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What does it actually mean to be authentic and is there a cost? In this episode, Alyssa sits down with Michelle Mercurio to unpack the pressure to fit into corporate culture, the cost of hiding behind professionalism, and why authenticity is less about being fully exposed and more about being fully integrated. Michelle shares how her own path led her from corporate leadership into the work she now does as “the authenticist,” helping people reconnect with who they are, what they value, and how they want to live and lead.

In this episode:

• Why authenticity became a leadership buzzword and does it still matter
• How belonging can lead us to betray parts of ourselves
• The difference between privacy, performance, and true self-expression
• Why ambition and authenticity are not opposites
• How to identify forced energy versus flow in your own life
• Michelle’s hot takes on authenticity at work, leadership, confidence, and being liked

Resources & Links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intheroomonpurpose/
Guest: Michelle Mercurio
Host: Alyssa Edwards
Sponsor mentioned: Coffitivity, code INTHEROOM20 for 20% off your subscription