113. Invisible to Influential: How to Build Credibility and Stay Relevant with Kathryn Sandford

In this inspiring conversation, I sit down with Kathryn Sandford, seasoned personal brand and leadership coach, to explore what it truly means to go from invisible to influential. Kathryn draws on her rich background in teaching, recruitment, and government to show professionals—especially introverts and quiet achievers—how to find their voice, build credibility, and shine without being loud.

We talk about the power of energy in communication, why self-trust and self-kindness are the foundations of influence, and how relevance is a muscle we can train at every stage of our careers. Kathryn also shares practical networking tips, storytelling strategies that help you stand out, and the affirmation she lives by: “I am enough.”

If you’ve ever wondered how to navigate career pivots, project confidence without people-pleasing, or become visible in a noisy world while staying true to yourself, this episode will encourage you to take that courageous next step.

Episode Highlights

• Kathryn’s introvert–extrovert balance and reframing the idea of a “social butterfly.”
• Lessons from teaching: energy awareness, clear boundaries, and credibility in communication.
• The turning point that led Kathryn out of teaching and into leadership coaching.
• How to pivot careers with courage and strategy, especially later in life.
• Building a personal brand through self-awareness, storytelling, and reputation.
• Why asking others to describe you in three words can unlock your strengths.
• The “relevance muscle” and how to strengthen it for future success.
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Key Takeaways

• Energy speaks louder than words — how you show up is as important as what you say.
• Boundaries build trust — being clear and consistent creates credibility and influence.
• Self-trust is the foundation of leadership — start by believing I am enough.
• Personal brand = reputation + influence + impact — know your story and tell it well.
• Relevance is a muscle — it needs ongoing practice, upskilling, and self-reflection.
• Networking made simple — approach one or three people, never two.
• Storytelling sets you apart — ordinary stories, told with authenticity, make you memorable.
  
  
  

Memorable Quotable

“The most powerful thing you can say to yourself is: I am enough.” — Kathryn Sandford

Resources & Links

• Connect with Kathryn Sandford on LinkedIn.
• Learn  about Kathryn Sandford’s programs: Invisible to Influential and 1:1 Leadership Coaching.
• Follow Serena on LinkedIn. 
• Visit serenalow.com.au for the first step to ending your visibility struggle.
• Enjoyed this episode?
  Subscribe to The Quiet Warrior Podcast and leave a 5-star review—it helps us reach even more introverts and quiet achievers who are ready to step into visibility with confidence.

This episode was edited by Aura House Productions