Feeling less confident in your role as a Second-in-Command? Learn how the Dunning-Kruger effect impacts your leadership and how to overcome it.

Ever feel like the more you learn, the less confident you become? You’re not imagining it. This is the Dunning-Kruger effect at work. In this episode, we break down how this psychological phenomenon affects Seconds-in-Command and why gaining experience can sometimes feel like a confidence killer. Learn how to push past self-doubt, trust your expertise, and lead with confidence...even when you don’t have all the answers.

You'll hear all about:

• 01:11 – Why COOs and Integrators often feel less confident over time.


• 02:17 – The paradox: the more you know, the more you realize you don’t know.


• 03:00 – Real-world examples from coaching engagements where confidence dips after deeper learning.


• 03:42 – Understanding "Mount Stupid"—why overconfidence is highest when knowledge is lowest.


• 04:11 – Three ways the Dunning-Kruger effect impacts Seconds-in-Command:


• 04:16 – Second-guessing decisions, even when you’re the most qualified.


• 04:44 – Assuming the CEO has all the answers (hint: they don’t).


• 05:22 – Holding back on leading boldly when your perspective is most needed.


• 06:03 – How to counteract self-doubt and embrace your role:


• 06:09 – Trust your expertise and recognize self-awareness as a strength.


• 06:32 – Assert yourself with confidence—your CEO needs your input.


• 07:34 – Embrace continuous learning, but don’t let it paralyze you.


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Links mentioned in the episode:

• The Dunning-Kruger Effect


• Second First Membership


• Second First One-on-One Coaching


• Second First on Instagram


• Second First on LinkedIn


• Megan Long on LinkedIn