Hiding In The Bathroom: Social Anxiety And You with Dr. Ellen Hendriksen & Arvind Rajan

2026-03-12

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What if the anxiety you feel walking into a meeting, networking event, or conference isn’t a personal flaw, but social anxiety? In this episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Ellen Hendriksen talks about the psychology behind social anxiety and why avoidance keeps it alive. She breaks down the belief at the core of social anxiety and tools to challenge anxious thoughts, manage shame, and build confidence even when anxiety is still present. Then, entrepreneur and former LinkedIn executive Arvind Rajan shares what it’s like to build a successful career while living with soc...

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In this Episode, You Will Learn

00:00 Why social anxiety is the most common type of anxiety.

02:00 The 2 types of avoidance that keep social anxiety alive.

05:00 What’s the difference between generalized anxiety and social anxiety?

07:45 How social anxiety shows up in the workplace.

09:45 The strengths that often come with social anxiety.

14:00 How shame and fear of judgment affect leadership.

18:00 A framework for managing social anxiety.

22:45 When did you realize that you have social anxiety?

24:30 Why forcing yourself through anxiety doesn’t always work.

28:30 Why authenticity makes leaders more effective.

31:45 How leaders can build teams that support different personalities.