Who is Brené Brown?
Brené Brown is an American researcher, professor, and author, internationally recognized for her work on vulnerability, courage, shame, and empathy. Born on November 18, 1965, in Texas, she is a professor at the University of Houston and founder of the Brené Brown Education and Research Group.
Brown advocates that vulnerability is not a sign of weakness, but the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.
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Curiosities about Brené Brown

Historic TED Talk
The Power of Vulnerability" (2010), has surpassed 60 million views, making it one of the most-watched in the world

Solid Academic Background
She has a Ph.D. in Social Work from the University of Houston and continues to teach there, despite her international fame

Unlikely Background
Before becoming a renowned researcher, she worked as a social worker and participated in community programs for at-risk families

Influence in Companies
Your concepts on leadership and vulnerability are used by companies like Google, Pixar, and NASA for team training
Tests inspired by Brené Brown's recommendations
Discover your Emotional Intelligence level — boost self-awareness, empathy, and success.
⏱️ Estimated time: 5 min.
See strengths and areas for improvement in your Communication and empathy.
⏱️ Estimated time: 7 min.
Are you an inspiring Leader? Discover your impact and lead with confidence. Take the test now.
⏱️ Estimated time: 3 min.
Books, Articles, or Curated Works by the Author
This book is an essential guide for anyone looking to embrace their own vulnerability and live an authentic life. Brené Brown challenges the perception that vulnerability is a weakness, showing that it is, in fact, the foundation of courage, compassion, and connection. It’s an invitation to let go of the pursuit of perfection and accept imperfection as a fundamental part of a fulfilling life. READ MORE
In this work, Brené Brown applies her famous research on vulnerability and courage to the world of leadership. The book offers practical strategies for leaders to confront fears and uncertainties, foster empathy, and create a more authentic and inclusive work environment. READ MORE
"There is no innovation without failure. If you're not failing, you're not daring enough"
Brené Brown
For Dr. Brené Brown, vulnerability is not weakness. It is the courage to show up and be seen, even when there are no guarantees. It is the act of opening oneself up to emotional risk, uncertainty, and exposure, being the fundamental basis for connection, courage, creativity, and innovation. The author argues that embracing vulnerability is essential for a full life and for authentic leadership.
Brené Brown defines shame as the belief that "I am a bad person," while guilt is the feeling that "I did something bad." Shame is linked to identity and is destructive because it isolates us. Guilt, on the other hand, is constructive because it leads us to take responsibility for our actions and correct what we did wrong. Shame resilience is a central theme in her research.
Yes, Brené Brown's research applies directly to leadership and the corporate environment. Her book "Dare to Lead" is focused on showing how vulnerability, empathy, and courage are indispensable characteristics for effective leaders. She argues that creating work cultures based on trust and authenticity leads to more engaged and innovative teams.
"Rumbling with vulnerability" is a term popularized by Brené Brown that refers to the process of confronting difficult emotions, such as fear and uncertainty, with honesty and curiosity. It is not an easy task, but it is an essential practice for personal growth and courage. The idea is to face vulnerability head-on, without protecting oneself, in order to learn from experiences and become stronger.
