It all started with a meltdown in a hookah bar in New Zealand.
Overstimulated, exhausted, and bullied to “stop being so quiet” on a group trip, Michaela Chung shut down. That low moment sparked a realization: introverts like her weren’t broken—they were simply misunderstood. And the world would be a better place if more introverts could understand themselves that way, too.
Since then, Michaela has become one of the original voices of the “quiet revolution” and a true Powerful Introvert. As founder of Introvert Spring, author of The Irresistible Introvert and The Year of the Introvert, and through her introvert coaching practice, Michaela has spent over a decade helping introverts embrace who they are and grow their confidence—from the inside out.
In this episode, Michaela shares the story behind her work, her unlikely path to stand-up comedy (spoiler: many famous comics are introverts), and the practical frameworks she uses to help introverts build confidence, show up fully, and form meaningful connections—without pretending to be someone they’re not.
Key Lessons
Introversion isn’t a flaw—it’s a different operating system. Once you realize there’s nothing wrong with you, everything changes.
Confidence grows from the inside out. It starts with shifting beliefs, not just learning to “fake it.”
You don’t have to heal everything to take action. Growth happens alongside healing—not after.
Stretch, don’t snap. Expand your comfort zone gradually so it’s sustainable, not exhausting.
Self-judgment is transformation’s worst enemy. Being hard on yourself slows down your transformation.
Shift your state to change your confidence. Tools like EFT, dancing, and breathwork help you show up more powerfully.
Introvert breaks matter. Energy management is the key to sustained visibility.
Preparation makes presence possible. From comedy to corporate panels, it’s how introverts shine.
Go in with intention. Shifting focus from “how do I seem?” to “what do I want to give?” lowers anxiety.
Lead with observation, not interrogation. When starting conversations, ease is more effective than pressure.
Where to find Michaela Chung:
Website: Introvert Spring
Books: The Irresistible Introvert, The Year of the Introvert
In this episode, we cover:
(00:00) Michaela’s journey as an introvert and content creator
(04:00) The travel meltdown that sparked a movement
(07:00) What overstimulation looks like—and how to plan around it
(09:00) Why an introvert would ever do stand-up comedy
(11:00) Debunking myths: introversion vs. shyness
(13:00) Why casual group conversations are harder than public speaking
(15:00) How Michaela helps introverts build confidence from the inside out
(18:00) Coaching introverts in their careers and promotions
(20:00) Expanding your comfort zone without burning out
(22:00) Releasing self-judgment: the emotional toll of being “too hard on yourself”
(24:00) Getting out of your head with tools like EFT, forgiveness, and movement
(26:00) Daily practices to calm an overstimulated nervous system
(28:00) How meditation builds creativity, clarity, and resilience
(29:00) Michaela’s 3 steps to connect: intention, commitment, observation
(30:00) Why introverts can lead—and thrive—on their own terms
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