I recently sat in a room of strangers — different backgrounds, different everything — and within an hour we were sharing grief and shame. Heavy stuff for a Saturday morning. But here's what I keep relearning: connection doesn't require similarity. It requires honesty. And somebody has to go first. In this week's Good Vibes Leadership, that's the thread — what happens when you're willing to go first, whether that's in a living room or a boardroom. Takeaways Going first changes the room: The person who says the tough true thing sets the tone for everyone else. Honesty over sameness: You don't need common ground to connect — you need courage. Your Challenge: Think about the rooms you're in this week. Will you be willing to go first? Good Vibes to Go: Check out the comedy of ALOK — they're on tour and genuinely hilarious. One of our own team members is driving from Chicago to Grand Rapids just to see them. That's a good vibe. Connect with Me The Newsletter: This week I wrote about student dignity in Philadelphia schools, Jake Adicoff making Paralympic history, NYC's new LGBTQIA+ Affairs office, Disney singing in sign language, and WNBA pay finally matching the talent. Subscribe to the 5 Things Newsletter here. Work with Me: Let's talk. Watch 5 Things on YouTube. Join thousands of readers by subscribing to the 5 Things newsletter. Enjoy some good vibes every Saturday morning. https://5thingsdei.com/