We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Angie White a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Angie , thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
I’ve definitely experienced moments of self-doubt and feeling like I don’t quite fit in among experts. My imposter syndrome often manifests as the Expert type, where I feel the pressure to know everything before starting a project or pursuing new opportunities. This fear of showcasing my perceived “limited” expertise has held me back at times from submitting conference proposals or pursuing work opportunities.
For instance, in my role as a Subject Matter Expert in TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), I’ve often compared myself to those well-versed in AI and Ed-Tech or who have published extensively in our field.
To combat these feelings of inadequacy, I made a conscious decision to stop comparing myself. Instead, I began asking myself, “What am I interested in?” and “What am I good at?” I am not interested in researching and publishing so why would I care about not being an expert in that area? I am interested in AI and material development and am curious about YouTube content creation.
From there, I actively sought out opportunities on platforms like Linkedin and Facebook to connect with like-minded individuals and projects aligned with my interests and skills.
Recently, this proactive approach led me to discover two incredible opportunities. Firstly, I was selected as a TECHTEACH Innovator/Ambassador for Cathoven, an innovative AI platform reshaping education and language teaching. Secondly, I was chosen to create YouTube content for a new project sponsored by the TESOL International Association—areas where I certainly do not consider myself an expert.
I’m genuinely grateful for these opportunities. Through my role as a Cathoven Ambassador, I’ve collaborated with inspiring peers and engaged directly with the platform’s founders, who value our contributions and ideas.
I’ve come to realize that expertise isn’t about reaching a static “expert” status; it’s an ongoing journey fueled by curiosity and continuous learning. Every expert was once a beginner grappling with uncertainty.
For anyone experiencing imposter syndrome, it’s important to recognize that feeling like an imposter often stems from a misunderstanding of what true expertise entails. Don’t let insecurity distract you from the opportunities knocking at your door.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I love working in the TEFL/TESOL industry, where I am involved in various projects and take on multiple roles. I am excited to start a new venture focused on creating YouTube content aimed at teaching English.
Additionally, as a TEFL Trainer with The TEFL ORG, I have the opportunity to equip new teachers with the skills and knowledge they need to pursue their careers in teaching English as a foreign language. I welcome projects that allow me the creative freedom to craft teaching materials or create content.
Currently, I am proud to be an ambassador for CATHOVEN, where I can combine teacher training and content creation to advocate for this amazing tool. I am helping educators make learning more engaging, accessible, and effective in the digital age.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1. Curiosity and Continuous Learning:
Being curious has allowed me to explore new interests such as AI, and has expanded my skill set. Continuous learning through research, workshops, and networking events has been essential in staying current and adaptable in a dynamic field.
Advice:
Ask yourself what interests you. This simple question will guide you to explore topics you’re curious about. Engaging in curiosity-driven learning also helps alleviate imposter syndrome.
2. Networking and Building Relationships:
Connecting with like-minded individuals and industry professionals has opened doors to new opportunities and collaborations. Platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook have been invaluable for networking, sharing insights, and discovering potential partnerships.
Advice:
Build your network by being proactive in reaching out to others, sharing your expertise, joining professional associations, and participating in online communities.
3. Don’t Compare Yourself to Anyone:
Avoid comparing your journey to others. Everyone’s path is unique and focus on your progress and growth. Stay true to your interests and goals, and trust that your journey will unfold at its own pace.
Advice: Follow 1-2
By asking yourself what interests you and pursuing those topics, you shift your focus toward your development and passions. This redirection can diminish the tendency to compare oneself to others who may have different interests or paths.
Building a network and participating in professional communities allows you to connect with individuals who share similar interests or career goals. This provides a supportive environment where collaboration and shared experiences replace the need for comparison.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I would love to collaborate with anyone who is interested in or involved with English language teaching, . The context can be material development, content creation, curriculum development etc…
It doesn’t have to be about teaching. I have also worked in the Entertainment industry. Reach out and let’s see how we can collaborate! You can connect with me on LinkedIn. Search for: “Angie W”
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
