On this episode of Drive Thru HR, Robin Schooling talks with Kristen Kavanaugh, co-author of Courage Over Fear and co-founder of The Agency Initiative.

Kristen shares her journey from the Marine Corps to HR leadership at Tesla, and how those experiences shaped her commitment to authenticity, agency, and growth. The conversation explores the book’s core ideas: courage as small but powerful 5% shifts, the “Agency Loop” framework, and finding ways to lead with values even in polarized or high-pressure environments. Kristen also reflects on the challenges and future of DEI, urging

The episode leaves listeners with practical inspiration for building resilience,