In the second episode of Plain View, Elise Joseph James and Kristine Claghorn explore the everyday experience of imposter syndrome and self-doubt. They reflect on their own winding career paths, the pressures of defining what you "do," and the ways fear of judgment can hold us back from owning our value. Together, they unpack the roots of imposter syndrome—from systemic issues and social comparison to evolutionary biology—and share personal stories that invite listeners to feel less alone.
They offer meaningful mindset shifts, research-backed tools, and a practical guide to reframing thoughts and building self-worth from within. The episode wraps with a guided practice by Kristine to help you celebrate small wins and reconnect with your values, no success required.
If you’ve ever felt like a fraud, like you’re not doing enough, or like you’re “figuring it out” a little too slowly, this conversation is for you.
Shout out to Emily McDowell, who inspired the title of this episode.
TiMeStamPs & ToPiCs:
00:00 – Introductions and episode intention: why this topic feels so personal
01:39 – Elise shares Kristine’s Moving Through Imposter Syndrome workbook
03:02 – Community poll: how often do you experience self-doubt?
03:52 – Triggers for imposter syndrome (like “What do you do?”)
05:52 – Trying to fit into a brand vs. embracing multidimensionality
07:04 – Kristine’s nuanced take on coaching, marketing, and self-disclosure
08:23 – APA research: 70%+ of people experience imposter syndrome
09:21 – What is imposter syndrome, really? + signs and symptoms
12:25 – What does imposter syndrome feel like? Community responses
14:13 – Challenging the belief that everyone else is more capable
14:54 – Systemic roots of imposter syndrome and structural exclusion
15:53 – Harvard Business Review article: “Stop Telling Women They Have Imposter Syndrome”
16:24 – When do you feel self-doubt the most? Work, parenting, creativity, money
17:39 – Soft skills, undercharging, and self-worth in creative work
18:40 – Reframing thoughts and building new patterns through neuroplasticity
20:21 – Fear of mistakes, redefining success, and disconnecting worth from work
21:35 – Extrinsic vs. intrinsic motivation and finding joy in the process
23:38 – The power of sharing your struggles and asking for help
25:29 – “Dream addict” and idea overwhelm—how support can shift our perspective
26:10 – Celebrating wins and savoring moments of progress
28:51 – Community shares: recent little wins, from focaccia to guest lecturing
31:37 – Kristine’s guided practice: celebrating small wins & reconnecting with meaning
36:07 – Closing thoughts: we’re celebrating with you!
rEsOuRcEs mEnTiOnEd iN tHe EpiSoDe:
Stop Telling Women They Have Imposter Syndrome by Ruchika Tulshyan and Jodi-Ann Burey
CoNnEcT wItH uS:
@plai.nview on Instagram
Elise Joseph James – elisejosephjames.com
Kristine Claghorn – claggie.com
You can also find us individually over on Substack:
If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to subscribe! It helps others find Plain View. And if you have thoughts or experiences on self-doubt and imposter syndrome, send us a email at plainviewworld@gmail.com, or call the Plain View hotline and leave us a voicemail at (925) 247-VIEW. We’d love to hear from you!
💋 LYLAS,
Elise & Kristine