In this special edition of 3 Minute Hero Habits, we explore the origins of the Corporate Hero Effect – The Castan Theory. Inspired by the true story of journalist Sam Castan, who gave his life leading soldiers to safety during Operation Crazy Horse in Vietnam, this episode asks: what makes someone step forward when others stay back?

We break down the three traits at the heart of the Corporate Hero Effect—Supportiveness, Compliance, and Initiative—and show how they translate from battlefield courage to boardroom leadership.

A powerful reminder that heroes aren’t born, they’re built—through habits, choices, and action under pressure.