In this episode of Wired for Well-Being, Dr. Jeffrey Rutstein and producer Steve Lessard explore a struggle many people face at pivotal moments of growth: What happens inside us when we’re called to step forward—and shame tells us to stay small?

Breaking from the show’s usual format, Steve brings his own lived experience into the conversation, sharing the fear, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome that arise as he feels called to create and offer something new in the world. Jeffrey unpacks how shame operates not just as a thought pattern, but as a nervous system response designed to limit risk, visibility, and vulnerability.

Together, they explore why insight and motivation alone often aren’t enough to move through self-doubt—and how learning to work with the body and nervous system can restore trust, clarity, and a felt sense of self-worth.

You’ll learn:

Why shame often intensifies when we’re about to grow, expand, or be seen

How imposter syndrome is rooted in nervous system safety, not lack of ability

How the body signals yes, no, and alignment before the mind catches up

As Jeffrey reminds us, moments of doubt aren’t proof of inadequacy—they’re moments of pain shaped by past experience. When we learn to meet those moments through the body rather than the intellect alone, a different voice can emerge—one grounded in steadiness, permission, and self-trust.

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The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional mental health advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical or mental health concerns.