Confidence, Balance, And Success

Joanne Lockwood is joined by transformational coach and speaker James R. Elliott to unpack what confidence, balance, and success look like when you stop relying on the corporate ladder for validation. Drawing on James’s experience in global tech organisations and his shift into entrepreneurship after redundancy, they challenge the myth of corporate stability and the idea that working harder is always the answer.

Together they explore what helps people thrive at work: leaders who treat people as people, cultures where it’s safe to experiment and learn from mistakes, and the courage to speak up with authenticity. They discuss resilience and perseverance through change, the trap of repeating old strategies when organisations reshuffle, and why growth often requires a deliberate pivot in mindset and approach.

They also get practical about sustainable performance. James shares what he’s learned about burnout, boundaries, rest, and self-care, including how health and wellbeing underpin long-term freedom and fulfilment. The conversation closes with a reminder that meaningful progress comes from reflection, learning, and choosing strategies that support both ambition and wellbeing.