Episode #296
Leading in a System That Wasn't Built for You with Nicole Pulliam
I have been schooled in the best way. I learned something so valuable during my conversation with my guest, Nicole Pulliam. You know how everyone (including me) has referenced Imposter Syndrome as well, a syndrome? What if the original researchers on the topic never intended for it to be called that? What if it was really called Imposter Phenomenon. We could do a whole podcast on why it was changed from phenomenon to syndrome, but the gist is that with a syndrome, we can tend to blame ourselves and think we are inherently wrong or bad. With imposter phenomenon, we take the imposter outside of ourselves and into the environment. What in the environment triggered us to feel like an imposter? And what can we do about it? During our podcast, Nicole and I chatted about: The backstory behind her work with her company, Real and Worthy What imposter phenomenon is, and how it is different than Imposter Syndrome What does it mean to lead in a system that wasn’t built for you? And how is this especially difficult for women of color? What is the Worthy Leadership Framework? The “I am worthy of” prompt If you have beat yourself up regarding Imposter Syndrome, flip your brain inside out in the best way possible with today’s show. Here is more about Nicole: Nicole Pulliam is a first-generation trailblazer, a tenured professor, and a Woman of Color who has spent over 20 years inside the very systems she now helps others navigate. She has led organizations, built programs from the ground up, and sat in rooms where she had to fight, quietly or loudly, to be taken seriously. As a tenured professor, Nicole works inside the academy every day . When she coaches faculty, Nicole is not speaking from the outside. She is speaking from experience . As Nicole knows, the rules are different when you’re a woman. The game often feels different when you’re a Woman of Color. Through executive coaching, leadership development, speaking, and consulting, Nicole partners with women, especially Women of Color , who are doing meaningful work in environments that don't always make space for them. She also partners with higher education institutions ready to invest in their people. Her approach is identity-affirming, strength-based, and unapologetically human. Nicole holds a Ph.D. in Counselor Education, an M.A. in Counseling, and a B.A. in Psychology, along with professional certifications in coaching and intercultural development. But more than credentials, Nicole brings lived experience and a genuine commitment to each of her client’s growth. Whether you're a leader navigating your next chapter, a faculty member in the thick of academic life, or an organization ready to do the real work, Nicole’s goal is the same: to help you lead with clarity, courage, and a deeper sense of who you actually are. Before we begin, please be sure to share this show with a family member, friend or colleague. As you know, your ratings and reviews help this show to gain traction and continue to grow. Thank you if you have already left a review. Also, if you haven’t downloaded one of my freebies on my site, check them out on bravewomenatwork.com. I have 5 Ways to Managing Imposter Phenomenon, 34 Leadership and Career Affirmations, and 10 tips to Win Your Next Negotiation. Download one or them or all three! If you also have a story to share and a deep desire to become an author, please contact me at hello@bravewomenatwork.com . I am happy to share the details on the project. Alright, let’s welcome Nicole to the show!
