Competence, Confidence, and Breaking Free from ‘Proving Energy’ with Becky Mollenkamp

Send us a MessageIn this powerful episode of The Empowered and Embodied Show, we sit down with feminist business coach, Feminist Founders podcast host, and Messy Liberation co-host Becky Mollenkamp to explore the path from merely surviving to genuinely thriving—particularly for women navigating the business world. Becky shares her deeply personal journey, from the corporate grind to launching the Feminist Founders movement, and reflects on life-altering moments that redefined her purpose. Together, they delve into the distinction between competence and confidence, the pressures of societal conditioning on self-worth, and how to reclaim personal agency by embracing action over fear. This episode is a powerful call for anyone ready to step off “autopilot,” encouraging listeners to align with what truly fulfills them."Competence is largely externally driven; confidence is what comes from within. When you have both, you’re unstoppable." - Becky MollenkampKEY TAKEAWAYSCompetence vs. Confidence: Becky emphasizes the difference between competence, which is validated by external achievements, and confidence, which is cultivated from within. To thrive, we need both.Proving Energy: The pressure to constantly “prove” oneself, especially in the workplace, can drain confidence. Learning to value internal validation over external expectations is key to genuine self-assurance.Taking Action While Afraid: Confidence doesn’t precede action—it’s a result of it. Moving forward despite fear creates resilience and reinforces self-belief.Aligning with Authentic Goals: Success isn’t one-size-fits-all. For some, stepping away from a high-revenue path in favor of fulfillment may be the most empowered choice.Understanding Systemic Influence: Recognizing societal and systemic pressures helps us differentiate between genuine desires and external conditioning, allowing for more aligned and authentic decisions.KEY MOMENTS[0:00] Introduction and Celebrations[3:55] Welcoming Becky and an Overview of Her Work[5:03] Becky's Journey: From Journalist to Feminist Coach[10:26] Recognizing "Proving Energy" and How It Holds Us Back[15:17] Defining Competence vs. Confidence[26:55] Practical Tips for Moving Forward Despite Fear[38:38] Choosing Growth Aligned with Personal Values[44:17] Final Reflections and TakeawaysConnect with Becky MollenkampWebsite: BeckyMollenkamp.comInstagram: @beckymollenkampSubstack: Feminist FoundersPodcast: Feminist Founders PodcastAre you ready to reclaim your power and live (and work) with more ease? Discover your unique blueprint to do just that with Kim's Strengthscape Self-Mastery Profile.Looking for something different and feeling lost about where to start? Rediscover your purpose and how toJoin a circle of changemakers committed to leading with purpose, presence and ease inside Kim's Rising Visionaries mentorship program.Reclaim your career and confidence during midlife through Louise's Rise & Redefine program.If you’re loving this show, come check out the Feminist Podcasters Collective, where creators like us are uplifting diverse voices and driving meaningful change. If you’re looking for new shows to fill your feed, head to https://feministpodcasterscollective.com