinking yourself for others’ comfort.Maybe you’re carrying drama that isn’t yours, maybe you’re being misread—and maybe sometimes, it actually is you. Through relatable workplace tales, feedback from bosses, and moments of self-reflection, Uche lays out why your intentions don’t always match your impact, and what to do when feedback keeps coming your way. If you’ve felt self-doubt after meetings, replayed every word in your mind, or apologized when it wasn’t needed, this episode is your guide to building confidence and learning how to give better context rather than dimming your power.From the importance of infrastructure—having honest mirrors and anchors around you—to practical tips on keeping your proof list and watching your language, this episode is your permission to stop apologizing for your strengths. The drama isn’t always what it seems. Find out how to reflect, adapt, and move forward instead of getting stuck.Key topics include: – What does it mean to be the drama in a team setting – The difference between intention vs impact – How feedback and self-reflection help you grow – Giving context to your presence and style without shrinking yourself – Strategies for overcoming self-imposed doubtWhether you’ve faced misunderstood drama over your body language, been singled out for your confidence, or replayed meetings in your mind, Don’t Let the Smile Fool You has you covered. Uche closes with advice on how awareness and clarity help you move from being the drama to being human—fully, confidently, and without apology.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction: Am I the Drama? Featuring Cardi B and relatable workplace moments01:00 Story 1: Unaware Drama—Intentions vs Impact and feedback cycles04:20 The Importance of Honest Feedback and Infrastructure05:15 Story 2: Misunderstood Drama—Presence, body language, and workplace perceptions08:19 Shrinking Yourself for Others—When toning it down backfires09:45 The Role of Honest Mirrors in Finding Confidence10:21 Owning Your Expressiveness—Giving context to avoid being misread11:09 Story 3: Self-Imposed Drama—The replay cycle and apologizing for your existence12:36 Strategies to Overcome Self-Doubt—Proof list and watching your language13:40 Building Infrastructure and Anchors for Confidence14:19 What if you’re all three? Accepting the spectrum of drama and ways forward15:54 The Power of Reflection—Knowing if it’s your drama or someone else’s16:35 Closing Thoughts: Clarity and being human beats being liked or feared17:21 Am I the Drama Reflection Guide—Resources and next stepsDon’t forget to subscribe and keep smiling—even when the drama comes your way.Connect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/
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  Exhausted - Now What? Don't Let the Smile Fool You EP15 23.12.2025 15хв

  Year-End Exhaustion is Real – Here’s How I’m Resetting for 2025Let’s talk about why everyone you know (including you) is so tired at the end of the year. In this honest and refreshing episode of "Don't Let the Smile Fool You," I share what I’ve been hearing from every single conversation lately: exhaustion, fatigue, and the looming hope that somehow the holidays or January 1 will make it all better. Why do we assume that a new year is a magical reset button? Is the tiredness just about working hard, or is there something deeper?I open up about rejecting the usual new year resolutions talk, confessing that I have never kept a resolution in my life and why I don’t believe January suddenly transforms us. Instead, I share a simple but powerful exercise: what is one piece of mental baggage you can choose to leave behind right now? What can you intentionally declare "undone" instead of carrying it into 2025?We talk about the real reasons for end-of-year exhaustion—overcompensating, always saying yes, lacking support, and trying to hold everything together alone. I tell you why building personal "infrastructure" (like leaning on family, friends, coaching, therapy, or simple rest) matters so much more than making grand resolutions.In this episode, I also reveal the story behind launching this podcast and how making the deliberate choice to inject more joy into my life helped reset me—without waiting for a calendar date. There’s no motivational pep talk or quick fixes here, just honest reflection on how to strengthen your support systems, inject joy on your terms, and let go of exhaustion as a badge of honor.Key themes and keywords covered include: end of year fatigue, exhaustion, mental baggage, new year resolutions, letting go, support systems, leadership infrastructure, family, rest, injecting joy, sustainable living, saying no, and intentional choices.Find out why you don’t have to keep carrying it all alone, and how you can craft a more joyful, supported, and sustainable 2025—without waiting for January 1.Timestamps:00:00 Year-end exhaustion is everywhere 01:09 Why I skip resolutions (and what I do instead) 03:17 Letting go of mental baggage – the "undone" practice 05:02 Making room for joy and the birth of this podcast 07:04 What actually causes all this fatigue? 09:12 The real cost of doing too much and invisible labor 10:22 Building your unique support infrastructure 12:04 Small (not dramatic) ways to create rest and support 13:22 Why exhaustion is not a badge of honorIf this episode speaks to you, please subscribe and share your thoughts in the comments. What will you choose to leave behind in 2025? How are you injecting more joy into your own life?
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  Why leaders over-talk - and how to stop it. Don't Let the Smile Fool You EP14 09.12.2025 21хв

  Have you ever been in one of those meetings where a simple question turns into a history lesson, a TED Talk, or unnecessary drama? In this episode of Don't Let the Smile Fool You, we are diving deep into the very real problem of over talking—why we do it, how it affects our credibility, and, most importantly, how to stop.Uche walks us through her own experience with over talking and the uncomfortable feeling of silence in a meeting. She shares the kinds of over talkers we all know: The Historian, The TED Talker, The Confessor, The Rambler, and even the Accidental Volunteer who ends up with more assignments than they bargained for. This episode is a practical workshop on leadership, the power of silence, and the discipline required to use your voice effectively.We break down how over talking can dilute your message, expose you to unnecessary scrutiny, and accidentally create more problems for yourself at work. On the brighter side, Uche gives clear strategies for mastering meetings, from self-editing tips to her go-to framework: short, sharp, clear—SSC.Whether you struggle with staying on message, fear dead air, or just want to present yourself as more confident and credible in any professional setting, these lessons are for you. The episode is packed with stories, real-world tactics, and a generous dose of humor about the do’s and don’ts of meetings and professional communication.Key moments in this episode: 00:00 The problem with over talking and leadership in meetings01:08 Why it’s hard to stop rambling, and the internal struggle to be concise02:22 The link between over talking, insecurity, and drama04:34 Uche’s own confession and the moment she realized she said too much05:52 Surviving uncomfortable silence—why it triggers us and what to do07:17 Reasons why people over talk (it’s not always ego)08:01 Why clarity and confidence go hand-in-hand09:00 Characters of over talking: The Historian, The TED Talker, The Confessor, The Rambler12:31 The pain of watching a leader over talk in a review meeting13:15 Leadership lessons from Uche’s early career15:11 Why self-editing is strategy, not just courtesy15:59 Uche’s best tips to manage your message and land your point18:04 The SSC rule: Short, Sharp, and Clear19:03 Landing gear: what to do when you’re rambling in real-time20:11 Final thoughts—discipline, confidence, and saying lessIf you’ve ever wished you could say less and be heard more, this episode is your go-to guide. Share with a friend who needs it, or use these tips at your next meeting and watch your influence grow.Connect with Uche Ofodile:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ucheofodileTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uche_ofodileInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheofodile/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucheofodileofficial/