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Do you ever feel like you don’t deserve your success—that you’ve just been lucky and it’s only a matter of time before others “find you out”? You’re not alone. In this episode of the Psych Leadership Podcast, we dive deep into impostor syndrome—why it happens, how it’s fueled by cognitive distortions, and what you can do to build real self-efficacy and confidence.

Drawing from psychological research by Clance & Imes, Albert Bandura, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), we’ll unpack the hidden thought patterns that cause high-achievers, students, and early-career professionals to feel like frauds. You’ll learn:

• How distorted thinking sabotages your confidence.
• Why self-efficacy is the antidote to impostor syndrome.
• Practical strategies to reframe your success and stop discounting your achievements.
• Actionable tools to silence self-doubt and lead with clarity.

Whether you’re a college student, recent graduate, or young professional, this episode gives you the science-backed insights to turn impostor thoughts into growth opportunities.

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Starting your career can feel exciting—and overwhelming. In this first episode of the Psych Leadership Podcast, we explore the psychology of career transitions and what it really takes to move from student life into the professional world. Drawing on Schlossberg’s Transition Theory and practical strategies, we’ll break down why change feels so hard, how identity shifts shape early career experiences, and the coping tools that help young professionals find their footing.

Whether you’re a college student stepping into your first job, or an early-career professional navigating uncertainty, this episode gives you the psychological insight and practical steps to thrive in your next chapter.

👉 Key Takeaways:

• Why career transitions trigger stress (and how to reframe it).
• The “in-between” identity of moving from student to professional.
• Schlossberg’s 4 S’s framework (Situation, Self, Support, Strategies) explained with real-world applications.
• Practical ways to build resilience and confidence during big changes.

If you’re at a crossroads in your career—or mentoring someone who is—this episode is your roadmap to navigating the unknown with clarity and confidence.

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Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.

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Now that you know what culture is, let’s talk about how to shape it. In Part 2 of our two-part series on team culture, we move from awareness to action. You’ll learn how to assess your current culture using practical tools, get actionable steps to shift a toxic environment, and discover the critical importance of diversity, inclusion, and psychological safety in building a resilient, high-performing team. We’ll also share real-world examples and research-backed insights that leaders can use to transform team dynamics—starting today.

References: 

Brown, B. (2018). *Dare to lead: Brave work. Tough conversations. Whole hearts*. Random House.

Cameron, K. S., & Quinn, R. E. (2011). *Diagnosing and changing organizational culture: Based on the competing values framework* (3rd ed.). Jossey-Bass.

Edmondson, A. C. (2019). *The fearless organization: Creating psychological safety in the workplace for learning, innovation, and growth*. Wiley.

Laloux, F. (2014). *Reinventing organizations: A guide to creating organizations inspired by the next stage of human consciousness*. Nelson Parker.

Schein, E. H. (2010). *Organizational culture and leadership* (4th ed.). Jossey-Bass.

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Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.

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Culture isn’t just what’s written on the walls—it’s what happens in the hallways. In this first episode of our two-part series, we dive into the psychology behind team culture and why it’s one of the most critical factors influencing success—or failure—in the workplace. You’ll learn how to recognize the subtle and not-so-subtle signals of a thriving vs. toxic environment, explore Edgar Schein’s model of organizational culture, and uncover how leadership plays a defining role in shaping it all. Whether you’re building culture from the ground up or reassessing what your team stands for, this episode lays the foundation.

References: 

Cameron, K. S., & Quinn, R. E. (2011). *Diagnosing and changing organizational culture: Based on the competing values framework* (3rd ed.). Jossey-Bass.

Goleman, D. (2006). *Social intelligence: The new science of human relationships*. Bantam Books.

Schein, E. H. (2010). *Organizational culture and leadership* (4th ed.). Jossey-Bass.

Watkins, M. D. (2013). *The first 90 days: Proven strategies for getting up to speed faster and smarter*. Harvard Business Review Press.

Want to be part of our mission: 👉 Donate Today

Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.

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In this episode of Psych Leadership, we dive into the powerful psychological principles behind mentorship and why great mentors focus on developing the whole person—not just their resume. Drawing from leadership theory, organizational psychology, and real-world experience, we explore how effective mentoring fosters resilience, emotional intelligence, and long-term growth. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or new to mentoring, this conversation offers practical insights on how to build trust, empower mentees, and create a lasting impact.

References: 

Baker, V. L., Lunsford, L. G., & Pifer, M. J. (2019). Patching up the “leaking leadership pipeline”: Fostering mid-career faculty succession management. Research in Higher Education, 60(6), 823–843. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11162-018-9528-9 

Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The “what” and “why” of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behavior. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227–268. https://doi.org/10.1207/S15327965PLI1104_01 

Goleman, D. (2006). Emotional intelligence. Bantam Books. 

Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes (M. Cole, V. John-Steiner, S. Scribner, & E. Souberman, Eds.). Harvard University Press.

Want to be part of our mission: 👉 Donate Today

Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.

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Leadership isn’t just for the loudest voice in the room. In this episode of PsychLeadership, we challenge the myth that great leaders must be charismatic extroverts and explore the power of introverted leadership. Many of history’s most effective leaders—from Abraham Lincoln to Bill Gates—have been quiet, reflective thinkers who lead through deep listening, strategic thinking, and thoughtful decision-making. Learn how introverts can harness their strengths, build influence, and thrive in leadership roles without changing who they are.

References:

Cain, S. (2012). Quiet: The power of introverts in a world that can’t stop talking. Crown Publishing Group.

Grant, A. M., Gino, F., & Hofmann, D. A. (2011). Reversing the extraverted leadership advantage: The role of employee proactivity. Academy of Management Journal, 54(3), 528–550. https://doi.org/10.5465/amj.2011.61968043

Kahnweiler, J. B. (2013). Quiet influence: The introvert’s guide to making a difference. Berrett-Koehler Publishers.

Riggio, R. E. (2013). Do you have to be an extrovert to be a leader? Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/cutting-edge-leadership/201305/do-you-have-be-extrovert-be-leader

Want to be part of our mission: 👉 Donate Today

Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.

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Conflict in the workplace is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to be destructive. In this episode of PsychLeadership, we break down proven techniques from Bullies, Tyrants, and Impossible People to help you navigate conflict with confidence. Learn how to manage difficult personalities, defuse tense situations, and use psychological strategies to turn workplace tension into productive conversations. Whether you’re dealing with a micromanaging boss, a passive-aggressive coworker, or an outright bully, this episode will equip you with the tools to stay composed and in control.

Books Referenced: https://www.amazon.com/Bullies-Tyrants-Impossible-People-Without/dp/140005012X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=16KO2UOVAMXU2&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.QEbLHk54b38_ofQgM6Y9ZY0CEfKcS-f8SiOMV3R2PDLuXTqTde-jZFP8FWiDSwtqyFT828jjBp--omi0-tucdw.U0m1hW6pf2l-r-S0VUul-B9x7Cn81tm0sAbvhKFi-6Q&dib_tag=se&keywords=Bullies+tyrants+and+impossible+people&qid=1741200567&sprefix=bullies+tyrants+and+impossible+people%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-1

References: 

• Eddy, B. (2018). BIFF: Quick Responses to High-Conflict People, Their Personal Attacks, Hostile Email, and Social Media Meltdowns. Unhooked Books.

• Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. Bantam Books.

• Lieberman, M. D. (2013). Social: Why Our Brains Are Wired to Connect. Crown.

• Patterson, K., Grenny, J., McMillan, R., & Switzler, A. (2011). Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High. McGraw-Hill Education.

• Scharf, M., & Schweitzer, R. (2007). Bullies, Tyrants, and Impossible People: How to Beat Them Without Joining Them. Crown Business.

• Ury, W. (2015). Getting to Yes with Yourself: How to Get What You Truly Want. Harper Business.

Want to be part of our mission: 👉 Donate Today

Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.

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Transitioning into a new position presents unique challenges and opportunities. The first three months are instrumental in defining your trajectory within the organization. This episode offers research-backed insights into making impactful first impressions, integrating seamlessly into the company culture, and achieving early wins. Whether you’re stepping into a leadership role or starting anew, these strategies will equip you to make a lasting impact from day one.

References: 

Barrick, M. R., Swider, B. W., & Stewart, G. L. (2010). Initial evaluations in the interview: Relationships with subsequent interviewer evaluations and employment offers. Journal of Applied Psychology, 95(6), 1163–1172. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0019918

Paulise, L. (2024). How to make an impact in the first 90 days of your new job. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/lucianapaulise/2024/04/30/how-to-make-an-impact-in-the-first-90-days-of-your-new-job/

Spielman, M. (2021). Tackle the first 90 days of your next role: A 5-step process for success on the job. Harvard Business School Alumni. https://www.alumni.hbs.edu/careers/blog/post/tackle-the-first-90-days-of-your-next-role-a-5-step-process-for-success-on-the-job

Swider, B. W., Barrick, M. R., & Harris, T. B. (2016). Initial impressions: What they are, what they are not, and how they influence structured interview outcomes. Journal of Applied Psychology, 101(5), 625–638. https://doi.org/10.1037/apl0000077

Watkins, M. (2013). The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter. Harvard Business Review Press.

Want to be part of our mission: 👉 Donate Today

Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.

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Understanding what recruiters and hiring managers look for can make all the difference in a job search. In this episode of PsychLeadership, we dive into the psychology behind hiring decisions, exploring the key traits, skills, and behaviors that stand out in a competitive job market. We’ll discuss the importance of cultural fit, emotional intelligence, and storytelling in interviews, as well as what hiring managers really think when they review resumes. Whether you’re actively job searching or just want to stay prepared for future opportunities, this episode will give you the inside scoop on what it takes to land the job.

<> 'The Laws of Subtraction' by  Matthew E May

References: 

Business Perspectives. (2020). Recruiter bias in resume screening and job selection. Retrieved from https://www.businessperspectives.org.

Forbes. (2021). 4 cognitive biases that hijack your hiring decisions and how to fix them. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com.

Jobvite. (2022). The recruiting benchmark report. Retrieved from https://www.jobvite.com.

Kahneman, D. (2011). Thinking, fast and slow. Farrar, Straus, and Giroux.

Sage Journals. (2022). The impact of cognitive biases on hiring decisions. Retrieved from https://journals.sagepub.com.

SHRM. (2021). Recruiters say experience is top factor in applicant evaluation. Retrieved from https://www.shrm.org.

StellaPop. (2023). How recruiters and hiring managers evaluate candidates’ soft skills. Retrieved from https://stellapop.com.

Want to be part of our mission: 👉 Donate Today

Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.

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Discussing compensation can be daunting, but effectively negotiating your salary is crucial for career advancement. In this episode of PsychLeadership, we delve into the psychological principles that influence salary negotiations. Learn how to overcome common mental barriers, employ evidence-based strategies, and confidently advocate for the compensation you deserve. Whether you’re considering a new job offer or seeking a raise, this episode provides actionable insights to navigate the negotiation process successfully.

References: 

American Psychological Association. (2016). Running start… to a great career. APA Services.  

American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Salary data and negotiation skills. APA Education and Career Development.  

American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Salary negotiation for faculty jobs. APA Education and Career Training.  

American Psychological Association. (2014). Will you earn what you’re worth? GradPsych Magazine.  

Crothers, L. M., Hughes, T. L., Schmitt, A. J., Theodore, L. A., Bloomquist, A. J., Lipinski, J., & Altman, C. L. (2010).Has equity been achieved? Salary and promotion negotiation practices of a national sample of school psychology university faculty. The Psychologist-Manager Journal, 13(1), 40–59.  

Gerhart, B., & Rynes, S. L. (1991). Determinants and consequences of salary negotiations by male and female MBA graduates. Journal of Applied Psychology, 76(2), 256–262.  

Kugler, K. G., Reif, J. A. M., Kaschner, T., & Brodbeck, F. C. (2018). Dare to ask in front of others? Women initiating salary negotiations. Group Processes & Intergroup Relations, 21(3), 476–494.  

Want to be part of our mission: 👉 Donate Today

Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.

Want to connect? Email me at [email protected]