She Talks Confidence Podcast

How to Show Up Boldly When the World Tells You to “Tone It Down"

Tony Dufresne, PhD Season 2

Welcome to the She Talks Confidence Podcast, where we champion the stories of women who dare to lead, speak up, and shine no matter the pressures to fit in or play small.

In today’s episode, “How to Show Up Boldly When the World Tells You to ‘Tone It Down', host Tony Dufresne, PhD, welcomes dynamic speaker, coach, and author Cassy Williamson to the mic. Cassy opens up about her personal journey from being asked to “tone it down” in corporate settings to writing her new book, Unapologetic, a rallying cry for all women to step fully into their power, embrace authenticity, and lead with confidence.

Cassy shares real-life stories and actionable strategies for women navigating imposter syndrome, workplace feedback, and the pressure to conform, especially in male-dominated environments. Discover how to stand tall in your truth, build meaningful connections, and create a supportive tribe that lifts you higher.

Three Biggest Takeaways:

Authenticity is Your Superpower:
Stop trying to mute what makes you unique. Embracing and expressing your true self, can be the very quality that sets you apart and inspires others, even in spaces that seem resistant to change.

Connection Over Conformity:
Before you worry about being accepted, focus on connecting with those around you. Leveraging emotional intelligence to “read the room,” meet people where they are, and build genuine rapport can ease resistance and open doors, even with the toughest critics.

Your Tribe Matters:
Surrounding yourself with the right support system, both your day-one friends and deep-end professional allies, is vital for sustained confidence. Not everyone will “get” you, but those who do will help you thrive. Don’t try to please everyone; serve those who are ready to receive your message.

Connect with Cassy Williamson:

Pre-order Unapologetic (out October 28th) wherever books are sold, including Amazon.

Find Cassy on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook at Cassy Williamson (C-A-S-S-Y, like “Sassy”).

Reach out directly. Cassy loves connecting with her listeners and helping you find your tribe.

Connect with Tony Dufresne, PhD:

Email: tony@theconfidencedoc.com

Website: theconfidencedoc.com or tonydufresne.com

Check out Tony’s book, Surrounded by Idiots, and his personal growth and toxic relationship mini-classes online.

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode because your boldness can give permission for others to stand in their power, too.