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In episode 160 of The Empowered and Embodied Show, Kim Romain and Louise Neil kick things off with a playful conversation about last names—and before they know it, they’re deep in the heart of what it really means to name, claim, and embody who we are.

Together, they explore how the way we introduce ourselves, our chosen labels, and even our casual answers to “Tell me about yourself” shape more than just conversation, they shape how we see ourselves and move through the world.

Through personal stories, Human Design reflections, and a lot of heartfelt honesty, they invite us to look at the deeper needs that live underneath our titles, roles, and expectations, and how honoring those needs helps us live and lead more authentically.

"You don’t have to explain who you are to be worthy of being seen for who you are." — Kim Romain

"Real leadership isn’t about running up the hill first—it’s about guiding with wisdom and presence." — Louise Neil

Key Takeaways:

• How names, titles, and first impressions weave into our identity
• Why understanding your true needs is essential to authenticity
• The difference between honoring needs vs. being labeled "needy"
• How Human Design can reveal patterns of doubt, confusion, and wisdom
• What it looks like to move from role-based identity to soul-based expression

Key Moments:

00:00 — Intro and welcome

00:50 — Exploring identities

03:13 — Identity, marriage, and the names we choose

05:00 — Open centers in Human Design and the pull of doubt and confusion

08:34 — The difference between wants and needs—and why it matters

12:34 — Needs are about fulfillment, not lack

15:32 — Unpacking the old wounds around being “too needy”

18:07 — Learning to name what fills us—and asking for it with courage

20:34 — Guiding vs. leading—reclaiming different forms of leadership

27:50 — How Human Design shapes how we hold space and show up

30:26 — Seeing yourself through someone else's eyes—and letting it land

34:29 — Letting go of performance to reconnect with belonging

36:30 — Final reflections on walking into the world as yourself

Join a circle of changemakers committed to leading with purpose, presence and ease inside Kim's Rising Visionaries community and mentorship program.

Reclaim your career and confidence during midlife through Louise's Rise & Redefine program.

If you’re loving this show, come check out the Feminist Podcasters Collective, where creators like us are uplifting diverse voices and driving meaningful change. If you’re looking for new shows to fill your feed, head to feministpods.com to explore everything we have to offer.