Murisa Harba - Secrets to Acting with Energy Revealed: 5 Minute Success - The Podcast, Episode 425

·27 min·2 clips

Marissa Harbaugh explains why 91% of communication has nothing to do with the words you say.

The episode begins with host Karen Briscoe introducing guest Marissa Harbaugh, an international best-selling author, award-winning actress, and founder of About the Work. Marissa shares her background growing up in New Jersey and studying theater at Boston University, where she became obsessed with the power of story. She describes her journey to develop a reliable performance technique, leading to her discovery of energy systems in the body. Marissa breaks down communication statistics: 55% is physical, 36% is tone of voice, and only 9% is the actual words spoken. She compares the body to an instrument with seven energy centers along the spine, similar to concepts in yoga and spirituality. Marissa links these centers to common phrases like 'cat got your tongue' and 'punched in the gut,' explaining that emotions are 'energy plus motion.' The conversation shifts to business applications, starting with sales rapport. Marissa explains how tension in the jaw and lower belly can make someone seem closed off, harming connections. She discusses 'faulty perception of self' and the importance of self-awareness for authenticity. Karen connects this to the 'commit to get leads' component of her Five Minute Success framework. Next, they explore 'consult to sell,' where Marissa notes that excitement and nervousness reside in the same sacral energy center, allowing for mindset reframing. She shares an anecdote from Simon Sinek about reframing turbulence as excitement. Marissa also emphasizes vulnerability in building trust with clients. The discussion moves to 'connect to build and grow,' where Marissa explains how energy techniques can scale through teams by fostering authenticity and trust. She highlights consistency in delivery as key to professional growth. Finally, they cover 'success thinking, activities, and vision,' focusing on mindset and self-awareness. Marissa describes how awareness can release tension and lead to authenticity. She mentions her course and a free PDF gift on de-escalating arguments using masculine and feminine energy concepts, which are not gender-based but qualities of energy. The episode ends with Marissa sharing her inspiring message: 'life begins at the end of your comfort zone.'

As heard by us

A grounded bridge between acting technique, sales communication, and the physical work of building rapport.

Acting with energy turns into a useful business lesson as the guest connects stage technique with sales, rapport, and how a potential client receives a message.

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Why you'd press play

You want your sales energy to feel embodied, consistent, and easier to trust.

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