Social Skills Mastery
The Social Skills Mastery Podcast is where High-Performance Social Confidence Coach and Corporate Trainer, Susan Callender helps professionals, business owners, and entrepreneurs stand out in competitive and often high-stakes situations, by raising social capital and using the power of polished people skills to make an impact. Weekly content encompasses what to do, what to say, how to maneuver tricky situations and get it right the first time.
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231. The Hidden Cost of Skipping Happy Hour: Why Face Time Matters More Than You Think
05/16/2025
231. The Hidden Cost of Skipping Happy Hour: Why Face Time Matters More Than You Think
In this eye-opening episode, we'll look at how taking a pass on after-work social events could be costing you money, missed opportunities, new business, and promotions. What You'll Learn: The psychological principles that make face time so powerful for career advancement Why remote workers need to be even more intentional about creating social connection opportunities Practical strategies for non-drinkers and introverts to navigate workplace social events ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your interpersonal skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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BONUS: Special Invite - The Meant for More Masterclass
05/12/2025
BONUS: Special Invite - The Meant for More Masterclass
Meant for More Masterclass Registration Link:
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230. From Stagnation to Momentum: Mastering the Social Side of Career Advancement
05/09/2025
230. From Stagnation to Momentum: Mastering the Social Side of Career Advancement
It can be frustrating watching others advance while feeling stuck in your career. Today we reveal how social skills and confidence play a much bigger role in professional advancement than most people realize. What You'll Learn: The four hidden reasons professionals get stuck in their careers Why technical skills might get you hired, but social skills get you promoted How losing your passion affects your social presence at work Why comfort zones create "social atrophy" that limits your visibility The misconception that career success requires sacrificing work-life balance Key Takeaways: Career plateaus are often more about social dynamics than technical capabilities Small, consistent actions compound over time to create professional momentum How you communicate your value matters as much as the value you create Breaking through requires both internal clarity and external visibility Resources Mentioned: Social Confidence Breakthrough Video Series: The School of Social Mastery: Take the first step to breaking through your career plateau by identifying which of the five framework steps resonates most with your situation, then commit to one small action this week. ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your interpersonal skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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229. Beyond 'What Do You Do?': Social Questions That Make You Unforgettable at Any Business Event
05/02/2025
229. Beyond 'What Do You Do?': Social Questions That Make You Unforgettable at Any Business Event
Ever walked into a networking event and immediately felt your confident professional persona dissolve into awkwardness? In this episode, we tackle the art of conversation at business socials and reveal how accomplished professionals can transform these dreaded events into genuinely enjoyable—and valuable—experiences. What You'll Learn: Why "What do you do?" is the conversation killer you need to eliminate from your repertoire The psychology behind why social settings feel more challenging than structured work environments A simple approach to breaking the ice that feels generous rather than awkward The perfect balance between asking questions and sharing about yourself Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur who dreads industry mixers or a corporate professional who gets tongue-tied at company events, this episode provides immediately applicable techniques to showcase your authentic self in any social business setting. Resources Mentioned: Free download: "” ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your interpersonal skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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228. The Hidden Cost of Hesitation: Why Successful Professionals Need to Act Now
04/25/2025
228. The Hidden Cost of Hesitation: Why Successful Professionals Need to Act Now
In episode #228, we tackle the uncomfortable truth about why smart, accomplished professionals hold themselves back socially—and the far-reaching consequences of this hesitation. If you've been telling yourself that your social skills are "just how you are" or that it's "too late to change," this episode will challenge those beliefs and offer a clear path forward. This episode is for high-achieving professionals and business owners who know they could have greater impact if only they could overcome their social hesitation. Learn why waiting isn't an option and how taking action now creates positive ripple effects across all areas of your life. ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your social skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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227. Why That School Play Moment Still Haunts Your Executive Presence (And How to Fix It)
04/17/2025
227. Why That School Play Moment Still Haunts Your Executive Presence (And How to Fix It)
In this episode, we explore how those seemingly small social moments from childhood continue to shape your professional behavior decades later. If you've ever wondered why you hold back in meetings, avoid the spotlight despite your expertise, or feel anxious before networking events, this episode reveals the surprising connection to childhood social experiences. Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or corporate professional feeling held back by inexplicable social anxiety, this episode provides compassionate insights and actionable solutions to help you finally step confidently into the spotlight your expertise deserves. ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your interpersonal skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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226. When Beliefs and Actions Clash
04/10/2025
226. When Beliefs and Actions Clash
In this episode, we explore cognitive dissonance—the psychological discomfort that occurs when our beliefs and actions don't align. We discuss how this phenomenon affects our daily lives, decision-making, and personal growth, featuring insights from leading experts and practical strategies for managing cognitive dissonance. Key Topics Covered Definition and history of cognitive dissonance theory How our brains respond to contradictory beliefs and behaviors Common examples of cognitive dissonance in everyday life The relationship between cognitive dissonance and decision-making Techniques for resolving internal conflict and using dissonance as a catalyst for growth Don’t even know where to begin in improving your interpersonal skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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225. The Psychology of First Impressions and Authentic Likability
04/04/2025
225. The Psychology of First Impressions and Authentic Likability
In episode #225 of the Social Skills Mastery podcast we explore the science behind creating lasting positive impressions and developing genuine likability in professional contexts. Episode Highlights: Discover why Maya Angelou's insight that "people will forget what you said and did, but never how you made them feel" is the foundation of true likability Learn about confirmation bias and the halo effect - the psychological mechanisms that make first impressions so powerful and difficult to change Explore the Inside-Out, Outside-In approach to creating positive first impressions by managing both your internal state and external presentation Understand the "interest paradox" - why being interested is significantly more effective than trying to be interesting Master techniques for creating positive emotional impact in every interaction Develop authentic positivity through control orientation, solution architecture, and possibility thinking Learn practical strategies for energy management to maintain appropriate presence in different contexts Discover how to strategically curate your professional network for maximum growth and opportunity Authentic likability isn't about manipulating others—it's about creating environments where people experience themselves positively in your presence. Through evidence-based practices and consistent implementation, you can develop the kind of genuine likability that enhances all dimensions of your professional relationships and career trajectory. Don’t even know where to begin in improving your social skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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224. Thought Architecture: The Hidden Cost of Negative Comments
03/28/2025
224. Thought Architecture: The Hidden Cost of Negative Comments
In this powerful episode, we explore the common refrain among socially reserved professionals: "I hate people." Rather than a simple expression of misanthropy, we unpack how this phrase often masks deeper emotions like social anxiety, overwhelm, and vulnerability. We examine how this mindset creates a self-fulfilling prophecy, generating negative emotions that impact both personal wellbeing and professional potential. Key Points The "I hate people" statement as a defense mechanism for socially reserved professionals How this mindset is self-created and emotionally destructive The hidden vulnerabilities behind social reservation in high-performing individuals The emotional mechanics of choosing thoughts that generate negativity Practical strategies for recognizing and reframing this mindset Building social intelligence without sacrificing authenticity Discover how The School of Social Mastery can help you transform your relationship with social situations and become the confident professional you're meant to be. ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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223. From Dreading to Doing: Overcoming Avoidant Tendencies at Work
03/20/2025
223. From Dreading to Doing: Overcoming Avoidant Tendencies at Work
In episode #223, we look into the avoidant behaviors that hold socially reluctant professionals back from reaching their full potential. What you'll learn: Why "can't" thinking is actually a lie your brain tells you to avoid discomfort The 10 most common social avoidance behaviors among professionals with social anxiety A proven framework to transform your mindset from "I can't" to "I literally can" Practical strategies to overcome resistance and build the discipline muscle How to break the reward cycle that reinforces avoidant behavior Key avoidance behaviors covered: Declining speaking opportunities Skipping networking events Putting off client calls Dreading spontaneous interactions and more! Discover how can help you transform your relationship with social situations and become the confident professional you're meant to be. ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Have a question that needs an answer. Email
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222. How I Turned Social Reluctance into a Thriving Business + A Special Invitation
03/17/2025
222. How I Turned Social Reluctance into a Thriving Business + A Special Invitation
In this compelling episode, Susan shares her remarkable journey from a shy introvert to a successful business coach and reveals a special invitation for you. She reveals how her early career in luxury hospitality, despite her natural shyness, laid the groundwork for her entrepreneurial path. Her story illustrates how embracing personal challenges rather than avoiding them became the foundation of her coaching philosophy and business success. In this episode, you'll discover: How Susan's shy "factory settings" initially limited her early career advancement The pivotal moment when being denied a job transfer led to starting her own business How The School of Social Mastery came to be designed for socially reluctant professionals and businesspeople. Enrollment is open for ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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221. Community, Connection, and Collaboration: The Power of Group Coaching to Build Social Confidence
03/07/2025
221. Community, Connection, and Collaboration: The Power of Group Coaching to Build Social Confidence
is opening for enrollment March 12th. Episode 221 focuses on the experience of group coaching vs private, and why The School of Social Mastery is transformative for socially reluctant professionals. What You'll Learn: Why group coaching is especially powerful for introverts and socially anxious professionals How community support accelerates personal growth compared to going it alone The unique benefits of learning in a curated, goal-focused environment Why you don't need to participate actively to receive tremendous value How seeing others with similar struggles eliminates the "I'm a unicorn" syndrome Practical ways to overcome hesitation about joining a group program Key Takeaways: There's no badge of honor in figuring things out alone—just wasted time Social skills are learnable skills, not inherent traits you should already possess You get to decide what your experience in a group will be Even the most socially anxious people can transform in the right environment Complete certainty is impossible, but growth requires taking that step anyway Want to dive deeper? Enroll in The School of Social Mastery ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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220. From Social Anxiety to Social Currency: The 5-Minute Daily Practice That Changes Everything
02/28/2025
220. From Social Anxiety to Social Currency: The 5-Minute Daily Practice That Changes Everything
In this game-changing episode, I'm sharing the exact 5-step daily practice that's helping my high-achieving clients transform their social confidence and build meaningful connections that accelerate their success. This simple but powerful exercise has helped countless professionals overcome "toxic humility" and develop the social intelligence needed to advance their careers. What You'll Learn Why even the most competent professionals hit an invisible "social ceiling" in their careers How to break free from the negative thought loops sabotaging your social confidence The critical difference between confidence and arrogance (and why confusing them is holding you back) A proven 5-question framework for building your "social confidence muscles" daily The visualization technique that makes new confidence beliefs stick permanently Why your relationship with yourself is the foundation of all your professional relationships Resources Mentioned The School of Social Mastery - Opening in March! Get on the waitlist for early access and exclusive bonuses at Key Takeaway "Your social skills are just as crucial to your success as your technical skills or work ethic. Maybe even more so as you advance in your career." Connect With Me: Linkedin/TikTok/Instagram: @SocialConfidenceCoach Website: SocialConfidencePro.com Want to dive deeper? Enroll in The School of Social Mastery ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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219. The 5 Identity Shifts That Transform Your Social Confidence Forever
02/21/2025
219. The 5 Identity Shifts That Transform Your Social Confidence Forever
In this episode, we dive deep into why traditional "practice makes perfect" advice falls short when it comes to social skills, and explore how identity shifts create lasting change in your social confidence. Learn five powerful strategies to transform how you show up in social situations. Episode Highlights Why technical practice alone won't make you more socially confident The "robot effect" in social interactions and how to avoid it Introduction to the VALUE framework for meaningful conversations Step-by-step guide to the 30-day video challenge How to rewrite your internal narrative for lasting change Key Takeaways Identity shifts are more powerful than technique practice Physical embodiment creates mental confidence Focus on giving value rather than performing in conversations Your environment shapes your social identity Join: Social Skills Mastery Inner Circle Facebook Group Connect With Me: Linkedin/TikTok/Instagram: @SocialConfidenceCoach Website: Want to dive deeper? ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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218. Silent Obstacles: Navigating and Conquering Social Barriers in the Workplace
02/13/2025
218. Silent Obstacles: Navigating and Conquering Social Barriers in the Workplace
Episode #218 delves into the unseen obstacles that hinder high-achieving professionals from reaching their full social potential. These invisible barriers can impede workplace connections, influence, and recognition. The episode explores five common barriers: 1. Believing Hard Work Alone Will Get You Noticed: Understanding the importance of visibility alongside competence. 2. Fear of Judgment: Overcoming the anxiety of being perceived negatively in social interactions. 3. Seeing Networking as Fake and Transactional: Reframing networking as genuine relationship-building rather than superficial exchanges. 4. Discomfort with Small Talk: Recognizing small talk as a valuable tool for building rapport and easing into deeper conversations. 5. Avoidance of Social Opportunities: Acknowledging the cost of missed social engagements and the importance of participation for growth. You will gain actionable strategies to identify and dismantle these barriers, paving the way for enhanced social confidence and career advancement. Tune in to learn how to break through these obstacles and showcase your true brilliance. If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend or colleague who might benefit. Don't forget to subscribe to the Social Skills Mastery Podcast and leave a review to let us know how we're doing. Connect With Me: Linkedin/TikTok/Instagram: @SocialConfidenceCoach Website: Did you enjoy this episode? Your review helps other professionals find these game-changing strategies! Screenshot your listening experience and tag me on Instagram - I'd love to hear your biggest takeaway! Want to dive deeper? ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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217. Silence Your Inner Critic: How to Stop Caring What Others Think (Without Burning Professional Bridges)
02/06/2025
217. Silence Your Inner Critic: How to Stop Caring What Others Think (Without Burning Professional Bridges)
Are you tired of holding back in meetings, second-guessing your decisions, or letting the fear of judgment keep you from sharing your brilliant ideas? In this value-packed episode, we're diving deep into how to break free from approval-seeking behavior and show up powerfully in your professional life. What You'll Learn: Why our brains are wired to seek approval (and how to work with this instinct instead of against it) The "Validation Vacation" technique for building unshakeable professional confidence How to use the "Perspective Pivot" to transform anxiety into impact The power of "Strategic Vulnerability" in building authentic leadership presence A systematic approach to handling feedback without losing your confidence The game-changing "Future Self Focus" method for making bold decisions Resources Mentioned: "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" by Mark Manson Did you enjoy this episode? Your review helps other professionals find these game-changing strategies! Screenshot your listening experience and tag me on Instagram - I'd love to hear your biggest takeaway! Want to dive deeper? ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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216. From Invisible to Influential: The Secret to Being Seen, Heard, and Respected
02/02/2025
216. From Invisible to Influential: The Secret to Being Seen, Heard, and Respected
Your professional persona is shaping your success right now—whether you realize it or not. People are constantly judging, observing, and deciding if they like, trust, and respect you. So, how can you make sure you’re leaving the right impression? In this episode, we’re diving into five key areas that will elevate your presence, boost your credibility, and make you magnetic in any professional setting. How to craft a powerful first impression that opens doors and opportunities Why your words matter—and how to speak with clarity, confidence, and impact The silent power of body language (and how to make sure yours is working for you, not against you) The secret to effortlessly navigating conversations and social situations How to make people feel at ease so they’re drawn to you like a magnet This isn’t just about looking polished—it’s about becoming someone people respect, listen to, and remember. If you’re ready to level up your professional presence, hit play now! Resources & Next Steps: 📌 Take Action: Pick ONE area from today’s episode and start implementing it in your daily interactions. Small shifts create big results! 📌 Join the Conversation: DM me on Instagram @susancallendersocialcoach and let me know which of these strategies resonated with you the most! 📌 Subscribe & Share: If you found value in this episode, share it with a friend and hit subscribe so you never miss an episode! You’ve got this—now go show up like the pro you are! ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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215. From Blank to Brilliant: The Science of Staying Sharp Under Pressure
01/23/2025
215. From Blank to Brilliant: The Science of Staying Sharp Under Pressure
Learn the neuroscience behind mind-blank moments and master practical strategies for maintaining mental clarity under pressure. Key Concepts Covered: Brain Science Fight-flight-freeze response in social situations Impact on prefrontal cortex function Role of perceived threats in cognitive function Immediate Implementation Three-point check system Micro-recovery techniques Mental bookmarking practice Environment anchoring Advanced Techniques Scenario mapping Confidence journaling Strategic pausing Recovery rituals ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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214. Misperceived at Work: Why You're Misread as Standoffish
01/16/2025
214. Misperceived at Work: Why You're Misread as Standoffish
Why do top performers often get mislabeled as unfriendly? In this episode, you’ll learn the science-backed fixes that won't compromise your detailed, analytical nature, based on research with 1000+ technical leaders. We break down how naturally reserved professionals can show warmth authentically, without having to transform into extroverts. Learn practical strategies for translating your internal care into external signals that others can readily understand. Key Concepts Covered: The Expressiveness Gap Understanding the disconnect between internal feelings and external perception Why analytical people often get misread The science behind social signaling The Warmth Toolkit ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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213. Transform Your Social Presence: The Language Patterns of Charismatic People
01/10/2025
213. Transform Your Social Presence: The Language Patterns of Charismatic People
Special Offer: Join The School of Social Mastery as a VIP Founding Member at SocialConfidencePro.com/VIP. In episode 213, we discuss how your words – both internal and external – are literally creating your reality. Learn the science behind self-talk, discover practical techniques for transforming limiting language patterns, and master advanced strategies for using words to engineer the social presence you desire. Key Points Covered: The Science of Self-Talk Your brain processes 70,000 thoughts per day (48 per minute) 80% of thoughts tend to be negative 95% of thoughts are repeated from previous days How neural pathways are strengthened through repetition The subconscious mind's response to language Practical Tools & Exercises: Morning Protocol 1. Three power statements 2. Present-tense goal review 3. Future memory creation Daily Implementation Pattern interruption techniques Bridge statement practice Language tracking system Evening Review Process Success celebration Situation reframing Next-day intention setting VIP Founders Program Details: Closing Date: Sunday, January 12th Program Components: Weekly live coaching Private community access Subconscious Language Reprogramming Lifetime access ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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212. Beyond Technical Brilliance: How Top Performers Are Investing in Social Skills (And Getting Their Employers to Pay for It)
01/03/2025
212. Beyond Technical Brilliance: How Top Performers Are Investing in Social Skills (And Getting Their Employers to Pay for It)
Featured Resource: Special Offer: . In this value-packed episode, Susan breaks down everything you need to know about transforming your professional presence through executive coaching. Whether you're a technical expert looking to move into leadership or a high achiever wanting to maximize your impact, this episode is your complete guide to choosing and leveraging the right coaching approach for your goals. What You'll Learn: Why 2025 is the critical year to invest in your social confidence The crucial differences between private and group coaching (and how to choose) How to get your employer to fund your professional development Real transformation stories from technical experts who've made the leap The surprising ROI of social skills training in today's business landscape Connect With Us: Instagram: @susancallendersocialcoach Website: socialconfidencepro.om Email: Share your takeaways on Instagram using #SocialConfidence2025 Looking to Take Action? 1. Download the free template at SocialConfidencePro.com/Ask 2. Assess which coaching model best fits your needs 3. Schedule a social strategy session to explore your options Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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211. Secrets of the 15%: Why Most Social Resolutions Fail (And How to Make Yours Stick)
12/26/2024
211. Secrets of the 15%: Why Most Social Resolutions Fail (And How to Make Yours Stick)
as a VIP Founding member. to save an additional 10% when you join before midnight Tuesday, December 31st. . In this transformative episode, we dive deep into how to make 2025 the year you finally develop unshakeable social confidence. Unlike typical New Year's resolutions that fade by February, we explore the proven strategies used by the 15% who successfully transform their social lives. Key Highlights: Why being a "shy adult" is a self-limiting label and how to break free The power of micro-actions in building social confidence Understanding the difference between hope and certainty in social transformation How past experiences shape our current social behaviors and what to do about it Practical steps to take today to begin your social confidence journey Action Steps Covered: Creating immediate momentum through small, manageable social actions Building the "social confidence muscle" through consistent practice Transforming limiting beliefs into empowering social mindsets Taking responsibility for your own social growth Special Offer: Join at SocialConfidencePro.com/VIP. Use code "" before December 31st, 2024, to save an additional 10%. Next Steps: Choose one small social action to complete today before your head hits the pillow. Remember, your future is determined by the actions you take right now. ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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210. Still Cringing About That Thing You Said Last Week? Why Your Brain Won't Let You Move On
12/21/2024
210. Still Cringing About That Thing You Said Last Week? Why Your Brain Won't Let You Move On
is Open at a reduced investment for a limited time for VIP action-takers. Are you tired of lying awake at night replaying social interactions? In this value-packed episode, we dive deep into the science and solutions behind post-social rumination. Learn why your brain gets stuck in the replay loop and discover proven strategies to break free. Key Topics Covered: The Science Behind Social Overthinking Real costs: physical, emotional, and professional impacts Why alcohol makes social anxiety worse 7 practical strategies to stop the mental replay How to reclaim the 182.5 hours per year spent ruminating Featured Strategies: ✓ The 24-Hour Rule ✓ The Reality Check Protocol ✓ The Rumination Circuit Breaker ✓ The Future Self Framework Memorable Quotes: "Every moment you spend overthinking past interactions is a moment you're not fully present in your current life." "That moment you're obsessing over? Everyone else has already forgotten it." ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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209. Nervous as Hell at Holiday Parties? Good. Here's Why That's Your Superpower
12/12/2024
209. Nervous as Hell at Holiday Parties? Good. Here's Why That's Your Superpower
In this eye-opening episode of Social Skills Mastery, I challenge everything you thought you knew about social anxiety and professional networking. Perfect timing for the holiday season! Key Topics Covered: The surprising neuroscience behind why social anxiety can enhance your networking abilities Why the holiday season's social demands are your greatest opportunity for growth The Authenticity Advantage: How being real about your anxiety can create stronger professional connections Three practical strategies for transforming anxiety into networking power Key Takeaways: Social anxiety can be used as an internal compass for creating authentic connections Heightened awareness from anxiety can make you a better listener and more attuned to social cues The holiday season isn't a gauntlet to run through - it's your accelerated growth period. Use it to your advantage. ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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208. Transform Your Holiday Season Social Experiences with Three-Conversation Rules
12/05/2024
208. Transform Your Holiday Season Social Experiences with Three-Conversation Rules
In this episode, we break down why holiday networking events trigger anxiety and provide a practical, neuroscience-based framework for turning these opportunities into enjoyable, productive experiences. Drawing from real client success stories and years of coaching experience, Susan introduces three powerful guidelines that can transform how you approach professional social situations. Key Concepts Covered: Understanding the evolutionary basis of networking anxiety The Protocol for managing pre-event thoughts The Framework for authentic conversations The System for managing networking goals ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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207. From Invisible to Influential: How to Create a Persona That Gets You Noticed
11/28/2024
207. From Invisible to Influential: How to Create a Persona That Gets You Noticed
In today’s episode of Social Skills Mastery, we’re diving into what it takes to cultivate a dynamic and expressive persona that exudes authenticity—especially in professional settings where making an impact matters most. If you’ve ever felt invisible in meetings, struggled to connect with colleagues, or wondered how to showcase your unique strengths without feeling awkward, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: Why authenticity is the secret ingredient to career success and leadership presence. The 5 steps to develop a dynamic persona that reflects your true self while commanding respect and attention. How to overcome fears of judgment and embrace your individuality at work. Practical strategies for navigating real-world business scenarios with confidence and charisma. Episode Highlights: 1. Define Your Core Values: Learn how identifying what matters most to you can shape your authentic professional persona. 2. Master Emotional Self-Awareness: Discover why understanding your emotions is critical for genuine and impactful interactions. 3. Adopt a Growth-Oriented Mindset: See how small, consistent actions can build the confidence to show up as your best self. 4. Embrace Real-World Feedback: Tips for turning constructive criticism into opportunities for transformation in your career. 5. Cultivate Consistency in Action: How showing up authentically every day builds trust, influence, and credibility over time. Ready to Transform Your Persona? Tune in now to learn how to stop hiding, start shining, and show up in your business or career with unmatched authenticity and presence. ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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Bonus: Social Skills That Make Competitors Sweat - The School of Social Mastery
11/22/2024
Bonus: Social Skills That Make Competitors Sweat - The School of Social Mastery
In this heartfelt episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my personal journey—from a shy, introverted child to a corporate employee who avoided the spotlight, to an entrepreneur who finally broke free from fear and stepped into confidence. If you’ve ever felt held back by social anxiety, nervousness, or overthinking, this episode is for you. I’m sharing how my struggles shaped The School of Social Mastery, a brand-new program designed to help founders, business owners, and rising professionals overcome social challenges and step into their natural confidence. You’ll also hear all about the exciting opportunity to join as a founding member, with exclusive perks you won’t want to miss! What You’ll Learn in This Episode: My story of shyness and introversion and how it impacted my corporate and entrepreneurial life. Why social confidence is the key to unlocking your full potential in business and life. What makes The School of Social Mastery a game-changer for professionals like you. How to join as a founding member and take advantage of early access and special pricing. Ready to start your transformation? to be the first notified when the doors open to a limited number of founding members! ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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206. From Fearful to Fierce: How to Build Unshakable Self-Belief
11/14/2024
206. From Fearful to Fierce: How to Build Unshakable Self-Belief
In today’s episode we tackle the habit of seeking approval. We all know the relief and reassurance that come with a pat on the back from a boss, client, or friend. But when we rely on that approval to feel confident and capable, we’re setting ourselves up for dependence, self-doubt, and stalled growth. True confidence is built from within, not handed out by others. Through this episode, you'll discover: Why seeking external validation keeps you stuck and prevents real growth. Inspiring stories from my clients who shifted from approval-seeking to fierce self-belief—and the profound impact it had on their careers. Practical strategies to stop depending on others’ opinions and start trusting yourself, including learning to set boundaries with feedback and redefining failure as growth. The 5 transformative steps to self-confidence that will help you reclaim your power, make quicker decisions, and show up unapologetically in any room. If you’re ready to stop letting the need for approval control your choices, this episode is a must-listen! Resources to further your learning: 1. The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman – A fantastic read on building self-confidence and understanding how validation impacts us, especially in professional environments. 2. Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach – This book explores the importance of self-approval and letting go of the need for external validation. 3. Dare to Lead by Brené Brown – Brown’s insights on vulnerability and confidence provide powerful tools for building self-trust and resilience. ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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205. The Social Confidence Shift: Turning Challenges into Opportunities
11/10/2024
205. The Social Confidence Shift: Turning Challenges into Opportunities
In today’s episode, we dive into the transformative power of shifting your mindset from seeing obstacles as setbacks to viewing them as valuable opportunities for growth. Whether you’re tackling difficult conversations, navigating feedback, or facing social risks, how you perceive these moments can define your professional and personal success. Brooke breaks down five powerful strategies to help you embrace challenges as chances to build resilience, sharpen your social confidence, and expand your potential. Join us as we explore: Why “owning your presence” changes how others perceive you in professional settings. The liberating practice of self-validation and moving beyond others’ opinions. Viewing feedback as information rather than personal criticism. How taking manageable social risks fosters growth, resilience, and sharpened social skills. Resources: Books to Expand Your Mindset: Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck – A great read on how adopting a growth mindset can help you reframe challenges. Dare to Lead by Brené Brown – Insights on embracing vulnerability and resilience in professional spaces. Be sure to tune in next week for more insights into building social confidence and building better social skills and connections! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode who are ready to transform how they see challenges! ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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204. Ditch the Dependence: Building Confidence Without External Validation
10/31/2024
204. Ditch the Dependence: Building Confidence Without External Validation
In today’s episode, we dive into the powerful topic of external validation and how reliance on others’ approval can limit your growth and confidence. For professionals, the need for validation from bosses, colleagues, or clients can create a cycle of dependence that keeps you playing small. We break down common scenarios where this need shows up in the workplace, plus actionable strategies to help you build self-confidence from within. You’ll learn how to shift your focus from others' reactions to your own internal standards and gain practical tips for fostering true social confidence that’s grounded in you. Tune in for empowering insights and transformative strategies to break free from approval-seeking and start owning your professional and personal success! ** Don’t even know where to begin in improving your people skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you want to be? Free Guide: Have a question that needs an answer. Email me at
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