Why Start at the Edge of Your Comfort Zone | Ep. 25 COH | Valerie Hope

Why Start at the Edge of Your Comfort Zone | Ep. 25 COH | Valerie Hope

From Connect to Joy Podcasts: Circle of Hope | Not Quite Strangers | Time to Come Alive by Valerie Hope

February 17, 2026 · 1h 13m · Season 1 · Episode 25

About this episode

In this episode, Valerie Hope and Alice Tenjiwe Kabwe discuss the importance of authentic connections and self-awareness in building relationships.

If you long for deep, joyful connection in new places or just want permission to bring your whole self to every friendship and opportunity, this episode is for you. In this soul-nourishing episode, I sit down with my vibrant friend Alice Tenjiwe Kabwe to unpack our unlikely friendship, sparked at a Nonviolent Communication retreat in Nairobi. From braids and belly laughs to creating space for vulnerability, we dive into the magic that happens when you lead with curiosity, courage, and authentic self-awareness, anywhere in the world! Together, we explore how to embrace your superpowers, stop overgiving, and choose connection with intention. Watch This If: Are seeking to build authentic connections (even in unfamiliar places) Want to harness your “helper” or “systems-thinker” superpowers without feeling drained Are navigating the multicultural, immigrant, or third-culture experience Crave more joy, playfulness, and lightness in your relationships Need a permission slip to own your worth, celebrate your gifts, and set mindful boundaries     Episode Highlights (with Timestamps): 00:00 Welcome & My First Impressions of Alice 02:33 A Friendship Sparked by Sisterhood (and…

People in this episode

Host: Valerie Hope

Guest: Alice Tenjiwe Kabwe

Topics covered

  • comfort zone
  • authentic connections
  • vulnerability
  • multicultural experience
  • self-awareness

Keywords

  • joyful connection
  • permission
  • superpowers
  • mindful boundaries

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: A Friendship Sparked by Sisterhood (and Locs!, Finding Lightness & Joy, Cultural Translation: How Alice Opened My World in Kenya

Places: Nairobi

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