Second First

Share This Post

Feeling less confident in your role as a Second-in-Command? Learn how the Dunning-Kruger effect impacts your leadership and how to overcome it.

Ever feel like the more you learn, the less confident you become? You’re not imagining it. This is the Dunning-Kruger effect at work. In this episode, we break down how this psychological phenomenon affects Seconds-in-Command and why gaining experience can sometimes feel like a confidence killer. Learn how to push past self-doubt, trust your expertise, and lead with confidence…even when you don’t have all the answers.

You'll hear all about:

  • 01:11 – Why COOs and Integrators often feel less confident over time.
  • 02:17 – The paradox: the more you know, the more you realize you don’t know.
  • 03:00 – Real-world examples from coaching engagements where confidence dips after deeper learning.
  • 03:42 – Understanding “Mount Stupid”—why overconfidence is highest when knowledge is lowest.
  • 04:11 – Three ways the Dunning-Kruger effect impacts Seconds-in-Command:
    • 04:16 – Second-guessing decisions, even when you’re the most qualified.
    • 04:44 – Assuming the CEO has all the answers (hint: they don’t).
    • 05:22 – Holding back on leading boldly when your perspective is most needed.
  • 06:03 – How to counteract self-doubt and embrace your role:
    • 06:09 – Trust your expertise and recognize self-awareness as a strength.
    • 06:32 – Assert yourself with confidence—your CEO needs your input.
    • 07:34 – Embrace continuous learning, but don’t let it paralyze you.
  •  

Rate, review & follow on Apple Podcasts

Click Here to Listen!

OR WATCH ON YOUTUBE

If you haven't already done so, follow the podcast to make sure you never miss a value-packed episode.

Links mentioned in the episode:

Results are not guaranteed. Please see our Earnings Disclaimer for more details.

More To Explore

Uncategorized

#54: The “I’m Too Busy” Trap

If you’re always too busy to invest in yourself, your career might be stuck. In this short but powerful solo episode, Megan Long addresses the

Uncategorized

#53: 5 Problems to Fix Before You Grow

Before you chase growth, fix these foundational cracks that could break your business.  Before you chase aggressive growth targets, you have to ask yourself a

LET'S WORK TOGETHER

Send a message to schedule a discovery call. 

EXCHANGE RETREAT

SEPTEMBER 16 & 17, 2025 | NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

Days
Hrs
Mins
Secs
Skip to content