#172 Aging, Leadership, And (NOT) Being The Hotshot

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They won’t tell you this part.

That getting better, wiser, and more experienced… can sometimes feel like fading into the background.

You’re not the rookie anymore. Not the one everyone’s watching. And even if you’re still chasing big dreams, there are moments where it feels like most of your energy goes toward helping someone else win.

This week’s episode was born in a dark movie theater with buttered popcorn, where I thought I was watching an action flick—and instead got hit in the gut by something much deeper. Brad Pitt. Fast cars. And an unexpected masterclass in quiet leadership.

It cracked something open in me.

And if you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Am I still going after my dream… or just helping everyone else chase theirs?”—this episode is for you.

We’re talking aging, ego, and that strange, tender season of evolving from the one in the spotlight… to the one holding the line. And what it really means to lead with strength no one claps for.

🎧 If this episode hit home—or reminded you of a rider who needs to hear this—tag me on Instagram @nicoleburnettmentalcoach and @resilientreiner so I can cheer you on and hear your story. And don’t forget to leave a review on iTunes so more riders can find this podcast when they need it most.

In This Episode You’ll Learn:

The surprising emotional gut punch from a Brad Pitt racing movie (yep, really)
How aging in the saddle can bring up grief—and wisdom
Why quiet strength is often invisible, but never wasted
What it means to lead behind the scenes (and why it’s just as powerful as standing in the spotlight)
How to honor the version of you that still wants the win—even if your role looks different now

Questions I Answer:

Can you still chase your dream and make space for others?
What happens when no one sees the work you’re doing behind the scenes?
How do you keep riding with fire and vision when you're no longer the "rising star"?
Is it okay to still want more, even if you're mostly mentoring, parenting, or supporting someone else's journey?

🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES:

🎯 5 Days to Confident Competitor. Stop ‘show nerves’ and saddle up with swagger! https://nicoleburnettcoaching.thrivecart.com/5-days-to-confident-competitor/
🎯 Resilient Reiner Academy → The confidence to win so you ride like you belong. Sign up here! https://www.nicoleburnettcoaching.com/resilientreineracademy
🎯 Get Free Weekly Mental Coaching Tips → Join my email list! Subscribe here

This one’s close to my heart.

Sometimes, growth isn’t about riding harder—it’s about not giving up while carrying more quietly.

And still showing up. Still dreaming. Still going.

You’re not done. You’re just evolving.

Let’s ride.

— Nicole