Your Brain Is Lying to You: Understanding Imposter Phenomenon with Nina Blackshear | #13
What if the voice in your head telling you "you're not ready"... is simply wrong? This week, Dr. Cynthia is joined by Nina Blackshear, who breaks down the truth about imposter phenomenon and the sneaky ways it undermines even the most accomplished leaders. Together, they explore why your brain sends false danger signals, how to separate facts from fear, and the mindset shifts that help leaders rise into their next level without carrying self-doubt along with them. If you've ever felt like you're not enough—even when all evidence says otherwise—this conversation is for you. Connect with Dr-Cynthia Website: cynthiabentzenmercer.com LinkedIn: cynthiabentzenmercer Instagram: @drcynthiabentzenmercer Facebook: Dr. Cynthia
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The Seismic Shift in You | #12
We're entering a new era of leadership—one where connection isn't "nice to have," it's the entire strategy. In this episode, Dr. Michelle K. Johnston shares why the old command-and-control playbook is collapsing and how leaders who prioritize authentic human connection are winning in culture, retention, impact, and well-being. She breaks down the seismic shift happening inside organizations today and explains how to rehumanize your leadership approach—starting with yourself. We cover: Why productivity and connection are not opposing forces How to prioritize relationships and results—without burning out The 7 shifts for leading with heart, presence, and authenticity If you're ready to lead in a way that feels more aligned, more human, and more effective—this conversation will shift you. ✨ Connect with Dr. Michelle K. Johnston Linkedin:michelle-johnston Website: michellekjohnston.com 💼 Connect with Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer Website: cynthiabentzenmercer.com LinkedIn: cynthiabentzenmercer
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The Science of Happiness: Small Habits, Big Shifts | #11
What if happiness isn't something you chase—but something you build? In this uplifting episode, Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer sits down with Michele Phillips, author of Happiness Is a Habit and Energize Your Happiness, to unpack the neuroscience behind joy, resilience, and energy. Michele shares how micro-habits can rewire your brain, boost your performance, and transform your energy from the inside out. Together, they explore what it means to "write your own outcome," how to climb out of burnout one small win at a time, and why contagious positivity is a true leadership superpower. Key themes: The 90-day rule for building lasting habits How to shift from stress to flow using neuroscience The "energy brand" you project—and how to elevate it Get ready to rethink happiness not as a mood, but as a skill you can master. ✨ Connect with Michele Phillips Instagram: @keyperformance Website & Book: energizeyourhappiness.com 💼 Connect with Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer Website: cynthiabentzenmercer.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cynthiabentzenmercer
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How to Build a Career That Never Gets Stuck: Gavriella Schuster | #10
What if you never had to feel "stuck" in your career again? In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer sits down with Gavriella Schuster, a visionary tech executive and former Microsoft leader who reinvented herself 14 times in 25 years. Gavriella shares how she charted her path with intention—from mapping her next two jobs in advance to creating her own part-time role before "flex work" even existed. She also reveals her groundbreaking ALLY framework, helping leaders everywhere turn good intentions into real inclusion. Key themes: Building equity in yourself, not just your company How to plan your career two jobs ahead Turning setbacks into stretch opportunities Practicing everyday allyship that actually works Gavriella's story is proof that intentionality—and courage—are the ultimate career accelerators. Connect with Gavriella Schuster: 💼 LinkedIn Connect with Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer: 🌐 cynthiabentzenmercer.com 📸 Instagram: @drcynthiabentzenmercer 💼 LinkedIn: Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer
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Resilience Redefined: Nina Sossamon-Pogue | #9
When life falls apart, how do you find your way forward? Former USA gymnast, Emmy-winning news anchor, and bestselling author Nina Sossamon-Pogue joins Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer to share her powerful T.H.I.S. framework — a science-backed roadmap for navigating life's toughest chapters with resilience and grace. From career setbacks and divorce to rediscovering joy in midlife, Nina reveals how to adapt in a positive way to whatever life throws at you. You'll learn: The 4 steps of Nina's T.H.I.S. method: Timeline, Humans, Isolate, Story Why "comparison is the thief of joy" (and how to stop it) How to rewrite your story when life doesn't go as planned This conversation is an empowering reminder that no matter your this, there's always a way forward — and it starts with the story you tell yourself. Connect with Nina Sossamon-Pogue: 📸 Instagram: @ninaspeaks Connect with Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer: 🌐 cynthiabentzenmercer.com 📸 Instagram: @drcynthiabentzenmercer 💼 LinkedIn: Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer
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