The Impostor Syndrome Files

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about embracing uncertainty as a leader. What does it really mean to lead with humanity—especially in an age of AI, change fatigue, and constant uncertainty? My guest this week is Jim Bouchard, author, speaker, and founder of The Human Centric Leader. In this powerful conversation, Jim shares how his personal journey from addiction to leadership taught him what transformation really takes—and why the best leaders don’t have all the answers. We explore what it means to lead through uncertainty, the importance of sharing power and time, and how AI may actually amplify our humanity rather than replace it—if we use it well. We also dig into why resistance is a powerful compass, and how impostor syndrome can get in the way of becoming the leader you were meant to be. About My Guest By his own admission, Jim Bouchard should have been dead or in jail many times over. Martial arts helped him overcome a life of crippling self-doubt and self-destruction. In his programs, Jim shares his inspiring transformation from dropout and drug addict to Black Belt and Sensei -- and how that experience made him a genuine leader.  He went on to open 5 martial arts schools, helping hundreds of people achieve their Black Belt rank, and thousands more discover their best selves. Today, Jim helps leaders around the world connect on a deeply human level to attract, engage, and lead people to their highest levels of performance and productivity. ~ Connect with Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimbouchard/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimbouchard/] Website: https://www.thehumancentricleader.org/ [https://www.thehumancentricleader.org/] Join the Community: https://keep-it-human.mn.co/landing?space_id=17243140 [https://keep-it-human.mn.co/landing?space_id=17243140] ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge [https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge] https://www.kimmeninger.com/ Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup [https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup] https://www.kimmeninger.com/coaching Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 [https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6] Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans [https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans] Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session [https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session] Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/] Website: https://kimmeninger.com [https://kimmeninger.com/]

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about embracing your authentic self. Are you constantly trying to prove yourself at work? Do you feel like you're playing a role, hoping no one notices you're unsure beneath the surface? This week, I’m joined by Aaron Helton, executive coach, leadership consultant, and self-proclaimed “cartographer of the soul.” In this powerful conversation, Aaron opens up about his personal journey with impostor syndrome, his late-in-life autism diagnosis, and the deep belief systems that shape how we show up in the world. Together, we explore the hidden stories we tell ourselves, how they’re formed, and how we can learn to rewrite them from a place of self-compassion and strength. Aaron shares how he helps clients—from young professionals to senior leaders—reconnect with their authentic selves, challenge outdated beliefs, and lead with intention. This episode is a must-listen if: * You’ve ever felt like you’re hiding parts of yourself to fit in * You struggle to feel confident in spaces where you feel different * You’re ready to challenge the perfectionism and pressure that fuel impostor syndrome Key Themes We Explore: * How high expectations and cultural narratives can shape impostor beliefs * Why “doing it right” isn’t the same as being true to yourself * The power of naming all parts of your identity to feel whole * How Aaron’s autism diagnosis gave him permission to release shame and lead with love * The difference between coaching and therapy—and why coaching isn’t just for people who are struggling * Why love is a leadership skill, not a liability * How to make the business case for heart-centered leadership * Aaron’s mission to “gather weirdos to change the world” About My Guest Aaron works as an executive coach and leadership consultant for Integrated Leadership Systems, guiding individuals toward authenticity and self-improvement, and transforming businesses through heart-first processes. With an M.S. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, Aaron applies a Cognitive-Behavioral Psychology framework to facilitate smooth collaboration and inclusion among all members of a team, leading to better individual lives and a better overall organization. ~ Connect with Aaron: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-helton-b128b8181/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-helton-b128b8181/] ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge [https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge] https://www.kimmeninger.com/ Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup [https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup] https://www.kimmeninger.com/coaching Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 [https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6] Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans [https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans] Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session [https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session] Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/] Website: https://kimmeninger.com [https://kimmeninger.com/]

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we explore what’s possible when we shift from fear to curiosity in the face of the unknown. Change is hard—not just because of what’s happening around us, but because of what’s happening inside of us. Our brains are wired to protect us, constantly scanning for threats and steering us toward what feels safe. But that protective wiring can also trigger self-doubt, fear, and impostor syndrome—especially when we’re doing something new. My guest this week is Lisa DeAngelis, author of Embracing the Unknown. Together, we talk about what it means to reframe fear as a natural part of growth—and how we can consciously choose curiosity over judgment. We explore the “stretch zone,” that powerful space between comfort and panic where learning and transformation occur. And we discuss how to create “proof loops” to help our brains (and bodies) build new confidence through lived experience. If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re capable of what comes next, this episode is a reminder that your brain may be trying to keep you safe—but everything changes when you choose curiosity instead. About My Guest Lisa DeAngelis is a holistic change practitioner, author, teacher, and speaker, and a skilled expert in the art of navigating sustainable change. Lisa brings a warm, thoughtful, and creative approach to her work guiding personal and leadership transformation, and is sought after for her ability to coalesce and communicate information, weaving together ideas in meaningful ways. Lisa's personal goals include a commitment to "walking her talk" and helping re-envision how leaders can navigate change with more authenticity and intentionality to embrace the process of growth while learning to align with guiding principles and core values that support meaningful and impactful choices. Her debut book, Embracing the Unknown: Exploring the Pathways to Change offers research, wisdom, and aspirational stories that empower others in their quest to gracefully navigate change in their own lives. An avid traveler, singer, and lover of the arts, Lisa lives and works in New York City. ~ Connect with Lisa: Embracing the Unknown: Exploring the Pathways to Change - Lisa’s Book Use promo code “confidence” for $0.99 version of ebook: https://lisadeangelis.com/purchase/ebook-digital-download [https://lisadeangelis.com/purchase/ebook-digital-download] Website: https://lisadeangelis.com/ [https://lisadeangelis.com/] Instagram: @lissop44 [https://www.instagram.com/lissop44] Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-deangelis1/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-deangelis1/] ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge [https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge] https://www.kimmeninger.com/ Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup [https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup] https://www.kimmeninger.com/coaching Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 [https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6] Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans [https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans] Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session [https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session] Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/] Website: https://kimmeninger.com [https://kimmeninger.com/]

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we’re talking about one of the biggest blind spots in leadership today—the difference between leading from fear and leading with trust. So many of us were taught to prioritize logic, results, and control in the workplace. But the truth is, we’re emotional beings, not rational machines. And when we ignore the emotional side of leadership, we unintentionally create environments where fear—not engagement—drives behavior. My guest this week is Thomas Gelmi, a global leadership expert who helps organizations strengthen what he calls “human skills”—the emotional intelligence and self-awareness needed to lead with empathy, humility, and trust. In this conversation, we talk about why so many leaders get promoted despite emotional blind spots, and how this disconnect impacts psychological safety, performance, and retention. We also explore the emotional cost of high pressure, what makes 360 feedback so powerful, and how leaders can begin shifting from fear-based habits to more confident, connected leadership. If you’ve ever wondered whether emotional intelligence really matters in the workplace, this episode makes the business case—loud and clear. About My Guest Executive Coach Thomas Gelmi has been a trusted advisor to leaders and their teams for more than two decades. His programs, which have attracted roughly 10,000 participants from nearly 90 countries, reflect his adaptability and appeal across cultures and industries. Thomas works in four languages and his clients range from global corporations to SMEs and private individuals worldwide. Thomas draws on an extraordinary biography with exciting milestones, such as his many years as a Maître de Cabine, leading cabin crew at Swissair, and eight years as operations manager of an international leadership development company. In addition to his extensive professional experience, he also gathered years of experience as a trained caregiver, providing psychological assistance to victims in crises, accidents, and other extreme situations. ~ Connect with Thomas: Facebook (Business): https://www.facebook.com/thomas.gelmi/ [https://www.facebook.com/thomas.gelmi/] LinkedIn: http://ch.linkedin.com/in/thomasgelmi [http://ch.linkedin.com/in/thomasgelmi] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thomasgelmi [https://www.instagram.com/thomasgelmi] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thomasgelmi [https://www.youtube.com/@thomasgelmi] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thomas.gelmi [https://www.tiktok.com/@thomas.gelmi]  ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge [https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge] https://www.kimmeninger.com/ Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup [https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup] https://www.kimmeninger.com/coaching Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 [https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6] Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans [https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans] Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session [https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session] Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/] Website: https://kimmeninger.com [https://kimmeninger.com/]

In this episode of the Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about the challenges facing working moms. Are you struggling to balance your professional ambitions with the demands of home life? Wondering if it’s even possible to stay in the workforce without burning out or stepping back? My guest this week is Kathryn Sollmann, career coach and author of The Four Jobs Club. Kathryn is on a mission to keep women in the workforce—and in this conversation, she shares practical, compassionate advice for doing just that. We talk about why so many women leave the workforce at emotional low points, how to reframe unpaid work in business terms, and why letting go of perfection is key to thriving at work and at home. We also discuss how to have proactive conversations with your employer to create more flexible, sustainable career paths. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, contemplating a career pivot, or just trying to stay afloat, this episode is a powerful reminder that you have more options—and more power—than you think. About My Guest Kathryn Sollmann, Speaker, Coach and Author, has made it her mission to keep women working toward financial security in a flexible way—alongside child and aging parent caregiving roles. Kathryn’s forthcoming book, The 4 Jobs Club: How Smart Women Care for It All—Kids, Aging Parents, Home & Career, features 200+ simple tips and strategies from 50 C-Suite Women on how they have found ways to blend work and life—and take care of themselves, too.\ ~ Connect with Kathryn: Website: https://www.kathrynsollmann.com/the-4-jobs-club/ [https://www.kathrynsollmann.com/the-4-jobs-club/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathrynsollmann/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathrynsollmann/] ~ Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files: Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge: https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge [https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge] https://www.kimmeninger.com/ Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group: https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup [https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup] https://www.kimmeninger.com/coaching Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6 [https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6] Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans [https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans] Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session [https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session] Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/] Website: https://kimmeninger.com [https://kimmeninger.com/]