Episode Details

On this Healthy Mind, Healthy Life episode, Mayor Teresa Thomas-Smith shares a direct, practical lens on leadership: your inner voice sets the ceiling for your strategy, culture, and impact. We dig into stripping away the “best self” mask, why vulnerability is a leadership asset (not a weakness), and simple practices to rewrite self-talk so results shift—at work and at home. Expect grounded examples, a real story of reframing under pressure, and clear steps to build an authentic, values-led leadership presence. Search-friendly themes: leadership mindset, authentic leadership, inner narrative, self-talk, mental fitness for leaders, emotional resilience, boundaries, trauma-informed growth.

About the Guest  :

Teresa Thomas-Smith is the first African American and first female Mayor of Palmetto, Georgia. A global speaker and transformational strategist, she champions “lead her ship”—leading from essence, not titles—through radical authenticity, compassion, and practical inner work.

Key Takeaways:

• Authenticity is whole-self leadership: stop performing a “best self” and lead as a full human so others feel safe to do the same.

• Self-talk is the foundation: strategy and skills are only as strong as the inner voice driving them.

• Name the ego, don’t obey it: acknowledge the loud, critical voice and consciously choose the truer one.

• Give yourself grace: change happens “right now,” one choice at a time—especially when you feel stuck.

• Write your story: put the desired outcome on paper; clarity + intention reduce fear and organize action.

• Release what no longer serves: notice old vows, roles, or narratives and consciously let them go.

• Your energy leads the room: remembered essence creates lightness, connection, and trust in teams.

• Practical starter: when negative self-talk spikes, pause, name it, thank it for trying to protect you, and release it; then speak a truer sentence aloud.

If you’re in immediate danger:

• India: Dial 112 (all emergencies). Download the 112 India app for quick SOS. 112 India+1

• USA/Canada: Dial 911 (life-threatening emergencies).

• UK/Ireland: Dial 999 or 112. Both connect to emergency services. GOV.UK

India – free, confidential mental-health support

• Tele-MANAS (Govt. of India): Call 14416 (alt: 1800-89-14416). 24/7 counseling in multiple languages. telemanas.mohfw.gov.in+1

• KIRAN Mental Health Rehabilitation Helpline (Govt. of India): Call 1800-599-0019 (24/7). Press Information Bureau+1

• NIMHANS Helpline:080-46110007 (advice, counseling). Dis