What if the key to unlocking your potential wasn’t waiting for the perfect opportunity but realizing that you get to create it?

In this episode of The Gently Used Human, Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with Maha Abouelenein, a global expert in communications, branding, and self-reliance, to explore the mindset shifts that turn hesitation into action, connections into opportunities, and self-doubt into unshakable confidence.

Maha’s career spans decades as a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies, CEOs, and some of the world’s most influential brands. She understands what it takes to build influence, create lasting relationships, and step fully into your strengths. In this conversation, she shares the strategies she’s used to navigate her own journey—from overcoming personal challenges to becoming one of the most sought-after voices in branding and communication.

Together, Maha and Scott break down how to reframe self-doubt, develop confidence through action, and build a personal brand that reflects who you truly are. They explore why networking doesn’t have to feel transactional, how the simple shift from have to to get to can change your entire outlook, and why true success comes from showing up, creating value, and taking bold steps forward.

This episode is filled with practical insights on how to stop waiting, start owning your story, and build the kind of influence that opens doors.

• Reframing self-doubt – Why waiting for confidence is a trap
• Building your network – How to connect with people authentically
• The power of gratitude – Why shifting from have to → get to changes everything
• Personal branding – Why your reputation matters more than ever
• Taking the first step – How to break free from hesitation and just start

This is a conversation about power, presence, and the freedom that comes from stepping into who you truly are. Listen now on The Gently Used Human.

Maha's "Icebreaker Questions for Introverts"

• How can I help?
• What brought you to this event?
• What do you enjoy most about your work?
• What projects are you excited about working on next?
• How did you first get started in [industry]?
• What do you find most challenging/rewarding about your job?
• What inspired you to pursue a career in [specific field]?
• Are there any industry trends or developments that particularly interest you right now?
• How do you see your industry evolving in the next few years?
• What advice would you give to someone just starting out in [industry/profession]
• What are your thoughts on [current industry news/topic]
• Have you attended any interesting conferences or workshops lately?
• Are there any skills or knowledge areas you're currently looking to develop?