Unhiding: A Conversation About Disability & Belonging with Ruth Rathblott

As we wrap up this year of embracing visibility, authenticity and incorporate our values and priorities into our businesses and lives,  I was inspired by the story of Ruth Rathblott, an inspiring woman who spent 25 years hiding a physical difference.  She joins me on today’s episode to share her journey of unmasking her true self and how that decision has transformed her life and her mission. Ruth Rathblott is a DEI speaker, consultant and author who is obsessed with the topic of unhiding.  She is committed to helping others understand the impact of hiding on the individuals, companies  and on our culture at large.  While Ruth’s difference is physical and mine are in the area of neurodivergence,  I really resonated with her story of hiding and unhiding,  and the impact of self acceptance on not only our mental health and wellbeing, but that of countless others who feel more seen, understood and experience a sense of belonging, some for the very first time because of our example.  Key Takeaways from the Episode:The Toll of Hiding: Ruth opens up about the emotional toll of hiding her physical difference and the impact it had on her mental and physical health. Her story sheds light on the cost of inauthenticity.Creating Safe Conversations: Ruth emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for conversations around differences, especially during the teenage years when individuals may feel the pressure to fit in and hide their true selves.Unhiding in the Modern Workforce: The discussion covers the challenges of the modern workforce and the need for a shift in leadership principles to foster a culture where individuals can be authentic and feel supported.Changing the Cultural Message: The conversation touches on the need to change the cultural message regarding disability, focusing on promoting open conversation and fostering a proud and strong identity around differences of all kinds.Ruth’s Book,  “Singlehandedly: Learning to Unhide and Embrace Connection”  https://bit.ly/3tdbM1PRuth’s TedX Talk:  “ When I Stopped Hiding, I Found Freedom” https://bit.ly/3vbHNaTRuth on social media:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-rathblott/https://www.instagram.com/ruthrath/Also mentioned in this episode: The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks (book)  https://amzn.to/3BcPldhIf you are ready to stop hiding your business from being found by the clients you are most excited to work with, my Boss Up Breakthrough framework is a great place to start.  We’ll uncover your unique brilliance,  how to stand out and be sought after and become the no brainer choice for your perfect fit clients.  I’lll help you Boss Up your boundaries, your offers, your pricing, and your marketing strategy and remove anything that keeps you a best kept secret.  We will also make sure you are including mental wellness in your business plan so that you’re not just successful on the outside, but aligned with your values, and priorities on the inside.  Want to know more?  Schedule a free consultation here: https://bit.ly/calendly-free-consultationNot quite ready to work with me, but wonder what it would be like? Grab my free private podcast,  “Show Up Like a Boss”, 10 clips of my coaching, and tips for how to apply the strategies to your own business and life.  Check it out:  https://bit.ly/show-up-like-a-boss