The Impodsters™

A show about Imposter Syndrome The Impodsters Podcast is a show dedicated to exploring imposter syndrome—what it is, why it happens, and how to tackle it. Join us as we share stories, expert advice, and strategies to help you embrace your worth and thrive in your personal and professional life. Perfect for anyone looking to overcome self-doubt and build confidence.

8. Joy and Leadership: How Compassionate Leadership Can Transform Lives with Janet Miller 08/03/2025

7. Redefining Imposter Syndrome with Dr. Jill Stoddard 07/06/2025

6. The Fuzzy Line of Imposter Syndrome 06/02/2025

5. Challenging Misconceptions of Imposter Syndrome with Kris Kelso 05/04/2025

5. Challenging Misconceptions of Imposter Syndrome with Kris Kelso What if imposter syndrome isn’t just a feeling of self-doubt but a side effect of success? In this episode of The Impodsters Podcast, the hosts sit down with Kris Kelso, a thought leader on imposter syndrome, keynote speaker, and author of Overcoming the Imposter. With over 70,000 views on his TED talk about the topic, Kris shares his expertise on understanding and overcoming imposter syndrome, especially in high achievers and creatives. The conversation kicks off with Kris's unique definition of imposter syndrome, describing it as “a pattern of thinking where a person systematically and persistently doubts the reality of their success, despite evidence to the contrary.” He also delves into the ongoing debate over the terms "imposter" vs. "impostor," and why some psychologists prefer calling it the “imposter phenomenon.” Kris challenges the popular “fake it till you make it” approach and explains why it can lead to further erosion of confidence for those dealing with imposter syndrome. Instead, he advocates for cultivating “humble confidence” – acknowledging inexperience while trusting in the ability to learn and grow. Throughout the episode, Kris emphasizes the importance of embracing failure and mistakes as part of the learning process, and discusses the significant role our societal norms and education system play in shaping a mindset where learning is seen as a one-time event, not a continuous journey. Kris and the hosts explore how imposter syndrome manifests in high achievers and creatives, discussing how social media and the comparison trap can exacerbate feelings of self-doubt. They also touch on how certain leadership styles and workplace cultures can worsen these feelings by discouraging vulnerability. Kris shares practical strategies for managing imposter syndrome, including focusing on measurable outcomes and using self-awareness as a tool for resilience. He also discusses the power of personifying the “inner critic,” or imposter voice, as a separate entity from one’s true self. This technique allows people to gain perspective and create distance from self-doubt. With personal stories, actionable insights, and a focus on leadership strategies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with imposter syndrome in their career or creative pursuits. Stay tuned for the next episode, where the hosts will dive deeper into the experiences of another guest navigating imposter syndrome. Resources Mentioned: Access Kris Kelso’s website Access Kris Kelso’s book (Overcoming The Impostor) Kris Kelso's TED talk (over 70,000 views) Carol Dweck's book ' work on collaboration and learning Connect With Us: /episode/index/show/6968b8a0-746d-4fc9-a8c3-062cf2774f77/id/35774330

4. Get To Know Johnny 04/06/2025

3. Say Hello To Jeff. 03/02/2025

3. Say Hello To Jeff. What if imposter syndrome isn’t just self-doubt but a side effect of success? In this insightful episode of The Impodsters, co-host Jeff steps into the hot seat for the second installment of our three-part series on imposter syndrome. Using 20 pre-prepared questions, Jeff dives deep into the roots of imposter syndrome, why it affects high achievers and creatives, and how it can both motivate and hinder success. The conversation begins with psychologist Pauline Rose Clance’s definition of imposter syndrome and unpacks why high performers often feel like they’re never "enough." Jeff shares his perspective on how imposter syndrome manifests in the workplace, highlighting that fewer than 5% of organizations actively address it. He explores the role of leadership in tackling self-doubt and how managers can foster an environment where employees feel valued and supported. Listeners will also hear Jeff’s strategies for keeping imposter syndrome in check, from focusing on measurable outcomes to using self-awareness as a tool for resilience. The hosts reflect on the parable of the two lumberjacks, emphasizing the importance of rest, self-care, and sharpening one’s skills. With personal anecdotes, workplace insights, and practical strategies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating imposter syndrome in their career or creative pursuits. Tune in as John takes his turn in the next interview seat. Key Takeaways: 🔹 Imposter Syndrome as a Double-Edged Sword – While it can push high achievers to strive for more, it can also create an endless cycle of self-doubt and validation-seeking. 🔹 The Workplace Factor – With fewer than 5% of companies addressing imposter syndrome, there’s a need for greater awareness and leadership strategies to support employees. 🔹 Managing Imposter Syndrome – Jeff shares his approach of focusing on measurable outcomes and separating emotions from execution to stay grounded. 🔹 Lessons from the Lumberjack Parable – Taking breaks and sharpening skills is essential for long-term success and avoiding burnout. 🔹 Looking Ahead – Next episode, Kyle steps into the spotlight to share his journey with imposter syndrome. Resources Mentioned: Check out Slavoj Zizek, Connect With Us: : Work With Mellisah Moyo: /episode/index/show/6968b8a0-746d-4fc9-a8c3-062cf2774f77/id/35347170

2. Get to know Kyle 02/02/2025

2. Get to know Kyle What if the voice in your head telling you you're not good enough was louder than the applause you receive? In this raw and thought-provoking episode of The Impodsters, co-host Kyle opens up about his lifelong battle with imposter syndrome in the first installment of a three-part series. While co-host Jeff is away due to a family emergency, Kyle and the host dive deep into the inner workings of self-doubt and its profound impact on Kyle's personal and professional life. Kyle shares how his challenging childhood, marked by abuse and poverty, shaped his harsh inner critic. From rapidly climbing the corporate ladder in cybersecurity to pursuing creative passions like comedy and writing, Kyle recounts how imposter syndrome has influenced his journey. He reflects on overcoming self-doubt while rewriting an 80,000-word memoir, navigating 250 literary rejections, and learning to embrace personal achievements rather than focusing on external validation. Listeners are treated to an empathetic exploration of coping mechanisms, including the importance of mentorship, self-awareness, and celebrating small wins. With a mix of vulnerability, humor, and actionable strategies, this episode sheds light on the resilience behind imposter syndrome and the potential it can unlock when faced head-on. Key Takeaways Imposter Syndrome Origins: Rooted in Kyle's difficult childhood, his inner critic stems from formative experiences of abuse and neglect. Creativity as a Coping Tool: Music and writing served as emotional outlets for Kyle, helping him process his past and channel self-expression. Unintended Career Growth: Despite not aspiring to leadership roles, Kyle climbed the corporate ladder, fueling feelings of inadequacy. Creative Resilience: His rewriting of an 80,000-word book in just three months showcases persistence despite rejection. Value of Mentorship: Kyle highlights the wisdom of seeking guidance from mentors who have overcome similar struggles. Self-Celebration: He emphasizes the need to acknowledge personal achievements and let go of constant comparisons. Resources Mentioned: Check out Kyle’s podcast, Movie Wars Connect With Us: : Work With Mellisah Moyo: /episode/index/show/6968b8a0-746d-4fc9-a8c3-062cf2774f77/id/34720080

1. Why. 01/05/2025

1. Why. Ever feel like a fraud, no matter how much you've achieved? You're not alone. In the debut episode of The Impodsters, hosts Jeff, Kyle, and John dive deep into their personal battles with imposter syndrome—the nagging voice that tells you you're not deserving of your success. From Jeff’s life-changing mentorship experience to Kyle’s raw reflections on using his challenging upbringing as fuel for success, and John’s transformative chat with business coach Kris Kelso, this episode explores the realities of imposter syndrome. Tune in to hear how vulnerability, mentorship, and shared stories can help quiet the inner critic and offer tools to manage self-doubt in your career, relationships, and beyond. 00:00:04 - John introduces The Impodsters podcast, highlighting its focus on self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and personal stories. 00:00:26 - The hosts share the purpose behind the podcast: exploring struggles with imposter syndrome and helping listeners feel less alone. 00:02:13 - John defines imposter syndrome using the Oxford Dictionary, explaining its connection to high achievement and self-doubt. 00:05:05 - Jeff emphasizes the difference between self-doubt and imposter syndrome and highlights the role of shared experiences in overcoming it. 00:09:56 Jeff recounts how his mentor, Charlie, helped him navigate imposter syndrome and inspired him to support others. 00:12:09 Kyle shares his story, discussing his traumatic upbringing, the drive it created, and the crippling self-doubt he faces. 00:16:30 - John reflects on the paradox of external success and internal struggles, comparing it to a duck gliding on water. 00:22:20 - Jeff talks about building resilience through challenges and how it helps improve responses to future obstacles. 00:27:10 - John shares how a pivotal conversation with kris Kelso introduced him to imposter syndrome and shifted his perspective. 00:34:52 -The hosts preview future episodes, promising interviews, practical tools, and strategies for navigating imposter syndrome. Resources Mentioned: Adam Grant and Scott Galloway on Imposter Syndrome – Gain valuable insights from their conversation. Kris Kelso’s Overcoming the Impostor – Explore tools to reframe and manage imposter syndrome. Connect With Us: : Work With Mellisah Moyo: /episode/index/show/6968b8a0-746d-4fc9-a8c3-062cf2774f77/id/34719940

The Impodsters™

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