Communicating More Effectively Under Pressure

Communicating More Effectively Under Pressure

In this episode of The Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about how to communicate more effectively under pressure. My guest this week is Salvatore Manzi, communications coach and author of the forthcoming book Clear and Compelling. Salvatore shares his own journey from debilitating public speaking anxiety to helping professionals communicate with greater confidence and clarity. Here we explore the unique challenges facing introverts and analytical thinkers in environments that reward quick responses and spontaneous conversation. We also explore strategies for communicating more effectively in such moments. Throughout our conversation, Salvatore shares practical techniques for contributing earlier in meetings, creating space to organize your thoughts, making complex ideas easier for others to follow and using simple communication frameworks to stay clear under pressure. About My Guest Salvatore Manzi is a leadership communications coach helping leaders amplify their influence and impact. He’s coached leaders presenting at the United Nations, guided startup founders and investors through fundraising rounds, including one that raised $100 million over their goal, and has helped biopharma and nuclear scientists present their work globally. With emphasis on frameworks, principles, and techniques, Salvatore supports leaders in connecting authentically and navigating high-stakes engagements with confidence. His book, Clear and Compelling, was picked up by a NY publisher and scheduled for re-release in October 2026. It combines his research into neuroscience, psychology, and organizational behavior, and decades of coaching into practical strategies for turning insights into influence. He’s passionate about fostering collaborative team environments that integrate diverse perspectives through effective communication. ~ Connect with Salvatore: Book: https://www.clearandcompellingplaybook.com [https://www.clearandcompellingplaybook.com] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salvatorejmanzi/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/salvatorejmanzi/] ~ 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://www.kimmeninger.com [https://www.kimmeninger.com/]

Gardens vs. Gold Mines

In this episode of The Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about creating workplaces where people can thrive. My guest this week is Josh Block, executive advisor and author of People Matter at Work. Josh shares the story of becoming president of his family's business at age 29 and the lessons he learned from stepping into a role he didn't feel fully prepared to lead. We explore how curiosity, humility and a willingness to rely on the strengths of others helped him navigate uncertainty and grow as a leader. In our conversation, we discuss why leadership is less about having all the answers and more about helping others succeed. Josh introduces his powerful "gardens versus gold mines" metaphor and explains why leaders must choose whether they want to develop people or simply extract value from them. We also talk about the importance of maintaining a non-anxious presence during challenging times, the shift from a "me" mindset to a "we" mindset and the role curiosity plays in building stronger teams. Finally, Josh shares his perspective on the unique questions women often bring to leadership conversations and why creating space for different perspectives leads to better outcomes. About My Guest Josh Block is a seasoned business leader and entrepreneur passionate about building cultures where people thrive—at work and in life. A graduate of Taylor University, Josh began his career by founding a service company in Muncie, Indiana, focused on creating employment opportunities within the city’s urban core. That early experience cemented his belief in the power of people-first, purpose-driven work. In 2011, Josh and his wife, Lacey, moved to Lansing, Michigan, where he assumed the role of president at Block Imaging, a family-owned company at the time and now an affiliate of Siemens Healthineers and CommonSpirit Health. Block Imaging provides refurbished imaging systems, parts, and service to healthcare providers worldwide, empowering them to provide a second chance at life for imaging equipment and patients. Under Josh’s leadership, Block Imaging has grown from fifty to more than four hundred team members globally, becoming a model for trust-driven culture and people-powered performance. In 2018, Josh launched Cube Mobile Imaging to offer mobile imaging solutions across the United States, helping to expand access and reduce patient backlogs. He also speaks and coaches on leadership, organizational culture, and identity. Outside the office, Josh brings the same energy to his personal life. He enjoys wakesurfing, paddleboarding, and golf, and has competed in triathlons ranging from sprint to 70.3 distances. A few of his favorite indulgences include Cheetos, Cherry Coke, and Cap’n Crunch—and he is known for a legendary waffle recipe. He and Lacey have been married for twenty-three years and live in Lansing with their two children. ~ Connect with Josh: Book: https://www.amazon.com/People-Matter-Work-Fostering-Everyone/dp/1637635044 [https://www.amazon.com/People-Matter-Work-Fostering-Everyone/dp/1637635044] Website: https://peoplematteratwork.com/ [https://peoplematteratwork.com/] ~ 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://www.kimmeninger.com [https://www.kimmeninger.com/]

Finding Meaning in the Ordinary Moments

In this episode of The Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about the ordinary moments that shape who we become and why so much of leadership, growth and human connection happens in the spaces we often overlook. My guest this week is Kurt Bush, leadership coach and co-founder of Brimstone Coaching Group. Kurt shares his nonlinear journey from manufacturing to ministry to leadership coaching and reflects on why growth often comes from embracing uncertainty rather than trying to control it. We explore the pressure leaders feel to always appear confident and capable, especially during times of rapid change and instability, and why so many people quietly carry overwhelm, anxiety and self-doubt while trying to support everyone around them. In our conversation, we discuss the importance of self-awareness and how moments of regret, discomfort or emotional reaction can become opportunities for growth when approached with curiosity instead of shame. Kurt also shares practical ways leaders can reflect more intentionally on how they show up in everyday interactions and why empowered action matters more than perfection. We also talk about burnout, hustle culture and the growing need for rest, reflection and joy in a world that constantly rewards productivity. Kurt shares his perspective on creating “counter systems” that help leaders stay grounded and emotionally healthy while supporting others through difficult challenges. Finally, we explore the idea that most of life happens in ordinary moments and why those moments often offer the greatest opportunities for transformation, connection and meaningful impact. About My Guest Kurt Bush is a certified Internal Family Systems Practitioner, trauma-informed coach, and co-founder of Brimstone Coaching Group. With a background spanning corporate leadership, pastoral ministry, and coaching, Kurt helps leaders break free from self-doubt, embrace authenticity, and lead with confidence. Having overcome his own struggles with imposter syndrome, Kurt is passionate about guiding others through transformational growth and into authentic leadership. Through Brimstone’s unique E + R = T approach (Encounter + Reflection = Transformation), Kurt equips individuals and teams to move from exhaustion and frustration to clarity and wholeness. He is also the co-author of “Live Fully. Lead Authentically. The Surprising Link Between Self-Awareness and Your Impact” in which he and his coaching partner explore leadership, personal growth, and breaking through barriers. ~ Connect with Kurt: Website: https://www.brimstonecoachinggroup.com/ [https://www.brimstonecoachinggroup.com/] ~ 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://www.kimmeninger.com [https://www.kimmeninger.com/]

Making Space for Men to Be Human

In this episode of The Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about loneliness, emotional suppression and the growing need for spaces where men feel safe to be fully human. My guest this week is Stefanos Koutsoumpis, men’s coach and facilitator of online men’s groups focused on emotional well-being, connection and personal growth. Stefanos shares his own journey of struggling with emotional awareness and social connection as a young man and explains why so many men feel pressure to appear strong while quietly carrying stress, shame and self-doubt. We discuss the challenges men face in opening up emotionally, why feeling heard can be so healing and how men’s groups create opportunities to practice vulnerability, communication and deeper connection. Finally, we explore the ripple effect of emotional well-being and why supporting men’s mental health benefits everyone. Stefanos also shares his perspective on curiosity, connection and creating healthier conversations in an increasingly polarized world. About My Guest Stefanos Koutsoumpis is a Men’s Life Coach dedicated to helping men in their 30s-40s who feel stuck, disconnected, or unfulfilled despite outward success. Through one-on-one coaching and his monthly men’s groups, Stefanos provides men with a sense of connection, accountability, and community. With a background in mindfulness and a passion for supporting men through life’s challenges, Stefanos brings a grounded, approachable style that empowers men to move from stress and self-doubt toward clarity and authentic fulfillment. ~ Connect with Stefanos: Free Guide: 5 Simple Ways to Feel Happier & More Fulfilled Today - Without Changing Your Job [https://www.hopp.bio/mindful-life-coaching] Website: https://www.mindfullife.coach/ [https://www.mindfullife.coach/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindfullife_coach/ [https://www.instagram.com/mindfullife_coach/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581813320351 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581813320351] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MindfulLifeCoaching [https://www.youtube.com/@MindfulLifeCoaching] ~ 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://www.kimmeninger.com [https://www.kimmeninger.com/]

When Your Identity No Longer Fits

In this episode of The Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about career reinvention, identity and what happens when the path you’ve spent your life pursuing no longer feels aligned. My guest this week is Kate Kayaian, author, speaker and former professional cellist. Kate shares her journey from building a successful career in classical music to realizing, after decades as a performer, that the identity she had always carried no longer fit. We explore the emotional complexity of walking away from something you once loved, especially when it has shaped your sense of self for most of your life. In our conversation, we discuss the stories we tell ourselves about success, obligation and what we “should” want. Kate reflects on the guilt that can come with changing direction after years of investment and achievement, and why so many people stay in careers that no longer fulfill them because they fear disappointing others or starting over. We also talk about how impostor syndrome shows up during periods of transition, the importance of reassessing old narratives and how reconnecting with childhood curiosity can offer clues about what’s next. Kate shares why she believes career pivots are becoming increasingly common and why permission to evolve matters more than ever. Finally, we explore the idea that closing one chapter does not erase who we’ve been. Kate reminds us that we can honor past versions of ourselves while still creating space for new possibilities, new identities and new ways of contributing. About My Guest Kate Kayaian is an author, speaker, and career strategist for high achievers who want to build lives of impact, purpose, and sustainable success.  A former professional cellist, Kate performed as a soloist, chamber musician, and recitalist in venues ranging from Boston’s Jordan Hall to leading European concert halls. She trained at the New England Conservatory of Music and held a fellowship with the New World Symphony Orchestra under Michael Tilson Thomas.  Today, Kate’s work centers on helping accomplished professionals—creatives, executives, educators, and entrepreneurs—define success on their own terms and create careers that feel as good as they look. Through her 1:1 coaching and her signature group program, the Creatives Leadership Academy, she guides clients to develop clarity, confidence, and the practical strategies needed to lead at the highest level without sacrificing their well-being.  She is the author of Beyond Potential, a practical guide for high performers navigating the next chapter of their professional lives, and the host of Tales from The Lane, a podcast exploring the hidden challenges and unexpected joys of success. As a sought-after speaker, Kate delivers keynotes and workshops on leadership presence, mindset transformation, and redefining what’s possible for high achievers across industries.  Alongside her private practice, Kate serves as President and Artistic Director of the Bermuda Philharmonic Orchestra, where she continues to champion creativity, collaboration, and innovation in the arts. S he lives on the island of Bermuda, where she spends her days coaching clients around the world, writing, speaking, and tending to her garden. ~ Connect with Kate: Website: https://katekayaian.com/ [https://katekayaian.com/] Freebie: https://mailchi.mp/585d0fbc5a61/quarterly-retreat-planning-guide [https://mailchi.mp/585d0fbc5a61/quarterly-retreat-planning-guide] ~ 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://www.kimmeninger.com [https://www.kimmeninger.com/]