Listen "How Hidden Beliefs Are Wrecking Your Productivity - With Rachel Druckenmiller "
Episode Synopsis
In this eye-opening episode, Brian Nelson-Palmer sits down with Rachel Druckenmiller—keynote speaker, singer-songwriter, and founder of Unmuted—to expose a hidden productivity killer: the quiet, limiting beliefs that shape how we work.Drawing on her own experience with burnout and recovery, Rachel shares how phrases like “I’m not the kind of person who…” silently sabotage high performers—and how reframing identity-based self-talk can shift everything.Listeners will walk away with powerful mindset tools, including Rachel’s go-to reframe question—“What kind of person do I want to be?”—and a deeper understanding of how imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and internal narratives impact productivity.Want to go deeper? Check out the show notes and resources linked in the episode!References In This EpisodeRachel Druckenmiller – racheldruckenmiller.com (Main website for speaking, coaching, music, and blog content)Rachel’s Music on Spotify – Spotify Artist Profile (Listen to original songs like Somebody and her upcoming jazz cover of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”)Brian’s 1st Album with his band FellowcraftThe first song, The West Texas Blues, is his favorite.Brian’s 2nd Album with FellowcraftThe first song, Hold The Line, won the Wammie award for best rock song in 2018. The fifth song, Bartenders & Bourbon, is an epic collaboration if you’re a blues fan! Rachel Druckenmiller on LinkedIn – LinkedIn ProfileRachel’s Social MediaInstagram: @UnmutedLifeFacebook: Unmuted with Rachel DruckenmillerYouTube: Rachel Druckenmiller – Official ChannelBooks and Concepts Referenced:Atomic Habits by James Clear (Referenced for how identity drives habits)Immunity to Change by Lisa Lahey & Robert Kegan(The coaching framework that helped Rachel rewire self-sabotaging beliefs)Dunning-Kruger Effect (Discussed in the episode as it relates to confidence and competence)Subscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Introduction to Hidden Beliefs and Self-Talk02:33 Understanding Hidden Beliefs and Their Impact04:48 The Power of Identity Statements07:15 Self-Sabotage and Productivity09:36 Fear and Its Role in Productivity11:53 The Importance of Saying No14:26 Recognizing Mindset vs. Skills Issues16:37 Procrastination as a Mindset Indicator18:57 Rewiring Unhelpful Beliefs21:44 Conclusion and Personal Reflections22:36 The Power of Questions Over Statements24:01 Rediscovering Childhood Wonder and Capability24:48 The Dunning-Kruger Effect and Self-Perception26:15 Embracing New Identities Through Action28:32 The Journey to Becoming a Singer-Songwriter33:10 Claiming Your Identity and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs37:59 Transforming Self-Talk and Identity Questions42:45 Future Aspirations: Music and AuthorshipToday’s GuestRachel DruckenmillerKeynote Speaker, TEDx Speaker, Leadership Trainer, Singer-SongwriterFounder of UnmutedRachel Druckenmiller is a keynote speaker, TEDx presenter, and the founder of Unmuted, a leadership and learning consultancy that helps people tap into greater clarity, confidence, and courage. With nearly two decades of experience, Rachel works with organizations, associations, and teams to amplify purpose, strengths, and impact—starting from the inside out.She’s been recognized by Forbes as a Next1000 honoree, named a “40 Under 40 Game Changer” by Workforce Magazine, and selected by Smart Meetings as a “Best of the Stage” speaker. Whether she’s leading a training or delivering a keynote, Rachel brings a refreshing blend of vulnerability, energy, and practical insight that helps people rethink burnout, rebuild self-belief, and re-engage with work in meaningful ways.Outside of speaking, Rachel is a singer-songwriter with original music streaming on all major platforms and a debut book launching in Fall 2026. She's also a fan of fresh air, unfiltered conversations, and singing Disney songs with full confidence—even in the cereal aisle.Connect with her at: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/racheldruckenmiller Website: racheldruckenmiller.com
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