In this episode of the Decoding Confidence Podcast, Advita Patel explores what genuine empowerment looks like in the workplace, why it is so often misunderstood or poorly applied, and how intentional empowerment practices can build trust, confidence, and innovation.
Empowerment is frequently described as a leadership “soft skill,” yet when applied without clarity or trust, it can actually increase anxiety, self-doubt, and disengagement. Advita unpacks the difference between theoretical empowerment and lived experience, drawing on leadership research and real-world examples to explain why empowerment must be designed, not assumed.

The episode breaks down the four core components of empowerment—meaning, competence, autonomy, and impact—based on the work of Gretchen Spreitzer, and explores how missing even one of these elements can quietly undermine confidence. You’ll also hear why micromanagement, blurred boundaries, and unconscious bias often derail empowerment efforts, even in well-intentioned organisations.

Advita introduces the RISE model of self-empowerment (Reconnect, Invest, Shape, Embrace), showing why sustainable empowerment starts with individuals taking ownership of their confidence before attempting to empower others.

This episode is essential listening for leaders, managers, HR professionals, and internal communication specialists who want to move beyond empowerment as a buzzword and embed it as a practical leadership habit.

Resources & Further Reading
• Gretchen Spreitzer’s research on empowerment
• Frontiers in Psychology 
• Decoding Confidence: The Seven Habits of Confident Leaders – The RISE Model of Self-Empowerment