In the first episode of this mini-series on imposter syndrome, we break down what it really means to experience feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy, despite evidence of success. We'll explore how imposter syndrome feels, the types of thoughts it brings up, and share data on its prevalence and impact. Plus, we’ll dive into the latest research that challenges the idea of it being a "syndrome" at all, reframing it instead as a temporary state that can be overcome. If you’ve ever felt like a fraud or questioned your accomplishments, this episode is for you. Tune in to understand why imposter syndrome happens—and what you can do about it.

1:00 - What Imposter Syndrome Looks Like

10:00 - Who It Impacts & Why

22:05 - What The Research Actually Says

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Follow us on Instagram ⁠@ianscottcohen⁠

To learn more about coaching strategies and our programs, visit us at ⁠www.IanScottCohen.com⁠

Show References

• Bravata DM, Madhusudhan DK, Boroff M, Cokley KO. Commentary: Prevalence,Predictors, and Treatment of Imposter Syndrome: A Systematic Review. J MentHealth Clin Psychol (2020) 4(3): 12-16
• Feenstra S, Begeny CT, Ryan MK, Rink FA, Stoker JI and Jordan J (2020) Contextualizing the Impostor “Syndrome”. Front. Psychol. 11:575024. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.575024
• Gadsby, Stephen (2021). Imposter Syndrome and Self-Deception. Australasian Journal of Philosophy:1-12.
• Rivera N, Feldman EA, Augustin DA, Caceres W, Gans HA, Blankenburg R. Do I Belong Here? Confronting Imposter Syndrome at an Individual, Peer, and Institutional Level in Health Professionals. MedEdPORTAL. 2021;17:11166.

In this episode of The Growth Coach, we explore the powerful concept of learned optimism, based on Dr. Martin Seligman's framework. You’ll discover how your “explanatory style”—the way you explain events to yourself—shapes your emotional responses and mindset. We break down the 3 P’s of learned optimism: personalization, permanence, and pervasiveness, and show how shifting these can transform your thoughts and behaviors in both personal and professional settings. Whether it’s a failed job interview, a personal setback, or an argument with a loved one, you’ll learn practical strategies for reframing negative situations, regaining control, and cultivating a more optimistic outlook.

1:00 - How We Think

11:45: Personalization

19:45: Permanence

26:15: Pervasiveness

35:00: Argument w/a Partner

45:00: Strategies for Shifting Your Thoughts

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Follow us on Instagram ⁠@ianscottcohen⁠

To learn more about coaching strategies and our programs, visit us at ⁠www.IanScottCohen.com⁠

Show References

Learned Optimism by Dr. Martin Seligman

"Learned Optimism: Is Martin Seligman’s Glass Half Full?" by Catherine Moore

In the final episode of our Habits mini-series, we explore the crucial element of motivation: how to find it, build it, and sustain it when working to build or break habits. You’ll learn how to create initial momentum, keep habits engaging by pushing the edge of your abilities, and navigate those moments when you feel stuck. Drawing from insights in James Clear’s Atomic Habits, Adam Alter’s Anatomy of a Breakthrough, and Mark Manson’s The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck*, I’ll share practical strategies to help you maintain the drive needed for real growth. Whether you're just getting started or struggling to keep going, this episode will equip you with the tools to stay motivated and aligned with the person you’re working to become.

1:00 - Habits Recap

7:45 - Initial Momentum

22:15 - Overcoming Boredom

32:10 - Getting Unstuck

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Follow us on Instagram ⁠@ianscottcohen⁠

To learn more about coaching strategies and our programs, visit us at ⁠www.IanScottCohen.com⁠

References

Atomic Habits by James Clear

Anatomy of a Breakthrough by Adam Alter

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson

By mastering the habit cycle, you'll be equipped to align your actions with your desired identity and make lasting changes. Tune in to learn how habits shape who you are—and how you can use them to become who you want to be.

1:00 - Intro &

10:45 - Why are

23:05 - The Cue

29:00 - The Craving

41:50 - The Response

57:30 - The Habit

⁠⁠Sign up for The Gas Up⁠⁠ - our short Sunday newsletter to give you a boost heading into the week.

Follow us on Instagram ⁠⁠@ianscottcohen⁠⁠

To learn more about coaching strategies and our programs, visit us at ⁠⁠www.IanScottCohen.com⁠⁠

Show References

⁠Atomic Habits⁠ by James Clear

In this episode of The Growth Coach, we kick off a multi-part series on building and breaking habits, starting with the most crucial element: your identity. Before you can successfully change your habits, you need to understand the deep connection between who you believe you are and the actions you take. Drawing insights from James Clear’s Atomic Habits, we explore how your identity shapes your habits and, in turn, your outcomes. Learn why it's essential to focus on identity-based habits and how to start transforming your beliefs to become the person you want to be. Tune in to discover the foundational steps to lasting change and personal growth.

1:00 - Intro to Mini-Series & Why Habits Are Important

5:50 - The Relationship Between Identity & Habits

22:30 - Common Doubts & Pitfalls Around Identity

⁠Sign up for The Gas Up⁠ - our short Sunday newsletter to give you a boost heading into the week.

Follow us on Instagram ⁠@ianscottcohen⁠

To learn more about coaching strategies and our programs, visit us at ⁠www.IanScottCohen.com⁠

Show References

Atomic Habits by James Clear

The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg

Hooked by Nir Eyal

Anatomy of a Breakthrough by Adam Alter

In this episode of "The Growth Coach," we tackle the pervasive feeling of unworthiness that so many of us experience. We explore where this inner critic comes from, delve into Tara Brach’s concept of the “trance of unworthiness,” and share practical strategies for pausing and reframing those negative thoughts.

Whether you’ve struggled with self-doubt, imposter syndrome, or just feeling like you’re not enough, this episode will help you understand that you’re not alone and provide actionable steps to start overcoming these challenges. Tune in to gain insights and tools to reclaim your self-worth and live a more empowered life.

Sign up for The Gas Up - our short Sunday newsletter to give you a boost heading into the week.

Follow us on Instagram @ianscottcohen

To learn more about coaching strategies and our programs, visit us at www.IanScottCohen.com

Show References

Tara Brach, PhD - Radical Acceptance

Why are we drawn to social media?

What really pulls us there?

In this episode, we tackle social media habits and their impact on our relationships, attention, and psyche. Then we finish up with some strategies you can employ if you are looking to edit or refine your own social media habits.

For more info about Ian's personal performance coaching, visit www.IanScottCohen.com.

For more info about Scot's therapy and evaluation practice, visit https://lumenguidance.com/

References in the episode:

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

Growth Coach Ian Scott Cohen and Clinical Psychologist Scot Seitz, PhD dive into the daily habit of avoiding things - hard conversations, breaking habits, speaking up for ourselves.

Overcoming our instincts to avoid these types of challenges is a critical ingredient to growing permanently into your favorite version of yourself.

Together, Ian and Scott discuss how internal, personal and professional situations make us feel vulnerable along with strategies you can employ to get over the hump.

For more growth coaching insights & strategies, subscribe to The Gas Up - a short Sunday newsletter to give you a mental boost heading into each week.