You Belong Here: Why Imposter Syndrome Lies to You
What does imposter syndrome actually sound like? In this episode of Her Career Unplugged, we sit down with Betty Dannewitz, founder and CEO of If You Ask Betty, to talk about the voice in our heads that tells us we don't belong, and how to push back. Betty shares how she personified her imposter syndrome as a puppet named Bernie, why so many high performers experience the same self-doubt, and the small mindset shifts that can make a big difference in your career. From staying five years too long in a job because of imposter syndrome… to Googling “What is augmented reality?” after volunteering to build an innovative learning program, Betty’s story is both hilarious and incredibly relatable. If you’ve ever felt like you’re about to be “found out,” this conversation is for you.
Show Notes
- What imposter syndrome really sounds like – that internal voice saying “this was a terrible idea” or “they’re going to find out I don’t belong.”
- Meet the “Imposter Monster.” Betty shares how personifying imposter syndrome (hers is named Bernie) helps separate self-doubt from reality.
- High performers struggle with it too. Through podcast interviews and conversations, Betty discovered imposter syndrome is incredibly common—even among experienced professionals.
- The career cost of self-doubt. Betty shares how imposter syndrome kept her in a role for five years longer than she should have stayed.
- The moment that changed everything. Saying “yes” to a project involving augmented reality before even knowing what it was ultimately shaped her career in emerging technology.
- Learning something new often triggers imposter syndrome. Even seasoned professionals can feel underqualified when stepping into unfamiliar territory.
- A simple habit to combat imposter syndrome: when someone compliments your work, say “thank you” and stop talking.
- Stop deflecting praise. Many professionals unintentionally reject recognition by minimizing their accomplishments.
- Imposter syndrome isn’t about competence—it’s about belonging. Feeling like an outsider often fuels the self-doubt.
- The key takeaway: You belong here. You earned your seat, even if the voice in your head tries to convince you otherwise.