In this episode of The High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff sits down with entrepreneur, speaker, and author Jess Ekstrom to explore what it really takes to build confidence, find intrinsic motivation, and share your voice without losing yourself in the process.
Jess is the founder of Mic Drop Workshop, where she has helped thousands of women become more confident speakers and step into their voice. Her upcoming book, Making It Without Losing It, focuses on how to stay grounded, purpose-driven, and intrinsically motivated in high-pressure, performance-based environments.
At the heart of this conversation is a powerful shift: moving from being a “spotlight speaker”—focused on how you’re being judged—to a “lighthouse speaker”—focused on how you can help others.
Jess shares how this shift not only reduces anxiety but also improves performance, authenticity, and impact.
The conversation also dives into intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation, and why chasing outcomes, recognition, or approval can lead to burnout and disconnection. Instead, Jess encourages us to reconnect with purpose, focus on what we can control, and measure success by impact—not applause.
This episode is a powerful reminder that confidence and fulfillment aren’t built by performing for others—but by staying connected to what truly matters and using your voice to serve.
You’ll Learn:
• The difference between a spotlight speaker and a lighthouse speaker—and how it changes your confidence
• How to shift from outcome-driven thinking to purpose-driven performance
• A simple “purpose test” to evaluate your motivation
• Why intrinsic motivation leads to more creativity, fulfillment, and impact
• How to stay confident and authentic—even in high-pressure environments
Episode Resources & Links
Learn more about Jess Ekstrom:
https://jessekstrom.com/
Register for the Mental Performance Summit April 17th:
https://mentalperformancesummit.org/
Learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute:
https://mentallystronginstitute.com/
Request a Free Mental Breakthrough Call:
https://freementalbreakthroughcall.com/
Download the Confidence Research Study:
https://confidencestudy.com/