95. The Visibility Factor: How Quiet Leaders Become Influential with Susan Barber
Description
In this insightful episode of The Quiet Warrior Podcast, I speak with Susan Barber — a leadership visibility coach, former Fortune 500 executive, and author of The Visibility Factor and the upcoming Your Journey to Visibility Workbook.
Susan shares her powerful journey from sitting quietly in the back of corporate meeting rooms to becoming a visible, influential leader who helps others do the same. Drawing from 25 years at Kraft Heinz, she opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome, reframing self-doubt, and learning to take small, consistent actions toward visibility — all while staying true to her introverted nature.
If you’ve ever wondered how to be seen and heard without being loud, this conversation will inspire you to start your own journey — one micro-action at a time.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
- Evolving from invisible to visible: how Susan went from hiding in the back of meetings to sitting confidently at the executive table.
- Reframing imposter syndrome: why feeling unsure can actually be a sign of growth — and how humility can work in your favor.
- Preparation over panic: how introverts can replace the fear of “freezing up” with calm readiness and self-trust.
- Feedback as fuel for growth: Susan’s practical advice for exploring — not fearing — feedback, and using it as a leadership superpower.
- Little experiments, big impact: how to build confidence through small, strategic steps instead of giant leaps.
- Owning your narrative: why it’s essential to define how you want others to perceive you — and how to start embodying that version of yourself today.
Key Takeaways:
- Visibility isn’t about self-promotion; it’s about sharing value and contributing meaningfully.
- Every interaction is an opportunity for visibility — from meetings to everyday conversations.
- Being visible can start with something as small as offering help, asking a thoughtful question, or sharing your team’s wins.
- You were hired for a reason. Your voice and ideas matter.
- Confidence grows from trusting yourself, trying new things, and staying curious.
Resources Mentioned:
- The Visibility Factor
- Your Journey to Visibility Workbook (upcoming)
- Free resource: The Introvert’s Guide to Visibility and Influence in the Workplace
Connect with Susan on LinkedIn
Visit Susan’s website: www.susanmbarber.com
Quote Highlights
“Every interaction is an opportunity for visibility — don’t waste it.”
“You were hired for a reason. You have a voice that matters.”
“Sometimes visibility begins with one small, bold move.”
Connect with Me
For more insights and resources for introverts and quiet achievers, subscribe to The Visible Introvert Newsletter at serenalow.com.au.
This episode was edited by Aura House Productions



