Rick Smith is an internationally recognized educator, facilitator, and author specializing in Authentic Relating and Awakened Leadership. With over two decades of experience, he has engaged more than 100,000 individuals across fifteen countries, focusing on cultivating presence, vulnerability, and inner authority in leadership contexts.

Rick's journey began in education, where he authored the best-selling book Conscious Classroom Management, which has sold over 250,000 copies worldwide. Transitioning from classroom teaching to personal development, he now facilitates workshops and retreats that blend practical tools with deep presence, guiding participants toward unconditional self-love and integration.

Awakened Leadership & Authentic Relating Retreats:

https://www.thetenderedge.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

This episode:

In this conversation, Therese and Rick explore the themes of personal growth, vulnerability, and the journey of awakening. They discuss the importance of compassion, both towards oneself and others, and how embracing our inner voices can lead to deeper self-acceptance. The dialogue touches on the challenges of navigating nervousness and self-judgment, the power of vulnerability, and the significance of assuming the best in ourselves and others. They also delve into the complexities of trauma, relationships, and the beauty of authentic conversations, ultimately highlighting the transformative power of presence and connection.

"Love is unconditional."

"Vulnerability is power."

"Assume the best in people."

Youtube format: https://youtu.be/3y9TcPOLP8Q

Takeaways

- The awakening process is often painful and challenging.

- Nervousness is a common human experience that can be embraced.

- Vulnerability is a source of strength and connection.

- Compassion towards ourselves and others is essential for healing.

- Inner authority allows us to stand up for ourselves without apology.

- Assuming the best in others can foster understanding and compassion.

- Trauma can be a pathway to personal growth and empowerment.

- Authentic conversations can deepen relationships and understanding.

- Letting go of control can lead to greater presence and peace.

- Embracing uncertainty is a part of the human experience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

02:56 From Teaching to Awakening

05:54 Befriending Our Inner Voices

08:49 Navigating Nervousness and Duality

11:44 Compassion in a Polarized World

15:02 Inner Authority vs. Inner Apology

17:52 Embracing Vulnerability and Self-Validation

20:40 The Power of Presence in Challenging Times

23:53 Scarcity Mindset and Comparison

32:14 Embracing Vulnerability and Family Dynamics

34:57 The Bamboo Analogy: Growth and Patience

38:47 The Power of Vulnerability

43:03 Healing Through Trauma and Connection

47:45 Compassionate Encounters with Men

51:50 Navigating Vulnerability in Business

55:44 Letting Go of Control and Trusting the Process

Host

Therese Fallentin; coach, facilitator and business hippie.

https://youtu.be/3y9TcPOLP8Q

https://www.instagram.com/magefoelelsen.podcast/

https://herring-tambourine-n2td.squarespace.com/

https://magefolelsen.com/hjem

Music

by my roommate, Hansine Killingmoe Såstad

Keywords

personal growth, awakening, compassion, vulnerability, self-acceptance, inner authority, trauma, relationships, healing, mindfulness