182. The Real Real on Vulnerability: Why Transparency Isn’t Enough

INHABIT with Alessia Citro

Are you truly vulnerable, or are you just being transparent? In this episode of INHABIT, host Alessia Citro unpacks the profound difference between transparency and vulnerability, sharing how understanding this distinction can transform your relationships, self-awareness, and personal growth. Drawing from her recent experience at Rebecca Cafiero's Inner Circle Mastermind and insights from Enneagram expert Tracy O'Malley, Alessia explores how vulnerability requires raw honesty, while transparency often reflects lessons learned after the fact.

Through personal stories, including her journey with alcohol use and its impact on motherhood, Alessia illustrates the power of vulnerability in fostering deeper connections and self-mastery. She also challenges listeners to reflect on their own lives: Are you truly opening up to those closest to you, or are you holding back out of fear of appearing weak? With practical examples and thought-provoking questions, this episode offers a roadmap for embracing vulnerability both in real life and online.

Whether you're looking to strengthen your relationships, grow as a leader, or simply show up more authentically, this episode provides actionable insights to help you inhabit your best self. Tune in and take the first step toward deeper connection and personal transformation.

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TIMESTAMPS:

[01:26] Alessia introduces the episode, focusing on the difference between transparency vs. vulnerability

[02:39] Alessia shares insights from Rebecca Cafiero's Inner Circle Mastermind and learning from Enneagram expert Tracy O'Malley.

[04:10] Explanation of transparency (sharing resolved experiences) vs. vulnerability (sharing tender or raw emotional experiences).

[05:39] Alessia reflects on guilt from her struggles with alcohol use during her daughter's toddler years to showcase the difference between transparency and vulnerability.

[07:39] Listeners are challenged to evaluate their vulnerability in close relationships and whether they feel safe to share.

[10:19] Alessia highlights the paradox of vulnerability, showing how it feels weak but actually takes, shows and builds strength …and deeper connections.

[11:17] Discussion of sharing "from scars, not wounds" online and Alessia’s tendency toward transparency over vulnerability.

[14:23] Alessia opens up about her vulnerability hangover from a four-hour car ride with Amanda Walker and Sara Chambers.

[16:35] Alessia emphasizes the importance of vulnerability with trusted people to foster growth and connection.

[19:33] Alessia concludes by encouraging listeners to embrace vulnerability and reflect on their own growth edges.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

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KEYWORDS:

vulnerability, transparency, personal growth, self-awareness, emotional connection, Enneagram, Inner Circle Mastermind, authentic relationships, self-mastery, online presence, sharing from scars, personal transformation, overcoming shame, building trust, raw honesty, personal development, leadership growth, emotional resilience, motherhood struggles, alcohol recovery, alcohol use disorder, alcohol-free, creating connection, self-reflection, personal storytelling

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