For the final episode of 2025, Im reflecting on the moments that defined the year, the wins, the setbacks, and the mindset Im carrying into 2026. The podcast saw incredible growth this year, and it's all thanks to you.

I'll be back January 7th with a new episode. Have a great Christmas and New Year!

Timestamps:

00:52 – 3 Wins from 2025
Leaning into video, staying consistent, and experimenting with new formats.

02:38 – What Didn’t Go Well
Why living in the future and poor time management almost derailed progress.

3:55 – The Biggest Realization of the Year
It's time to stop playing safe and bring full-strength Austin into the content.

4:52 – My Theme for 2026
Why identifying and staying in your strength zone matters more than ever.

5:42 – Challenge For Listeners
One question to ask yourself as you head into the new year.

Career & Leadership Coaching

• Want a better career? Clients who work with us earn 57% more and get promoted 3x faster on average: Book your free career clarity call here.

Free Resources

• The Brag Sheet (free Career Achievement Tracker): Here
• Take the free Career Fulfillment quiz: Here

Engage

• New episodes drop every other Wednesday. Be sure to subscribe.
• Send in your career, leadership, or self-development questions and I’ll answer them on air.
• Email: theintrovertleader@gmail.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/austinchopkins
• YouTube: ​Austin Hopkins
• Career Coaching: www.sts-coaching.com

Too many people chase success at the cost of who they are. But what if you didn’t have to choose between doing well and doing what’s right? In this episode, I share a story from my early leadership career, and the moment I realized that how you win matters more than just winning. We’ll talk about the hidden costs of unchecked ambition, why integrity matters more than ever, and how to build a career you’re actually proud of.

Career & Leadership Coaching

• Want a better career? Clients who work with us earn 57% more and get promoted 3x faster on average: Book your free career clarity call here.

Free Resources

• The Brag Sheet (free Career Achievement Tracker): Here

Engage

• New episodes drop every other Wednesday. Be sure to subscribe.
• Send in your career, leadership, or self-development questions and I’ll answer them on air.
• Email: theintrovertleader@gmail.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/austinchopkins
• YouTube: ​Austin Hopkins
• Career Coaching: www.sts-coaching.com

What if your coworkers were straight out of a sitcom? In this episode of The Introvert Leader Podcast, I’m breaking down five workplace archetypes using characters from The Office. From the passionate-but-clueless Michael Scott to the perfectionist Angela and people-pleaser Andy, you’ll learn how to spot these styles, appreciate their strengths, and work around their blind spots. Whether you’re leading a team or just trying to survive your 9-to-5, this one’s packed with insights and laughs.

Timestamps

01:44 – Michael Scott (Mr. Nothing But Heart): Why leading with passion matters and how it can backfire when you don’t read the room.

06:04 – Angela Martin (Mrs. Perfection): High standards and hidden mistakes, and the double-edged sword of perfectionism at work.

10:42 – Andy Bernard (Mr. People Pleaser): People pleasing feels productive, but it often masks insecurity and undermines leadership.

15:13 – Jim Halpert (Mr. Wasted Potential): Coasting in your comfort zone? Learn how to stop playing it safe and start showing up.

21:10 – Kelly Kapoor (Mrs. Blind Confidence): The boldness is impressive, but how far can confidence take you without self-awareness?

25:02 – Challenge for Listeners: Which character are you, and what are two blind spots you might need to confront?

Career & Leadership Coaching

• Want a better career? Clients who work with us earn 57% more and get promoted 3x faster on average: Book your free career clarity call here.

Free Resources

• The Brag Sheet (free Career Achievement Tracker): Here

Engage

• New episodes drop every other Wednesday. Be sure to subscribe.
• Send in your career, leadership, or self-development questions and I’ll answer them on air.
• Email: theintrovertleader@gmail.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/austinchopkins
• YouTube: ​Austin Hopkins
• Career Coaching: www.sts-coaching.com