Uncomfortable Conversations: Overcoming Conflict Avoidance

At 18, Elizabeth Berry had dropped out of
college, was homeless, and was struggling to
stay clean from drugs and alcohol. With the
support of a few remaining friends and a
frustrated family, she entered her third
rehabilitation center—hoping it would finally
work. She’s been clean since May 14, 2001.

In 2005, Elizabeth graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in education.
Over the next 15 years, she impacted more than 2,500 students, creating
systems for mastery, advocating for underserved populations, and pursuing a
master’s degree.

In 2011, Elizabeth met Michael Brody-Waite through recovery meetings. A
decade later, their professional paths crossed, and Michael recognized that
Elizabeth’s unique blend of recovery experience, educational expertise, and
public speaking talent made her the perfect candidate to become his first
certified trainer. Since then, she has traveled across the US facilitating
workshops in the 6-Step Process to “Say No” to lower-value work and focus
on their highest-value activities.

Outside of her work in leadership, Elizabeth is a seasoned improv comedian
who has performed across the United States, training with comedians from
New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. She regularly performs in Nashville, TN,
blending humor and humanity to connect with audiences.

With over two decades of recovery and a career dedicated to education and
leadership, Elizabeth’s mission is simple: to teach individuals, organizations,
and communities how to lead themselves—so they can reclaim their energy,
achieve balance, and thrive.