Drop the Act is a podcast about presence in a performative world.
Hosted by Michael Cinquino, author of Drop the Act: The Power of Presence in a Performative World™, the show explores what happens when we stop managing perception and start participating fully—in business, relationships, and life.
Each episode examines the habits, pressures, and performances that quietly erode trust and connection, and offers grounded, practical ways to show up with greater clarity, steadiness, and honesty when the stakes are real.
Summary
In this conversation, Michael Cinquino and Davina Hehn explore the complexities of parenting, emotional regulation, and the challenges that come with raising children. They discuss the importance of intentional parenting, the impact of societal expectations, and the need for community support. Davina shares her insights on anger management and emotional regulation, emphasizing the significance of understanding and expressing emotions in healthy ways. The conversation highlights the necessity of open communication and vulnerability in relationships, particularly in the context of parenting.
Takeaways
Count down anxiety can create tension before starting a recording.
Parenting is a journey that requires ongoing emotional regulation.
The first decade of parenting is crucial for emotional development.
Many parents overlook the importance of discussing their reasons for having children.
Expectations of parenting often lead to feelings of regret and disappointment.
Community support is essential for navigating the challenges of parenthood.
Honesty about the difficulties of parenting can foster connection and understanding.
Anger is a natural emotion that can signal deeper issues.
Healthy outlets for anger can prevent destructive behaviors.
Communication is key to maintaining healthy relationships during parenting challenges.
Chapters
00:00 Countdown Anxiety and Introduction
02:11 Understanding Personal Identity and Parenting
06:08 The Reality of Parenthood: Expectations vs. Reality
10:08 Navigating Relationships and Parenthood
14:05 The Importance of Intentionality in Parenting
17:57 Cultural Influences on Parenting
22:07 The Need for Community in Parenting
25:55 Honesty in Parenting: Acknowledging Multiple Truths
30:09 The Role of Anger Management in Parenting
39:50 Understanding Attachment and Communication Styles
42:31 The Importance of Anger Management
45:53 Healthy Anger: A Call to Action
49:05 The Expression of Anger: Finding Balance
55:43 Injustice as a Root of Anger
01:00:54 Navigating Distress and Coping Mechanisms
01:06:40 Dark Blue and White Simple Podcast Cover (Video).mp4
Keywords
parenting, emotional regulation, anger management, relationships, intentional parenting, community support, parenting challenges, mental health, vulnerability, personal development
Learn all about Davina at: https://www.yoursteadyspace.com/ (https://www.yoursteadyspace.com/)
5 Jun 2025
From Changing to Upgrading: What's the Difference & Why It Matters
Performance coach JM Ryerson discusses with Michael Cinquino how the language we use shapes our mindset and influences personal growth, particularly the difference between 'upgrade' and 'change,' in this interview.
12 May 2025
Finding your Artistic Edge with Artist Katelyn Kopenhaver
Summary
In this engaging conversation, Michael Cinquino and Katelyn Kopenhaver explore the concept of 'the edge' in creativity, discussing the importance of self-observation, the power of words in art, and the role of curiosity and skepticism. Katelyn shares her journey from New York to Miami, emphasizing the significance of pausing and the challenges of navigating the fast-paced production culture. They delve into critical discourse, the importance of paying attention to unspoken narratives, and Katelyn's artistic philosophy that seeks to plant seeds of thought in others.
Connect with Katelyn:
https://www.instagram.com/katelynkopenhaver/ (https://www.instagram.com/katelynkopenhaver/)
Takeaways
The edge in creativity is found at the intersection of chaos and order.
Self-observation is crucial for maintaining artistic integrity.
Words are a powerful medium for communication and understanding.
Curiosity and skepticism drive deeper engagement with art.
Pausing allows for reflection and deeper insights.
The pace of production can compromise quality in art.
Leaving New York was a significant emotional transition for Katelyn.
Finding presence in a new environment can lead to personal growth.
Critical discourse is essential for a vibrant artistic community.
Paying attention to what is omitted reveals deeper truths.
Chapters
00:00 Exploring the Concept of the Edge
04:55 Defining Edginess in Art and Life
10:37 Self-Observation and Artistic Integrity
11:49 The Power of Words and Language
14:48 Curiosity and Skepticism in Art
18:00 The Role of Pauses and Reflection
25:18 Navigating the Pace of Production
32:31 Transitioning from New York to Miami
42:32 The Changing Landscape of New York City
48:38 Navigating Trauma and Healing
51:35 The Importance of Open Discourse
56:42 Context and Understanding
01:00:50 Attention and Omission
01:04:54 The Role of Timing in Truth
01:08:12 Personal Values and Justice
Keywords
creativity, self-observation, art, skepticism, curiosity, New York, Miami, critical discourse, attention, artistic integrity
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
109
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 55 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
72
Social presence
0
YouTube
63
Engagement
32
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Guest appearances
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