The Social Skills Mastery Podcast is where High-Performance Social Confidence Coach and Corporate Trainer, Susan Callender helps professionals, business owners, and entrepreneurs stand out in competitive and often high-stakes situations, by raising social capital and using the power of polished people skills to make an impact. Weekly content encompasses what to do, what to say, how to maneuver tricky situations and get it right the first time.
…
continue reading
Susan Callender Podcasts
In this here place, Black women be… Each episode explores topics relevant to Black women thriving in these here troubling times. Hosted by Lisa Anderson and Amikaeyla Gaston: an offering of the Sojourner Truth Leadership Circle.
…
continue reading
1
253. From Survival Mode to Social Ease: The Secret Anxiety Hiding Behind Success
23:11
23:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:11In this episode, Susan responds to a listener's inquiry about social confidence in professional situations, and she breaks down the hidden side of high-level leadership: social anxiety that shows up as overthinking, self-doubt, and the quiet fear of looking stupid. You'll discover why this pattern often begins in childhood, how it plays out in your…
…
continue reading
1
252. How to Be Effortlessly Magnetic: 3 Tiny Habits That Transform How People Experience You
17:53
17:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:53Some people just have "It". That easy, natural charisma that draws others in, while others, equally smart and accomplished, struggle to make the same impression. In this episode, Susan breaks down the three subtle habits that make people instantly likable, memorable, and magnetic, without pretending, over-giving, or performing. You'll learn: · How …
…
continue reading
1
251. How Successful Professionals Battle Social Anxiety (and Win)
19:29
19:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:29What if success didn't erase your social anxiety, it just made it harder to talk about? In this powerful solo episode, the truth is revealed about the polished confidence of high-achieving professionals in finance, STEM, and leadership. You'll learn why success and social anxiety often coexist, and how to finally break the overthinking, perfectioni…
…
continue reading
1
250. The New Edge: Interpersonal Excellence Over Technical Expertise
18:51
18:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:51In this episode, discover why intelligence and technical expertise which were once career superpowers are no longer enough to set you apart at the highest levels. In this episode I'll reveal the game-changing truth: social confidence and interpersonal skills are now the real differentiators in powerful careers and leadership. Tune in as I break dow…
…
continue reading
1
249. The Real Saboteur of Your Social Success (It's Not What You Think)
22:15
22:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:15What if the biggest obstacle standing between you and your goals wasn't your talent, your competition, or even the economy—but your own thoughts? In this episode, we're cutting through the noise and getting real about the power of mindset. Here's what you'll discover: · Why your brain defaults to safety—and how that keeps you small. · The daily min…
…
continue reading
1
248. Owning the Room: How Professional Polish Multiplies Your Impact
31:14
31:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:14In episode 248, we explore the often-overlooked but essential ingredient to career success: professional polish. You'll discover why technical brilliance and hard work alone aren't enough to set you apart in high-stakes environments, especially when serving high-net-worth clients or operating at the top levels of business. Professional polish is th…
…
continue reading
1
247. The Words That Sabotage Your Success: Why High-Achievers Struggle Socially
18:03
18:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:03What if the voice in your head is the real reason you walked out of that board meeting feeling like a fraud, even after delivering exceptional results? In this episode, we dive deep into the cognitive psychology research that proves your internal language directly creates your social anxiety, imposter syndrome, and fear of saying the wrong thing. Y…
…
continue reading
1
246. Why Career Success Doesn't Translate at the Cocktail Hour
13:33
13:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:33On paper, you look like the total package — successful, capable, and impressive. But the moment you walk into a networking event or business reception, your chest tightens and your mind races. You know you belong there, yet you feel awkward and ill at ease. In this episode, I unpack two powerful cognitive biases: the Halo Effect and Confirmation Bi…
…
continue reading
1
245. The Image Problem You Don't Know You Have (And Why That's Costing You Everything)
13:13
13:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:13What are your coworkers really saying about you when you're not around? While you're busy being excellent at your job, other people are forming opinions about your competence and sharing them with everyone who will listen. In this episode, we're diving into how to take control of your professional image instead of letting office gossip write your c…
…
continue reading
1
243. The Game-Changing Moments That Define Your Professional Presence (And How to Master Them)
22:11
22:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:11What if your entire career trajectory could change based on how you show up in just seven specific moments at work? In this episode, we're breaking down the crucial situations where your professional presence either fast-tracks your success or keeps you stuck, and more importantly, how to master every single one of them. The Professional Presence R…
…
continue reading
1
242. When Social Anxiety Gets You Labeled as "Difficult" at Work
12:52
12:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:52Are your coworkers misreading you? If you've ever been labeled "difficult," "standoffish," or "arrogant" when you're actually anxious or nervous, you're not alone. Many high-achieving professionals with social anxiety unintentionally send signals that others interpret the wrong way—hurting their reputation, relationships, and career opportunities. …
…
continue reading
1
241. The Mirror Test: How Self-Aware Are You?
18:59
18:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:59How shocked were you by your last performance review? If the feedback felt like it came out of nowhere, you might have some self-awareness blind spots that are silently sabotaging your career progress. What I'm Covering: The shocking truth that only 10-15% of people are actually self-aware (despite 95% thinking they are) Why your analytical superpo…
…
continue reading
1
240. The Manners You Mock Are Making Your Competition Rich
23:33
23:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:33While others dismiss professional etiquette as old-fashioned, you can use these skills as a competitive advantage. The person who knows how to use both their fork AND their MBA will always win over someone who only knows one. Note: This episode focuses specifically on North American business customs and expectations. ** Don't even know where to beg…
…
continue reading
1
239. Your Reputation: The Career Asset You Can't Afford to Ignore
22:08
22:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:08What if there's one asset more valuable than your education, more powerful than your network, and more influential than your job title—but you're managing it by accident instead of by design? Your reputation capital is working for you or against you 24/7, and it's time to take control. What I'm Sharing With You: Why your reputation is a tangible as…
…
continue reading
1
238. You Dont Have To Be the Loudest To Lead
17:03
17:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:03Tired of feeling like you need to be someone else to succeed professionally? This episode is for everyone who's ever said "I'm just not really a people person," or felt awkward at office parties while watching more outgoing colleagues get ahead. What I'm Covering: Why the things you think are holding you back (like thinking before you speak) are ac…
…
continue reading
1
237. The Belief Shift: How to Rewire Your Brain for Social Success
19:22
19:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:22What if the only thing standing between you and effortless social confidence isn't your personality or past experiences—but simply what you believe to be true about yourself as a social being? In this transformative episode, I'm revealing how your thoughts create your social reality and giving you the blueprint to rewire your brain for social succe…
…
continue reading
1
236. Stolen Words: How to Reclaim Your Voice After Interruptions
22:06
22:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:06Have you ever been cut off mid-sentence, had your idea hijacked, or been completely misunderstood with no chance to recover? If you're someone who already finds speaking up challenging, these moments can feel devastating. In this episode, I'm sharing exactly how to reclaim your voice and communicate with unshakeable confidence. What I'm Covering: W…
…
continue reading
1
235. It's Not a Speaking Problem, It's a Thinking Problem
24:12
24:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:12Join me for episode #235 where the discussion is all about how the key to speaking in public is more about your thoughts about your ability to speak coherently and less about the words you say. ** Don't even know where to begin in improving your interpersonal skills? Are you ready to leave social stress behind and go from where you are to where you…
…
continue reading
1
234. How to Enter Any Room and Feel Like You Own It
26:02
26:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:02Episode #234 is all about cracking the code to instant belonging—and trust me, it's not about changing who you are, it's about sending the right signals that say "I belong here" before you even speak. What I'm Sharing With You: Why the secret to belonging is acting like you already do (and the psychology behind why this works) The 90-second window …
…
continue reading
1
233. Why the Hardest Worker in Your Office Will Never Be CEO
28:48
28:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:48In episode #233, we take a look at the truth about why technically brilliant professionals get stuck while less talented colleagues zoom past them—and shares the exact social strategy that changes everything. The Shocking Truth: Harvard research reveals that job performance accounts for only 10% of career advancement decisions. The other 90%? It's …
…
continue reading
1
232. Resistance Revealed: The Reason You Don't Speak Up, Show Up, or Step Up
24:47
24:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:47In episode #232 we explore how resistance is the invisible force keeping you from social confidence and authentic self-expression. What You'll Learn: How resistance shows up specifically in social situations and career advancement The completion exercise: "I'll do anything to prove I'm socially confident, except (______)" Why resistance gets strong…
…
continue reading
1
231. The Hidden Cost of Skipping Happy Hour: Why Face Time Matters More Than You Think
23:26
23:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:26In this eye-opening episode, we'll look at how taking a pass on after-work social events could be costing you money, missed opportunities, new business, and promotions. What You'll Learn: The psychological principles that make face time so powerful for career advancement Why remote workers need to be even more intentional about creating social conn…
…
continue reading
1
BONUS: Special Invite - The Meant for More Masterclass
3:22
3:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
3:22Meant for More Masterclass Registration Link: Join Today!
…
continue reading
1
230. From Stagnation to Momentum: Mastering the Social Side of Career Advancement
25:43
25:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:43It can be frustrating watching others advance while feeling stuck in your career. Today we reveal how social skills and confidence play a much bigger role in professional advancement than most people realize. What You'll Learn: The four hidden reasons professionals get stuck in their careers Why technical skills might get you hired, but social skil…
…
continue reading
1
229. Beyond 'What Do You Do?': Social Questions That Make You Unforgettable at Any Business Event
21:44
21:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:44Ever walked into a networking event and immediately felt your confident professional persona dissolve into awkwardness? In this episode, we tackle the art of conversation at business socials and reveal how accomplished professionals can transform these dreaded events into genuinely enjoyable—and valuable—experiences. What You'll Learn: Why "What do…
…
continue reading
1
228. The Hidden Cost of Hesitation: Why Successful Professionals Need to Act Now
20:37
20:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:37In episode #228, we tackle the uncomfortable truth about why smart, accomplished professionals hold themselves back socially—and the far-reaching consequences of this hesitation. If you've been telling yourself that your social skills are "just how you are" or that it's "too late to change," this episode will challenge those beliefs and offer a cle…
…
continue reading
1
227. Why That School Play Moment Still Haunts Your Executive Presence (And How to Fix It)
24:56
24:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:56In this episode, we explore how those seemingly small social moments from childhood continue to shape your professional behavior decades later. If you've ever wondered why you hold back in meetings, avoid the spotlight despite your expertise, or feel anxious before networking events, this episode reveals the surprising connection to childhood socia…
…
continue reading
In this episode, we explore cognitive dissonance—the psychological discomfort that occurs when our beliefs and actions don't align. We discuss how this phenomenon affects our daily lives, decision-making, and personal growth, featuring insights from leading experts and practical strategies for managing cognitive dissonance. Key Topics Covered Defin…
…
continue reading
1
225. The Psychology of First Impressions and Authentic Likability
24:52
24:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:52In episode #225 of the Social Skills Mastery podcast we explore the science behind creating lasting positive impressions and developing genuine likability in professional contexts. Episode Highlights: Discover why Maya Angelou's insight that "people will forget what you said and did, but never how you made them feel" is the foundation of true likab…
…
continue reading
1
224. Thought Architecture: The Hidden Cost of Negative Comments
23:18
23:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:18In this powerful episode, we explore the common refrain among socially reserved professionals: "I hate people." Rather than a simple expression of misanthropy, we unpack how this phrase often masks deeper emotions like social anxiety, overwhelm, and vulnerability. We examine how this mindset creates a self-fulfilling prophecy, generating negative e…
…
continue reading
1
223. From Dreading to Doing: Overcoming Avoidant Tendencies at Work
28:42
28:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:42In episode #223, we look into the avoidant behaviors that hold socially reluctant professionals back from reaching their full potential. What you'll learn: Why "can't" thinking is actually a lie your brain tells you to avoid discomfort The 10 most common social avoidance behaviors among professionals with social anxiety A proven framework to transf…
…
continue reading
1
222. How I Turned Social Reluctance into a Thriving Business + A Special Invitation
35:56
35:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:56In this compelling episode, Susan shares her remarkable journey from a shy introvert to a successful business coach and reveals a special invitation for you. She reveals how her early career in luxury hospitality, despite her natural shyness, laid the groundwork for her entrepreneurial path. Her story illustrates how embracing personal challenges r…
…
continue reading
1
221. Community, Connection, and Collaboration: The Power of Group Coaching to Build Social Confidence
26:32
26:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:32The Social of Social Mastery is opening for enrollment March 12th. Episode 221 focuses on the experience of group coaching vs private, and why The School of Social Mastery is transformative for socially reluctant professionals. What You'll Learn: Why group coaching is especially powerful for introverts and socially anxious professionals How communi…
…
continue reading
1
220. From Social Anxiety to Social Currency: The 5-Minute Daily Practice That Changes Everything
16:00
16:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:00In this game-changing episode, I'm sharing the exact 5-step daily practice that's helping my high-achieving clients transform their social confidence and build meaningful connections that accelerate their success. This simple but powerful exercise has helped countless professionals overcome "toxic humility" and develop the social intelligence neede…
…
continue reading
1
219. The 5 Identity Shifts That Transform Your Social Confidence Forever
19:21
19:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:21In this episode, we dive deep into why traditional "practice makes perfect" advice falls short when it comes to social skills, and explore how identity shifts create lasting change in your social confidence. Learn five powerful strategies to transform how you show up in social situations. Episode Highlights Why technical practice alone won't make y…
…
continue reading
1
218. Silent Obstacles: Navigating and Conquering Social Barriers in the Workplace
15:32
15:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:32Episode #218 delves into the unseen obstacles that hinder high-achieving professionals from reaching their full social potential. These invisible barriers can impede workplace connections, influence, and recognition. The episode explores five common barriers: 1. Believing Hard Work Alone Will Get You Noticed: Understanding the importance of visibil…
…
continue reading
1
217. Silence Your Inner Critic: How to Stop Caring What Others Think (Without Burning Professional Bridges)
21:21
21:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:21Are you tired of holding back in meetings, second-guessing your decisions, or letting the fear of judgment keep you from sharing your brilliant ideas? In this value-packed episode, we're diving deep into how to break free from approval-seeking behavior and show up powerfully in your professional life. What You'll Learn: Why our brains are wired to …
…
continue reading
1
216. From Invisible to Influential: The Secret to Being Seen, Heard, and Respected
22:58
22:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:58Your professional persona is shaping your success right now—whether you realize it or not. People are constantly judging, observing, and deciding if they like, trust, and respect you. So, how can you make sure you're leaving the right impression? In this episode, we're diving into five key areas that will elevate your presence, boost your credibili…
…
continue reading
1
215. From Blank to Brilliant: The Science of Staying Sharp Under Pressure
21:14
21:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:14Learn the neuroscience behind mind-blank moments and master practical strategies for maintaining mental clarity under pressure. Key Concepts Covered: Brain Science Fight-flight-freeze response in social situations Impact on prefrontal cortex function Role of perceived threats in cognitive function Immediate Implementation Three-point check system M…
…
continue reading
1
214. Misperceived at Work: Why You're Misread as Standoffish
15:39
15:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:39Why do top performers often get mislabeled as unfriendly? In this episode, you'll learn the science-backed fixes that won't compromise your detailed, analytical nature, based on research with 1000+ technical leaders. We break down how naturally reserved professionals can show warmth authentically, without having to transform into extroverts. Learn …
…
continue reading
1
213. Transform Your Social Presence: The Language Patterns of Charismatic People
20:25
20:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:25Special Offer: Join The School of Social Mastery as a VIP Founding Member at SocialConfidencePro.com/VIP. In episode 213, we discuss how your words – both internal and external – are literally creating your reality. Learn the science behind self-talk, discover practical techniques for transforming limiting language patterns, and master advanced str…
…
continue reading
1
212. Beyond Technical Brilliance: How Top Performers Are Investing in Social Skills (And Getting Their Employers to Pay for It)
21:23
21:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:23Featured Resource: Download your free "Coaching Investment Proposal Template" at SocialConfidencePro.com/Ask Special Offer: Join The School of Social Mastery as a VIP Founding Member at SocialConfidencePro.com/VIP. In this value-packed episode, Susan breaks down everything you need to know about transforming your professional presence through execu…
…
continue reading
1
211. Secrets of the 15%: Why Most Social Resolutions Fail (And How to Make Yours Stick)
29:46
29:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:46Join the School of Social Mastery as a VIP Founding member. Use promo code: VIPFOMOPROMO to save an additional 10% when you join before midnight Tuesday, December 31st. The School of Social Mastery info page. In this transformative episode, we dive deep into how to make 2025 the year you finally develop unshakeable social confidence. Unlike typical…
…
continue reading
1
210. Still Cringing About That Thing You Said Last Week? Why Your Brain Won't Let You Move On
22:00
22:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:00The School of Social Mastery is Open at a reduced investment for a limited time for VIP action-takers. Are you tired of lying awake at night replaying social interactions? In this value-packed episode, we dive deep into the science and solutions behind post-social rumination. Learn why your brain gets stuck in the replay loop and discover proven st…
…
continue reading
1
209. Nervous as Hell at Holiday Parties? Good. Here's Why That's Your Superpower
15:39
15:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:39In this eye-opening episode of Social Skills Mastery, I challenge everything you thought you knew about social anxiety and professional networking. Perfect timing for the holiday season! Key Topics Covered: The surprising neuroscience behind why social anxiety can enhance your networking abilities Why the holiday season's social demands are your gr…
…
continue reading
1
208. Transform Your Holiday Season Social Experiences with Three-Conversation Rules
14:52
14:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:52In this episode, we break down why holiday networking events trigger anxiety and provide a practical, neuroscience-based framework for turning these opportunities into enjoyable, productive experiences. Drawing from real client success stories and years of coaching experience, Susan introduces three powerful guidelines that can transform how you ap…
…
continue reading
1
207. From Invisible to Influential: How to Create a Persona That Gets You Noticed
12:06
12:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:06In today's episode of Social Skills Mastery, we're diving into what it takes to cultivate a dynamic and expressive persona that exudes authenticity—especially in professional settings where making an impact matters most. If you've ever felt invisible in meetings, struggled to connect with colleagues, or wondered how to showcase your unique strength…
…
continue reading
1
Bonus: Social Skills That Make Competitors Sweat - The School of Social Mastery
10:18
10:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:18In this heartfelt episode, I'm taking you behind the scenes of my personal journey—from a shy, introverted child to a corporate employee who avoided the spotlight, to an entrepreneur who finally broke free from fear and stepped into confidence. If you've ever felt held back by social anxiety, nervousness, or overthinking, this episode is for you. I…
…
continue reading
1
206. From Fearful to Fierce: How to Build Unshakable Self-Belief
12:59
12:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:59In today's episode we tackle the habit of seeking approval. We all know the relief and reassurance that come with a pat on the back from a boss, client, or friend. But when we rely on that approval to feel confident and capable, we're setting ourselves up for dependence, self-doubt, and stalled growth. True confidence is built from within, not hand…
…
continue reading
1
204. Ditch the Dependence: Building Confidence Without External Validation
13:06
13:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:06In today's episode, we dive into the powerful topic of external validation and how reliance on others' approval can limit your growth and confidence. For professionals, the need for validation from bosses, colleagues, or clients can create a cycle of dependence that keeps you playing small. We break down common scenarios where this need shows up in…
…
continue reading