In this powerful episode of Sit Down, Be Present, I sit down with Eddie Saunsoci to have a deeply honest conversation about masculinity, vulnerability, and the complexities of relationships. Eddie shares his personal journey of unlearning harmful narratives around manhood, embracing emotional openness, and redefining strength in a way that fosters deeper connections.

Together, we explore: 🔹 The cultural and societal expectations placed on men—and how they shape relationships 🔹 The power of vulnerability in fostering emotional intimacy 🔹 Breaking generational cycles and creating space for healthier expressions of masculinity 🔹 What it truly means to lead with presence in relationships

This episode is for anyone—men, women, and leaders—who want to better understand the role of vulnerability in creating meaningful connections. If you’ve ever struggled with navigating emotions, communication, or expectations in relationships, this conversation is one you don’t want to miss.

#Masculinity #Vulnerability #Relationships #Healing #PresenceDrivenLeadership #SitDownBePresent

"If you want to get a story, you've got to give a story."

In this thought-provoking episode of Sit Down, Be Present, Marcus Strother, President and CEO of MENTOR California, dives deep into the transformative power of vulnerability, mentorship, and asking for help—through the unique lens of the male experience. With over two decades of experience in public education and youth advocacy, Marcus shares how his philosophy of reciprocal vulnerability has shaped his journey as a leader and mentor.

Marcus’s quote underscores the importance of reciprocal vulnerability: the idea that trust and connection are built when we’re willing to be open and authentic with others. Together, we explore how the courage to give a piece of your story invites others to do the same, creating space for deeper understanding and empowerment. Through his stories and insights, Marcus highlights how vulnerability is not a weakness but a bridge that fosters trust, empowers others, and strengthens mentorship relationships.

This episode connects the dots between vulnerability, mentorship, and leadership, challenging us to rethink what it means to be present in our relationships and professional lives. Whether you’re a mentor, a leader, or someone striving to deepen your connections, Marcus’s wisdom will inspire you to embrace authenticity, share your story, and empower others to do the same.

Are you exhausted from always trying to save the day, fix every problem, and be everything to everyone? In this episode, I’m joined by Lydia Turner—Certified Life Coach, Trauma-Informed Leader, and Community Activist—to explore the concept of saviorism and what we affectionately call Captain SAVE A Hoe Syndrome. This mindset, where your worth feels tied to rescuing others, leaves us drained, disconnected, and far from our authentic selves.

Together, we’ll unpack the lessons from Day 2 of my book, With You in Mind: Releasing Saviorism, diving deep into why so many of us take on the role of "rescuer." Lydia brings her expertise in trauma-informed practices to illuminate how this syndrome often stems from unresolved wounds, a need for control, or a desire to feel valued.

In this heartfelt and empowering conversation, we’ll challenge the narrative that you must fix others to be worthy and embrace a new truth: saving yourself is the most powerful act of love. With practical strategies and Lydia’s expert guidance, you’ll learn how to step out of the rescuer role and step into a life where your worth isn’t tied to how much you give, but to how fully you can simply be.

Key Takeaways:

• Insights from Lydia Turner on how Captain SAVE A Hoe Syndrome impacts your emotional and spiritual well-being.
• What saviorism is and how it shows up in our lives.
• How letting go of the "fixer" role can create space for self-healing and growth.
• Simple steps to release the need to save others and reconnect with your purpose.

It’s time to take off the cape, let go of the need to save everyone else, and focus on saving yourself. You deserve to be whole, rested, and free.

Episode Title: Letting Go: The Art of Self-Acceptance

In this empowering episode, we’re joined by Elisa Williams—a powerhouse leader, mother of two, faith leader, and religious system disruptor. Elisa shares her journey of releasing the weight of others’ perceptions and overcoming the fear of being misunderstood. Together, we explore how letting go can lead to profound healing and transformation.

Elisa’s story is a testament to the strength it takes to embrace self-acceptance and the freedom that comes from offering it to yourself. Through vulnerability, courage, and her unwavering faith, Elisa redefines what it means to lead authentically and unapologetically in life, faith, and community.

Whether you’ve struggled with people-pleasing, fear of judgment, or finding your own voice amid the noise, this episode offers wisdom, inspiration, and actionable steps to help you let go and step boldly into who you’re meant to be.

Tune in for a heartfelt conversation on healing, liberation, and the art of being fully you.

Embracing Being: How to Dream Again and Redefine Success with Alejandra Jimenez

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Alejandra Jimenez, a faith-driven leader and champion for small business development, to explore the transformative journey of dreaming again, redefining success, and embracing the power of being over constant doing.

Alejandra shares how a season of pause in her life created the space to reconnect with herself, rediscover her dreams, and reshape her vision of success. Together, we dive into the importance of stepping away from busyness, letting go of societal expectations, and creating intentional moments of presence to uncover new possibilities.

This conversation is inspired by Day 6 of my book With You In Mind, "Embracing Being," and serves as a reminder that slowing down isn't just a luxury—it’s a necessity for sustainable growth and fulfillment.

✨ If you’re ready to pause, redefine success, and reclaim your dreams, this episode is for you.

🎧 Tune in now!

Ways to Connect:

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Purchase my NEW book "With You in Mind: A 10 Day Reset to Reconnect with Yourself, Realign with Your Purpose, and Lead with Presence and Connection

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In this heartfelt episode of Sit Down, Be Present, I’m joined by Leia Baez—author of A Star for Stella and an inspiring example of radical vulnerability in action. Leia shares her transformative journey of embracing honesty and self-compassion to overcome challenges, live a sober life for the past five years, and rebuild a life of purpose and love with her daughter.

Together, we discuss how radical vulnerability starts within—by speaking truth, love, and honesty to yourself. Leia opens up about the lessons she’s learned along the way, including how letting go of shame and practicing self-accountability were key to reclaiming her power and creating a life she truly values.

This episode also introduces themes from my upcoming book, With You In Mind: A 10-Day Reset to Reconnect with Yourself, Realign with Your Purpose, and Lead with Presence and Connection. At the end of our conversation, Leia shares a powerful exercise that will help listeners release shame, reconnect with their inner strength, and take the first steps toward healing and growth.

Whether you’re looking to let go of what’s holding you back, step into a new chapter, or simply find inspiration for your own journey, this episode is your invitation to pause, heal, and reclaim your power.

📚 To learn more about the release date of my upcoming book "With You In Mind", visit www.marisahattab.com and sign up in the popup form!!

Are you a leader feeling overwhelmed, burned out, and struggling to maintain the energy needed to thrive both personally and professionally? In this episode, we dive into the root causes of burnout and explore how setting firm boundaries can unlock the power of presence Discover actionable strategies to break free from the cycle of overcommitment and exhaustion, and learn how to cultivate personal sustainability that keeps you grounded. Whether you're leading a team, managing a business, or balancing multiple roles, this conversation will help you reclaim your time, realign with your purpose, and lead in a way that brings joy and fulfillment without sacrificing yourself.

To contact me directly email: consulting.marisahattab@gmail.com

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Can't wait to connect!

In this episode of *Sit Down, Be Present,* we're diving into the power of saying no—without the guilt. Many leaders struggle with setting boundaries, often losing sight of their purpose and the reasons behind why they show up. This episode will help you reconnect with your "why" so that you can protect your peace, emotions, spirit, and joy.

We'll explore the art of saying no: when to say it, how to say it, and why it's crucial for your well-being. You'll learn strategies to overcome the fear of disappointing others and how to prioritize what truly matters. By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped to make decisions that honor your purpose and preserve your energy, all while letting go of guilt.

Join us as we unpack the deep-seated reasons that keep us from saying no and discover how to reclaim your time, focus, and joy through the simple yet powerful act of setting boundaries.