The Velvet Sledgehammer: Jen Coken on Reframing Imposter Syndrome

In this episode of Pivot Point: Strategy for Change with Nik Michael, executive leadership coach Jen Coken reframes what most people call imposter syndrome into something far more useful — a protection pattern.High performers know that quiet hesitation that shows up right at the edge of something bigger — more visibility, more impact, more responsibility. The results are there. The success looks solid. Yet something inside pulls back. Jen explains why that instinct isn’t a flaw, but a strategy built by a younger version of yourself that once made perfect sense.Known as a velvet sledgehammer for her mix of warmth, humor, and precision, Jen shares how to recognize and lead alongside that protective pattern instead of fighting it. She has an uncanny ability to read a room, pinpoint what truly matters, and deliver just the right blend of compassion and no-nonsense clarity to wake people up.If you’ve ever found yourself championing someone else’s vision more easily than your own, this conversation will hit home — and open up a different way of seeing growth.