What does it take to stay steady in moments of friction—when the conversation gets hard, the opinions are strong, and your nervous system wants to bolt?

In this episode of Rooted & Wild, I sit down with Lisa Behrends—business strategist, leadership consultant, and co-founder of Intentional Connections—to talk about what it means to move beyond fear and build real connection in uncomfortable spaces.

With over 17 years of experience in leadership, coaching, and public speaking, Lisa brings a grounded, no-nonsense perspective to stress, communication, and team dynamics. From coaching college athletes to consulting across industries, she’s learned how to guide individuals and organizations through tension—not around it.

We explore:

• What it looks like to lead with emotional intelligence in divided environments
• How discomfort signals growth, not failure
• Tools to stay present when your instinct is to avoid, appease, or control
• Why diverse perspectives aren't a threat—but a pathway to stronger collaboration

Whether you're navigating challenging conversations in your workplace, home, or inner life, this episode is a call to stop shrinking from discomfort—and start learning how to stand inside it with presence, courage, and clarity.

About Lisa:

Lisa Behrends is a leadership consultant, strategist, and seasoned conversationalist who has lived and worked across 21 countries. She brings a global lens and practical wisdom to her work, empowering leaders and teams to improve communication, reduce conflict, and navigate high-pressure moments with intention. As co-founder of Intentional Connections, Lisa helps build bridges between people in an increasingly polarized world—one conversation at a time. Learn more at lisabehrends.com.

Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.