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The Impostor Syndrome Files

The Impostor Syndrome Files

By: Kim Meninger
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Do you ever feel like a fraud? Struggle with chronic self-doubt? Wonder if you really deserve your role?


You’re not alone. As a leadership coach who’s battled impostor syndrome myself, I created this podcast to provide a place where professionals can share their stories, shed the silent shame and feel seen.


Each episode features honest conversations with professionals from all walks of life who’ve faced impostor syndrome and found ways to move through it. We’ll also hear from experts who share practical strategies for managing ourselves and shaping environments that reduce the threat of impostor syndrome.


Let’s erase the stigma. Let’s stop pretending we’re the only ones. And let’s come together to share, support and rise above the fear that keeps us playing small.

© 2026 The Impostor Syndrome Files Career Success Economics Management Management & Leadership Personal Development Personal Success
Episodes
  • Finding Meaning in the Ordinary Moments

    Finding Meaning in the Ordinary Moments
    Jul 21 2026

    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.

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    Connect with Kurt:
    Website: https://www.brimstonecoachinggroup.com/
    ~

    Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:

    Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:
    https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge

    Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:
    https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup

    Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6

    Join the Facebook group:
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans

    Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session

    Connect on LinkedIn:
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/

    Website:
    https://www.kimmeninger.com
    Show More Show Less
    35 mins
  • Making Space for Men to Be Human

    Making Space for Men to Be Human
    Jul 14 2026

    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
    Website: https://www.mindfullife.coach/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindfullife_coach/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581813320351
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MindfulLifeCoaching

    ~

    Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:

    Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:
    https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge

    Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:
    https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup

    Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6

    Join the Facebook group:
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans

    Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session

    Connect on LinkedIn:
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/

    Website:
    https://www.kimmeninger.com
    Show More Show Less
    34 mins
  • When Your Identity No Longer Fits

    When Your Identity No Longer Fits
    Jul 7 2026
    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 GuestKate 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. She 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/ Freebie: 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/challengeLearn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroupJoin 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://www.kimmeninger.com
    Show More Show Less
    33 mins
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