Ep. 339 - The Doctor Is In Series - Are You An Imposter?

Welcome to the Social-Engineer Podcast: The Doctor Is In Series – where we will discuss understandings and developments in the field of psychology.    In today's episode, Chris and Dr. Abbie explore imposter syndrome, examining what it is, why it occurs, and how cultural and professional pressures can intensify it. They discuss common symptoms, personal experiences, and the psychological roots behind feeling undeserving of success. Through scientific insight and practical strategies, they share ways to recognize, reframe, and manage imposter syndrome with greater self-awareness and confidence.  [Feb 2, 2026]  00:00 - Intro  00:20 - Meet the Hosts  00:54 - Upcoming Events and Announcements  02:29 - Defining Imposter Syndrome  06:42 - Cultural and Gender Influences  12:26 - Personality Traits and Imposter Syndrome  14:46 - Sponsor  16:12 - Balancing Humility and Confidence  19:34 - Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome  27:02 - Billy Boatwright's Story  30:36 -  Conclusion and Next Episode Preview    Find us online:   LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-abbie-maroño-phd   Instagram: @DoctorAbbieofficial   LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christopherhadnagy     References:  Beck, J. S. (2011). Cognitive behavior therapy: Basics and beyond (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.   Bennett-Levy, J., Butler, G., Fennell, M., Hackmann, A., Mueller, M., & Westbrook, D. (2004). The Oxford guide to behavioral experiments in cognitive therapy. Oxford University Press.   Breines, J. G., & Chen, S. (2012). Self-compassion increases self-improvement motivation. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 38(9), 1133–1143. https://doi.org/10.1177/0146167212445599   Bravata, D. M., Watts, S. A., Keefer, A. L., Madhusudhan, D. K., Taylor, K. T., Clark, D. M., Nelson, R. S., Cokley, K. O., & Hagg, H. K. (2020). Prevalence, predictors, and treatment of impostor syndrome: A systematic review. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 35(4), 1252–1275. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-019-05364-1   Clance, P. R. (1985). The impostor phenomenon: Overcoming the fear that haunts your success. Peachtree Publishers.   Clance, P. R., & Imes, S. A. (1978). The impostor phenomenon in high achieving women: Dynamics and therapeutic intervention. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice, 15(3), 241–247. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0086006   Edmondson, A. (1999). Psychological safety and learning behavior in work teams. Administrative Science Quarterly, 44(2), 350–383. https://doi.org/10.2307/2666999  

Welcome to the Social-Engineer Podcast: The 4th Monday Series with Chris Hadnagy and Mike Holfeld. Chris and Mike will be covering cutting edge global news to help people remain safe, secure and knowledgeable in a world where it is hard to know what is real and what is fake news.   In this episode, Chris and Mike are joined by Jeff Lareau, CPA and partner at Lareau & Lareau CPAs, a third-generation, family-owned firm in Central Florida. Jeff helps individuals and business owners simplify complex tax laws while focusing on long-term planning and confidence—not just filing returns. Jeff explains major tax changes heading into 2026, including updates to tips and overtime deductions, senior tax benefits, bonus depreciation, business planning strategies, healthcare marketplace pitfalls, and how to prepare now to avoid surprises later.  [Jan 26, 2026]    Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome & Episode Overview 01:15 – Meet Jeff Lareau, CPA 02:30 – A Three-Generation Accounting Story 08:05 – Major 2026 Tax Changes Explained 09:50 – No Tax on Tips & Overtime 12:30 – Business Owner Strategies & Bonus Depreciation 14:45 – Planning Ahead & Filing Early 17:15 – Roth Accounts & Long-Term Tax Planning 21:00 – Income Limits & Key Deductions 24:45 – Healthcare Marketplace Pitfalls 27:30 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways  Jeff Lareau's Website: https://www.lareaucpas.com/   Learn more: www.social-engineer.com www.social-engineer.org  www.innocentlivesfoundation.org  Follow Chris Hadnagy: Twitter: @humanhacker LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christopherhadnagy 

Today on the Social-Engineer Podcast: The Security Awareness Series, Chris is joined by Rosa Rowles. Together, they explore the nuances of social engineering, focusing on the critical role of pretexting and impersonation in security assessments. Their conversation underscores the significance of preparation and adaptability, highlighting how embodying different personas can enhance the effectiveness of security operations. [Jan 19, 2026]   00:00 - Intro 00:27 - Rosa Rowles Intro -          LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelbydacko/ 00:55 - Intro Links: -          Social-Engineer.com - http://www.social-engineer.com/ -          Offensive Security Vishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/vishing/ -          Offensive Security SMiShing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ -          Offensive Security Phishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ -          Call Back Phishing - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/call-back-phishing/ -          Adversarial Simulation Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/adversarial-simulation/ -          Social Engineering Risk Assessments - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/social-engineering-risk-assessment/ -          Social-Engineer channel on SLACK - https://social-engineering-hq.slack.com/ssb -          CLUTCH - https://www.clutchmerch.com/ -          innocentlivesfoundation.org - http://www.innocentlivesfoundation.org/                                                 02:54 - Long Time Listener... 05:24 - Pretexting and Impersonation 10:06 - Becoming the Part 12:04 - An Actor Prepares 13:54 - Sponsor 15:18 - SE for Yourself 23:25 - Saving FASE 25:46 - Principles in Action 29:34 - Wrap Up & Outro -          www.social-engineer.com -          www.innocentlivesfoundation.org

Today we are joined by Mitchell Osmond. Mitchell is a leadership consultant, executive coach, and host of the Dad Nation Podcast, ranked in the top 5% globally with over 33,000 listeners. With 15+ years in senior leadership, Mitchell helps high-performing men find success where it matters most: at home, in their health, and in their happiness, all while strengthening their careers. [Jan 12, 2026]   00:00 - Intro 00:29 - Intro Links -          Social-Engineer.com - http://www.social-engineer.com/ -          Offensive Security Vishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/vishing/ -          Offensive Security SMiShing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ -          Offensive Security Phishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ -          Call Back Phishing - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/call-back-phishing/ -          Adversarial Simulation Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/adversarial-simulation/ -          Social Engineering Risk Assessments - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/social-engineering-risk-assessment/ -          Social-Engineer channel on SLACK - https://social-engineering-hq.slack.com/ssb -          CLUTCH - https://www.clutchmerch.com/ -          innocentlivesfoundation.org - http://www.innocentlivesfoundation.org/                                 02:06 - Mitchell Osmond Intro 02:45 - The Turning Point 08:01 - The Attraction Triangle 15:48 - Driving Essence 22:49 - Ask, Don't Tell 25:04 - Mirroring/Summarizing 27:21 - The Need to Be Real 29:00 - Find Mitchell Osmond Online                       -          Website: https://www.dadnationco.com/ -          Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dadnationco/ 29:26 - The Spark Starter Kit -          Website: https://www.dadnationco.com/spark-starter-kit 31:36 - Book Recommendations -          The Meaning of Marriage - Timothy Keller 32:43 - Mentors 35:57 - Guest Wrap Up & Outro                                 -          www.social-engineer.com -          www.innocentlivesfoundation.org

Welcome to the Social-Engineer Podcast: The Doctor Is In Series – where we will discuss understandings and developments in the field of psychology.   In today's episode, Chris and Dr. Abbie explore psychopathy, focusing on its clinical definition and common misconceptions. They discuss how the term is often misapplied to various behaviors, stressing the importance of understanding its roots in empathy and fear. By highlighting the need for accurate knowledge, they aim to prevent stigmatization and promote a deeper understanding of mental health. [Jan 5, 2026]     00:00 - Intro 00:24 - Dr. Abbie Maroño Intro 00:42 - Intro Links -          Social-Engineer.com - http://www.social-engineer.com/ -          Offensive Security Vishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/vishing/ -          Offensive Security SMiShing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ -          Offensive Security Phishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ -          Call Back Phishing - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/call-back-phishing/ -          Adversarial Simulation Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/adversarial-simulation/ -          Social Engineering Risk Assessments - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/social-engineering-risk-assessment/ -          Social-Engineer channel on SLACK - https://social-engineering-hq.slack.com/ssb -          CLUTCH - http://www.pro-rock.com/ -          innocentlivesfoundation.org - http://www.innocentlivesfoundation.org/                 03:47 - The Topic of the Day: Psychopathy 04:28 - A Proper Definition 06:13 - Key Indicators 07:46 - Lack of Empathy 09:36 - The Influence of Social Media 11:51 - Evil ≠ Psychopathy 12:40 - Environment Matters 14:17 - Size Matters 16:02 - MasterClass Ad 17:28 - Work Advantage 18:46 - Gender Differences 20:54 - Big Red Flag! 26:00 - Teaching Emotional Regulation 27:27 - Label Hoarding 32:33 - It's Not Exclusive 36:04 - Wrap Up 36:58 - Next Month's Topic: Imposter Syndrome 37:23 - Outro -          www.social-engineer.com -          www.innocentlivesfoundation.org   Find us online: -          LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-abbie-maroño-phd -          Instagram: @DoctorAbbieofficial -          LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christopherhadnagy     References: Blair, R. J. R. (2007). The amygdala and ventromedial prefrontal cortex in morality and psychopathy. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 11(9), 387–392. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2007.07.003   Blair, R. J. R. (2013). The neurobiology of psychopathic traits in youths. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 14(11), 786–799. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3577   Frick, P. J., & White, S. F. (2008). Research review: The importance of callous-unemotional traits for developmental models of aggressive and antisocial behavior. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 49(4), 359–375. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-7610.2007.01862.x   Glenn, A. L., & Raine, A. (2014). Neurocriminology: Implications for the punishment, prediction and prevention of criminal behaviour. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 15(1), 54–63. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3640   Hare, R. D. (2003). Manual for the Hare Psychopathy Checklist–Revised (2nd ed.). Toronto, ON: Multi-Health Systems. Hare, R. D., & Neumann, C. S. (2008). Psychopathy as a clinical and empirical construct. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 4, 217–246. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.clinpsy.3.022806.091452   Patrick, C. J. (Ed.). (2018). Handbook of psychopathy (2nd ed.). New York, NY: Guilford Press. Pemment, J. (2013). Psychopathy versus sociopathy: Why the distinction has become crucial. Aggression and Violent Behavior, 18(5), 458–461. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.avb.2013.07.001   Severson, H., & Lynam, D. R. (2020). Psychopathy and antisocial personality disorder: Distinctions and implications for treatment. Current Opinion in Psychology, 37, 27–32. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copsyc.2020.07.006   Skeem, J. L., Polaschek, D. L. L., Patrick, C. J., & Lilienfeld, S. O. (2011). Psychopathic personality: Bridging the gap between scientific evidence and public policy. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 12(3), 95–162. https://doi.org/10.1177/1529100611426706   Viding, E., Blair, R. J. R., Moffitt, T. E., & Plomin, R. (2005). Evidence for substantial genetic risk for psychopathy in 7-year-olds. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 46(6), 592–597. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-7610.2004.00393.x   Walsh, Z., & Kosson, D. S. (2008). Psychopathy and violent crime: A prospective study of the influence of psychopathic traits on violence among offenders. Psychiatry, Psychology and Law, 15(2), 181–194. https://doi.org/10.1080/13218710802014489

Welcome to the Social-Engineer Podcast: The 4th Monday Series with Chris Hadnagy and Mike Holfeld. Chris and Mike will be covering cutting edge global news to help people remain safe, secure and knowledgeable in a world where it is hard to know what is real and what is fake news.   Today, Chris and Mike are joined by Christie Hudson, a resident travel expert and head of global PR for Hotels.com. Christie is adept at transforming travel data into actionable insights, helping travelers maximize their experiences. With a background in PR from the University of Prince Edward Island's Atlantic Veterinary College, she is passionate about educating clients, offering tips on trending destinations and the best times to book, ensuring travelers feel informed and empowered. [Dec 22, 2025]   00:00 - Intro 00:18 - Mike Holfeld Intro 01:15 - Today's Guest: Christie Hudson 02:04 - Dream Job 03:04 - Air Hacks 05:20 - AI Enhancements 07:25 - Smart Hotels 08:45 - The Human Touch 11:34 - Comfort Tech 14:06 - MasterClass Ad -          https://www.masterclass.com/socialengineer 15:40 - Rig Rundown 17:41 - Finding Balance 19:09 - Hotels Next Steps 21:47 - Flight Deals 25:46 - The Benefits 27:01 - Practical Matters 28:34 - My Favorite Places 29:58 - Find Christie Hudson Online -          TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hotelsdotcom -          Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hotelsdotcom/ 30:28 - Wrap Up & Outro -          www.social-engineer.com -          www.innocentlivesfoundation.org   Find us online: -          Chris Hadnagy -          Twitter: @humanhacker -          LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christopherhadnagy

Today on the Social-Engineer Podcast: The Security Awareness Series, Chris is joined by Shelby Dacko. Chris and Shelby delve into the intricacies of social engineering, focusing on the challenges of pivoting during on-site security assessments. Their discussion highlights the importance of adaptability and teamwork in overcoming unexpected obstacles, emphasizing how diverse communication styles can enhance the effectiveness of security operations. [Dec 15, 2025]   00:00 - Intro 00:34 - Shelby Dacko Intro -          LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelbydacko/ 01:18 - Intro Links: -          Social-Engineer.com - http://www.social-engineer.com/ -          Offensive Security Vishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/vishing/ -          Offensive Security SMiShing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ -          Offensive Security Phishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ -          Call Back Phishing - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/call-back-phishing/ -          Adversarial Simulation Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/adversarial-simulation/ -          Social Engineering Risk Assessments - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/social-engineering-risk-assessment/ -          Social-Engineer channel on SLACK - https://social-engineering-hq.slack.com/ssb -          CLUTCH - http://www.pro-rock.com/ -          innocentlivesfoundation.org - http://www.innocentlivesfoundation.org/                                                 03:42 - The Importance of Pivoting 05:42 - DISC 06:59 - A Difference in Planning Styles 10:34 - Strength Through Diversity 12:40 - Over the River... 19:29 - And Through the Woods 20:24 - Being Onsite 21:40 - Pivot! Pivot! Pivot! 24:02 - What if? 25:29 - Stray From the Path 28:25 - Strength In Numbers 29:27 - Playing Into Biases 31:43 - Wrap Up & Outro -          www.social-engineer.com -          www.innocentlivesfoundation.org

Today we are joined by Toby Wright. Toby is an online coach and personal trainer with a passion for mental health. Toby believes true wellness begins from the inside out. Blending evidence-based training with a focus on mental health and mindset. [Dec 8, 2025]   00:00 - Intro 00:26 – Dr. Abbie Maroño Intro 00:51 - Intro Links -          Social-Engineer.com - http://www.social-engineer.com/ -          Offensive Security Vishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/vishing/ -          Offensive Security SMiShing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ -          Offensive Security Phishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ -          Call Back Phishing - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/call-back-phishing/ -          Adversarial Simulation Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/adversarial-simulation/ -          Social Engineering Risk Assessments - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/social-engineering-risk-assessment/ -          Social-Engineer channel on SLACK - https://social-engineering-hq.slack.com/ssb -          CLUTCH - http://www.pro-rock.com/ -          innocentlivesfoundation.org - http://www.innocentlivesfoundation.org/                                 02:17 - Toby Wright Intro 03:09 - Having a Purpose 04:02 - The Accountability Factor 05:36 - Mindset 07:02 - Finding What Works For You 08:37 - The Happiness Scale 12:40 - When to Push Through 15:53 - Finding Balance 17:39 - Masterclass Ad -          https://www.masterclass.com/socialengineer 19:12 - Focus on the 95% 21:33 - Know What You're Taking 23:34 - Cover Your Bases First 25:27 - You Just Gotta Go 29:54 - Find Toby Wright Online                                                -          Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tobyywright/ 31:08 - Mentors 32:24 - Book Recommendations -          SAS: Who Dares Wins - Ant Middleton 34:15 - Guest Wrap Up & Outro -          www.social-engineer.com -          www.innocentlivesfoundation.org

Welcome to the Social-Engineer Podcast: The Doctor Is In Series – where we will discuss understandings and developments in the field of psychology.   In today's episode, Chris and Dr. Abbie explore cognitive dissonance, focusing on its impact on self-concept and emotional regulation. They discuss how dissonance occurs when actions conflict with core beliefs, creating psychological tension. Emphasizing self-awareness and reflection, they warn against rationalizing harmful behaviors and highlight the importance of embracing discomfort for personal growth and identity development. [Dec 1, 2025]     00:00 - Intro 00:26 - Dr. Abbie Maroño Intro 00:43 - Intro Links -          Social-Engineer.com - http://www.social-engineer.com/ -          Offensive Security Vishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/vishing/ -          Offensive Security SMiShing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ -          Offensive Security Phishing Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/smishing/ -          Call Back Phishing - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/call-back-phishing/ -          Adversarial Simulation Services - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/adversarial-simulation/ -          Social Engineering Risk Assessments - https://www.social-engineer.com/offensive-security/social-engineering-risk-assessment/ -          Social-Engineer channel on SLACK - https://social-engineering-hq.slack.com/ssb -          CLUTCH - http://www.pro-rock.com/ -          innocentlivesfoundation.org - http://www.innocentlivesfoundation.org/                 02:40 - The Topic of the Day: What is Cognitive Dissonance? 05:53 - A Threat to Self-Concept 07:49 - Commitment to Consistency 09:51 - Freedom to Choose 10:51 - Changing Beliefs 14:19 - Trying to Escape 18:21 - Going From Bad to Worse 21:53 - Self-Awareness is Key! 24:55 - Growth Hurts 28:49 - Everything, Not All At Once 29:43 - It's Not A Flaw 31:11 -  Wrap Up 31:36 - Next Month's Topic: Is Everyone a Psychopath? 31:52 - Outro -          www.social-engineer.com -          www.innocentlivesfoundation.org   Find us online: -          LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-abbie-maroño-phd -          Instagram: @DoctorAbbieofficial -          LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christopherhadnagy     References: Aronson, E. (1969). The theory of cognitive dissonance: A current perspective. Advances in Experimental Social Psychology, 4, 1–34. Bandura, A. (1999). Moral disengagement in the perpetration of inhumanities. Personality and Social Psychology Review, 3(3), 193–209. Brehm, J. W. (1956). Postdecision changes in the desirability of alternatives. Journal of Abnormal and Social Psychology, 52(3), 384–389. Festinger, L. (1957). A theory of cognitive dissonance. Stanford University Press. Kunda, Z. (1990). The case for motivated reasoning. Psychological Bulletin, 108(3), 480–498. Schumann, K., & Dweck, C. S. (2014). Who accepts responsibility for their transgressions? Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 40(12), 1608–1622. Sherman, D. K., & Cohen, G. L. (2006). The psychology of self-defense: Self-affirmation theory. Advances in Experimental Social Psychology, 38, 183–242. Staub, E. (1990). Moral exclusion, personal goal theory, and extreme destructiveness. Journal of Social Issues, 46(1), 47–64. Steele, C. M. (1988). The psychology of self-affirmation: Sustaining the integrity of the self. Advances in Experimental Social Psychology, 21, 261–302. van Veen, V., Krug, M. K., Schooler, J. W., & Carter, C. S. (2009). Neural activity predicts attitude change in cognitive dissonance. Nature Neuroscience, 12(11), 1469–1474.

Welcome to the Social-Engineer Podcast: The 4th Monday Series with Chris Hadnagy and Mike Holfeld. Chris and Mike will be covering cutting edge global news to help people remain safe, secure and knowledgeable in a world where it is hard to know what is real and what is fake news.   Today Chris and Mike are joined by Dr. Liz Moses. Dr. Moses is an emergency veterinarian at Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) in South Tampa, where she helps pets and their families through some of their most urgent and stressful moments. A graduate of the University of Prince Edward Island's Atlantic Veterinary College, Dr. Moses has a special passion for client education and loves explaining common pet emergencies in a way that helps owners feel informed and empowered. [Nov 24, 2025]   00:00 - Intro 00:39 - Mike Holfeld Intro 01:17 - Today's Guest: Dr. Liz Moses 01:47 - Always Call 02:57 - Always Loyal 04:20 - Don't Put it Off! 05:10 - Tough Love 07:19 - Understanding GDV 11:05 - The Causes 11:56 - MasterClass Ad -          https://www.masterclass.com/socialengineer 13:24 - Good Catch 16:11 - Exotics 16:58 - Warning Signs 19:26 - Dealing with Ear Infections 22:27 - Tips for Caregivers 23:04 - Tips for Little Aliens (Cats) 24:22 - Age (Not) Related 25:30 - Animal Pain Awareness Month 26:10 - Find Dr. Liz Moses Online -          TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@liizniicole_ -          Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liizniicole_/ -          Website: https://www.veg.com/ 26:52 - Next Month: Christie Hudson 27:17 - Wrap Up & Outro -          www.social-engineer.com -          www.innocentlivesfoundation.org   Find us online: -          Chris Hadnagy -          Twitter: @humanhacker -          LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christopherhadnagy