

The Impostor Syndrome Files
Kim Meninger
Do you ever feel like a fraud? Are you living with chronic self-doubt? Do you question whether you deserve to be in your role? If so, you're not alone! As a leadership coach and lifelong struggler with impostor syndrome, I wanted to create a space where professionals can tell their personal stories and unburden themselves of the silent shame that comes with this experience. I also wanted listeners to be able to hear themselves in others and realize that they are not alone. On this podcast, we'll share the stories of professionals from different backgrounds who've struggled with and learned to manage impostor syndrome. We'll also learn from experts on how to better manage ourselves and our environments to minimize the overall threat of impostor syndrome. Let's erase the stigma and stop feeling ashamed of these very normal experiences. And let's come together to share our challenges and strategize how to effectively rise above them.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 2, 2024 • 38min
Shifting from Anger to Love
In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about leveraging the power of love languages to create long-lasting change. My guest this week, Paul Zolman, grew up in a family of abuse where he learned to be angry. This anger followed him into adulthood until he decided he no longer wanted to live this way. Here Paul shares the approach he took to change his behavior, which ultimately led to a shift from anger to love. About My GuestPaul Zolman is the author of Love is God. In His wisdom, He placed us in a variety of circumstances that require us to find our way back to His pure love. So, what qualifies Paul Zolman to speak about love? His childhood experience of the opposite of love. From that austere beginning, and the distaste it formed inside him, he searched for and eventually created a method that transformed his life from anger to loving everyone. Growing up in a family of abuse, physical touch became his preferred love style, only because of the regularity. He could almost count on it. It was consistent. He came to think that was the way to express love. But deep inside, he knew that was a twisted belief. He wanted a better life for himself, which is why he created a paradigm shift that works. In this book, you’ll find what helped Paul Zolman move from a childhood boot camp of abuse to being a person who loves everyone and can find good about anyone in any circumstance. This is truly the role of love.~Connect with Paul:Website: www.roleoflove.comRole Of Love Dice (@roleoflovedice) • Instagram photos and videos Paul Zolman | Author (@paul_zolman) • Instagram photos and videosFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/paul.zolman.7/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulzolman/Role of Love Dice (@roleoflovedice) / X (twitter.com)~Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:https://www.kimmeninger.com/Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:https://www.kimmeninger.com/coachingJoin the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6Join the Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumansSchedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-sessionConnect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/Website:https://kimmeninger.com

Dec 19, 2023 • 38min
Closing the Gap between Confidence & Competence
In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about the gap that often exists between our confidence and competence. How often have you looked at someone with lots of confidence and thought, “That person is all confidence and no substance?” Too many of us have so much to offer but struggle with self-doubt while others toot their own horns with very flimsy evidence to support their greatness. My guest this week, Annie Margarita Yang, is a finance guru and author of the book The 5-Day Job Search. Here she shares her journey with impostor syndrome as she launched a career in accounting with no formal training. Over the years, Annie has come to believe in her own greatness by closing the gap between her competence and confidence. She also shares practical strategies to help you build your confidence, including embracing courage, which always comes first.About My GuestAnnie Margarita Yang is the go-to finance guru for Millennials refusing to lose in a system stacked against them. A candid, no-fluff YouTube personality and best-selling author of The 5-Day Job Search and 1,001 Ways to Save Money, Annie is a part of the group she educates—the demographic most misunderstood because they must overcome finance challenges previous generations didn’t.She is skilled at creating easy-to-follow systems, intentional in addressing the unique concerns of Millennials, and relentless about creating financial independence.With more than 1 million views on YouTube, her witty approach to tough talk sets her apart from others.She lives with her husband in Boston, where she is fully committed to learning the piano!~Connect with Annie:Website - annieyangfinancial.com - to buy the book and get a 10% off discount code on a signed paperback copyYouTube - https://youtube.com/c/anniemargaritayang~Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:https://www.kimmeninger.com/Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:https://www.kimmeninger.com/coachingJoin the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6Join the Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumansSchedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-sessionConnect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/Website:https://kimmeninger.com

Dec 12, 2023 • 47min
Harvesting Uplifts
In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about the ways in which high-pressure, high-intensity environments lead us into suffering contests that undermine our mental and physical health. My guest this week, Gary Simonds, is a retired neurosurgeon who shares the ups and downs of his educational and career journey. We also explore practices we can all use to increase our self-compassion, self-care and overall sense of empowerment. About My GuestGary is a highly experienced neurosurgeon, former head of an academic neurosurgery program at Virginia Tech/Carilion Clinic. He is a Professor, and teaches regularly at, the Virginia Tech School of Neuroscience and the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine.Gary was a biochemistry major at Dartmouth College. He went on to medical school at Rutgers and Neurosurgery residency and medical research fellowship at Walter Reed. He also holds a master’s degree in Health Care Delivery Science from Dartmouth.Gary has written and spoken widely on the subjects of neuroscience, medical school admissions, humanism, medical socioeconomics, medical ethics, burnout, personal wellness, spirituality, death and dying, and the interface between science and religion. Known for his compassion and sense of humor, he also writes fiction and is an accomplished and entertaining storyteller.Born in New Jersey, Gary has lived in New Jersey; England; Washington D.C.; Denver; Danville, Pennsylvania; and Roanoke, Virginia. He currently lives in the beautiful town of Black Mountain, North Carolina. ~Connect with Gary:Website: https://garyrsimonds.com~Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:https://www.kimmeninger.com/Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:https://www.kimmeninger.com/coachingJoin the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6Join the Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumansSchedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-sessionConnect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/Website:https://kimmeninger.com

Dec 5, 2023 • 35min
Connecting to Our Purpose in Times of Change
In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about navigating change. For many of us, the pace and intensity of change throughout our worlds has been destabilizing. As humans, we crave predictability, so change, especially change that’s imposed upon us, can undermine our sense of security in the world. That’s why staying connected to what’s unchanging for us is so important. My guest this week, Dana Shamas, an executive leadership and wellness coach, shares her journey with change. We also explore the power of leaning into our purpose to navigate uncertainty and stay confident during times of change.About My GuestDana supports leaders discover their unique circuitry so they can trust their authentic voice and lead with intuition to create a deeper impact in the world. She is a woman on a mission to support conscious leaders to break free of old structures that no longer serve and reimagine their personal and professional life with deeper joy and fulfillment. Dana's engaging spirit and infectious laughter uplift and inspires her audiences. She supports leaders to sync business with wellness, enabling them to be at peak performance whilst maintaining strong mental and emotional health. With 15 years of experience in transitional economies and entrepreneurship, she is a master at walking forward into the unknown. She loves sharing the tools you need to maintain your connection to clarity and peace, even in a chaotic and volatile world. Dana has lightened the lives of countless individuals, power guiding them to live a more fulfilling and aligned life.~Connect with Dana:Website: www.danashamas.com Retreat: https://www.danashamas.com/costa-rica-retreat Alignment Circle: https://dana-shamas.heymarvelous.com/product/60752 SHOW SPECIAL - 50% off a 1:1 sessionhttps://dana-shamas.heymarvelous.com/buy/product/62896 ~Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:https://www.kimmeninger.com/Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:https://www.kimmeninger.com/coachingJoin the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6Join the Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumansSchedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-sessionConnect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/Website:https://kimmeninger.com

Nov 28, 2023 • 38min
Finding Sparks of Inspiration
In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about finding the right path. As humans, we’re very resilient and willing to tolerate a lot of stress and frustration to protect our comfort zones. But what happens if we take a step back and evaluate what we really want from our lives? This week, I talk with Tony Martignetti, a fellow leadership coach, about his own self-discovery process and how that led him to a major career change. We also explore practical, yet powerful steps you can take to find the path that’s right for you.About My GuestTony Martignetti is a trusted advisor, leadership coach & facilitator, best-selling author, podcast host, and speaker. He brings together over 25 years of business and leadership experience and extreme curiosity to elevate leaders and equip them with the tools to navigate through change and unlock their true potential. Tony hosts The Virtual Campfire podcast and is the author of "Climbing the Right Mountain: Navigating the Journey to An Inspired Life" and the co-author of "Secrets of Next-Level Entrepreneurs."~Connect with Tony:Website: https://www.ipurposepartners.com/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/inspiredcoach LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonymartignett1/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/TonyMartignett1~Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:https://www.kimmeninger.com/Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:https://www.kimmeninger.com/coachingJoin the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6Join the Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumansSchedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-sessionConnect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/Website:https://kimmeninger.com

Nov 21, 2023 • 38min
Awareness Is the Doorway to Change
In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about how easy it is to buy into the narrative that we need shame and self-criticism to propel us forward. My guest this week, Kamini Wood, is a human potential coach who shares her own journey with proving herself, people pleasing and perfectionism. We also talk about the power of self-awareness to break free from this trap and become our best selves. About My GuestKamini Wood, a certified life coach, helps high-achievers heal their relationships with themselves. She helps people take courageous steps in identifying limiting beliefs, reasons for stagnation and overcoming self-doubt in order to live a fulling professional and personal life.She is the creator of AuthenticMe® and CEO of Live Joy Your Way - a coaching company helping high performers and overachievers who have seen success through old-rooted, traditional metrics, reestablish their relational self-awareness. Trained in internal family systems and cognitive behavioral-based coaching, she can help her clients navigate past traumas and toxic relationships and truly live in self-acceptance, self-confidence, and self-leadership.~Connect with Kamini:Website: https://www.kaminiwood.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsauthenticme/~Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:https://www.kimmeninger.com/Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:https://www.kimmeninger.com/coachingJoin the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6Join the Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumansSchedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-sessionConnect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/Website:https://kimmeninger.com

Nov 14, 2023 • 43min
Gaining Control of Our Attention
In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about gaining control of our attention. Between our phones, our busy minds and all of the other distractions around us, it’s challenging to control our attention. But if we’re not focused on what we’re paying attention to, then we can’t be as intentional about our decisions, thoughts and behaviors. My guest this week, Derick Johnson, is an Army veteran, life coach and fitness trainer who shares his personal journey with childhood trauma and how he empowered himself to heal. We also explore simple, practical steps you can use to gain control of your attention and take your power back.About My GuestDerick Johnson is a US Army Veteran, Life Coach and Trainer that has helped over 500 clients and 50 companies go from just surviving to thriving through his coaching modalities and marketing efforts.Derick was awarded Soldier of the Year for his battalion 3x, received numerous Awards for PT and took his leadership skills, certifications and life experiences to help people take control of their mind and body so they can THRIVE, not just survive. ~Connect with Derick:Website: fitwithderick.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitwithderick2/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fitwithderick2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fitwithderick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derickjohnson1/~Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:https://www.kimmeninger.com/Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:https://www.kimmeninger.com/coachingJoin the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6Join the Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumansSchedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-sessionConnect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/Website:https://kimmeninger.com

Nov 7, 2023 • 39min
Setting High Standards without Perfectionism
In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about perfectionism. Many of us are high achievers who take great pride in our work and want that work to be as high quality as possible. But there is a significant difference between aiming for excellence and trying to be perfect. My guest this week, Emily Sander, a former C-suite executive and now leadership coach, shares her journey with perfectionism and how it kept her from being the person and the leader she wanted to be. We also talk about strategies you can use to better manage perfectionism.About My GuestEmily Sander is a C-Suite Executive turned Leadership Coach. She is the founder of Next Level Coaching. As an ICF-Certified Coach, she helps business professionals step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. She’s written two books: - "Hacking Executive Leadership" and - "An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff."~Connect with Emily:Website: www.nextlevel.coach An Insider's Perspective on the Chief of Staff: https://amzn.to/3O3pgFk~Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:https://www.kimmeninger.com/Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:https://www.kimmeninger.com/coachingJoin the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6Join the Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumansSchedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-sessionConnect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/Website:https://kimmeninger.com

Oct 31, 2023 • 45min
Making Our Work More Effortless
In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about how to make our work more effortless. Too many of us are struggling at work and we don’t know why. My guest this week, Sneha Mandala, a sustainable peak performance expert, shares her research on how we can raise our self-awareness and take action to achieve more flow states. She also shares her own career transition and strategies you can use to minimize risk and maximize confidence in your own transitions. About My GuestSneha Mandala is an expert in "Sustainable Peak Performance" for corporate and tech professionals. Her focus is on optimizing employee performance while combating disengagement and burnout, which has been proven to significantly reduce business expenses. In fact, this problem is currently costing the U.S. economy $1 trillion annually. Sneha also holds the prestigious Professional Certified Coach (PCC) designation from the International Coach Federation (ICF). This is a rare accomplishment at her age, as only around 350 coaches in the millennial age group have achieved professional credentials out of the 300,000 coaches in the U.S. according to ICF studies. As a highly regarded speaker for Vistage, the world's largest executive coaching organization, Sneha Mandala has trained and coached business and tech leaders with remarkable results. She has reduced turnover and elevated engagement and performance in these organizations. Her expertise has led to repeat appearances on Fox24 News, where she dissects intricate corporate issues and provides impactful solutions that resonate with diverse employee age groups. Sneha Mandala has over 1500 coaching hours under her belt, specializing in making work "effortless". Her innovative two-step framework for effortless work, featured in a TED talk, has transformed corporate work culture dynamics. Additionally, she has pioneered transformative L&D programs, introduced gamification and TikTok-style learning, and served as a keynote speaker for executive audiences. All of these accomplishments have solidified her reputation in Sustainable Peak Performance.~Connect with Sneha:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/snehamandala/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandala_sneha/ Fox 24 News Segment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQ8nBR67d_M Website: https://snehamandala.com/ TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mGOLNGDazU ~Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:https://www.kimmeninger.com/Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:https://www.kimmeninger.com/coachingJoin the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6Join the Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumansSchedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-sessionConnect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/Website:https://kimmeninger.com

Oct 24, 2023 • 51min
What Our DEI Conversations Are Missing
In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about how helping men to heal will help all of us to thrive. So much of the dysfunction we experience in today’s workplaces is rooted in the lack of compassion we have for ourselves, our fragile egos, and the way we perceive others as threats. This is much deeper than impostor syndrome. While we tend to focus on women’s challenges in the workplace, a giant missing piece of the puzzle is how we understand men’s experience. When men are in pain, and so many of them are, they hurt others on small or large scales. My guest this week is Sean Harvey, author of the new book Warrior Compassion, Unleashing the Healing Power of Men. Sean is an organization development consultant, an interfaith minister and much, much more. One of the things I find most fascinating about his work is the healing work he does with men in hyper-masculine systems, such as police forces and even right-wing extremist groups. Here, Sean and I discuss what our DEI conversations are missing and how compassion will lead us to far greater levels of inclusion. About My GuestSean Harvey, MSOD, MSEd, is an organization development consultant, master facilitator and mentor, professor, interfaith minister, TEDx speaker, and men’s soul adventure guide. He received the Saul A. Silverman 2021 Award for Conflict Resolution and Healing from the International Organization Development Association for his healing work with men in hyper-masculine systems.His work in personal, organizational, and societal transformation is inspired by twenty-five years of purpose, talent, and organization development consulting combined with having served on the faculties of Cornell, New York University, and Baruch College CUNY teaching courses in the areas of leadership, management, and organizational behavior and change. Sean is affiliated with George Washington University’s Center for Excellence in Public Leadership in Washington, D.C. As an interfaith minister, he co-founded Project Compassion, a national initiative to deepen compassion in police departments and communities.In 2021, he delivered his TEDx, “Compassion Makes the Warrior.” Sean's book, "Warrior Compassion: Unleashing the Healing Power of Men" was published in September 2023 and became an Amazon New Release Best Seller for Organizational Change and Fourth Best Seller for Men's Gender Studies.~Connect with Sean:Website: https://warriorcompassion.com LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/seanharvey Insta: @warrior_compassion Amazon: Warrior Compassion: Unleashing the Healing Power of Men ~Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:https://www.kimmeninger.com/Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:https://www.kimmeninger.com/coachingJoin the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6Join the Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumansSchedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-sessionConnect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/Website:https://