At The Root Of It

Resilience is often praised, but rarely examined for what it costs. In this final episode of Season One, Hanisha turns the tables and becomes the guest, sharing how resilience was shaped through childhood trauma, survival, and early responsibility. Together, Hanisha and Jared explore how resilience can begin as a necessity, how it evolves over time, and what it looks like when survival is no longe...

In this conversation, Hanisha and Rolando talk about growth as something that unfolds over time, often in ways we don’t immediately recognize. They reflect on how growing up with immigrant parents shaped their early understanding of success as survival, stability, and hard work, and how that definition slowly expanded once they entered the professional world. Rolando shares how discomfort, feedbac...

Truth is often framed as something fixed. A fact. A moral rule. Something you either tell or avoid. But lived truth is far more complicated. In this episode, we explore how our relationship with truth is shaped early in life, through family dynamics, cultural expectations, and the environments that taught us what was safe to say and what needed to stay hidden. We unpack how curiosity creates room...

Content warning: this episode includes discussions of trauma, abuse, and mental health. Please listen with care. Forgiveness is complicated. In this episode, we explore what it really takes to move through anger, grief, and the stories we carry from childhood into a place of freedom and self-compassion. Hanisha and Brittany share how forgiveness has evolved for them, shaped by trauma, agency, boun...

In this episode of At the Root of It , Mike joins to explore how feedback shapes us in the workplace and at home. Together we talk about the moments that felt abrasive, the patterns we carried from childhood, and the cultural and gender dynamics that make feedback feel complicated. We unpack why some feedback stings, how trust and psychological safety transform the way we hear it, and why vulnerab...

In this episode, Hanisha and Kevin unpack the layered roots of expectations —from childhood pressures and family roles to leadership, friendship, and love. They reflect on how early cultural and generational expectations shape identity, and how those patterns quietly influence our adult lives and relationships. Together, they explore learning to adjust, communicate, and let go—without losing the v...

In this conversation, Hanisha and Somya explore the multifaceted concept of rest, discussing its importance in a fast-paced world dominated by hustle culture. They delve into the different types of rest, including physical, mental, and emotional, and share personal experiences of burnout and the necessity of setting boundaries. The discussion emphasizes the strength found in prioritizing rest and...

In this conversation, Hanisha and Jared explore the complex nature of control, discussing its duality as both a source of safety and fear. They reflect on how control manifests in daily life—from subtle urges to physiological responses—and how it can both protect and limit us. Together, they examine the line between influence and control, the role of community and support systems, and how early ex...

Summary In this conversation, Karina and Hanisha explore the complexities of overthinking, discussing its roots in anxiety and perfectionism, its impact on daily life, and strategies to manage it. They reflect on personal experiences, the influence of family backgrounds, and the paradox of overthinking as both a challenge and a potential superpower. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of self-a...

What’s at the root of our values? In this episode, Hanisha and Chris Harris unpack how family, community, and personal growth shape what we hold most important. From authenticity and ambition to joy and conflict, they explore how values evolve over time and how aligning them with our actions deepens relationships. Together, they reflect on: How values are influenced by family and community Why aut...

What’s really driving your decisions, reactions, and relationships? In At the Root of It , host Hanisha invites you to pause, reflect, and dig beneath the surface of everyday challenges. This podcast explores the beliefs, emotions, and stories shaping how we lead, live, and connect — one thoughtful conversation at a time. Tune in for grounded dialogue, emotionally intelligent questions, and takeaw...