Does imposter syndrome and self-doubt hold you back from achieving your true potential?
In this episode, host Christy Pennison welcomes guest John Mollura, a former rocket scientist turned multi-award winning luxury portrait photographer and keynote speaker.
John shares his journey of transitioning from a career in rocket science to becoming a celebrated photographer and speaker. He highlights his experience leading teams that landed missions on Mars, showcasing the incredible achievements possible when we pursue our passions.
John and Christy touch on the importance of having open and honest conversations, especially with men who may not typically be associated with self-worth struggles. John mentions a previous conversation with William Branham, a 26-year veteran of the Navy SEALs, to emphasize that self-doubt can impact anyone.
John reveals that he developed a keynote and workshop on imposter syndrome to help others navigate their own struggles. He reflects on the power of embracing one’s own story and celebrating accomplishments, even the seemingly small ones. They discuss the “Archive of Awesome,” a resource encouraging individuals to record and remember the awesome things they have done in their lives.
Christy and John also dive into accepting compliments gracefully as a means to build self-confidence. John emphasizes the importance of appreciating the effort that goes into stepping out of one’s comfort zone and giving a compliment.
They explore the prevalence of self-doubt and imposter syndrome among individuals and the need for open communication. The cultural norms surrounding raising men and boys, particularly in Western society, are discussed, shedding light on the lack of support for vulnerability and personal growth.
Just smile, say thank you, period because that’s a full sentence. It’s not thank you but or thank you and then some self deprecating remark.
John Mollura
In this episode, we dive into:
- The significance of seemingly small achievements
- Self-doubt and imposter syndrome
- Accepting compliments gracefully
John explores his own rock bottom moment and the healing process he underwent. Together, they delve into the possibilities that arise when we confront our challenges and support one another on the journey towards self-acceptance.
Join Christy and John as they explore the power of embracing our true selves, celebrating accomplishments, and breaking free from self-doubt.
About John Mollura:
John Mollura went from being a literal rocket scientist to a multi-award-winning luxury portrait photographer and keynote speaker. His unique career path provided life experiences that most only dream of. John spent decades leading a variety of teams; some that landed missions on Mars and others that protected the pilots of the most advanced fighter jet in the world, the F35. He now provides world-class portraits and photographs that have been featured by National Geographic, multiple Fortune 500 Companies, and some of the biggest names in music. However, John also knows first-hand what it feels like when walls of achievement and elite-level accomplishments fail to fill a void inside yourself. As John rediscovered his true-self and his heart became more fulfilled, he longed for others to have the same feelings of self-acceptance and empowerment.
To connect with John Mollura: johnmollura.com
