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Venus Williams on Presence Over Perfection

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In this episode from 2021, Gwyneth Paltrow sits down with tennis icon, entrepreneur, and creative force Venus Williams to talk about what drives her—on and off the court. They explore the mindset behind lasting success, where her drive comes from, how she’s learned to trust herself under pressure, and why presence—not perfection—has always been her anchor.


Williams reflects on her childhood, the values her parents instilled early on, and the perspective that’s carried her through every chapter. It’s a conversation about discipline, identity, and the quiet power of choosing joy in the moment you’re in.

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