Safe & Secure TN

Safe & Secure TN A collaborative program the with shared goal of reducing the impact of ACEs and trauma in Tennessee.

We inspire compassion and change through healing centered, trauma-informed training and coaching rooted in Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI®). Safe and Secure TN is a program of Empowered to Connect (ETC) in partnership with the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development (KP-ICD) working together to reduce the impact of adverse childhood experiences and trauma in Tennessee. The program o

ffers multi-disciplinary training to caregivers and professionals supporting children who have experienced adversity, trauma, and loss. Safe & Secure TN utilizes the research-based and empirically validated intervention, Trust-Based Relational Intervention or TBRI®, to provide both online and in-person training. Safe & Secure TN collaborates with local, regional, and state community-based organizations, child welfare agencies, and houses of worship to build capacity for implementing attachment-based, trauma-informed healing care within and across systems. As organizational and systemic capacity grows, Safe & Secure TN facilitates collaboration between and across systems to develop connected communities of support.

“It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occ...
07/31/2026

“It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.” - Nelson Mandela

Leadership is less about being in the spotlight and more about helping others succeed. Great leaders celebrate the achievements of their team by giving credit where it's due. Shine the spotlight on your team, not yourself.

When challenges or crises arise, great leaders step forward to provide protection and accept responsibility. Balancing humility and courage grows stronger relationships with your team.

Chewing can regulate your nervous system.Research suggests that chewing gum can reduce stress, lower cortisol levels and...
07/29/2026

Chewing can regulate your nervous system.

Research suggests that chewing gum can reduce stress, lower cortisol levels and improve attention and alertness. Scientists believe the rhythmic movement of chewing may send calming signals to the brain while increasing blood flow to areas involved in focus and emotional regulation.

Sometimes a small, repetitive action can help your brain and body feel more grounded.

Like a summer campfire, strong teams create spaces where everyone feels welcome and connected. High performing teams are...
07/27/2026

Like a summer campfire, strong teams create spaces where everyone feels welcome and connected.

High performing teams are built on a foundation of encouragement, appreciation and belonging.

Do you recognize work anniversaries and birthdays? How do you cheer for work accomplishments? Do you give shout outs to people on your work channels?

Take turns facilitating discussions or presenting updates so everyone has an opportunity to contribute and develop leadership skills. People feel like they belong where they’re included. Ask: "What's another way to look at this?"
"What concerns might we be overlooking?"

If you ask questions, listen to the answers. If you have someone else lead, step back and let them. Find out their accomplishments and celebrate!

Creating a work environment where people love to come to work is worth it!

How do you see that strong teams create spaces of connection?

“We can't help everyone, but everyone can help someone.” - Ronald ReaganRelational leadership reminds us that meaningful...
07/24/2026

“We can't help everyone, but everyone can help someone.” - Ronald Reagan

Relational leadership reminds us that meaningful impact doesn't come from one person carrying the weight of an entire team or community. It grows through relationships.

When people feel valued and supported they are more likely to notice the needs around them and step in to help. We may not be able to meet every need but each of us has the opportunity to make a difference for someone. Small moments of connection create a ripple effect that strengthens workplaces and communities.

The position of your body influences your brain.Research suggests that standing up, stretching or changing posture can a...
07/22/2026

The position of your body influences your brain.

Research suggests that standing up, stretching or changing posture can affect energy, attention and our emotional state. When we're stressed, our bodies often become rigid and still. Movement sends the brain new information that the situation may not be as threatening as we first perceived it to be. It can take us out of fight, flight, fawn or freeze stress response.

Sometimes regulation begins with movement because we can’t change our mindset in the moment without it.

Tend to the sparks. Strong teams don't just put out fires, they cultivate them.Channel the energy, creativity, and passi...
07/20/2026

Tend to the sparks. Strong teams don't just put out fires, they cultivate them.

Channel the energy, creativity, and passion already present on your team. Who needs encouragement and support to keep their spark burning?

Who has ideas and skills that aren’t being utilized to their full potential Encouragement builds trust. Fanning the flames creates an energized team.
Who needs support to keep going on your team right now?

“Leadership is not about popularity, it’s about doing what is right. ” - Laura BushAs a relational leader, we do what is...
07/17/2026

“Leadership is not about popularity, it’s about doing what is right. ” - Laura Bush

As a relational leader, we do what is right to create safety and trust even when those choices are difficult or unpopular.

A good leader understands that people thrive when they feel respected, and protected, so decisions are guided by long-term organizational health rather than having constant approval. Leadership can't be short sighted. If we care more about being liked and things always been comfortable, we won't lead in the way our team needs.

True leadership is not about winning admiration in the moment but it is about responding with integrity and courage in ways that help people grow in the long run.

Your nervous system responds to rhythm.Studies show that repetitive, rhythmic activities like walking, rocking, knitting...
07/15/2026

Your nervous system responds to rhythm.

Studies show that repetitive, rhythmic activities like walking, rocking, knitting, drumming or even folding laundry can help regulate stress responses.

Rhythm provides predictability and predictability helps the brain feel safer.

This is one reason why a short 10 minute walk can feel surprisingly calming.

If you’re not making a campfire on vacation this month, is there a way to have a campfire connection in the office?For g...
07/13/2026

If you’re not making a campfire on vacation this month, is there a way to have a campfire connection in the office?

For generations campfires have brought people together to connect, learn, and solve problems. Strong teams create space for the same.

Who else could add a log to the fire? Consider whose perspective, experience, or expertise might strengthen the conversation. Pull up an extra chair and widen the circle because it is where great ideas often emerge when more voices are invited to gather around.

“Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power.” - Abraham LincolnAdvers...
07/10/2026

“Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power.” - Abraham Lincoln

Adversity reveals resilience, but power reveals values.

Relational leaders understand that leadership is not about control. It's about stewardship. The true test of leadership is how we treat people when we have the authority to influence their opportunities, their voice, and their experience.

Do we use our position to elevate others or ourselves? Do we listen or do we dominate? Do we create belonging or do we reinforce hierarchy?

Character is often most visible in how we use the power we've been given.

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Memphis, TN
38107

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