In this episode of The Impostor Syndrome Files, we explore what happens when logic isn’t enough to break through self-doubt—and how hypnosis can help us shift long-held patterns that keep us stuck. My guest this week is Jennifer Fidder, a social psychologist, NLP practitioner, and transformational hypnotist who helps high-achievers move from awareness to sustainable change.

Together, we discuss the hidden logic of the subconscious mind and why the fears, perfectionism, and self-sabotage we experience aren’t personal failings—they’re outdated protective strategies. Jennifer offers a powerful reframe of impostor syndrome, not as a flaw to fix, but as a signal that we’re leveling up and stretching into new territory.

We also dive into how hypnosis can help rewire our thinking and create space for more confident action — from applying for a promotion to simply taking the next bold step. If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in a cycle of overthinking, procrastination, or fear of failure, this episode offers a fascinating look at how we can reprogram old patterns and move forward with clarity and courage.

About My Guest
Jennifer Fidder is a social psychologist and hypnotist with almost 20 decades experience in the coaching field. She helps others overcome their fears, doubts, and insecurities, so they can feel more empowered, confident, and fulfilled - in their personal life and business.

Her services include virtual one-on-one hypnosis sessions, workshops, seminars, as well as speeches.

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Connect with Jennifer:
Website: https://www.jenniferfidder.com

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Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:

Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:
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In this episode of The Impostor Syndrome Files, we explore how to bridge the gap between believing and achieving and what it really takes to pursue your potential, even when the path ahead is unclear. My guest this week is Adam Haston, entrepreneur and author of The Wonder Effect.

Together, we unpack the importance of believing in yourself, recognizing limiting assumptions and developing a practical framework to move from believing to achieving. Adam shares his perspective on why we must first shed the false narratives we’ve absorbed from others—teachers, advisors, even well-meaning mentors—so we can reconnect with our authentic vision and values.

We also talk about why mindset and strategy matter more than rigid tactics when it comes to change, how to break through the fear of not knowing what you want by paying attention to the everyday clues that already surround you, and the value of seeking advice from people just a few steps ahead of you—and how to balance guidance with your own inner compass.
Whether you’re at a crossroads or simply curious about what’s next, this episode offers a refreshingly honest take on how to take action, one small step at a time.

About My Guest
Adam J. Haston, author of The Wonder Effect, is an entrepreneur, educator, and community leader dedicated to helping others unlock their potential. The founder and CEO of Haston Equity Group, a financial and real estate firm, he combines business acumen with a passion for personal growth.

A former rabbi and director of programming at Chabad of Greater New Haven, Haston learned that transformation begins with truly listening. He has mentored professionals, students, and entrepreneurs, guiding them through career transitions, personal challenges, and leadership development. He has led workshops on financial success, personal growth, and resilience. His philanthropic work includes fundraising for schools, synagogues, and the Friendship Circle, where he organized a charity climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. A lifelong adventurer, Haston has run the NYC Marathon and traveled the world, but his greatest journey is as a devoted husband to Esther and father to seven incredible children. You can learn more at www.adamhaston.com

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Connect with Adam:
Website: https://www.adamhaston.com

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Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:

Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:
https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge

Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:
https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup

Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6

Join the Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans

Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session

Connect on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/

Website:
https://kimmeninger.com

In this episode of The Impostor Syndrome Files, we explore a life transition that often goes unexamined: retirement. What happens when your professional identity has defined you for decades, and suddenly you’re faced with the question, “What now?” My guest this week is Sarah Friedell O’Connell, executive transition coach and founder of ChangePoint Advisors. Sarah specializes in helping high-achieving professionals prepare for the non-financial side of retirement—what it means for their identity, purpose, and daily life.

Together, we unpack the emotional and psychological aspects of leaving full-time work, how to intentionally design your next chapter and why so many of us struggle to imagine a fulfilling life outside of our careers. Whether you’re approaching retirement or simply want to live more intentionally now, this conversation is a powerful reminder that transitions don’t have to be terrifying, they can be transformational.

About My Guest
Sarah Friedell O’Connell is an Executive Transition Coach and the owner of ChangePoint Advisors, a firm dedicated to helping senior executives navigate career changes. Sarah brings both business and career management expertise to her work with senior leaders, and her background as a former communications executive at Fidelity Investments and a spokeswoman for the President of Harvard University gives her a unique perspective and deep understanding of business and leadership. Sarah made her own career pivot into executive coaching, so she understands what it takes to successfully manage major change.

Sarah has been coaching C-suite executives for over 10 years, helping hundreds of executives across a variety of industries and functions achieve success personally and professionally. Sarah is a graduate of the College of William and Mary where she received a B.A. degree, and is certified in several psychological assessment tools. She is a graduate of the Coaches Training Institute and the College of Executive Coaching and is a Certified Retirement Coach.

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Connect with Sarah:
Website: https://www.changepointadvisors.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahfriedelloconnell/

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Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:

Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:
https://www.kimmeninger.com/challenge

Learn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:
https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroup

Join the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6

Join the Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumans

Schedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-session

Connect on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/

Website:
https://kimmeninger.com