The Hidden Barriers to Success: Baiju Solanki on Identity, Energy and Self-Leadership

S4: E2

What happens when success on paper doesn’t match how you feel inside?

In this powerful conversation, performance psychologist, entrepreneur and author Baiju Solanki shares how redefining success, removing interference and getting radically honest transformed his career and his life. From walking away from a high-paying role to launching multiple businesses, Baiju speaks candidly about identity, leadership and the mindset traps that hold even high-achievers back.

We explore:
• Why alignment matters more than accolades
• How fear and avoidance show up in leaders
• What true performance looks like when ego is stripped away
• Why AI is creating a new imperative for human-led leadership

Honest, energetic and full of sharp insight — this episode will stay with you.

Key Takeaways
Performance isn’t about potential — it’s about removing interference. Baiju unpacks how internal blockers like fear, self-doubt and people-pleasing can quietly limit even the most outwardly successful professionals.

True success comes from inner alignment, not external validation. Through stories and lived experience, Baiju explains why fulfilment starts with identity, self-awareness and taking responsibility at the highest level.

Guest Information: 

linkedin.com/in/baijusolanki-performance-psychologist
baijusolanki.com/
changeyourgamebook.com/ 

 Just to let our listeners know — we’ve just won Podcast of the Year at the Women’s Business Awards 2025

Chapters

• 3:25 Introduction
• 4:58 Baiju talks about the move into Psychology
• 6:39 The pivotal move into coaching
• 9:12 What were your learnings from being in education and working with teachers
• 13:51 Elite Coaching Mastermind
• 22:55 Performance is potential minus interference
• 28:11 Being conscious of the energy you bring