What if the key to resilience wasn’t toughness, but vulnerability and self-awareness?

Brian Dawson — technologist, speaker, and advocate for diversity in sports — joins Spirit of Gratitude for an honest, moving conversation about growing up Black in Palo Alto during the early days of the tech revolution. From enduring bullying to navigating questions of racial identity, Brian shares how empathy, self-awareness, and inner strength helped shape his path.

He opens up about founding a diverse lacrosse organization built to foster identity and connection, creating a space where young people can show up fully as themselves. This episode dives into how community, resilience, and the courage to be vulnerable can help anyone turn adversity into purpose.

✅ You'll learn:

• How growing up in Palo Alto shaped Brian’s tech and cultural lens
• The long-term impact of bullying and how to heal from it
• Why self-awareness is essential in navigating identity
• How Brian uses lacrosse to build a more inclusive community
• The role of vulnerability and connection in personal growth
  

✨ Key Takeaways:

• Empathy is the foundation of true connection.
• Owning your story is the first step toward healing.
• Diversity isn’t just about representation — it’s about spirit.
  

🎧 Tap play to hear Brian’s powerful journey and why leading with compassion always wins.