Win the Room—No Apologies with Perla D. Cuevas

In this bold and powerful conversation, Claire and Perla dive into the neuroscience of leadership presence, the emotional intelligence it takes to lead with both kindness and clarity, and the rarely discussed topic of how hormones influence how we show up in the room. Perla shares how she transforms underestimation into fuel, and how she consciously resets her mind before every high-stakes moment. From personal stories to brain science to real-time tools, this episode is a masterclass in human-centered leadership.Topics Covered:How to win the room in the first 30 secondsEmotional intelligence + tough standards: not mutually exclusiveClaire’s 2-minute reset techniqueThe neuroscience of presence and intentionPerla’s strategy for tracking hormonal cycles to protect workplace dynamicsMenopause, mental health, and creating safer spaces at workWhy kindness is a leadership power—not a weaknessTimestamps (HH:MM):00:00 – Opening story: winning the room without raising your voice02:15 – Perla shares how underestimation became her leadership fuel05:00 – Claire’s neuroscience tool: breath + intention to regain presence08:45 – The leader who brought Perla to tears—and shaped how she leads now13:00 – Mirror neurons, team energy, and why leaders “bring the weather”16:00 – Self-care as leadership: therapy, hormones, and pausing the email20:00 – Hormonal awareness, menopause, and gender-inclusive compassion22:30 – Perla’s 90-second strategy to win the room with intention26:30 – Listener challenge: 2-minute presence reset before your next meeting28:00 – Final reflections + QR code invite to Claire’s Sept. 10 webinarConnect with Claire → https://linktr.ee/clairehayek | IG: @claire.hayek  Have a question? [email protected]  The NeuroLeadership Edge Podcast is produced by Claire Hayek. All opinions are those of the host and guests. For more leadership resources, visit clairehayek.com