Suzy Burke’s journey is a powerful reminder that reinvention has no age limit and purpose can evolve at every stage of life. After a successful career as a Fortune 20 executive, Suzy chose to step into a path driven by impact rather than titles—becoming an executive coach, advisor, and author committed to transforming how people lead themselves. Humans of Fuzia is proud to feature Suzy because her work speaks directly to our global community of women (and allies) who are striving to overcome self-doubt, reclaim confidence, and create meaningful change—both personally and professionally.
Q&A
Q. Suzy, can you tell us about your journey and what led you to where you are today?
I spent about 15 years as an executive at a Fortune 20 company. At a relatively young age, I felt I had learned what I needed to and wanted to do something different. I retired at 53 and started a fair-trade business with Brazil, which was exciting and meaningful. Later, we opened a store in Soho, New York. While I loved the experience, I missed the intellectual challenge, so I transitioned into executive coaching and consulting. Today, I’m also a member of Marshall Goldsmith’s 100 Coaches and deeply invested in helping leaders grow.
Q. What inspired you to write your book, Head of Mentals?
The book came from what I consistently saw in my coaching clients—and in myself. We all struggle with negative self-talk. That inner voice telling us we’re not good enough, not smart enough, or not capable enough gets in the way of our growth. We call it “the monster.” I wanted to help people recognize it and then give them a simple—but not easy—process to transform it.
Q. You mention a process to deal with this “monster.” Can you explain it simply?
The first step is to catch it. Often, our emotions or body react before our mind does. For me, it’s when my stomach tightens. The second step is to confront it—ask whether what that voice is saying is actually true or just an old story on repeat. The third step is to choose a different narrative and lean into your possibilities instead of your fears.
Q. What is Accountability INC, and how does it support leaders and organizations?
Accountability INC is an advisory firm where we help organizations build real accountability. Many leaders spend too much time chasing follow-ups. We use a system called OKRs—Objectives and Key Results—to focus teams on what truly matters. Leaders meet weekly, review progress honestly, and ask for help when needed. It shifts the mindset from “me” to “us,” which is incredibly powerful for organizations.
Q. What impact do you hope your work and your book will create in the world?
For me, it’s not about sales or growth metrics—it’s about changing lives. When people recognize how they’re getting in their own way and learn that the brain is plastic, everything changes. I truly believe that if we change the message in our heads, we change the direction of our lives.
Q. Who is this book for?
We designed it for leaders, but what surprised us was how universal it is. Leaders told us they gave it to their children, and it resonated deeply. Honestly, the earlier people learn to manage negative self-talk, the better. It works at any age.
“Whether you think you can or you think you can’t—you’re right. Lean into your power, your possibilities, and who you can become.” — Suzy Burke
Call to Action
Connect with Suzy Burke: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzy-burke-phd-ab77071a/
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