In this powerful conversation, Natalie Born sits down with speaker, advocate, and compassion-driven leader Brenda Chand to explore what it really means to see people through the eyes of hope—not judgment. Brenda shares her personal story of growing up in a difficult environment, how those early experiences shaped her desire to champion others, and why leaders must resist the cultural pull toward criticism and comparison.

From the power of presence, to loving people in their mess, to cultivating spaces where grace leads the way, Brenda offers deeply practical and spiritually grounded wisdom. If you’ve ever struggled with self-worth, dealt with hidden pain, or felt the weight of others’ expectations, this episode reminds you that freedom begins with being seen—and seeing others—with compassion.

[00:00 – 05:00] Brenda’s Early Story & Hidden Pain

* Brenda shares childhood memories that shaped her understanding of shame, secrecy, and survival.

* How growing up in a home marked by instability taught her to recognize pain in others.

* Why empathy begins with acknowledging our own broken places.

[05:01 – 10:00] The Moment Everything Shifted

* Brenda reflects on the internal questions that followed her into adulthood.

* Realizing that her story wasn’t a source of shame—but a source of ministry.

* How God used her past to ignite a calling to help others experience hope.

[10:01 – 14:30] Casting Hope, Not Stones

* What it means to “cast hope” in a world that’s quick to criticize.

* Practical ways leaders can respond with compassion instead of judgment.

* Why withholding criticism isn’t weakness—it’s strength rooted in purpose.

[14:31 – 20:00] The Power of Being Seen

* Brenda explains why many people don’t need solutions—they need presence.

* How leaders can create environments where people feel safe to show their real story.

* Natalie and Brenda discuss the spiritual discipline of seeing people the way God does.

[20:01 – 25:00] Loving People Through Their Mess

* Why people often behave from places of unspoken pain.

* The importance of curiosity over assumptions.

* How to walk with someone through transformation without carrying the weight for them.

[25:01 – End] Hope as a Leadership Strategy

* How compassion fuels influence, loyalty, and authentic connection.

* Questions leaders can ask to remain grounded in grace and truth.

* Brenda’s encouragement to anyone wrestling with identity, shame, or purpose.

Quotes:

“When we lead with compassion, we create space for people to breathe, heal, and belong.” – Brenda Chand

“Hope is an invitation. Judgment is a barrier. Leaders get to choose which one they build.” – Brenda Chand

“Your story isn’t something to hide. It’s the very place God wants to speak through.” – Brenda Chand

About Brenda Chand:

Brenda Chand is a speaker, mentor, and advocate passionate about helping people move from shame to purpose. Drawing from her own journey of overcoming childhood adversity, Brenda equips individuals and leaders to offer compassion, hope, and healing in their spheres of influence.

Connect with Brenda:

Website: https://www.dreamreleaser.com

Connect with Thrive Today:

* Website: thrivetoday.com

* Instagram: @thrivetodaywomen

* LinkedIn: Thrive Today

* Facebook: Thrive Today Women

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