Ever feel one mistake away from being “found out”? You’re not alone. Former NASA propulsion engineer Maureen Zappala shares how imposter syndrome secretly affects high performers and provides practical strategies to overcome self-doubt that holds us back from our full potential.
Maureen shares her journey from melting equipment at NASA’s jet engine test facility to becoming the first female and youngest manager of its Propulsion Systems Lab. Despite her impressive credentials, she constantly questioned her worth, even believing she was hired only because she was a woman.
What makes this episode particularly valuable is Maureen's practical framework for tackling imposter syndrome. She outlines five powerful strategies that begin with recognizing the symptoms and culminate in connecting with your deeper purpose. Along the way, she dismantles common misconceptions, explaining why imposter syndrome isn't something you "solve once and for all," but rather a recurring challenge that requires ongoing awareness and vigilance.
The conversation explores how imposter syndrome shows up across professions—from healthcare to leadership, creative work to entrepreneurship—revealing both personal struggles and costly organizational consequences, like a supervisor’s silence leading to defective products.
Whether you're a seasoned executive, an emerging leader, or simply someone striving for excellence in your field, this episode offers both comfort and actionable insights. Her message is clear: imposter syndrome isn’t a one-time fix but an ongoing challenge—and one you can learn to navigate with confidence. As Maureen says, “Imposter syndrome is not the end of the road.”
Guest
Host
MLAS, CPA
President / CEO of Teleios
Brain Bookmark
Anatomy Of Leadership Sponsors