264. This isn't the vulnerability you think | Flipping the leadership paradigm with Cortney McDermott
In this conversation, Dr. Anna Marie, with Cortney, unpacks and reframes what vulnerability truly is—shifting it from oversharing, venting, or seeking validation to a deeper state of relaxation, safety, and authenticity in ourselves and with others. They explore how this redefinition transforms leadership, client work, and relationships, emphasizing that real vulnerability begins with being honest and gentle with ourselves. The discussion also offers practical ways to notice tension in the body, create inner safety, and use pause and non-reaction as powerful leadership tools.
Key Points:
- Vulnerability is deep relaxation and safety in the presence of others.
- It is not gossip, oversharing, or "airing dirty laundry."
- Many confuse vulnerability with venting and victimhood to get validation.
- True vulnerability means sharing without needing validation or agreement.
- In leadership, vulnerability is a calm, grounded presence in any context.
- People are drawn to leaders who feel safe, relaxed, and steady.
- Real vulnerability starts with being honest and gentle with yourself first.
- Your body's tension or relaxation is a key signal of safety or misalignment.
- You don't have to respond immediately—there is power in pause and silence.
- "Don't give it oxygen": choosing not to fuel drama or reactivity is a core vulnerable leadership move.
About Cortney McDermott:
Cortney McDermott is an award-winning author and speaker and celebrity coach. Her work in self-development and business strategy has been featured in Inc., Women's Health, NBC, The Huffington Post, MindBodyGreen, and SUCCESS, and her talks on human potential have been shared on stages including TEDx, Mindvalley, Oxford Saïd Business School, and Richard Branson's private island, Necker.
With a Master of Science from the London School of Economics, Cortney blends academic rigor with real-world experience to help individuals and organizations reach their highest potential. Her career highlights include executive roles at Vanity Fair Corporation, Vice President at Sustainability Partners Inc., and successfully running her own businesses, where she has worked with brands such as Universal Music Group, Nike, Kickstarter, and Google.
Fluent in four languages, Cortney splits her time between Italy and the US.
Connect with Cortney:
Connect with Anna:
Email: annamarie@happywholeyou.com / info@HappyWholeYou.com
Website: www.happywholeyou.com / https://linktr.ee/happywholeyou
Personal Website: www.DrAnnaMarie.com
Instagram: @happywholeyou
Personal Instagram: @Dr.Anna.Marie
Facebook: Happy Whole You
LinkedIn: Anna Marie Frank
Venmo: @happywholeyou
