What does it take to speak in a way that captivates, inspires, and truly connects? Adam Roa, a magnetic stage poet whose words seem to reach straight into your soul, shares how he turned vulnerability into his superpower. He talks about his journey from feeling emotionally shut down to commanding stages around the world with authenticity and heart. This isn’t just about performing—it’s about connecting on a level that leaves people moved and inspired. Adam gets real about how being open about his struggles has helped him create deeper relationships and connections. He breaks down how storytelling, especially the classic hero’s journey, can make your words hit differently and stick with people. Whether you’re speaking to an audience or just trying to connect better in your everyday life, you’ll walk away with ideas you can actually use. And it’s not just talk—Adam shares how his years of acting and performing shaped his stage presence and confidence. Plus, he takes it deeper with his poem “A Message From Death,” showing how embracing life’s changes can lead to profound growth. If you’ve ever felt like you had something important to say but didn’t know how to say it, this episode is your chance to learn from someone who’s mastered the art of speaking straight to the heart. Key Timestamps [00:01:34] Performance through emotional expression. [00:06:01] Death amplifies beauty. [00:09:21] Embracing change in life. [00:15:02] Creativity as a personal development tool. [00:16:33] Beauty in pain through art. [00:22:30] Finding gratitude in life's challenges. [00:25:24] Charisma and presence on stage. [00:27:41] Art as a technology. [00:32:19] Importance of intention in speaking. [00:36:08] Vulnerability and connection. [00:40:06] Hero's journey in storytelling. [00:45:00] Emotional vulnerability and connection. [00:47:31] Vulnerability as a connection tool. [00:50:23] Future Human Festival 2025. Memorable Quotes "Living is worth the cost. But make no mistake, being alive is not the same thing as living. Just like throwing something away is not the same thing as giving. So, if you haven't yet found your love of life, I suggest you keep on digging and allow yourself to feel your way through all the hurt and all the rage." – Adam Roa "I think vulnerability is the gateway to connection. And when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, we are actually opening up the possibility for incredibly deep connection. And it's also opening up the possibility of being rejected. And so, there's an inherent fear or risk that comes with that vulnerability. But that's also what makes it inspiring. " – Adam Roa Where to Find Our Guest Website: https://adamroa.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adam.roa Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IAmAdamRoa/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AdamRoaOfficial To stay connected and to learn more about Vishen and Mindvalley, click on the links below:  Website: https://www.mindvalley.com/about YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/vishenlakhiani Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindvalley/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vishen/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindvalley Subscribe to 'Mindvalley Membership' to discover 65+ transformational Mindvalley programs – at a surprisingly low annual fee here 👉 https://go.mindvalley.com/NOW  Produced by Evolved Podcasting: www.evolvedpodcasting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices