In this episode, Julia speaks with Dr. Gina Della Togna from Panama and Laurie Cummins from Florida, both explorers from the Women Leading in Nature expedition by Women Emerging in partnership with Re:Wild. They reflect on their journey and share how they instantly connected over trauma as part of their Essence, exploring how it shapes the way we lead.

Women Emerging runs group expeditions for up to 24 women who want to find their own approach to leading. They run over 7 months—explorers commit to 5 hours of exploring each month. Each group is formed around a community, geographical or sectoral. Most expeditions are online, though some groups meet at different points.

Gina and Laurie discuss how this unique methodology pushed them beyond traditional leadership concepts, encouraging them to look inward and examine the trauma that influences their behaviors and leading.

They share how acknowledging and understanding their trauma, whether from major life events or smaller, recurring patterns - has helped them build more authentic, boundary-conscious, and compassionate practices for leading. Through vulnerability, clear communication, and personal growth, they’ve learned that leading effectively isn't about people-pleasing but about offering support while staying true to their own values.

Listen to this episode to step into the expedition with Gina and Laurie and discover how understanding your Essence can help you lead with more honesty and strength.