BRAVE-ing the storm, together

My heart has been aching for those impacted by Hurricane Helene.

What do you, as a leader, need to reflect on at a time like this?

When a storm hits (literal or metaphorical), the devastation goes beyond physical, tangible damage—it disrupts our sense of security and sometimes our very ability to move forward. People are left stunned, grappling with immense loss and paralyzing uncertainty. As someone who personally navigated losing our family home in Hurricane Sandy (not long after losing Dad), I intimately understand how critical it is to have the space to process and connect before any forward movement can truly happen…

We’ve been talking about spaces like this for the last couple weeks — spaces to come together, share without judgment, and feel seen. The beauty of a BRAVE Conversation® isn’t just in driving high performance or sparking innovation. It’s also in its ability to promote well-being, especially when we’re dealing with crisis, challenge or change.

Building resilience, one conversation at a time

What you can do if even some of your people have been impacted by this hurricane — or by some other type of loss: have some sort of BRAVE Conversation (which is simply a meaningful conversation with some structure around it).

How? One of the most powerful elements of BRAVE Conversations is our rule of no cross-talking. When we gather, we aren’t there to give advice, dive into someone else’s story, or even offer comfort. Instead, we listen deeply, BRAVE-ly. Each person gets the chance to share what’s on their heart without interruption. It’s about holding space, allowing people to leave their pain, confusion, or relief in the middle of the circle. To be seen, heard and accepted while in the messiness of life - to be witnessed, like we mentioned was so important ​last week​.

The Science Behind the Space


Research shows that being truly heard can reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety. Studies on structured conversation formats, like those in 12-step programs such as AA, show that these non-judgmental spaces—where sharing happens without interruption—can promote emotional resilience. When people feel safe to express without fear of correction or cross-talk, they are more likely to engage deeply and leave feeling lighter. BRAVE was designed for this.

BRAVE Tip of the Week: Create the Container


In your next team meeting or gathering, try implementing the "no cross-talking" rule. Give each person the floor for to share uninterrupted, and encourage others to simply listen. This isn’t about responding, fixing, or comparing stories—it’s about letting everyone be fully heard. It may feel awkward at first, but it’s a practice that builds trust, safety, and genuine connection.

My offer to you: There are lots of nuances to this. So, if your team (or members of it) has been impacted by this storm and you’d like me to facilitate a virtual BRAVE Conversation, I’m opening up five pro bono spots. I would love to support you and your people. Just reply here, they’ll be first come first served. This is hard. And you don’t have to figure it out alone.

If this doesn't apply to you, you can do your part by forwarding this along to someone whose team could use it. Or if that's how you received this, ​sign up here​ so we can send support directly to your inbox.

Your BRAVE Invitation

At the end of the day, as leaders, we can’t control natural disasters or personal tragedies. But we can control the space we create for each other, and it’s in that space where healing, resilience, and community (not to mention hit-the-ball-out-of-the-park type performance) can thrive.

Raising my mug to you taking all the steps to becoming the leader your people need 🫶🏼 in good times and bad. They are lucky to have you.

Here’s to being brave, and rising, together.

—

P.S. If you’re interested in learning how to create these spaces in your company or personal life, I’ll be hosting a live workshop to walk you through the full structure and give you the tools to make your conversations brave and impactful. Reply “count me in” to get on the waiting list.

P.P.S. If you’re realizing your team needs more than maybe your precious leadership trainings and reading can provide - ​our online course​ is a three month journey with live Q&A every other week to support you!