Returning to yourself - An interview about the strength of finding beauty in challenge

In this deeply moving episode of Rise, Valentina sits down with educator and social-emotional learning expert Isabel Perez to explore a more honest, human definition of resilience.Through Isabel’s powerful personal story—navigating a life-altering diagnosis, multiple surgeries, and visible change—this conversation reframes resilience not as pushing through or “being strong,” but as the ability to return to yourself, again and again.Together, they unpack how resilience is built through connection, vulnerability, and community—not isolation. They reflect on the wisdom of children, the role of our inner voice, and how we lose (and can reclaim) our natural capacity to be open, present, and self-compassionate.This episode is an invitation to:Rethink what resilience really meansReconnect with your inner childFind beauty in unexpected placesAnd become a kinder companion to yourselfBecause resilience isn’t about becoming who you once were—it’s about embracing who you are now.