In Episode 32, I had the pleasure of speaking with Mandy Morris LPC, a seasoned expert in psychology and therapy. Her journey from aspiring athletic trainer to innovative therapist, executive coach and co-creator of the Sofree app sheds light on crucial lessons for both personal and professional growth. We talked about vulnerability, stress, burnout, and how they impact leaders specifically and all individuals alike.

Many is an amazing human being, and I hope you like our episode as much as I did. Enjoy!

The Power of Vulnerability

Our conversation kicked off with an exploration of vulnerability's role in forging meaningful connections. Mandy emphasized that true connection requires vulnerability, and with it comes the inherent risk of being hurt. Yet, this risk is essential for growth in our personal lives and professional relationships. In a world where leaders are often expected to have all the answers, admitting one's struggles can feel daunting. However, embracing vulnerability is not a weakness—it's a strength that can drive leadership success and deeper connections with teams.

Redefining Stress and Burnout

Stress was another significant topic we unpacked. Mandy described stress as an imbalance where demands outweigh resources, leading to an activation of the nervous system. This differentiation from anxiety, which concerns future uncertainties, offers a clearer understanding of workplace dynamics. Our discussion revealed how misunderstandings about stress contribute to burnout, especially in cultures that idolize overwork. As business leaders, recognizing the signs of burnout and addressing them proactively can help maintain healthier work environments and improve productivity.

Business Lessons Learned

From a business perspective, our conversation highlighted several valuable lessons:

* Adopting Emotional Awareness: Emotional intelligence is not just a soft skill; it's a business imperative. Mandy stressed the importance of leaders understanding and managing emotions, both theirs and their teams'. This awareness fosters communication and problem-solving, leading to a more cohesive and effective work environment.

* The Necessity of Asking for Help: Mandy pointed out that one of the biggest self-sabotaging behaviors in leadership is the reluctance to seek help. Good leaders leverage their teams, acknowledging that they cannot—and should not—bear every burden alone. Delegating and collaborating are key to sustainable success.

* Balancing Productivity and Well-being: In a world where the hustle is glamorized, it's vital to distinguish between productive work and compulsive overworking. Recognizing when work is fulfilling versus when it serves as an escape can prevent burnout and promote long-term health and productivity.

The Sofree App: A Game Changer for Stress

One of the most exciting parts of our discussion was Mandy's introduction of the Sofree app. Designed to reset the nervous system within minutes using bilateral stimulation, Sofree aims to provide immediate stress relief, offering a practical tool for anyone overwhelmed by life's demands. This technology exemplifies how innovation can enhance mental well-being and supports the notion that immediate, accessible solutions are crucial in today's fast-paced world.

Closing Thoughts

As we wrapped up the episode, I was struck by the importance of fostering environments—whether in business or at home—that encourage open dialogue about emotions and challenges. Mandy’s insights reaffirmed that being vulnerable and asking for help are not just beneficial but necessary for growth and resilience.

For those who are interested, the Sofree app is set to launch its beta version soon, promising an innovative approach to stress management. As always, I'm grateful for these conversations that inspire change and invite you to share your thoughts and experiences.

Stay curious and keep striving for balance!

Timestamps:

00:00 The Importance of Vulnerability in Connections

01:12 Personal Journey to Becoming a Therapist

02:15 Discovering EMDR and Its Impact

03:49 Executive Psychology Coaching and Writing

04:21 Creating the Sofree App

05:27 The Polarizing Nature of Therapy

08:01 Challenges Faced by Executives and Leaders

23:49 The Impact of the Pandemic on Mental Health

31:46 Understanding Stress and Anxiety

37:04 Introducing the Sofree App and Its Benefits

47:16 Final Thoughts and Future Plans