# How Smart NGO Leaders Use Imposter Syndrome as a Growth Signal

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-modern-humanitarian-and-international-development-leader-make-a-greater-impact-during-uncertainty-as-a-ngo-leader-while-avoiding-stress-burnout-and-overwhelm-6953228/how-smart-ngo-leaders-use-imposter-syndrome-as-a-growth-signal
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-modern-humanitarian-and-international-development-leader-make-a-greater-impact-during-uncertainty-as-a-ngo-leader-while-avoiding-stress-burnout-and-overwhelm-6953228/how-smart-ngo-leaders-use-imposter-syndrome-as-a-growth-signal.md
Podcast: [The Modern Humanitarian and International Development Leader: Make a Greater Impact During Uncertainty as a NGO Leader While Avoiding Stress, Burnout and Overwhelm](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-modern-humanitarian-and-international-development-leader-make-a-greater-impact-during-uncertainty-as-a-ngo-leader-while-avoiding-stress-burnout-and-overwhelm-6953228)
Published: 2026-03-23T07:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://the-modern-humanitarian.captivate.fm/episode/how-smart-ngo-leaders-use-imposter-syndrome-as-a-growth-signal
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/9700f1fe-2ee1-4ffa-b4a8-3006f6818831.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/the-modern-humanitarian-and-international-development-leader-make-a-greater-impact-during-uncertainty-as-a-ngo-leader-while-avoiding-stress-burnout-and-overwhelm-6953228/episodes/how-smart-ngo-leaders-use-imposter-syndrome-as-a-growth-signal
Duration seconds: 1828

## Resource

What if that voice telling you “you’re not ready” is actually the clearest sign that you’re growing into your next level of leadership? If you’ve ever questioned your readiness, felt like an imposter, or hesitated to step into bigger opportunities, you’re not alone—especially in high-pressure humanitarian and development roles where expectations are high and support is limited. In this episode, I sit down with Birgit Hermann , a leadership coach, author, interim executive, and strategy partner, to explore how self-doubt shows up for leaders—and how to navigate it. Together, we reframe these moments of uncertainty as signals that you’re stretching beyond your comfort zone and stepping into meaningful growth. In this episode, you’ll discover: A powerful reframe that helps you see Imposter Syndrome as a sign of growth, not a weakness A practical way to expand your comfort zone so you can take on bigger challenges with confidence Simple, actionable tools to manage fear and self-doubt in high-stakes leadership moments Press play now to learn how to turn self-doubt into a growth signal—and start leading with more courage and clarity today. Resources Mentioned: Check out Birgit Hermann Get the book, " BOLDER: A Leadership Mindset and Framework Forged at the Edge: Inspire Change, Shift Culture, and Build Sustainable Impact—Without Burnout " Watch on YouTube Here

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