The Art of Presence: Ingredients for Success in Leadership and Life

Join Julie Riga on the Stay On Course Podcast for a grounding and deeply relevant conversation with Gabriella Salvatore, Global Organizational Effectiveness and Leadership Strategy Advisor. In this episode, Gabriella shares powerful insights on what it truly means to be present in a world filled with constant distraction and competing demands.

This conversation goes beyond productivity tips and dives into presence as a leadership practice. Julie and Gabriella explore how reducing distraction, listening deeply, and honoring the role you are in at any given moment can transform your relationships, your leadership, and your quality of life.

In This Episode:

✨ What presence really means and why it is often misunderstood
✨ How distraction, notifications, and constant responsiveness erode leadership effectiveness
✨ The difference between being present and having presence
✨ Practical strategies for reducing distraction without disconnecting completely
✨ Why presence requires repetition, self-compassion, and constant course correction
✨ How wearing the right “hat” in each moment improves focus and connection
✨ Why listening to yourself and others is the foundation of true presence

Key Takeaways:

📌 Presence begins with reducing distraction and reclaiming your attention
📌 You do not need perfection to be present, only intention and practice
📌 Teaching others how you work creates healthier boundaries
📌 Being present improves both personal relationships and professional leadership
📌 Slowing down allows you to listen, connect, and lead with clarity
📌 Presence is not a one-time decision, it is a daily practice

Memorable Quotes:

“Presence is the quality of connection you bring to a moment.” – Gabriella Salvatore

“There is no perfection in presence.” – Gabriella Salvatore

“You cannot be where you are if you are always somewhere else.” – Gabriella Salvatore

“Listening is the gateway to being present.” – Julie Riga

Perfect for leaders, coaches, entrepreneurs, and professionals who feel overwhelmed by constant distraction and want to reconnect with clarity, focus, and authentic leadership presence.

Connect with Gabriella Salvatore:
📱 LinkedIn: Gabriella D. Salvatore
✉️ Email: gabrielladsalvatore@gmail.com

Connect with Julie Riga:
🌐 julieriga.com/lead
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💡 Share this episode with someone who needs a reminder to slow down and be present.

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