The Impostor Syndrome Files

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about confidently leading change. Are you responsible for leading change? Maybe your role requires a lot of influence without authority. Or you’re a leader who has to drive change with your team. If so, you know how challenging it can be to get people on board. This week, I talk with Sarena Diamond, a transformation executive, about how to manage the human side of change. Here she shares a 3-step process for approaching change in the face of resistance, which is almost always rooted in fear. We also talk about what to do when you’re leading change and you doubt yourself. About My Guest Sarena Diamond is a multi-dimensional transformation executive with hands-on expertise in Organizational Change Management, Program & Project Management, Communications, Facilitation, and Training. Throughout her career at Accenture, IBM, Pepsi Cola, Hyperion and Mellon Investor Services, she worked with globally and culturally diverse teams, leaders and stakeholders to deliver transformative outcomes. Her client base spans from Fortune 100 enterprises to PE-backed ventures across a wide array of industries and she has worked with countless leaders struggling to find confidence and comfort in their roles.  Sarena is a quick study of people, situations and organizational needs. She faces challenges with curiosity and confidence, brings positivity to seemingly insurmountable problems and is purpose-driven to help teams navigate change effectively. Sarena established Diamond Solutions Group with the goal of partnering with leaders to maximize their investment of time and resources in transformation, while inspiring their teams to achieve great outcomes. Along the way, those same leaders build their own skills, capabilities and confidence such that their inner voice supports achieving greatness and squelches Imposter Syndrome tendencies.  ~ Connect with Sarena: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarena-diamond/ Website: https://www.diamondsolutionsgroupllc.com/ ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about raising confident communicators. Are you raising your kids or influencing the younger humans in your lives to be confident communicators? For better or worse, technology has changed the way we communicate. As younger generations continue to enter the workforce, it’s important that they be prepared to confidently and effectively communicate with others. My guest this week is Tim Newman, an educator who has specialized in sport marketing, public relations, leadership, and social media. Here Tim and I talk about common communication challenges in the workplace. We then focus our attention on preparing future generations to communicate by providing them with the appropriate resources and opportunities to build their skills. About My Guest Dr. Tim Newman is an accomplished educator and sport professional with nearly three decades of experience in the field of sport management and athletic training. Specializing in the areas of sport marketing, public relations, leadership, and social media, he has taught in the United States and across the globe including Botswana, Malaysia and Thailand. He has always been a forward thinker and problem solver which led to him write Social Media in Sport Marketing, which was published over 10 years ago as one of the first books on the subject. Those qualities were also the impetus for him teaching and developing online courses for over twenty years and laid the foundation for his newest project, the Formula For Public Speaking which is a step-by-step program to help anyone who wants to improve their public speaking skills. ~ Connect with Tim: Website: https://timnewmanspeaks.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timnewman X: https://x.com/TimNATC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimNewmanSpeakingWithConfidence Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timnewmanspeaks ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about becoming the best versions of ourselves. Do you feel like you’re the best version of yourself? This does not mean perfection - we know there’s no such thing! But, in general, do you feel like you’re showing up as the person you want to be in the world? My guest this week is Evan Kuterbach, who left his full-time corporate career to co-found Canyon Pickleball. Here we talk about a wide range of topics, including: how to build connections when you’re in a new place, how to manage self-doubt when you’re navigating change and why it’s so important to be the best version of yourself. About My Guest Evan Kuterbach is an entrepreneur and the co-founder of Canyon Pickleball, a lifestyle brand dedicated to bringing people together through sport, sustainability, and community. After over a decade in client-facing sales roles, Evan left the 9-5 world to build a new life for himself and his family. He first founded a successful copywriting agency, where he realized his knack for creating authentic, compelling messaging. Now, with Canyon Pickleball, he’s merging his love for the outdoors with his drive to make a difference. Evan is all about real talk on entrepreneurship, building community, and following your own path. ~ Connect with Evan: You can follow Canyon Pickleball's journey at https://canyonpickleball.com/ or on all social media @canyonpickleball.  If you enjoy learning more about Evan’s personal journey of leaving the corporate world behind, building a successful copywriting agency, and sharing real talk on business, entrepreneurship, and chasing new passions, follow him on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evankuterbach/. ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about the neuroscience of confidence. Have you ever wondered why you make “stupid” mistakes? Or why you can’t form a coherent thought in a stressful meeting? My guest this week is Caroline Brewin, executive and leadership coach and founder of Brain Powered Coaching. Here she shares what happens to our brains under pressure and why we struggle with so much self-doubt. These insights can help us to feel less alone while recognizing that we’re not defective, we’re just stressed. We also talk about the risks to organizations when critical masses of employees experience stress and self-doubt. About My Guest Caroline is the CEO of Brain Powered Coaching, a professional Executive and Confidence coach, as well as having over 18 years of Global Investment Banking experience. Caroline is a published author, trainer, passionate speaker and thought leader on the Neuroscience of Confidence, inspiring audiences worldwide to uncover their strengths and lead authentically. ~ Connect with Caroline: Website: https://www.brainpoweredcoaching.com  Social Media: @brainpoweredcoaching LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-brewin ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about feeling like an outsider. Most of us have, at one time or another, experienced the pain of feeling like we don’t belong, though some of us face this more often because of various aspects of our identity. My guest this week is Naeemah Elias, founder of Elias Presence Ventures, about how to navigate experiences when you feel like an outsider. Here Naeemah shares her journey of working her way out of poverty and into a degree from Harvard and the experiences of feeling like an outsider along the way. In particular, we talk about the ways in which she adopted different personas to fit each situation, rather than lean into an authentic self, an approach all too familiar to me because of my own experience, which I share here. We also talk about actions you can take to counteract these negative feelings and thrive as an outsider. About My Guest Naeemah started her career as a professional actress. She worked her way out of poverty south of Chicago and earned a psychology degree from Harvard. After an acting tour as a puppeteer, and few years on Boston stages, she became a mother. She quickly became a Single-Mom with 3 kids under 6, and got serious about cultivating independent free-range children, while building a corporate career! Naeemah created Elias Presence Ventures to transform the universe of talent development and mobility. From Thriving as an Outsider, through public speaking, to management training, she aligns company culture with the leadership of the future so everyone thrives. ~ Connect with Naeemah: Website: https://www.eliaspresence.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/naeemahelias/ Consultation: https://calendly.com/naeemah-elias/consultation  ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about thriving. When it comes to work, are you thriving or are you just surviving? This can be a difficult question to consider because, if you are just surviving, that might be hard to admit to yourself. But, if that is the case, it doesn’t have to be that way. My guest this week is Carly Pepin, a speaker and consultant who is focused on human behavior. Here we talk about the importance of taking more risks and challenging ourselves because it’s through those challenges that we learn what we’re capable of. We also talk about leveraging your team for support, seeking feedback and having honest conversations with your manager. About My Guest Carly is an International Speaker and Consultant with a specialized focus on human behavior. She shares the message that regardless of one's background, occupation, or origin, every individual encounters personal and professional challenges stemming from their own perceived flaws. Carly emphasizes that the key to living a fulfilling life lies in how you utilize and transform these stories. Having devoted her life to mastering the intricacies of human behavior, Carly empowers others to do the same. Through her expertise, she guides individuals in looking beyond the surface and delving into the core essence of their being. By uncovering and addressing the deeper issues that hinder personal growth, Carly enables her clients to design their lives with purpose rather than succumbing to a life dictated by duty. ~ Connect with Carly: Facebook: http://facebook.com/carly.pepin.consulting Instagram: http://instagram.com/carlympepin/ LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/carlypepin/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@carlypepin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@carlypepin ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about getting out of our comfort zones. When was the last time you felt ready to do something scary? If you’re human, then probably never. My guest this week is Eddy Smits, a motivational speaker and communication and leadership expert. Because we’ll never feel ready, we have to just do it, which he likens to jumping into the pool rather than slowly getting wet. Having been a school teacher and a hospital clown in previous careers, Eddy shares powerful insights about what we can learn from children and childhood. We also talk about resisting the urge to conform, embracing our authentic selves and treating life with more playfulness. About My Guest Eddy Smits is a seasoned professional artist who spent 25 years captivating diverse audiences and, as a hospital clown, touched the lives of over 10,000 sick and palliative children. His unique journey led him to become an expert in authentic communication and leadership, which he details in his book ‘Model C’. Since 2012, Eddy has applied these insights to the field of personal development, using the techniques of a hospital clown and positive intelligence to boost Mental Fitness and leadership. As a speaker, Eddy shares powerful life lessons, challenging conventional thinking and inspiring creativity, resilience, and self-discovery in all who listen. ~ Connect with Eddy: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddysmits-publicspeaker-coach/ ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about boundary setting. Many of us who identify as people-pleasers, conflict-avoiders or just those who don’t want to rock the boat often find it challenging to say no. My guest this week is Suzanne Culberg, the “Nope Coach” who helps people say no without feeling guilty. Here Suzanne shares her own story of the pivotal moment in which she realized it was time to start setting boundaries. We also talk about actionable, practical steps you can take to make boundary setting feel less scary and shame-inducing. Suzanne brings great humor to this conversation, so whether or not you’ve mastered boundary setting, you’ll likely enjoy the conversation. About My Guest Suzanne Culberg is ‘The Nope Coach’ who helps over-givers and people pleasers learn to set boundaries and say 'No' without feeling guilty. Suzanne is known for her straight-talking and her wacky t-shirts. She lives in Sydney, Australia with her husband and 2 awesome children. ~ Connect with Suzanne: Website: https://www.suzanneculberg.com/ Newsletter: https://www.suzanneculberg.com/newsletter YouTube: youtube.com/@suzanneculberg ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about feeling too young at work. Have you ever felt too young at work? Maybe people thought they were complimenting you by pointing out how young you look. Or they made condescending comments that made you feel different or unwelcome. My guest this week is Leslie Alvarez, community management leader and author of the book, “When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Tamales”. Here Leslie shares her experience of regularly being made to feel too young. Having graduated from high school at 15, built a career in her teens and had her first child at 20, Leslie has consistently encountered people and situations that have made her feel too young. We also explore how she’s learned to manage these insecurities and what she recommends to others with similar experiences. About My Guest Leslie has been a community management leader for over 26 years. A native Texan and single mother of two, Arianna (26 years) and AJ (23 years), their small family of 3 has lived through multiple challenges that have brought her to her knees. But she believes in the magic of a big comeback, and that plotting the comeback begins while you are on the floor. Leslie holds a BBA from Texas Woman’s University, having graduated as an adult learner at the age of 41. She hopes to help those struggling, recognize that they are not alone and their comeback strategy is in their hands. Leslie self-published a short story of her life offering various tips on overcoming both imposter syndrome and anxiety by pushing through adversity on Amazon titled, When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Tamales. Scott served on the board of the International Leadership Association, Association of Leadership Educators, and Management and Organizational Behavior Teaching Society. He was named an ILA Fellow by the International Leadership Association in 2021. ~ Connect with Leslie: Website: www.lesliealvarez.com  ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about leadership. Being a people leader is hard! It’s especially hard in a rapidly changing world where there is so much more to think about and so much less time available to us. My guest this week is Scott Allen, a management professor and leadership consultant who talks about what he refers to as the puzzle of leadership. Here we explore the challenges facing current leaders and how to approach them through curiosity and experimentation. Scott also shares three important action steps all people leaders should take to build their confidence and maximize their effectiveness. And, finally, we talk about some options to consider if you’re working for a difficult boss. About My Guest Scott J. Allen, Ph.D., is an award-winning educator passionate about working with people at all levels and across industries. He serves as an instructor in SMU’s Cox School of Business Executive Education and spent more than 18 years as a professor of management. His areas of expertise include leader development, the future of work, and executive communication. Scott has published more than 60 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters. He’s the co-author of several books, including The Little Book of Leadership Development: 50 Ways to Bring Out the Leader in Every Employee; Emotionally Intelligent Leadership: A Guide for College Students; Discovering Leadership: Designing Your Success; and Captovation: Online Presentations by Design. Scott hosts Phronesis: Practical Wisdom for Leaders, ranked among the world's top 2.5% of podcasts. Along with the podcast, he publishes a weekly newsletter called The Leader's Edge. Scott frequently serves as a keynote speaker. In addition, he consults, facilitates workshops, and leads retreats across industries. Recent engagements include Lubrizol, Key Bank, Progressive, Nestle, EY, Siegfried Group, Dallas Area Rapid Transit, Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, Sherwin Williams, Whiting-Turner, Toyota Motor North America, Lexus, Gee Automotive, Crestron, NASA-Glenn, Elbit America, Oatey, Dominion/Enbridge, Endeavor Energy Resources, TransAlta, FedEx Custom Critical, Thompson Hine LLP, Nordson, and Cleveland Clinic. Scott served on the board of the International Leadership Association, Association of Leadership Educators, and Management and Organizational Behavior Teaching Society. He was named an ILA Fellow by the International Leadership Association in 2021. ~ Connect with Scott: Website: https://www.scottjallen.net LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-j-allen/ ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about career transitions. Career transitions can feel daunting for lots of reasons but they’re especially scary when you don’t know what you want. This week, I talk with Sarah JanTausch, founder of SRJ Coaching & Consulting and creator of the Values-Based Career method. Here Sarah shares her own career transition story that led her to the work she does today. She also offers practical tips for how to reach out to your network, how to maximize informational interviews and how to connect with your values to find the career path that’s right for you. About My Guest Sarah JanTausch is the Founder of SRJ Coaching and Consulting and creator of the Values-Based Career method. This method helps individuals to unlock the hidden job market and ditch burnout while creating a career move that is rooted in your core values, ideal work style, and goals. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Ohio Wesleyan University and a Master of Science degree in Management and Leadership from Western Governors University. ~ Connect with Sarah: Website: https://www.valuesbasedcareers.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-jantausch/ ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about what my guest this week, Melody Wilding, calls sensitive strivers. The term sensitive strivers refers to those of us who think and feel more deeply than others while also putting a lot of pressure on ourselves to set goals and succeed. This combination of traits tends to leave us more susceptible to self-doubt and impostor syndrome. Here we talk about strategies to help you set clearer boundaries, stop the constant worrying and overthinking, and better manage perfectionism so that you can achieve success on your own terms. About My Guest Melody’s work has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Oprah Magazine, NBC News, and dozens of other high-profile publications. Recently named one of Business Insider’s “Most Innovative Coaches,” Melody’s client list includes hundreds of CEOs, executives, and top-performers at the world’s most successful companies, including Google, Facebook, IBM, Netflix, and more. Her recent speaking engagements include Amazon, Stanford University Graduate School of Business, Walmart, Conde Nast, Rutgers University, Adweek, and many other distinguished organizations. Melody is a licensed social worker with a Masters degree from Columbia University, and a former researcher at Rutgers University. She teaches Human Behavior at Hunter College and is a contributor to Harvard Business Review, Forbes, Fast Company, and Business Insider. Her best-selling book, Trust Yourself: Stop Overthinking and Channel Your Emotions into Success at Work (Chronicle Books) debuted as a #1 New Release in multiple Amazon categories and was selected by Apple Books as a “Best Book of the Month” for May 2021. ~ Connect with Melody: Websites: www.melodywilding.com Book: www.melodywilding.com/book ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about the trap of the comfort zone. It’s all too easy to get stuck in our comfort zones. Each time we choose not to take action, we reinforce the security of our comfort zones, which makes the outside world feel that much scarier. This week, I talk with Aaron Trahan, a former executive leader turned performance coach who now helps leaders reach their full potential. Here we talk about strategies to break free from complacency and the status quo to become the best versions of ourselves. About My Guest Aaron has a 15+ year progressive background as a senior-level executive leader within public-company corporate environments & early-stage startups. Aaron’s leadership roles have included overseeing GTM strategy, operations, key growth initiatives, people & organizational development, & performance management. Aaron is passionate about leadership development, and most especially, helping professionals find their path from good-to-great. As a certified leadership & executive performance coach - Aaron leverages his background & training to support leaders with the implementation of systems, mental models, frameworks, growth programs, & external accountability that allows them to accelerate their path to operating as the best version of themselves and reaching full potential. ~ Connect with Aaron: Links: https://linktr.ee/aarontrahan ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about networking. Some of us love connecting with others while others of us may be less interested in or even intimidated by networking. The good news is that, whatever your relationship to networking, there are steps you can take to make it work for you. My guest this week is Michael Morgan, author of the book, “The Power of Networking”. Here he talks about how networking, both internally and externally, has helped him to grow his career across some of the world’s largest companies. Michael offers practical tips to help you manage self-doubt and stay connected to your value when building relationships with others. We also talk about the ways in which building your network can help you to boost your confidence at work. About My Guest Michael Morgan obtained his BS from Penn State University and his MBA from Carnegie Mellon University. Coupled with his educational background, he has over 15 years of work experience across companies such as Amazon, Walmart, J.P. Morgan Chase, and Chevron. His ability to build and maintain his network throughout his educational and career journey has been fruitful in his success. He has a passion for teaching and inspiring others to achieve their goals, which led him to write his first book “The Power of Networking” and begin his journey as a motivational speaker. “The Power of Networking” has won the Literary Titan Book Award, Global Book Award, International Impact Award, PenCraft Book Award, and Firebird Book Award. ~ Connect with Michael: Website: https://michaelvmorgan.com/ ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about the human brain. We like to think that we’re rational beings who happen to have feelings. In actuality, we’re emotional beings who happen to think. This week, I’m talking with Carlos Davidovich, an executive coach and neuromanagement expert, about the five different characters, or aspects of our brains, that make up what he calls our inner team and the importance of understanding which one is in charge at any given time. Here we debunk the myth that you can remove emotions from a given situation and we discuss how all behaviors are triggered by our emotions. We also talk about the inner critic and how to loosen its power. About My Guest As a Medical Doctor, TEDx Speaker and international Executive Coach, Carlos Davidovich has a unique insight into what makes us tick. Raised and educated in Argentina, Carlos draws upon his medical background and understanding of the brain to provide a unique coaching experience to top business leaders and organisations, all based on neuroscience. He is the author of 'Five Brain Leadership' (2023) and 'Personality DNA' (2022) and currently resides in Madrid, Spain. ~ Connect with Carlos: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uhk-JSgrGx0 Book: https://www.amazon.com/Five-Brain-Leadership-Neuroscience-Instincts/dp/1774582732 Website: www.CarlosDavidovich.com ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about introversion. If you’re an introvert, you’ve likely felt pressured, directly or indirectly, to be more like your extroverted colleagues. Workplaces tend to have an extrovert bias, which can make it really hard for introverts to own and embrace their unique strengths. This week, I’m talking with Stacey Chazin, a leadership coach and founder of I-Factor Leadership, who is a proud introvert and advocate for other introverts. Here we talk about how introverts can identify their positive core, in other words, the best of who they are, and use it to become more confident, effective leaders. We also talk about ways extroverts and organizations can better support introverts, which leads to better outcomes for everyone. About My Guest Stacey Chazin, a dynamic leadership development coach and proud introvert, is rewriting the narrative on introversion. Having grappled with societal expectations that favored extraversion, Stacey underwent a remarkable transformation. Instead of conforming to societal pressures, she embraced her introverted qualities, turning them into powerful assets that allowed her to thrive both professionally and personally. Now, as a fervent advocate for introverts, Stacey draws on her extensive corporate and non-profit experience, a master’s in organizational development and leadership, and certification as a Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® (MBTI®) practitioner to empower introverts, guiding them toward self-acceptance, fulfillment, and success in the workplace and beyond. ~ Connect with Stacey: Websites: https://moementum.com/, https://ifactorleadership.com, https://ifactorleadership.com/coaching/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chazinconsulting/ Conference Survival Guide for Introverts: https://ifactorleadership.com/survivalguide/ Daily Productivity Hacks for Introverts: https://ifactorleadership.com/productivity/ Meeting Playbook for Introverts: 10 Strategies to Have Your Voice Heard and Your Ideas Shine: https://ifactorleadership.com/meetingplaybook/ ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about dealing with drama at work. Because we’re complex humans, it can be challenging to navigate other people’s drama without making it about ourselves. In reality, though, very little about other people’s behaviors has anything to do with us. This week, I’m talking with Brenda Neckvatal, a human results professional who helps leaders tackle their toughest people challenges. Here she shares how she softened her own edges with support from a mentor who was willing to give her honest feedback. But she also notes that not all feedback is created equal. It’s important to prevent our people-pleasing tendencies from leading us to take action on feedback that isn’t right for us. We also talk about how to interpret and navigate other people’s emotional behaviors while regulating our own emotions. About My Guest Brenda is a three-time bestselling author, an award-winning Human Results professional, and a serial entrepreneur who has been featured in publications such as Forbes, Entrepreneur, Fast Company, Inc., and US News and World Reports. Perseverance, integrity, and relentless optimism are just a few of the ingredients you experience when meeting and working with Brenda. Not only does she help business leaders tackle their toughest people challenges, but she is also a recognized expert in crisis management and group dynamics. As a trusted mentor to leaders and managers at all levels, she equips them with the skills to navigate complex interpersonal issues, resolve conflicts, and lead with confidence. By mastering these skills, they can lead their teams into tomorrow’s rapidly evolving business landscape with resilience, clarity, and purpose. She really enjoys helping people solve their unique problems, and human resources offered her the ability to support her co-workers in a greater capacity. Having the benefit of working for a total of six Fortune 500 companies, she converted her experience into advising her audience to use tried and trusted best practices that help leaders achieve their workforce goals. In her 30-year career in human resources and business, she has consulted to over 700 small businesses and 1,000 leaders. She has optimized employee effectiveness and helped leaders develop high-performing teams and navigate intense employment-related decisions. She dedicates 32 weeks a year to working with The Honor Foundation to support the career transition of Special Forces personnel by providing them with her knowledge, insight, and creativity. ~ Connect with Brenda: Website: www.yobrenda.com ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about pressures on working parents in the workplace. If you’re a working parent, you know how challenging it is to navigate the pressures of advancing your career while being the parent you want to be. Unfortunately, many of us put a lot of pressure on ourselves to be perfect at work and at home. My guest this week is Moe Carrick, a workplace culture expert who is on a mission to make every workplace good for people because when people thrive at work, everybody wins. Here we talk about Moe’s decision to leave corporate America, the impact of the mothering myth and the need for systemic change when it comes to working parents. About My Guest Moe Carrick is an internationally recognized expert in workplace culture, with her innovative frameworks being adopted by top brands like Nike and Amazon to enhance work environments and employee satisfaction. Her talks on the future of work and employee wellbeing have graced stages like TEDx and SXSW, making her a leading voice in her field. Moe has authored bestselling books and founded Moementum Inc., a consultancy focused on building workplaces that are good for people for maximum impact. Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor adventures and lives in Bend, Oregon with her family. ~ Connect with Moe: Moe’s latest book: https://moementum.com/when-work-is-good/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moecarrick/ Website: https://moementum.com/ ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about well-being. What does well-being look like to you? This is a question we don’t often ask ourselves but, if we want to be “successful,” it’s important to consider. My guest this week is Meico Marquette Whitlock, a well-being strategist. Here we talk about how to prioritize well-being individually and collectively. Meico shares 3 powerful questions to help us identify what’s within our control and take small but meaningful action steps to improve our well-being. He also offers insights to help us better influence the well-being conversation in our workplaces. About My Guest Meico Marquette Whitlock is The Mindful Changemaker and The Mindful Techie. He works with changemakers who want to improve their well-being so they can sustainably increase their well-doing in changing the world. He is the author of the Amazon bestseller How to Thrive When Work Doesn’t Love You Back: A Practical Guide for Taking Care of Yourself While Changing the World and The Intention Planner. He has worked for more than two decades across the non-profit, public, and private sectors leveraging information and communications technology to improve well-being in underserved communities as a software and web developer, communications director, trainer and facilitator, and mindfulness teacher. As a transformational speaker, trainer, and coach, he facilitates transformative experiences that foster well-being in a hybrid world. He has worked with organizations such as the U.S. Federal Government, Cigna, and the World Wildlife Fund, and has been a featured speaker on ABC News, Fox 5, and Radio One. Meico is a former triathlete, loves salsa dancing, and makes the world’s best vegan chili! He holds an M.S. in Information Science from the University of Michigan and a B.A. in Political Science and Spanish from Morehouse College. He is also a certified trauma-informed mindfulness teacher. ~ Connect with Meico: Website: mindfultechie.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meicowhitlock/ ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about side hustles. Side hustles are a popular experiment these days but, for those of us who struggle with impostor syndrome and other fears, the process can be daunting. My guest this week, Jen Lewi, is an executive coach with a specialty in career strategy. Here she shares how she started her coaching business as a side hustle before officially making it her full-time role. Jen and I chat about how to come up with an idea for a side hustle, how to manage your mindset and how to take baby steps to achieve your goals. About My Guest Jen Lewi, MBA, CAE, ACC, is the Founder and CEO of Design Your Next Step, a boutique Executive Coaching and Career Strategy firm, helping professionals maximize their strengths and design fulfilling career paths. Jen’s clients have: Transitioned smoothly into a new role or industry. Overcome workplace challenges. Advanced their leadership skills. Grown their professional brands. Job-crafted to design more fulfilling jobs. Explored and pursued new career paths. Navigated parenthood with a rewarding career. Throughout her career, Jen mastered the art of job-crafting to build fulfilling roles. She applies that learning when clients want to build a new career path, navigate a new position, or make the most of their current jobs. At the School Nutrition Association, she held a variety of senior roles in marketing, membership, professional development, and conferences. She started her career in the corporate world with leadership roles in marketing at BBC America and in advertising at Saatchi & Saatchi. These experiences allow her to link corporate and non-profit best practices and provide an international perspective to coaching engagements, as needed. ~ Connect with Jen: Website: www.designyournextstep.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenlewi/ Articles: How to turn your side hustle into your career How to balance a side hustle with a full-time job To advance your career, you may want to think like a designer 5 ways to build your career strategy on LinkedIn ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ Website: https://kimmeninger.com