Christina Helena - Why Did You Just Have That Thought?
Jul 17, 2024
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Christina Helena, founder of My Scar is Sexy, shares her journey as a cancer survivor, redefining trauma stigma. Topics include overcoming adversity, facing mortality, and questioning negative self-talk for personal growth. The podcast also explores travel adventures, inner growth for leadership, embracing vulnerability, and discussing Alan Watts and metacognition.
Traveling to diverse cultures fosters personal growth and self-discovery.
Confronting trauma and shame leads to reclaiming inner strength and resilience.
Leadership requires vulnerability, empathy, and humility for authentic connection with teams.
Deep dives
Leadership Perspectives on Travel Experiences
Travel experiences, particularly in Morocco and Botswana, were discussed, highlighting the importance of venturing into different cultures and landscapes. The podcast guest emphasized the transformative impact of travel on personal growth and self-discovery, sharing insights about exploring new places and embracing diverse experiences.
Empowering Personal Growth through Facing Trauma and Shame
The podcast delved into the guest's journey of overcoming trauma and shame, particularly related to a major health challenge faced as a teenager. The discussion focused on the importance of confronting personal struggles, acknowledging vulnerabilities, and reframing self-perception to reclaim inner strength and resilience.
Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity in Leadership
The conversation highlighted the significance of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership roles, stressing the need for leaders to tap into their humanity and embrace vulnerability to connect with their teams effectively. The guest emphasized the value of self-reflection, empathy, and humility in fostering genuine leadership.
Self-Responsibility and Curiosity as Keys to Personal Development
The podcast underscored the concepts of self-responsibility and curiosity as essential elements for personal development and growth. Encouraging listeners to introspect and question their thoughts, the guest shared profound insights on taking ownership of one's choices, embracing curiosity, and embarking on a journey of self-discovery for continuous improvement.
Exploring Philosophical Wisdom and Alan Watts's Teachings
The episode concluded with a reflection on the teachings of Alan Watts, a British philosopher known for his profound insights on existential questions and mindfulness. The guest emphasized the value of deep philosophical exploration and reflective listening to expand one's perspective and engage with profound philosophical wisdom.
Connect with Scott Allen's Phronesis Podcast
For more wisdom on leadership and personal growth, listeners were encouraged to engage further with Scott Allen's Phronesis podcast, providing a platform for thought-provoking discussions and insights on practical wisdom for leaders. Guests and topics on the podcast offer diverse perspectives and valuable insights for personal and professional development.
Christina Helena is a speaker, playwright/performer, and founder of My Scar is Sexy, based in New York City. As one of the youngest pancreatic cancer survivors with a thirteen-inch scar across her abdomen, she is redefining the stigma behind trauma and pain with one simple thought: “Your scar is the sexiest thing about you.” Most recently, Goalcast featured Christina’s talk, “My Scar is Sexy,” on mental health, and overcoming adversity received over 10 million views.
Her story is currently in development as an off-Broadway, autobiographical solo show entitled SCARdirected by the award-winning director Larry Moss. Her TEDx talk, “Dear Unresolved Soul, It’s Not Death You Fear, It’s Life,” is about facing mortality and how death is the greatest catalyst to discovering the authentic self.
A Quote From This Episode
"It took me many years of just asking myself, 'Why did you have that thought?' Then, again, 'Why did you have that thought?' And then, 'Why did you have that answer, and why that thought?'"
Other resources/people mentioned in this episode are linked to in the episode transcript.
About The International Leadership Association (ILA)
The ILA was created in 1999 to bring together professionals interested in studying, practicing, and teaching leadership. Register for ILA's 26th Global Conference in Chicago, IL - November 7-10, 2024.
The views of my guests do not constitute "truth." Nor do they reflect my personal views in some instances. However, they are views to consider, and I hope they help you clarify your perspective. Nothing can replace your reflection, research, and exploration of the topic.
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