Mental load, burnout, and imposter syndrome create a perfect storm that significantly contributes to the gender pay gap.

In this episode, we delve into some very concerning statistics from the 2024 Imposter Syndrome Research Study that show how these issues disproportionately affect women, leading to chronic stress and limiting their career growth.

The research highlights that over half of female employees are 'very concerned' about burnout, and 31% are at 'high risk'. Many are being driven to exhaustion by a combination of Imposter Syndrome coping strategies, impossible workloads, too many meetings, and juggling household responsibilities alongside their professional lives.

This episode challenges the cultural assumptions that still exist in workplaces, including the outdated notion that leadership roles are designed for people with housewives.

Join Clare as she explores actionable steps to address these systemic and cultural issues and shares practical solutions for a more equitable work environment for everyone.

What We'll Cover:

• The combination of mental load, burnout, and imposter syndrome is fuelling the gender pay gap.
• Women face a unique perfect storm of challenges that make it harder for them than for men to get promoted.
• Mental load often falls disproportionately on women, creating chronic stress, limiting their career growth, and forcing them to quit jobs they love.
• The problem with flexible working when you get promoted, and how this is driving the gender pay gap and lack of equity in leadership roles.
• Men play a key role in changing the conversation about this in the workplace.
• How we need to rethink what 'allyship' really means.
• Why organisations need to rewrite the rules on how work works, no longer designing senior positions that rely on outdated assumptions about domestic responsibilities.

Resources For This Episode:

• Get the white paper here - www.impostersyndromeresearch.com
• How is Imposter Syndrome impacting your organisation? Free diagnostic assessment here.
• Look for the 'Escaping The Stress Cycle' course in the Imposter Syndrome Hacks™ App - Get your first 30 days for free
• Shownotes: www.DitchingImposterSyndrome.com/podcast/070/

Join In The Discussion:

• Here's where we're talking about this in the private forum for the Imposter Syndrome Hacks™ app

Enjoyed This & Want More Around This Topic? Listen To These Episodes:

• Episode 67 - New Research: 3 Hidden Causes Of The Gender Pay Gap
• Episode 68 - How Women’s Imposter Syndrome Impacts the Gender Pay Gap
• Episode 69 - 8 Ways Women Pay for Men’s Imposter Syndrome
• Episode 48 - The 3 Pillars Of Imposter Syndrome & Burnout
• Episode 53 - Are You At Risk Of Burnout? What The 4 Ps Of Imposter Syndrome Predict

In this episode, the Ditching Imposter Syndrome takes a bold step into the gender pay gap, looking at 8 ways that men's Imposter Syndrome is preventing pay equality.

What if men’s imposter syndrome is silently shaping workplace culture—and widening the gender pay gap? We reveal findings from the 2024 Imposter Syndrome Research Study, showing how men’s suppressed imposter emotions and maladaptive coping strategies can create toxic dynamics, from micromanagement to exclusionary alpha-male cultures.

Discover eight surprising ways this impacts women’s ability to fulfil their potential and explore how organisations can break these patterns to foster true equity.

Resources from this episode:

• Get the white paper here - www.impostersyndromeresearch.com
• How is Imposter Syndrome impacting your organisation? Free diagnostic assessment here.
• Here's a detailed exploration of the 4 Ps of Imposter Syndrome.
• Shownotes: www.DitchingImposterSyndrome.com/podcast/069/

Join in the conversation:

• Here's where we're talking about this in the private forum for the Imposter Syndrome Hacks™ app

Want to find out more about this topic? Here are some other episodes to listen to:

• The 4 Ps Of Imposter Syndrome
• Episode 67 - New Research: 3 Hidden Causes Of The Gender Pay Gap
• Episode 68 - How Women’s Imposter Syndrome Impacts the Gender Pay Gap
• Episode 70 - The Hidden Link Between Mental Load, Imposter Syndrome and the Gender Pay Gap

In this episode, we dive into the hidden link between women’s imposter syndrome and its impact on the gender pay gap and equity in leadership roles. We’ll explore why, as a result, women are more likely than men to feel they don’t belong in leadership roles, and how this explains why women quit a job they love, meaning you're missing out on their potential.

It’s not their fault, but it’s harming their performance, productivity and wellbeing, as well as costing businesses and the broader economy billions.

Find out why this silent barrier holds women back, how it affects retention of even your best women, and the essential steps leaders need take to support their teams, reduce sabbatical requests, and close the gender pay gap.

Tune in for actionable insights on how addressing this issue proactively an lead to a more equitable, productive, and ultimately profitable workplace.

What you'll cover:

• The hidden link between women's Imposter Syndrome and the gender pay gap
• Why Imposter Syndrome makes women more likely than men to quit a job they love, even though both sexes experience Imposter Syndrome at similar rates
• Why Imposter Syndrome becomes a silent barrier to women getting promoted, but it's not their fault
• How Imposter Syndrome affects the retention of your best female employees
• The little-known impact on women's personal development, and how performance review systems are failing them
• The essential steps leaders need take to support their teams, reduce sabbatical requests, and close the gender pay gap

This episode's shownotes & resources:

• Shownotes: www.DitchingImposterSyndrome.com/podcast/068/
• Stepping Up To Lead - Students describe this programme as life-changing, in helping them to clear Imposter Syndrome and increase their influence in the organisation.
• Get the white paper here - www.impostersyndromeresearch.com
• How is Imposter Syndrome impacting your organisation? Free diagnostic assessment here.

Join in the conversation:

• Here's where we're talking about this in the private forum for the Imposter Syndrome Hacks™ app

Want more on this topic? Here are some related episodes:

• Episode 67 - New Research: 3 Hidden Causes Of The Gender Pay Gap
• Episode 69 - Gender Pay Gap: 8 Ways That Women Are Paying The Price for Men’s Imposter Syndrome
• Episode 70 - The Hidden Link Between Mental Load, Imposter Syndrome and the Gender Pay Gap
• Episode 48 - The 3 Pillars Of Imposter Syndrome & Burnout
• Episode 53 - Are You At Risk Of Burnout? What The 4 Ps Of Imposter Syndrome Predict

We've just published the 2024 Imposter Syndrome research study. And part of it looks into the role of imposter syndrome in the gender pay gap and gender equality and diversity initiatives in general.

This episode is a must-listen episode for you if you care about having true equality and diversity at all levels of your organisation and if you're curious about the role that imposter syndrome is playing in that both for men and for women.

These episodes are going to be slightly shorter than usual because there are four of them coming out in one go.

In this episode we're looking at three hidden causes of the gender pay gap, which very few organisations are addressing, which is why we're not making progress.

The shocking update from the Fawcett Society shows that the UK's Gender Pay Gap has actually widened in 2024, so what we're doing isn't working. It's time to find out why.

Show notes & resources:

• Episode shownotes: https://www.ditchingimpostersyndrome.com/podcast/067/
• Get the white paper here - www.impostersyndromeresearch.com
• How is Imposter Syndrome impacting your organisation? Free diagnostic assessment here.
• Want to help others to ditch Imposter Syndrome? Find out how to work with Clare to get certified in her inspirational strategies.

Join in the discussion

• Here's where we're talking about this in the private forum for the Imposter Syndrome Hacks™ app

This is a special episode today for World Menopause Day.

Did you know that perimenopause is one of the biggest trigger points for imposter syndrome, according to our research study, causing talented women to leave not just their job, but even the career that they loved?

This special episode of the Ditching Imposter Syndrome podcast is both for women who are going through the perimenopause to explain why it's triggering imposter syndrome that may previously have been dormant for you...

... And it's also for those who love them, who work with them, for their employers, to find out how to spot the warning signs that someone might need some additional support to stop the cycle and to create lasting change.

You are losing from your organisation, many of your best women leaders just at the point where they're about to do their best work to make the biggest contribution of their career due to a combination of perimenopause and impostor syndrome.

In this special episode, we're going to talk about how to spot the warning signs that imposter syndrome and perimenopause might be creating a secret storm for yourself or for people you care about. Seven reasons why this happens. This is science based. This is about biology and the research we've done into imposter syndrome.

My top advice, which, spoiler alert, in case you don't get to listen to the end, is do not make drastic decisions. Deal with the root causes instead. And you might be amazed how often that decision then changes.

And we're going to wrap up with what you can do as an employer or a colleague or a loved one. So there is this perfect storm effect that happens between perimenopause and imposter syndrome.

Resources:

1. The 2024 Imposter Syndrome Research Study - get the white paper
2. Episode 33: Why Imposter Syndrome Makes Your Mind Go Blank In Meetings
3. Get certified as an Imposter Syndrome Practitioner or an Imposter Syndrome Master Coach

Key Takeaways:

• Perimenopause can significantly trigger dormant imposter syndrome, impacting women's careers and mental health.
• Understanding the biological changes during perimenopause is crucial for addressing imposter syndrome effectively.
• Employers should recognize the signs of imposter syndrome in talented women during perimenopause.
• High cortisol levels due to stress can exacerbate symptoms of both perimenopause and imposter syndrome.
• Addressing imposter syndrome can improve workplace performance and support women navigating perimenopause.
• Proactively supporting women in clearing imposter syndrome is essential for retaining top talent.

Celebrate the fifth anniversary of Clare Josa's best-selling book, "Ditching Imposter Syndrome," as she shares the behind-the-scenes journey of its creation and the impact it has had on readers worldwide.

Clare reveals her motivation for writing the book, which stems from a desire to provide genuine solutions to overcoming imposter syndrome, rather than just coping strategies. Throughout the episode, she discusses the extensive research and years of development that went into creating a resource that is not only practical but also deeply transformative.

Clare emphasises the importance of having proper support and guidance when dealing with the root causes of imposter syndrome, highlighting her commitment to helping others break free from its constraints.

Join Clare as she reflects on her journey, the successes of her readers, and introduces the new "Ditching Imposter Syndrome Accelerator" designed to further enhance the book's teachings.

The Ditching Imposter Syndrome book has just turned 5 years old, and it has been an incredible 5 years! Want a peek behind the scenes? In this episode, we're looking at:

• how the book took me 5 years to write, and why (forget the book-in-a-weekend nonsense!)
• you'll discover exactly why I wrote it the way I did.
• I'm open about the biggest problem with the book, and it's the one my husband warned me about - but it's not what you might think.
• And I share exactly how you can work with me, picking my brains and getting me walking by your side, on your Ditching Imposter Syndrome journey, to fast-track your breakthroughs, even on the sticky stuff.

Resources From This Episode:

• Episode 29 - The truth about 'do it scared' and why pushing on through the Imposter Syndrome fear is such a bad idea
• Episode 53 - The 4 Ps of Imposter Syndrome (including info on hypervigilance, which I mention in this episode)
• Episode 7 -The Difference Between Imposter Syndrome & Self-Doubt
• Episode 50 + Free Workbook - 10 Questions To Ask A Coach Before Working With Them On Imposter Syndrome
• How to work with me to get certified in these techniques - Practitioner or Master Coach
• Work with me on the Ditching Imposter Syndrome Accelerator

Episode background:

Celebrating the fifth anniversary of her book, Ditching Imposter Syndrome, Clare Josa takes listeners on a reflective journey through the motivations and insights behind her work. The podcast delves into the initial promise Clare made nearly a decade ago to her mastermind group to write a book aimed at eradicating the pervasive feelings of inadequacy that many individuals experience. Clare reveals the lengthy process that transformed her intuitive approach to coaching into a structured, accessible guide that is both practical and profound. At its core, this episode emphasizes Clare's commitment to providing a framework that empowers readers to confront and dismantle their imposter syndrome rather than simply coping with it.

Listeners are treated to Clare's candid reflections on her engineering background and how it shaped her unique approach to tackling imposter syndrome. By integrating scientific research, ancient wisdom, and practical exercises, Clare crafts a resource that is not only informative but also user-friendly—allowing readers to engage with the material in a pajama-ready format. The conversation highlights the transformative testimonials from readers worldwide, showcasing the real-life impact of her methodologies. Clare passionately advocates for a shift in perspective around imposter syndrome, urging listeners to recognize it as a solvable issue rather than an inevitable burden. This episode serves as both a celebration of her journey and a call to action for those who may still be grappling with their self-doubt.

In the latter part of the episode, Clare introduces her new initiative, the Ditching Imposter Syndrome Accelerator, designed to complement her book by providing an interactive platform for readers. This program promises a more immersive experience, including live coaching sessions, community support, and additional resources to help individuals apply the concepts from her book effectively. Clare's enthusiasm for making a difference in the lives of her readers is palpable, and she invites listeners to take the leap into this new chapter of their personal growth journey.

There are 7 imposter syndrome coping strategies you need to stop using today.

And in episode 64 here on the Ditching Imposter Syndrome podcast, I'm going to take you on a tour of them and what you can do instead. Plus, we'll explore the problem with what I call the bridge of coping strategies, and you'll learn how normalising imposter syndrome is actually keeping people stuck in fear and anxiety and preventing them from fulfilling their potential.

What we'll cover today:

• The problem with coping strategies and normalising Imposter Syndrome
• What happens when you widen the Imposter Syndrome gap?
• The 7 coping strategies you'll want to ditch today and what you can do instead, for each of them!
• Practical strategies for getting started on this, even before bedtime tonight

Today's Resources:

• Get 14 days risk-free as my gift as a Courage Club member of the Imposter Syndrome Hacks™ app
• Read or listen to Ditching Imposter Syndrome
• Ditching Imposter Syndrome podcast - episode 62 - Imposter Syndrome Is A Good Thing. Really?

How to spot five top secret warning signs of imposter syndrome in colleagues and clients.

Today in episode 63 of the Ditching Imposter Syndrome podcast, we're going to be diving more deeply into how to spot those hidden warning signs, and they are more of a master of disguise than Moriarty.

So if you want to go Sherlock-Holmes on spotting those secret warning signs so you can intervene and support a colleague or client before they self sabotage, this episode is for you.

We're going start with a brief recap of the obvious warning signs.

Then I'm going to share with you five that you might not have realised are actually driven by imposter syndrome.

What you'll discover today:

• Why is it so important to be able to spot the early warning signs of Imposter Syndrome?
• What happens if we take action at the very first signs, rather than waiting and hoping it will go away?
• A recap of the most common warning signs.
• 5 top secret warning signs that give you an even earlier indication that something is up.
• Practical inspiration for what to do next, to raise the conversation and support the person in turning things around.

Today's resources:

1. Coaching Imposter Syndrome - read it or listen to it - as my gift
2. Work with me to learn how to deeply support others in ditching Imposter Syndrome
3. Episode 11 of the Ditching Imposter Syndrome podcast - the most common warning signs
4. Do I have Imposter Syndrome? And what can I do about it? Free research-backed quiz & personalised mini-course.
5. Imposter Syndrome Hacks™ app - free course: Imposter Syndrome 101 - look for the lessons on how to remove the taboo and start the conversation

Imposter Syndrome is a good thing. Really? If you've ever been told that at it has really grated with you... and you've been wondering how on earth Imposter Syndrome could possibly be a good thing... or why people are sharing that advice... and what you can do instead... then today's episode is for you!

What You'll Discover?

• You're not alone if it grates with you to be told that Imposter Syndrome is a good thing!
• The three things that are happening under the surface for the person who's telling you this.
• Their secret fear - the one they don't want you to know - and it can set you free from the guilt and shame of not having been able to ditch Imposter Syndrome yet.
• How you could get started on your journey of healing Imposter Syndrome in the next 5 minutes.

Resources:

• The Imposter Syndrome Iceberg - the difference between Imposter Syndrome & self-doubt
• Episode 24: But surely Imposter Syndrome is incurable?
• Train with Clare to become a certified coach in this work.
• Try the Imposter Syndrome Hacks™ App risk-free for 14 days, and start changing your life, today.

What can you do when you want to talk to a colleague or loved-one about Imposter Syndrome, but you're scared that simply using those two words will make them run for the hills?

What's really going on when this happens? How can you start the conversation and remove the taboo? And how can you support the other person in feeling safe talking to you about it, even if you're secretly running it yourself, without it turning into a pity-party?

All of that and more is waiting for you in today's episode!

What's Waiting For You:

• Where did the name 'Imposter Syndrome' come from?
• Why is it so 'Marmite' - creating relief or rejection?
• What's the #1 mistake that most people are making when they raise the discussion?
• What's Clare's magic formula for removing the fear about all of this?
• How can you talk about Imposter Syndrome, without talking about Imposter Syndrome?
• And what are your next steps for helping others to set themselves free from this, once and for all?

Today's Resources:

• Get certified - work with Clare Josa to train in this work
• Episode 39: Imposter Syndrome - time to rename it or reclaim it?
• Episode 58: Radical Candor - the risks of unfiltered feedback when someone is running Imposter Syndrome
• Read or listen to Clare's latest book - Coaching Imposter Syndrome
• Take Clare Josa's Imposter Syndrome 101 course - free inside the Imposter Syndrome Hacks™ App
• Free scorecard - get your Imposter Syndrome risk score and a personalised action plan