The Introverted Entrepreneur

You're still sober—but you're unraveling in ways no one sees. This episode unpacks what high-functioning relapse really looks like when you're parenting, leading, and trying not to fall apart.

He's calm. He's composed. But underneath the surface? He's emotionally severed.In this episode, we unpack the quiet crisis of emotional castration—why so many men feel numb, angry, or disconnected, and how it started long before adulthood.Whether you're healing from it or loving someone who is, this episode offers a path to reclaim emotional power without sacrificing strength.

You've followed the rules. Kept it polished. Hustled to “look the part.”But what if the very image that made you feel successful is now burning you out?While I'm away this week on a much-needed family break, I'm re-airing one of my most downloaded—and most eye-opening—episodes.We're pulling back the curtain on curated living: how it hijacks your clarity, feeds imposter syndrome, and robs your business of real momentum.If you've ever felt pressure to perform or exhausted by pretending, this one is for you.

You keep rescuing, overgiving, and staying too long.You know it's not healthy—but it feels impossible to stop. Why?Because your brain isn't the only thing involved—your body is.In this episode, we explore how hormones like oxytocin and dopamine keep you biologically tied to toxic or imbalanced relationships—and how codependency is less about personality and more about survival wiring.You'll learn how to reset your body's “love loop” and build safe, stable connections that don't cost your identity.

You called it chemistry—but it was actually chaos.If you've ever chased a relationship that felt electric but left you anxious, you're not alone. Love addiction is real, and it's not just emotional—it's biological.In this raw episode, I unpack how dopamine, oxytocin, and adrenaline can trap us in unhealthy intimacy patterns. You'll learn how to break the spell, trust your body again, and stop confusing fantasy for connection.We're not just talking psychology—we're exposing the hidden science behind trauma bonds.

What happens when a mother clings too tight—and a son never learns to stand on his own? We're unpacking the hidden emotional cost of mother-son enmeshment and how it shows up in marriages, businesses, and adult identity. If you've ever felt like you're parenting a grown man or still living in your mother's emotional shadow, this one's for you.Read about it here.https://deniseglee.com/healing-from-mother-son-enmeshment/Enjoyed this episode?If this conversation resonated with you, here's how you can support the show and stay connected:✅ Subscribe so you never miss an update.✅ Share this episode with someone who might benefit.✅ Leave a review—your feedback helps others find the show and grow on their journey.⸻Stay Connected with Me!Want to dive deeper? Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

We or someone we know thinks the behavior is being nice. But under that forced smile and 'I'm fine,' resentment is leaking—and trust is breaking. In this episode, we're calling out the passive-aggressive patterns that erode leadership, love, and your own self-respect.Prefer to read? Click here

If you're tired of editing yourself to stay likable, this is your call to lead without the performance mask. This episode unpacks how hidden people-pleasing shows up in entrepreneurship and content creation, especially when you're afraid of being misunderstood.Start with this post if you suspect this pattern runs deeper than you thought.https://deniseglee.com/how-to-stop-people-pleasing/Enjoyed this episode?If this conversation resonated with you, here's how you can support the show and stay connected:✅ Subscribe so you never miss an update.✅ Share this episode with someone who might benefit.✅ Leave a review—your feedback helps others find the show and grow on their journey.⸻Stay Connected with Me!Want to dive deeper? Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

You're showing up online, doing your work—but part of you still feels like you're auditioning. This episode unpacks how hidden people-pleasing shows up in entrepreneurship and content creation, especially when you're afraid of being misunderstood. If you're tired of editing yourself to stay likable, this is your call to lead without the performance mask.

Micromanagement isn't about control—it's about fear. This episode unpacks the emotional root of micromanaging and shows you how to lead with trust instead of tension. You'll learn seven simple mindset shifts that help you empower your team without losing your standards.You can't lead from exhaustion. But with the right shifts, you can rebuild trust, boost performance, and stop micromanaging yourself into the ground.

You're not a lifeline. You're a leader. This episode walks you through how to say “no” with clarity and kindness—so you can protect your peace without ghosting your clients or overexplaining yourself into burnout.

Control isn't just a personality trait—it's a trauma response.In this episode, I unpack why many survivors become hyper-controlling, even as they try to heal and lead.It's time to understand the nervous system's need for control—and how to soften it with compassion and clarity.

What if your stuckness in business isn't about strategy—but the shadow of your parents' control?In this episode, I explore how childhood patterns quietly shape our boundaries, pricing, and confidence as leaders.It's not about blaming—it's about breaking free.

Ever feel like the healthier you get, the lonelier it feels? In this episode, I break down why emotional growth doesn't always look—or feel—like a glow-up, and why losing people, roles, and routines might actually mean you're on the right track. If you're stuck in that quiet, in-between space and wondering if you're doing something wrong, this one's for you.

What if the real reason you're exhausted, uninspired, or off-track has nothing to do with strategy—and everything to do with spiritual misalignment? In this episode, I explore how misalignment quietly sabotages leadership, decision-making, and peace of mind. If you've been sensing that something's “off” but can't quite name it, read the full article to find out what might really be blocking your success.

What happens when unhealed people become healing authorities? In this episode, Denise exposes how spiritual soundbites and paid certifications are being used to mask emotional immaturity—and why it's leaving clients confused, blamed, and worse off. If you've ever felt manipulated by a coach or healer who preached “alignment” but dodged accountability, this one will hit home.Want to go deeper?

Have you ever kept quiet to “keep the peace”—only to feel resentful, misrepresented, or dismissed later? In this episode, Denise G. Lee unpacks a real story of parenting tension to reveal how conflict avoidance destroys leadership, family trust, and emotional clarity. Learn what happens when we trade discomfort for control—and how truth-telling might be the most loving act of all.Learn more about how to become more honest: https://deniseglee.com/how-radical-honesty-helps-you-overcome-fear-build-strength/Enjoyed this episode?If this conversation resonated with you, here's how you can support the show and stay connected:✅ Subscribe so you never miss an update.✅ Share this episode with someone who might benefit.✅ Leave a review—your feedback helps others find the show and grow on their journey.⸻Stay Connected with Me!Want to dive deeper? Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Have you ever felt like you were doing all the right things, but still emotionally exhausted—or quietly resentful? It may not be a mindset issue—it might be an energetic imbalance between your masculine “doer” and feminine “feeler.” Learn how this dynamic shows up in your work, health, and relationships in this revealing breakdown: Read the full article here.https://deniseglee.com/feminine-vs-masculine-energy-how-it-shapes-womens-lives/——Enjoyed this episode?If this conversation resonated with you, here's how you can support the show and stay connected:✅ Subscribe so you never miss an update.✅ Share this episode with someone who might benefit.✅ Leave a review—your feedback helps others find the show and grow on their journey.⸻Stay Connected with Me!Want to dive deeper? Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

A family trip to Vegas turned into an unexpected masterclass in how fantasy hijacks identity — and business clarity. From influencer scrolls at 30,000 feet to scarcity-fueled spending disguised as “investments,” Denise peels back the layers of curated living and its emotional price tag. If you've ever felt behind, burnt out, or like your brand needs to “look” a certain way to succeed, this episode is your truth serum.

Do you constantly fix tiny mistakes no one else notices? Struggle to say no, even when something doesn't feel right? Perfectionism can feel like a high standard, but underneath, it often hides deep fears of rejection, failure, and not being enough.In this episode, we're uncovering the hidden link between perfectionism, self-criticism, and workaholism. We'll explore how childhood patterns shape our obsession with control, why helping others can sometimes be a way to avoid our own pain, and how codependency keeps us trapped in toxic cycles. Plus, I'll share a personal story about when I had to choose between keeping the peace and staying true to myself.If perfectionism is making life harder than it needs to be, this episode is for you.

Do you feel like you have to keep working, no matter how exhausted you are? Like slowing down means falling behind? Workaholism isn't just about long hours—it's an addiction that feeds on perfectionism, fear, and the need for validation.In this episode, we're diving deep into why so many high achievers struggle to stop working, the hidden costs of overworking, and—most importantly—how to break free. If work has taken over your life, this conversation is for you.Want to go deeper? Read the full article here: https://deniseglee.com/workaholism-signs-causes-and-how-to-break-free-from-work-addiction/Enjoyed this episode?If this conversation resonated with you, here's how you can support the show and stay connected:✅ Subscribe so you never miss an update.✅ Share this episode with someone who might benefit.✅ Leave a review—your feedback helps others find the show and grow on their journey.⸻Stay Connected with Me!Want to dive deeper? Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Emotional wounds don't just disappear—they linger until we intentionally address them. In this episode, we explore what it really takes to heal from emotional trauma, break destructive cycles, and reclaim your inner strength. For more insights, read my article: Healing from Emotional Trauma: Journey to Self-Resilience and Recovery.Enjoyed this episode?If this conversation resonated with you, here's how you can support the show and stay connected:✅ Subscribe so you never miss an update.✅ Share this episode with someone who might benefit.✅ Leave a review—your feedback helps others find the show and grow on their journey.⸻Stay Connected with Me!Want to dive deeper? Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Criticism is inevitable, but your response determines whether it fuels your growth or drags you into unnecessary battles. In this episode, we unpack the mindset shifts and practical strategies to handle negative comments with grace, confidence, and emotional resilience. For a deeper dive, check out my article: Healthy Ways to Respond to Criticism and Negative Comments.Enjoyed this episode?If this conversation resonated with you, here's how you can support the show and stay connected:✅ Subscribe so you never miss an update.✅ Share this episode with someone who might benefit.✅ Leave a review—your feedback helps others find the show and grow on their journey.⸻Stay Connected with Me!Want to dive deeper? Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Getting sober is a massive step, but what happens when it's not enough? Many people in recovery—from alcohol, sex, or other addictions—find themselves hitting a wall, feeling stuck, uncertain, or even lost. The truth is, sobriety alone doesn't fix everything. Unresolved trauma, identity shifts, and the brain's slow healing process can all leave you feeling frustrated.In this episode, I break down why feeling “sober but stuck” happens, the science behind it, and how to break free. If you're a leader or business owner, this is especially important—your internal struggles affect how you show up at work and in life. Let's talk about what it really takes to not just stay sober, but truly thrive.Are you a fake introvert or extrovert? Read this article.https://deniseglee.com/how-trauma-shapes-personality-faux-extroverts-introverts/Enjoyed this episode?Subscribe to never miss an updateShare with others who might benefitLeave a review to help others find usStay Connected with Me!Enjoyed this episode?If this conversation resonated with you, here's how you can support the show and stay connected:✅ Subscribe so you never miss an update.✅ Share this episode with someone who might benefit.✅ Leave a review—your feedback helps others find the show and grow on their journey.⸻Stay Connected with Me!Want to dive deeper? Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

You've invested in therapy, hoping for clarity and transformation, but something still feels off. High achievers often approach therapy like another business task—analyzing emotions without taking real action. In this episode, I break down why therapy alone isn't enough, the science behind behavioral change, and how business owners can finally bridge the gap between insight and real transformation.Read the article: https://deniseglee.com/when-therapy-alone-isnt-enough-what-business-owners-need-to-heal/Enjoyed this episode?If this conversation resonated with you, here's how you can support the show and stay connected:✅ Subscribe so you never miss an update.✅ Share this episode with someone who might benefit.✅ Leave a review—your feedback helps others find the show and grow on their journey.⸻Stay Connected with Me!Want to dive deeper? Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Have you ever felt like your business success defines your worth? That every low-engagement post, failed launch, or quiet inbox is proof that you're not good enough? You're not alone. Many entrepreneurs unknowingly fall into a psychological trap known as stamp collecting—accumulating emotional “proof” that they're failing.In this episode, I break down how this subconscious pattern keeps business owners stuck in a cycle of self-doubt, burnout, and self-sabotage. Drawing from Transactional Analysis, I'll show you how to recognize these hidden beliefs, break free from them, and finally start creating from a place of confidence rather than fear. If you're tired of feeling like your business is a never-ending test of your worth, this conversation is for you.Learn more about:Stamp collection - https://deniseglee.com/when-business-becomes-personal-the-self-worth-trap/Being able to give and receive love - https://deniseglee.com/emotional-generosity-how-to-give-freely-without-burning-out/Enjoyed this episode?Subscribe to never miss an updateShare with others who might benefitLeave a review to help others find usStay Connected with Me!Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Have you ever felt like you care more about your clients' progress than they do? Like you're constantly checking in, reminding, and holding space for people who just won't take action? If so, you might be caretaking instead of leading—and it's draining your energy, business, and confidence.In this episode, I break down the signs of caretaking, why it keeps you stuck, and—most importantly—how to shift into leadership without guilt. You'll learn:✅ The subtle ways caretaking shows up in business✅ Why caretaking attracts the wrong clients and leads to burnout✅ How to set boundaries, let go of non-committed clients, and trust your process✅ The mindset shift that turns you from a caretaker into a true leaderThe truth? The right clients don't need you to convince them. When you stop caretaking, you start attracting people who take responsibility for their own transformation.

After trauma, trusting yourself can feel like navigating a maze of doubt and fear. In this episode, we uncover why self-trust is shattered in the wake of deep emotional wounds and explore the science behind our inner critic. With practical strategies and heartfelt insights, learn how to reconnect with your inner wisdom, build resilience, and lead with confidence—even when your past haunts you. Tune in to discover how to transform self-doubt into your most empowering asset.Learn how to improve your sensory diet after trauma:https://deniseglee.com/sensory-diet-a-guide-for-adult-trauma-survivors/Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find usStay Connected with Me!Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Anger feels powerful, but is it really just a cover for something deeper?

Emotional manipulation can quietly erode your sense of self-worth and control within a relationship. In this conversation, we will explore how to identify red flags like gaslighting, love bombing, and control tactics. Learn how to set boundaries, trust your instincts, and reclaim your emotional well-being for a healthier future.Read the article:https://deniseglee.com/recognizing-the-telltale-signs-of-emotional-manipulation/ Enjoyed this episode?Subscribe to never miss an updateShare with others who might benefitLeave a review to help others find usStay Connected with Me!Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

What if commitment isn't about motivation but about who you choose to be when no one's watching? In this episode, we'll explore why most people confuse interest with true dedication—and how that subtle difference shapes both personal growth and professional success. If you're tired of starting strong and fizzling out, this conversation will challenge you to rethink what it really means to keep showing up.Enjoyed this episode?Subscribe to never miss an updateShare with others who might benefitLeave a review to help others find usStay Connected with Me!VisitDeniseGLee.com to:

Being an entrepreneur or leader means working with people to achieve your goals—whether it's money, influence, or security. But if you approach these relationships with the wrong mindset, you risk not only sabotaging your immediate goals but also burning bridges that could lead to even greater opportunities. In this episode, we'll break down how to get what you want professionally without the stress, drama, or unnecessary complications.Enjoyed this episode?Subscribe to never miss an updateShare with others who might benefitLeave a review to help others find usStay Connected with Me!VisitDeniseGLee.com to:

What do you do when someone you love is spiraling—battling mental instability or substance abuse—and refuses help? In this honest conversation with Dr. Brian Licuanan, we explore compassionate, practical strategies for supporting a resistant loved one while also addressing the impact on your own well-being. This isn't about blame—it's about awareness, accountability, and finding hope in the hardest moments.Connect with Dr. Licuanan at: Dr. Brian Licuananhttps://drbrianlicuanan.comEnjoyed this episode?Subscribe to never miss an updateShare with others who might benefitLeave a review to help others find usStay Connected with Me!VisitDeniseGLee.com to:

What do you do when everything that defines you crumbles, and the world is watching? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Dr. Stephan Neff—functional medicine doctor, life coach, writer, and speaker—as he shares his deeply personal journey through a year of unexpected loss and transformation. If you're a business owner, leader, or content creator who prides yourself on having it all together, this conversation will challenge how you define success, resilience, and identity when life forces you to start over. Connect with Dr. Stephan at: https://neffinspiration.com Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Visit ⁠DeniseGLee.com⁠ to:

Do you truly know what a good mood is—and more importantly, when you've slipped out of it? In this episode, I sit down with Matt O'Neill, author and host of The Good Mood Revolution, to explore how our emotions, past experiences, and self-awareness shape our daily lives. Whether you're struggling with frustration and fear or simply want to sustain positive energy, this conversation will give you the tools to recognize and cultivate a mindset of joy, peace, and presence. Connect with Matt at: https://mattoneill.com/ Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Life will test you—sometimes in ways you never saw coming. The real question isn't if challenges will happen, but how you'll respond when they do. In this episode, we're diving into what it really means to be resilient, how to shift your mindset in tough moments, and practical ways to keep moving forward without losing yourself in the process. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Have you ever wished for a workplace where people can express their true needs without fear or intimidation? In this conversation with Tim Keogh, serial entrepreneur and leader, we explore how mastering compassionate communication and self-awareness can completely transform the way we interact—both professionally and personally. Tune in to discover the tools and intentionality needed to create kinder, more open conversations, even in the most challenging moments. Get the book here: https://a.co/d/7Z3uOcc Learn more about Tim at https://www.akind.life/ Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Have you ever felt trapped by expectations that aren't your own? In this episode, we explore how to break free from limiting beliefs, confront the fear of authenticity, and embrace the path that aligns with your true self. Join me for a real, unfiltered conversation about what it takes to heal, grow, and lead a life of purpose. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Anxiety can feel like an unrelenting storm, but peace is closer than you think. Discover science-backed strategies to soothe your racing thoughts and regain clarity in moments of chaos. This guide goes beyond surface solutions, offering practical tools to create lasting inner calm. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

In this episode, we dive into the heart of what it really means to build a business—not just for money but for impact and connection. Too often, we focus on chasing clicks, trends, and visibility without laying the right foundation. Denise sits down with John Watson, a seasoned marketing and sales coach, who shares how aligning leadership with authentic marketing can create long-lasting, meaningful relationships. Through their conversation about John's book, Being Profitable, they explore the powerful intersection of self-awareness, service, and leadership. This isn't just about profits; it's about purpose. If you're a business owner or leader striving to make a lasting impact in your community, this episode is for you. Connect with John at https://accruemarketing.com Get his book at Amazon at: https://a.co/d/8aBagAL Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Have you noticed the rising chatter about toxic workplaces, especially on LinkedIn? While it's easy to point the finger at the obvious, the reality is that toxic behaviors often stem from unnoticed stressors and unintentional micromanaging. In this episode, we explore how leaders and entrepreneurs may be unknowingly contributing to workplace toxicity and how to shift from controlling behaviors to fostering a thriving team. Dig deeper: https://deniseglee.com/recognizing-a-toxic-work-environment-signs-and-solutions/ Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Have you ever felt out of sync in your personal or professional relationships, like you're playing an untuned instrument? What if mastering your senses—like actively listening, observing, and understanding your own tone—could transform how you connect with others? Join me as I explore this idea with Alan Carroll, a transcendental psychologist with over 40 years of experience helping people align their inner and outer worlds for deeper, more harmonious connections. Connect with Alan at: Facebook :https://www.facebook.com/alan.carroll.7359 https://www.facebook.com/AlanCarrolltrains Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aca-mindful-you/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindfulnesseminar/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D Web Site: www.acamindfulyou.com Twitter (X) @mindfulyounow Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of resilience and explore how reimagining past painful situations can lead to profound healing. Learn practical strategies to shift your perspective and turn old wounds into sources of strength. If you're ready to break free from your past and build emotional resilience, this conversation will give you the tools to get started. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Goal-setting for 2025 isn't just about dreaming big—it's about turning those dreams into a clear, actionable plan. Imagine starting the year with a focused vision and ending it with tangible progress you can celebrate. Tune in to learn how getting specific, staying flexible, and taking consistent steps can transform your goals into reality. Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

As the year comes to a close, it's time to pause and reflect on your growth journey—but not in the way you might think. In this episode, we're diving into the lessons behind your wins and setbacks, how to embrace unfinished business, and why rest is a key part of progress. Let's uncover the deeper truths about healing, leadership, and setting meaningful goals for the year ahead. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

In this episode, I'm talking about something that might surprise you: the spiritual energy behind how we run our businesses and live our lives. I brought in Reverend Randy Atkins Jr., author of Produce on Purpose, to unpack why doing all the "right things" isn't enough if your spirit is misaligned. If you've ever felt like something's missing despite your best efforts, this conversation might hold the answer. Connect Randy at: https://www.randyadkinsjr.com/speaker/ Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Visit DeniseGLee.com to:

Discover why understanding your ideal client is the secret to scaling your impact without burning out. In this episode, we'll dive into how targeting the right people unlocks deeper connections, better results, and greater fulfillment. Tune in to learn the surprising ways your business transforms when you stop chasing everyone and start serving those who truly align with your mission. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to never miss an update Share with others who might benefit Leave a review to help others find us Stay Connected with Me! Get Selling Superstar using this link! Visit DeniseGLee.com to: