In this heartfelt episode of ConvHERsations with Kristie, Kristie Clayton welcomes Chris Dawson, co-founder of Bite7, to talk about how leaders can create teams that feel connected, empowered, and fulfilled—starting with belonging.

Chris, a former high school teacher and football coach, shares how his passion for culture and communication led to the creation of Bite7, a tool that helps leaders measure and meet the emotional and relational needs of their teams. Together with his partner Walt Brown, Chris developed a framework that focuses on Buy-in, Inclusion, Trust, and Engagement—alongside seven core human needs: to belong, believe, be accountable, be measured, be heard, be developed, and be balanced.

They discuss how a sense of belonging impacts confidence, autonomy, and energy both at work and at home—and how even simple, thoughtful actions can make a team member feel truly seen. From coaching fist bumps to personalized books at Summit, Chris shares real-life stories that show it doesn’t take much to make someone feel like they matter—it just takes intention.

This episode is a powerful reminder that great leadership is about serving others, making them feel valued, and creating cultures where people thrive—not just perform.