In this thoughtful and affirming episode of Quietly Visible, host Carol Stewart is joined by Karla Packham-Corteil, an introverted leader, researcher, and leadership development professional with a deep curiosity about what helps people truly thrive at work.
Karla shares her personal journey as an “accidental leader” and reflects on how being labelled quiet shaped her confidence from childhood through to senior leadership roles.

Drawing on her postgraduate research, she explores how perceived introvert mistreatment – being ignored, overlooked, or dismissed – impacts well-being, leadership self-belief, and aspirations.
Together, Carol and Karla challenge common misconceptions about introversion, assertiveness, and leadership. They unpack why many introverted leaders are far more assertive than stereotypes suggest, and why environments that favour extraversion can quietly undermine confidence – even for capable, experienced leaders.
Key takeaways from this episode include:
- Why being quiet is often misunderstood – and unfairly framed as a weakness
- How perceived introvert mistreatment affects well-being and leadership self-belief
- The critical role of leadership self-efficacy in sustaining ambition and progression
- Why assertiveness is not an extravert-only trait
- How psychological safety and authenticity help introverted leaders flourish
- What organisations can do differently to support diverse personality styles
This episode is especially valuable for introverted women leaders, aspiring leaders, coaches, HR professionals, and anyone interested in creating workplaces where people can succeed without pretending to be someone they’re not.
🔗 Connect with Karla

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlapackhamcorteil/
https://substack.com/@kpc182
Take Carol's Free Assessment to improve your impact and influence
https://aboundingsolutions.com/taketheimpactassessment/
🎵 - ©️Julie Anne Smith
#introvert #Empowerment #IntrovertedWomenLeadersTeil