The Leadership Skill No One Taught Us: Self-Leadership, Mental Load, and Presence

Episode notes

In this episode of Beyond Product Management , Heather Miller sits down with Kerri LaRose , self-leadership coach, counselor, and advocate for intentional living, to talk about the invisible work that shapes everything else — our thoughts, beliefs, and patterns. While we often focus on career strategy, productivity systems, and performance, this conversation goes deeper. Kerri explains why self-leadership is the foundation for every other role we play — as leaders, partners, parents, and professionals — and how unexamined beliefs can quietly limit our growth for decades. Together, Heather and Kerri explore how mental load shows up both at work and at home, why “just pushing through” doesn’t work long-term, and how learning to lead yourself creates stronger relationships, clearer decisions, and more sustainable success. This episode is especially relevant for women navigating demanding careers alongside family life, leadership roles, and the constant pressure to be “on” for everyone else. A question to reflect on after listening: If you’re not getting the results you want — in your career, relationships, or energy — what belief might be driving that outcome?