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:
Timestamps (HH:MM):
00:00 – Opening story: winning the room without raising your voice
02:15 – Perla shares how underestimation became her leadership fuel
05:00 – Claire’s neuroscience tool: breath + intention to regain presence
08:45 – The leader who brought Perla to tears—and shaped how she leads now
13:00 – Mirror neurons, team energy, and why leaders “bring the weather”
16:00 – Self-care as leadership: therapy, hormones, and pausing the email
20:00 – Hormonal awareness, menopause, and gender-inclusive compassion
22:30 – Perla’s 90-second strategy to win the room with intention
26:30 – Listener challenge: 2-minute presence reset before your next meeting
28:00 – Final reflections + QR code invite to Claire’s Sept. 10 webinar
Connect with Claire → https://linktr.ee/clairehayek | IG: @claire.hayek
Have a question? info@mspteambuilding.com
The NeuroLeadership Edge Podcast is produced by Claire Hayek. All opinions are those of the host and guests. For more leadership resources, visit www.mspteambuilding.com.
