In this episode of The Anxiety Society, hosts Dr. Elizabeth Mcingvale and Cali Werner welcome special guest Rogelio Gonzalez, M.A.,Pre-Doctoral Fellow, to dive into the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome. Sharing personal experiences and professional insights, they unpack why so many of us feel like frauds, even when we're more than qualified. Together, they explore strategies for overcoming these self-doubts through mindset shifts, setting realistic goals, and embracing growth. This conversation is raw, real, and packed with practical advice for anyone battling their inner imposter.

Key Points:

[0:06] - Introduction to The Anxiety Society Podcast  

Dr. Elizabeth Mcingvale and Cali Werner introduce the podcast's purpose: discussing anxiety in an unfiltered way, pushing boundaries to help listeners better understand and manage it.

[1:10] - Meet the Guest: Rogelio Gonzalez  

The hosts introduce Ro, a clinician passionate about helping people manage their mental health, who shares his unique journey into the field of psychology.

[2:17] - Imposter Syndrome Defined  

The team defines imposter syndrome and why it resonates with so many, even among highly qualified professionals. They explore how it affects both personal and professional lives.

[8:00] - Personal Experiences with Imposter Syndrome  

The hosts and Rogelio share moments where they’ve felt like imposters, from clinical work to social circles. Liz reflects on how imposter syndrome can pop up even in areas where she is otherwise confident.

[24:14] - The Imposter Cycle & Breaking It  

The hosts discuss the imposter syndrome cycle and how over-preparing, self-doubt, and feeling like a fraud perpetuate these feelings. They share practical tips on setting process-based goals instead of outcome-based ones.

[35:01] - Tackling Imposter Syndrome in the Workplace  

Ro and Cali share how workplace environments can either fuel or help alleviate imposter syndrome, and how peer support plays a crucial role in overcoming these feelings.

[42:00] - Steps to Conquer Imposter Syndrome  

The episode concludes with actionable steps to overcome imposter syndrome, including setting realistic goals, cognitive restructuring, celebrating small wins, and practicing self-compassion.

Quotable Moments:

[2:20] “I think the biggest question people have is, what do I do about it? I feel it, now what?” — Cali Werner

[8:16] “I remember thinking, I can’t be here. I must have cut a corner somewhere.” — Rogelio Gonzalez

[35:12] “We can’t treat everyone successfully every time... but that doesn’t make us bad clinicians.” — Dr. Elizabeth Mcingvale

Links Mentioned:  

• The Anxiety Society Podcast Website: http://www.anxietysocietypodcast.com
• Instagram: @anxietysocietypod: http://instagram.com/anxietysocietypod

Imposter syndrome is something that so many of us battle, but you don’t have to fight it alone. Listen to this episode for practical strategies and advice to start overcoming those feelings of inadequacy today. Be sure to subscribe and leave us a review to help others find this valuable content. 

Mentioned in this episode:

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