Each month we interview an Emerging Women member to deepen our connections and possibilities for collaboration with the conscious leaders living the truth of who they are. It’s the Emerging Women way!
This month we interview Sage Hobbs, a women’s empowerment and leadership coach, speaker, author of Naked Communication: Courageously Create the Relationships You Really Want, and host of The Naked Conversations Podcast.
Sage rocked the Sister Stage at Emerging Women Live so hard that we invited her to lead February’s Power Boost on Naked Communication. Here’s your chance to get a peek at what makes her tick… Enjoy!
Who are the most influential women in your life? Why?
There are so many women who have touched my life in profound ways, from those I’ve never actually met to the ones I call when I need support and encouragement. I’m way into the value of deep female relationships that are real and honest.
I’d name Audre Lorde for her message that has guided me for years: “When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid.” It’s a battle cry to be courageous and to pursue our meaningful work, even with the fear that may show up along the way (which it usually does for me!).
And my mom, for her unwavering support of my big, driven spirit, from my childhood through to today. She always has my back, nudges me along when I feel doubtful, and is a total stand for women making a difference in the world on their own terms.
What’s your biggest struggle or challenge? How does it shape you?
My biggest struggle as a woman is the ever-elusive idea of “balance.” I’m constantly juggling my desire to go big with my work and my desire to be present as a mom and partner.
I’m naturally ambitious and service driven. I get super fired-up about amplifying women’s voices, supporting them in creating amazing relationships, and reconnecting with themselves (and how freakin’ powerful they are). I also really recognize that time is fleeting, that our relationships are the foundation of our happiness, and I want to always pay attention to those I love most. I had cancer when I was 23, and it made a lasting imprint about living life to the fullest.
It’s a dance between all my passions, and that’s the biggest challenge I have as a woman today… wanting to “do it all” and do it really well. There are other systemic challenges, of course, like speaking up and being heard in a “man’s world.” But the one I feel most acutely on the day-to-day is wanting to fill all the roles I play effectively.
Tell us more about your work and how it supports women.
Beyond my individual client work, I host a podcast (Naked Conversations) where I interview women who are courageously following unconventional paths to lead lives of their own design and make a difference in their communities. I love having the opportunity to share women’s stories and amplify their voices.
I recently had the chance to speak on the Emerging Women Live Sister Stage, where I talked about how to finally get comfortable being “naked,” to stop pretending that we have it all figured out, to really be ourselves and connect with each other in real and powerful ways. Whenever I can speak to a group of women and see them reconnect with that spark inside themselves, it is the most invigorating and moving experience. In those moments, I know that there is hope for a future where women support each other fully and lead courageously.
What are you known for?
I’m known for my bold, insightful, and dynamic approach to communication, relationships, and personal growth. I’m known for my work on “naked” communication and how to have better relationships and reconnect with our personal power. I’m also known for being outspoken, dropping some F bombs, being the best person to share good news with (I’m super enthusiastic), and always the first one on the dance floor. And I looooove the beach and Italian hoagies (in Philly only).
What topics are difficult for you to discuss and why? (Love, power, money, race, etc.)
I’m pretty comfortable with difficult conversations. Even if they make my heart race or palms sweat, I’m willing to have them. In fact, I really believe it’s in those conversations that deeper human connection happens. However, lately politics have been harder for me to discuss, as there are such strong and divisive opinions.
Five years from now what does your ideal career/family/social situation look like?
I’m a philanthropist on a bigger scale, traveling globally with my family while running a purpose-driven business that empowers girls and women to live the most powerful version of their lives.
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