Dec 11, 2025
In today’s episode, Heather invites you to rethink everything you’ve been taught about power poses, confidence, and presence. While the classic “hands-on-hips” stance is often linked to authority, this episode reveals a far more effective and far more compassionate power move: simply sitting down.
Drawing from real experiences in leadership, advocacy, and high-stakes conversations, Heather shares how lowering yourself to someone else’s level can transform interactions, build trust, and leave a lasting impact. From courtroom moments to everyday leadership lessons, you’ll see why compassion, presence, and perspective are the true sources of personal power.
Together, we explore why power doesn’t require taking up more space, sometimes it is found in offering space to others.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
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The Real Power in Sitting Down
Why sitting communicates presence, compassion, and connection more effectively than traditional “power poses.”
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Compassion as a Leadership Superpower
How compassion strengthens advocacy, relationships, and influence, and why people feel safer when you’re willing to sit with them.
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The Psychology of Being at Eye Level
How leveling the physical playing field changes energy, reduces intimidation, and allows genuine dialogue.
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Lessons from the Courtroom
What a malpractice case taught Heather Hansen about human connection, and why a simple act like sitting on a patient’s bed moved an entire jury.
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A Story Heather Hansen Never Forgot
The emotional impact of a colleague and how 18 minutes of presence can change a life.
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Empathy vs. Compassion
The difference between feeling what others feel and seeing what they see, and why action is what matters most.
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Why Slowing Down is the New Power Move
In a world obsessed with speed, volume, and "looking powerful," Heather Hansen explains why slowing down, sitting down, and connecting deeply are the traits that build true charisma.
In this episode:
[00:00] Rethinking the classic power pose
[01:10] Why the “stand big” approach isn’t always effective
[02:20] Compassion research in healthcare
[03:17] A malpractice case and the power of sitting at the
bedside
[04:50] How sitting changes difficult conversations at work
[05:39] The psychology of being on the same level
[07:30] Joanne’s story and the impact of presence
[10:14] Compassion as the foundation of advocacy
[12:40] Cognitive vs. affective empathy
[14:30] Why sitting is the new power pose
[15:08] How presence builds confidence and charisma
Resources and Links:
🎥 Heather Hansen TEDx Talk on empathy and perspective
Connect with Heather:
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Heather’s TikTok
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heather@elegantwarrior.com