Reframing Imposter Syndrome to Growth Syndrome

Imposter syndrome is something we talk about constantly in veterinary medicine — but what if we’ve been thinking about it all wrong? 

In this episode of Choose People Love Pets, Dr. Brianna Armstrong and Phoebe Valdez explore a powerful reframe: what if imposter syndrome isn’t a sign that you don’t belong… but evidence that you’re growing? 

Through personal stories — including Brianna’s experience pitching her veterinary startup Skye Paws while still in vet school — they unpack how discomfort, self-doubt, and even anxiety often appear at the exact moments when identity expansion and leadership growth are happening. 

Together, they introduce the idea of “growth syndrome” — a framework for understanding why high-achievers and veterinary professionals often feel like imposters when stepping into new roles, leadership opportunities, or unfamiliar challenges. 

If you’ve ever wondered: 

• “Do I actually belong here?” 

• “What if they find out I don’t know what I’m doing?” 

• “Why does growth feel so uncomfortable?” 

This conversation offers a new perspective — and practical tools to help you reframe the experience. 

What You’ll Hear in This Episode 

• Why imposter syndrome may actually be a sign of growth 

• The story behind Skye Paws and navigating first-time visibility 

• How veterinary training shapes our relationship with competence and confidence 

• The three elements of “growth syndrome”: 

• Novelty 

• Visibility 

• Identity expansion 

• Why waiting to feel ready keeps us stuck 

• How to build confidence by trusting yourself through growth 

• Practical strategies for navigating high-stakes new experiences 

Key Takeaways 

• Confidence does not come before action — it comes from action. 

• You don’t feel like an imposter when you stay small. 

• Growth often feels uncomfortable because your identity is expanding faster than your evidence. 

• Leadership requires becoming a beginner again. 

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