On this The Mindful Living Podcast episode, host Sana explores what it really means to live as a whole human—with integrity, softness, and clarity—alongside Teresa Thomas-Smith, leadership coach and Mayor of Palmetto, Georgia. Teresa unpacks feminine leadership without hard-edge posturing, how to set non-negotiable boundaries, why surrender often beats strategy, and the difference between branded authenticity and embodied truth. Practical, direct, and applicable for leaders, creators, and professionals. About the Guest: Teresa Thomas-Smith is the first woman to serve as Mayor of Palmetto, Georgia and a leadership coach behind TransformHer and Peaceful Soul Life Coaching. Her framework centers on “Leadership — HER Essence Remembered,” helping women lead with softness, color, and confidence—without abandoning themselves. Key Takeaways: “Whole human” leadership: stop fragmenting yourself to fit legacy models; show up the same person in public and private. Softness is strength: feminine energy (nurturing, collaborative, steady) can outperform hard-edge performance culture. Surrender vs. strategy: release image management and listen for inner alignment; clarity follows. Boundaries teach others how to treat you; correct misalignment the first time. Titles don’t define identity: be yourself who happens to hold a role, not a role that swallows the self. Authenticity is a continuum: allow yourself (and others) to evolve; don’t hold anyone hostage to yesterday’s version. “Just do it” mindset shift: change the narrative from “why not” to “I will,” then act in small, repeatable steps. Get comfortable being uncomfortable: discomfort often signals you’re on the right growth edge. Aspirations over struggle goals: honor 1,000 small steps; avoid microwave fixes to crockpot problems. Practical cue: if the packaging (clothes, style) changes nothing about the work, stop policing presentation—focus on outcomes. How to Connect with the Guest Instagram: @TransformHerWithTeresa Website: https://www.peacefulsoulllc.com Want to be a guest on The Mindful Living? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Healthy Mind By Avik is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it’s become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty—storyteller, survivor, wellness advocate—this channel shares powerful podcasts and conversations on:• Mental Health & Emotional Well-being• Mindfulness & Spiritual Growth• Holistic Healing & Conscious Living• Trauma Recovery & Self-Empowerment With over 4,400+ episodes and 168.4K+ global listeners, join us as we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters. Subscribe and be part of this healing journey. ContactBrand: Healthy Mind By AvikEmail: join@healthymindbyavik.com | podcast@healthymindbyavik.comWebsite: www.healthymindbyavik.comBased in: India & USA Open to collaborations, guest appearances, coaching, and strategic partnerships. Check Podcast Shows & Be a Guest:Listen to our 17 Podcast Shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavikBe a guest on our other shows: https://www.healthymindbyavik.com/beaguestVideo Testimonial: https://www.healthymindbyavik.com/testimonialsJoin Our Guest & Listener Community: https://nas.io/healthymindSubscribe To Newsletter: https://hea