If you have ever wondered:

💭 “Why do I feel like a fraud even when I am achieving so much?”

💭 “How do I quiet the voice that tells me I am not enough?”

💭 “How do I finally own my seat instead of shrinking from it?”

– this episode is for you.

In this honest and energising conversation, Tess and Layne dive deep into imposter syndrome, tracing the moments in their careers, motherhood and leadership journeys where the inner critic became loud and the fear of being exposed took over.

Tess opens up about writing a book with a seven time world champion while secretly wondering if she deserved to be there, returning to study because she thought she needed more certificates to feel legitimate, and the moment imposter syndrome blindsided her in motherhood when she walked ahead of Benji on a path and instantly decided she was a terrible mum. Layne shares the day she became Chair of Surfing Australia, how the words “You are just a token female” echoed in her head, and how she sat in a boardroom feeling utterly unqualified despite being surrounded by people who believed in her.

Together they unpack what imposter syndrome really is: the gap between your perceived ability and your true capability, filled with fear, shame and old stories about worthiness. They explain why the brain defaults to threat, how the negativity bias magnifies your mistakes, and why celebrating micro wins is a science backed way to retrain your confidence. Layne shares how she prepared, reached out to mentors and chose to lead with curiosity instead of perfection. Tess talks about learning to say, “I am qualified and I am uncomfortable” and why receiving a single compliment with “Thank you” can be an act of self transformation.

You will hear about:

• The neuroscience behind imposter syndrome and why your brain leans toward fear
• How shame fuels the belief that you do not deserve success, love or belonging
• The difference between intuition and fear based narratives
• Why celebrating the smallest gains builds confidence
• How a dream team truth check can silence the committee in your head
• Practical language that helps you stay present instead of spiralling

This episode is warm, real and incredibly relatable. It is not about eliminating self doubt. It is about learning how to move with it, grow through it and claim the space you have already earned.

🎧 Hit play to remember that you are capable, you are qualified and you deserve to sit in the seat your life has prepared you for.

https://www.sharethedignity.org.au/

Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasses

https://www.awakecollective.online/awake-collective-sales

Get Awake’s transformative book: Know yourself grow yourself to live a happier more purposeful life. https://www.penguin.com.au/books/awake-academy-9781761345869

Follow Layne on Instagram @Laynebeachley

Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer

Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy

Awakes TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_

Sponsor our podcast https://www.awakeacademy.com.au/contact

Book us for a workshop https://www.awakeacademy.com.au/contact

Disclaimer

The A Wake Up Call podcast is created for general informational, educational, and inspirational purposes only. The stories, tools, and insights shared are designed to support your wellbeing journey - not to replace professional medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. In fact, we believe therapy is non-negotiable in life.

If you’re experiencing a medical or mental health condition, please seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you’ve heard on this podcast.

Your wellbeing matters. Take care of yourself, stay curious, and remember the real wake-up call is listening to what your body and mind are trying to tell you.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.