Are you hiding behind perfectionism, afraid to show your true self? What would happen if you gave yourself permission to slow down, unplug, and embrace your authentic story? There’s a transformative power in vulnerability and self-compassion – slowing down and creating stillness in life allows us to hear our own truth.
In this episode of the Inspirational Leadership podcast, I speak with Martina Kelades about dismantling the stigma around mental health, leading with courage, and redefining success on your own terms. Martina is a professional storyteller and a multi-passionate artist – an actor, public speaker and podcast host dedicated to dismantling mental and emotional health stigma. Drawing on her acting background, she leverages the art of storytelling to inspire others to live an intentional and courageous life. Martina founded “Life Out Loud Mental Health Consulting & Creatives,” a mental health promotion company and a platform that shares unfiltered stories supporting those experiencing mental health challenges and those who dare to live a life on purpose.
Listen in to learn the importance of creating space for real conversations and redefining success beyond the hustle culture. You will also learn that success isn’t about hustling harder but living more intentionally, creating community, and honoring the heart.
Key Takeaways:
- The hidden toll of supporting others and carrying unspoken emotional burdens.
- The importance of shifting from hustle culture to intentional, heart-centered living.
- The importance of checking in with yourself and managing energy from a place of overflow.
- The power of unplugging from social media and news to reduce anxiety and improve mental health.
- Understanding leadership as an individual responsibility and the importance of self-awareness.
- How to use authenticity and vulnerability as tools for building connection and belonging.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:
- [01:55] Martina’s background in personal development, slow well-being deterioration, and the moment she chose to prioritize her mental health.
- [12:31] The launch of Life Out Loud, using TikTok as a creative outlet, and how that led to opportunities in the film industry.
- [15:44] Martina’s philosophy of shifting from hustle to heart and prioritizing alignment over perfection.
- [18:50] Why society needs to rethink its relationship with constant hustle and noise and embrace stillness.
- [24:23] How modern chaos distracts us from reflection and inner clarity, and how turning them off can help us reconnect with stillness.
- [28:05] Why prioritizing personal well-being is the first step to supporting others in organizations.
- [34:45] She highlights the importance of joy, nature, and faith-based communities in her healing.
- [39:39] The importance of belonging and not isolating during challenges while showing up authentically.
Standout Quotes:
- “It’s in the stillness that we are able to hear the answers, and that’s what we need to get back to.”– Martina [26:34]
- “When we’re supporting others, it’s important to have compassion and grace, and we also need that for ourselves as well.”– Martina [33:28]
- “We’re designed as human beings to be in community and to feel a sense of belonging; that is part of our genetic makeup.”– Martina [39:41]
Listen to the podcast here:
Watch the video here:
Resources Mentioned:
- Learn more about Martina’s work at Life Out Loud
- Connect with Martina on Instagram and Linkedin
If this episode inspired you, share it with a fellow leader or tag me on LinkedIn with your biggest takeaway! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a dose of real, practical leadership wisdom.
