28: The Hidden Cost of Performance Over Presence

If you’re constantly trying to get it right, be liked, or keep it all together, you’re not alone. But when we’re performing, we’re not present. And without presence, we miss real connection. In this episode, I talk with two brilliant improv trainers and actors (and longtime friends, Julie & her husband, Jake) about how simple shifts in how we show up—especially in everyday moments—can change everything. We unpack what it means to stop performing, start connecting, and how play can help bring us back to ourselves. You’ll hear: Why presence feels risky—but creates real connection How performing shows up in subtle ways (even with people we love) What improv can teach us about being human Tiny shifts to feel more seen, without saying more If you feel like you’re doing all the right things but still feeling unseen—this one’s for you. Check out more from Jake & Julie Suazo! Their Instagram is @thrillscorptraining