Confidence drives careers — yet over 70% of professionals experience imposter syndrome at some point in their journey. In this first episode of the Leader on the Rise Masterclass Series, host Mim Abbey reveals why confidence, more than competence, determines who rises — and how to build it from the inside out.

This episode blends psychology, neuroscience, and leadership strategy to help you overcome self-doubt, strengthen your executive presence, and move forward with clarity and conviction.

• Why self-assurance predicts advancement more than technical skill (Harvard Business Review, Bandura research)

• The psychology behind imposter syndrome — perfectionism, attribution bias, and invisible rules at work

• How to shift from self-doubt to self-trust and rewire your brain for confidence

• Simple neuroscience-based practices to build confidence daily

• How confidence shapes leadership perception, influence, and presence

• Albert Bandura: Self-efficacy — belief in your ability to succeed — is the strongest predictor of achievement.

• Center for Talent Innovation: Presence and confidence drive 26% of promotion potential.

• Amy Cuddy (Harvard): Power poses reduce cortisol and boost performance.

• Neuroscience: Celebrating small wins rewires your brain to expect success.

Your competence got you in the room.
Your confidence takes you to the next level.
And leadership — of self and others — is how you rise.