Welcome back to the I'm Just Steve Podcast! Join us for an insightful conversation with Valerie Garcia, a speaker, writer, and advocate for authenticity in leadership and life. In this episode, we dive deep into the importance of being real, the struggles of navigating emotions, and how to foster genuine connections in a world that often prioritizes perfection. Valerie shares her journey from corporate life to embracing vulnerability and leading with empathy. Whether you're a leader, a parent, or simply someone looking to connect more authentically with others, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice.Timestamps:02:32 - Valerie's Background and Journey to Authenticity 04:31 - The Moment That Changed Valerie's Perspective on Leadership 07:48 - The Role of Social Media in Authenticity 10:16 - The Authenticity Map: Understanding Emotions 12:50 - The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership 15:30 - How to Start Being Authentic and Asking for Help 18:45 - The Impact of Genuine Conversations on Mental Health 21:00 - The Importance of Morning Practices for Self-Awareness 24:15 - Valerie's Book and the Roadmap to Authenticity 27:00 - Final Thoughts on Embracing Messiness in Life Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more authentic conversations!