What if the thing holding you back from your next breakthrough isn't a lack of skill—but a lingering sense that you don't belong?
In this powerfully honest episode of the Expert Speaker Podcast, executive coach and “Forgiveness Coach” Dionne Nicholls-Germain sits down with Majeed to explore the deeper roots of imposter syndrome, and why so many high-performing women secretly question their worth—despite the titles, accolades, and success.
Dionne shares how unforgiveness (especially self-unforgiveness) quietly sabotages leadership, fulfillment, and confidence—and how reclaiming your power starts with a radical practice of compassion and courage. Drawing from her own story of reinvention, her keynote work in boardrooms around the world, and the tools in her 90-Day Conquering Unforgiveness Journal, Dionne equips us with a new lens for personal growth, executive leadership, and emotional freedom.
Key Takeaways:
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Imposter Syndrome isn’t about ability—it’s about worthiness: Even top performers secretly fear being “found out.”
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High achievers often hide: Playing small and avoiding risks is a common coping mechanism for fear of being wrong.
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Confidence is built through action, not affirmation: Courage is the bridge between fear and confidence.
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Unforgiveness drains energy and blocks progress: It shows up in relationships, stalled careers, and self-sabotage.
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Forgiveness is a leadership superpower: Releasing old narratives builds emotional intelligence, decision-making clarity, and inner peace.
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Women leaders are still navigating systemic pressures: True belonging requires internal healing, not just external accomplishments.
Notable Quotes:
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“At some point, someone’s going to find out I don’t belong.”
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“Confidence doesn’t come before the action—it comes from the action.”
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“Forgiveness is not a feeling—it’s a conscious decision to release what’s no longer serving you.”
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“If you’re feeling stuck in your career, your purpose, or your relationships—check your heart.”
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“Forgiveness is good business.”
Meet the Guest:
Dionne Nicholls-Germain is a professionally trained Life & Leadership Coach known as The Forgiveness Coach. After leaving a 20-year corporate fashion career as a single mom at 40, Dionne reinvented herself—and now helps other women do the same. Through her company Live Your Best Life for You, she empowers female executives and entrepreneurs to heal, lead, and thrive.
She is the creator of the Conquering Unforgiveness Mastermind, author of The 90-Day Conquering Unforgiveness Journal, and an international speaker featured in Forbes, Negotiate Anything, and global leadership events from New York to Lisbon.
Free Resource – Start Here:
✨ Download Dionne’s free guide: 5 Tips to Boosting Self-Compassion https://notable-hall-20342.myflodesk.com/tipstoboostselfcompassion/checkout
🖥 Connect with Expert Speaker: https://www.expertspeaker.com
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