The Day I Challenged My CEO
Hello, my lovelies,
Welcome to another edition of Ask Wendy. For those of you just joining us, I’m Wendy Gardner, a former corporate machine, and now your straight-talking mentor on how to be you in a world that too often wants you to be someone else.
This Week’s Question
I recently received a heartfelt message from James F. He wrote:
“Wendy, I’ve been in my new role for six months, and I can see some glaring issues in how we’re managing our teams. But I’m terrified to speak up. What if it backfires and people think I’m rocking the boat? How do I share my concerns without losing my job or damaging my reputation?”
So many of us have been there, James. Let’s talk about how speaking our truth can be both the bravest thing and the best thing we ever do. And if you don’t believe me, let me share a story that changed everything for me.
A Story of Speaking Up
“Have you lost your bloody marbles?” That’s what the voice in my head screamed the day I sat in a massive London boardroom, wearing a freshly pressed suit I’d nabbed from the clearance rack. I was about to challenge our CEO’s entire strategy in front of a roomful of high earners.
My colleague kicked me under the table, as if to say, “Don’t do it, Wendy!” But I could feel my Glasgow roots rising up. We’re taught to speak truth, even when our voice shakes. Even when everyone else in the room earns more in bonuses than our annual salary. So I took a deep breath and said what no one else would:
“With all due respect, that restructure will destroy every bit of trust we’ve built with our front-line teams.”
Time froze. Then the CEO leaned forward, eyes twinkling, and said, “Finally! Someone with backbone. Tell me more.”
That day, I realised that our bosses don’t actually want robots in suits. They want humans who care enough to speak up. How many meetings have you sat through, silently disagreeing? How many times have you kept quiet because you were scared of the consequences?
For me, that moment proved our fears are often bigger in our heads than in reality. And, ironically, it’s our willingness to voice concerns that truly sets us apart. Over time, I’ve seen it time and again. Your truth is worth hearing, especially when it scares you.
A Practical Guide to Finding (and Using) Your Voice
Start with Compassion
If there’s an issue you need to address, do your homework. Gather facts, talk to colleagues, and frame your viewpoint constructively. Your tone matters as much as your content.
Look for Allies
Chances are, you’re not the only one with concerns. Seek out people who share your perspective. Strength in numbers can turn a lone voice into a movement for change.
Practise in a Safe Space
Role-play your conversation or presentation with a mentor, friend, or family member. Getting the jitters out before the big moment can make all the difference.
Speak from a Place of Care
When we voice our opinions out of genuine concern for the team or the outcome, it shines through. Aim to contribute your different perspective from a place that serves the greater good.
Celebrate the Courage
Whether it goes as planned or not, recognise the bravery it took to speak up. Every time you use your voice, you grow stronger. And that strength is what authentic leadership is all about.
Closing Thoughts
The next time your gut tells you something isn’t right, remember that your voice is exactly what the room needs. Even if your leg is shaking under the table, say it. That kind of courage is good for business AND! good for the soul.
Thank you James. Keep your questions coming.
With love,
Wendy ❤️
Former Corporate Machine, On a Mission to Help You Thrive