In this episode, Flo from Chorus Studios sits down with executive coaches Alison Webster and Lauren Wingard to explore the transformative power of presence versus performance. They discuss how mindfulness, vulnerability, and authentic communication can revolutionize your approach to leadership, podcasting, and high-stakes presentations.
Meet Alison Webster: Alison is an executive coach specializing in conscious leadership and mindfulness practices for ambitious leaders. She co-owns and operates the conscious leadership coaching business Shift Above the the Line. Shift Above The Line provides conscious leadership coaching designed to help leaders shift from a place of reactivity, resistance, and threat (below the line), to one of responsiveness, acceptance, and trust (above the line), where creativity, innovation, flow, connection, and collaboration occur best. She has worked with companies like Boeing, Mattel, Microsoft, and Ducati.
Meet Lauren Wingard: Lauren is an executive presence and communication coach, (often with BetterOn) helping leaders practice authentic communication through video and live interactions. Her decade working in leadership development at Red Hat informs her practical, skills-based approach to helping leaders show up as their best selves. She combines leadership development expertise with mindfulness and emotional intelligence, empowering her clients to lead with authenticity and confidence.
Outline:
[00:00 - 05:30] Introductions
[08:35- 15:54] Presence vs. Performance
[05:25 - 17:28] Practice and Skill Development
The importance of practicing communication and presentation
Using video feedback as a learning tool
Building muscle memory through practice while staying present
[17:28 - 18:32] Non-Verbal Communication
How tone, facial expression, and body language matter more than words
[18:32- 24:31] Conscious Leadership Methodology
[23:11- 24:58] Leadership Development and Business Alignment
Integrating leadership development with marketing and sales
Why company culture matters for long-term success
[26:02- 32:01] Grounding and Reflection Practices
[32:01 - 33:10] Closing remarks and appreciation
Resources Mentioned
15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership — Book that influenced Alison’s coaching philosophy
Just One Heart by Dr. Jonathan Fisher — A cardiologist’s guide to holistic heart care
Leaders Eat Last — Referenced discussion on organizational culture and leadership
Blue Spirit Wellness Retreat in Nosara, Costa Rica — Where Flo experienced eye-gazing practice
