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In this deeply honest and reflective conversation, I sit down with Hanako Greensmith—actor, artist, and series regular on Chicago Fire—to explore what happens between the milestones.

I’ve had the joy of knowing Hanako since her training years at Pace University, and here she speaks with remarkable openness about ambition, self-worth, burnout, and the inner work required to sustain a creative life.

We talk about the pressure to constantly do more, the belief that rest must be earned, and how easily high achievers learn to equate worth with productivity. Hanako reflects on learning to trust herself without over-preparing, on noticing when familiar patterns no longer serve her, and on what it means to reconnect with creativity beyond external validation.

This conversation also touches on:

• Navigating the “in-between” seasons of an artistic career
• The tension between stability and creative freedom
• Sensitivity as a strength rather than a flaw
• Why nature can be a powerful emotional and energetic reset
• Letting go of identities that once felt essential
• Redefining success beyond credits, roles, or outcomes

At its heart, this episode is about learning to listen inwardly, honoring what you need now, and allowing yourself to evolve—without rushing the process.

A note from Lisa

As STOPTIME: Live in the Moment approaches five years of conversations (almost six!), I’m revisiting and re-sharing a few favorite episodes—conversations that continue to resonate and meet us exactly where we are. This one felt especially worth returning to.

Thank you for listening—and for being part of this journey.

— Lisa 💜

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