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Ask Dr. AJ: On Psychological Safety in STEM and How to Talk to your Imposter Monster
Q: I keep hearing people say we need to work toward “psychological safety” at work. What does that actually mean and look like? Dr. Amy Edmondson, foremost expert on psych safety says this: “Leaders must prioritize a culture of learning and innovation for team members to be comfortable speaking up, taking risks, and sharing information. This does not happen by default. It emerges with effort and curiosity and care. When achieved, the result is a more creative, innovative, and
AJ Lauer
2 days ago2 min read


Dr. AJ speaks with Julie Fisher on the Well-Being Podcast!
In this episode of Nine to Thrive: The Well-Being Podcast, I have the pleasure of discussing the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome with Dr. AJ Lauer, an expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion and author of the book My Monster Mungo: A Story About Imposter Syndrome. (The research says that 82% of us have experienced imposter syndrome at some point in our lives!) We explore the origins of imposter syndrome, its impact on high achievers, and the various types of imposters

Konnie P
2 days ago1 min read


Dr. AJ talks with Tattooed Freaks in Business Suits podcast about taming the Imposter Monster
Imposter syndrome often strangles up-and-coming leaders and professionals, damaging their confidence and impacting their overall performance. Executive Coach and Speaker Dr. AJ Lauer joins us to discuss how to embrace and tame your Imposter Monster. Check out her new book, “My Monster Mungo: A story about imposter syndrome.” It's an illustrated short story (for adults) that presents a different way of thinking about imposter syndrome. Check out Dr. AJ's book or listen to the

Konnie P
6 days ago1 min read


Dr. AJ talks with Crystal Lay from ResEd Chat
Ever feel like you’re faking it in housing? In this episode of ResEdChat , Crystal chats with Dr. A.J. Lauer, from Thriving Ibis Leadership Solutions, about imposter syndrome, identity, and the pressures of being the “expert” in res life. Tune in for real talk, empowering tips, and a reminder that yes, you belong here. If you have a topic idea or want to engage in the community discussion, use the hashtag #ResEdChat. Listen to the fantastic Interview !

Konnie P
Apr 171 min read


Ask Dr. AJ: Fitting in with Dual Interests and promoting workplaces that dissuade Imposter Syndrome
Dr. AJ Lauer's advice on handling dual interests and dissuading Imposter Syndrome in the workplace

Konnie P
Mar 262 min read


Ask Dr. AJ: Departmental Financial Uncertainty & Workplace Bullying
Dr. AJ Lauer's advice on handling deparmental financial uncertainty, and a situation of workplace bullying disguised as forceful "mentoring"
AJ Lauer
Feb 273 min read


Ask Dr. AJ: Leading in difficult times and role clarification
Q1. My employees/colleagues are all SO stressed out by everything that is happening in the world right now! How do I show them that I am empathetic but also keep us making progress on our work? You are right. Everything is pretty bonkers right now. It's likely your colleagues have been directly or indirectly impacted by national and/or world events, so your inclination toward empathy is appropriate and commendable. Don't forget to direct that empathy toward yourself once in a

Konnie P
Feb 123 min read


When failure to launch is actually a good thing: Artemis II delay demonstrates NASA's organizational maturation
The issues in communication and prioritization that caused the Challenger explosion are often used as an example of what not to do as a leader. In case you aren't familiar, the explosion during the Challenger shuttle launch on January 28, 1986, which resulted in the death of 7 astronauts including a school teacher, was due to the failure of a small part called an o-ring. Tendency of the o-ring to solidify (thus not maintaining its seal) when exposed to cold temperatures was
AJ Lauer
Feb 62 min read


Introducing Ask Dr. AJ: A Leadership & Organizational Advice Column for STEM Professionals
Submit leadership, career development, or organizational questions you'd like answered via this Google form! I'll post it here too, but if you want to make sure to see it, make sure to join my email list.
AJ Lauer
Jan 271 min read
AJ Lauer returns to Boulder with new book “My Monster Mungo”
Check out AJ's interview with Lou Leclercq from CU Independent where she talks about My Monster Mungo and how the book resonates with college students who may struggle with feelings of self-doubt.

Konnie P
Oct 27, 20251 min read


3 Preparation Tips to Maximize Scientific Conference Season: Networking, Sponsorship, and Self-Care
In addition to making last-minute updates to your talk 👀 Dr. Lauer's phone lock screen, with a blue LI QR code and coral email list...
AJ Lauer
Sep 23, 20252 min read
Imposter Syndrome or Systemic Oppression? Why the Answer is Both—And What Leaders Must Do About It
We need to keep talking about the imposter phenomenon AND systems of oppression. The two are intimately connected.
AJ Lauer
Sep 2, 20252 min read
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