Episode 6: Comfort Zones Are Ceiling Tiles

Comfort feels safe—until pressure arrives.

In this episode of IN THE BLACK, David Burnell explores why comfort zones quietly limit growth and why preparation—not confidence—determines performance under stress. Drawing on stress inoculation training models, this episode explains how deeply ingrained fundamentals enable individuals and teams to adapt when conditions change.

Comfort Zones Are Ceiling Tiles challenges the belief that stability comes from staying comfortable and reframes deliberate challenge as a leadership responsibility. This episode is especially relevant for business leaders seeking resilience, adaptability, and sustained performance in uncertain environments.

Find this and other episodes from the Echo Valor Podcast by searching “Echo Valor Podcast” on your favorite podcast platform. You can also discover original music by searching “Echo Valor Music” on your favorite streaming platform, and explore books and written works by searching “David Burnell” on Amazon to visit his author page.

Get full access to David Burnell at davidburnell.substack.com/subscribe