"Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity." – Brené Brown

As part of The Wholehearted Series, I knew we had to talk about a key ingredient of wholehearted living—and that is vulnerability. Honestly, I don't think you can live a truly wholehearted life without it. So I invited my friend and returning guest, Jon Toms, back on the podcast to explore this important topic.

In this heartfelt and honest conversation, Jon and I unpack what it really means to be vulnerable—and why we so often resist it. We dive into the difference between vulnerability and transparency, the hidden fears that keep us from opening up, and the subtle ways we armor up through humor, perfectionism, anger, and numbing.

We also share personal stories—moments where vulnerability opened something sacred… and moments where it fell flat or wasn’t received well. Along the way, we talk about self-protection patterns, the trap of oversharing, and how to practice discernment in knowing when and with whom to share our deeper stories.

Finally, we explore how vulnerability can shift the way we do conflict, build safer spaces, and help us show up more compassionately—for ourselves and others.

Whether you’re new to vulnerability or learning to live with an open heart in deeper ways, this episode offers gentle insight and practical tools for moving toward greater courage, connection, and freedom.

Follow Jon Toms on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jontoms

Get your free Wholehearted Living journal prompts. https://calm-sun-843.myflodesk.com/x5yo2oyoyu

Book a free discovery coaching call: www.ella-hooper.com

Follow me on Instagram:@ella.hooper__