307: Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Unexpected Obstacles

Have you ever let nerves or setbacks stop you from reaching your next big goal?

In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien offers an honest, behind-the-scenes look at her US book tour for "Thriving Talent." Broadcasting from San Francisco, Aoife shares both the exciting highlights and the unseen struggles of traveling alone, everything from logistical headaches and moments of isolation to being featured in Forbes. She dives into a personal story about overcoming her hesitation to drive in the US again, using the metaphor of navigating challenging roads (literally and figuratively) for the kinds of setbacks we all encounter in our careers.

Forbes article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/aparnarae/2026/05/13/employee-engagement-hit-a-10-year-low-the-problem-isnt-people---its-organizational-systems/

In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

1. The reality behind high-visibility work, and what social media doesn’t show about travel, loneliness, and logistical challenges.
2. How nervousness and setbacks can signal growth opportunities and what to do when you want to give up.
3. Practical encouragement to reflect on your own barriers at work.

Related Topics Covered:

Overcoming Challenges, Confidence at Work, self-doubt

Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:

1. Website
2. LinkedIn
3. YouTube

Related Episodes You’ll Love:

Episode 300: How Great Leaders Build Thriving Teams with Bhushan Sethi

About Happier at Work®

Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive.

If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®.

Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald.

Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ

Mentioned in this episode:

Thriving Talent book - out now

Book