The Antifragility Reframe

Dr. Frank L. Douglas

The Antifragility Reframe Podcast is a space for deep conversations with leaders, thinkers, and practitioners who thrive in uncertainty. While my previous show, The Reframe for Resilience Podcast, focused on how individuals and organizations can recover and “bounce back” from challenges, this new podcast goes further. We explore how adversity, stress, and volatility can actually make us stronger—not just something to withstand, but something to harness. At the heart of this shift is reframing: the ability to see challenges through a new lens. By reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth, we transform the very forces that might break us into catalysts that strengthen us. Key Difference: Resilience vs. Antifragility 1. Resilience - The ability to endure shocks and return to a prior state. Resilient people and systems withstand disruption and recover to baseline. • Mindset - “How can I reinterpret this so I can endure it and get through it?” 2. Antifragility - The ability to grow stronger because of shocks, stressors, and volatility. Antifragile people and systems use disruption as fuel for growth and innovation. • Mindset - “How can I reinterpret this so I can benefit from it and emerge stronger?” Resilience helps us survive. Antifragility helps us evolve. Reframing is the bridge — the mental shift that determines whether we return to where we were, or transform into something stronger. Invitation for Guests As a guest, you’ll have the chance to share your own story of growth through challenge, your insights on navigating volatility, and your strategies for transforming stress into strength. Together, we’ll inspire listeners to embrace uncertainty not with fear, but with curiosity and creativity.

  1. 5D AGO

    The Antifragility Reframe - Episode 16: Finding the Seed After the Storm with Adam Torres

    A single phone call can change everything. In this deeply moving episode of The Antifragility Reframe, bestselling author and podcaster Adam Torres shares how losing his mother in a sudden tornado reshaped his understanding of loss, legacy, and humanity. Together with Dr. Frank L. Douglas, he explores how storytelling—and podcasting in particular—can preserve wisdom, foster connection, and turn pain into purpose. If you’re facing hardship, this conversation will remind you to look for the seed… and water it. Watch now and discover how growth can emerge from the storm. For any questions or inquiries regarding this video, please reach out to team@safehavendialogues-llc.com Follow us at: Facebook & Instagram Or visit our website at Safe Haven Dialogues LLC Episode Summary: What if one of the most painful moments of your life could become the seed for growth—not just for you, but for humanity? In this powerful episode of The Antifragility Reframe, Dr. Frank L. Douglas sits down with bestselling author and global podcaster Adam Torres, host of Mission Matters and author of 1 Billion Podcasts. Adam shares the deeply personal story of losing his mother during a sudden tornado caused by Hurricane Milton—and how that single, life-altering phone call reshaped his perspective on loss, legacy, and storytelling. Through grief, Adam discovered the profound power of podcasting as a tool for preserving wisdom, honoring humanity, and turning pain into purpose. This conversation explores how stories—when recorded and shared—help prevent forgotten knowledge, foster connection, and allow future generations to grow stronger. This episode is a moving reminder that even in devastation, there is a seed waiting to be watered. Key Topics How sudden loss can radically shift perspectiveTurning personal tragedy into meaningful impactPodcasting as a modern extension of human storytellingPreserving wisdom before it’s lostHumanity, legacy, and shared knowledgeAntifragility through meaning-makingFinding growth in pain and adversity Timeline Summary 00:00 – 01:30 | Introduction to the Antifragility Reframe and guest Adam Torres 01:31 – 04:30 | The tornado, the unexpected loss, and the life-changing phone call 04:31 – 07:15 | How grief reshaped Adam’s purpose and connection to podcasting 07:16 – 09:30 | Podcasting as a tool for humanity and preserving knowledge 09:31 – 12:30 | Aging, isolation, and the long-term power of owning your voice 12:31 – 13:30 | The “seed” principle—growth through hardship 13:31 – End | Final reflections on antifragility and meaning Links & Resources Learn more about Mission...

    14 min
  2. JAN 21

    The Antifragility Reframe - Episode 15: Leading Beyond Fear with Victoria Pelletier

    What if the very experiences meant to break you became the foundation of your greatest strength? In this episode of The Antifragility Reframe, Dr. Frank L. Douglas speaks with executive leader and TEDx speaker Victoria Pelletier about trauma, leadership, and the courage to show up authentically. This is a conversation about resilience that goes deeper—about becoming antifragile and leading beyond fear. Watch now and step into the zone of discomfort where real growth begins. For any questions or inquiries regarding this video, please reach out to team@safehavendialogues-llc.com Follow us at: Facebook & Instagram Or visit our website at Safe Haven Dialogues LLC Episode Summary: In this powerful episode of The Antifragility Reframe, Dr. Frank L. Douglas sits down with corporate executive, author, and TEDx speaker Victoria Pelletier to explore what it truly means to lead from resilience—and beyond it. Victoria shares her deeply personal journey, from surviving severe childhood trauma to becoming a senior executive by the age of 24. Through candid reflection, she reveals how her early definition of success—status, hierarchy, and control—evolved into a leadership philosophy rooted in authenticity, vulnerability, and purpose. This conversation challenges conventional ideas of strength in leadership and reframes adversity as a catalyst for growth, connection, and belonging. It’s a compelling reminder that antifragility isn’t about avoiding hardship—it’s about transforming through it. Key Topics Antifragility vs. resilience in leadershipTurning childhood trauma into purpose and driveThe hidden cost of command-and-control leadershipVulnerability as a leadership strengthPsychological safety, belonging, and trust at workRedefining success and legacyStepping into discomfort to unlock growth Timeline Summary [00:00 – 01:05] Introduction to the episode and guest Victoria Pelletier [01:06 – 03:10] Victoria’s early life, adoption, trauma, and formative experiences [03:11 – 05:25] Understanding her “why” and how adversity fueled ambition [05:26 – 08:25] Early executive leadership, emotional armor, and the “Iron Maiden” identity [08:26 – 11:19] The pivot toward authenticity and sharing her story publicly [11:20 – 13:01] Impact of authentic leadership on trust, innovation, and belonging [13:02 – 14:25] Closing principles: being the CEO of your life and embracing discomfort Links & Resources Connect with Dr. Frank L. Douglas at Safe Haven Dialogues LLCListen to more episodes at a...

    15 min
  3. JAN 14

    The Antifragility Reframe - Episode 14: Wired for Adaptation with Marina Morgan

    What if resilience isn’t about pushing harder—but understanding yourself better? In this episode of The Antifragility Reframe, Ms. Marina Morgan shares how neurophysiology, adaptability, and human-centered leadership are essential for thriving in an AI-driven world. From her early life in the Soviet Union to building global resilience strategies, this conversation reframes success, stress, and sustainable growth. Watch now and discover how understanding your brain can change how you lead, live, and adapt. For any questions or inquiries regarding this video, please reach out to team@safehavendialogues-llc.com Follow us at: Facebook & Instagram Or visit our website at Safe Haven Dialogues LLC Episode Summary: In this episode of The Antifragility Reframe, Dr. Frank Douglas sits down with Marina Morgan, founder of The Morgan Impact, to explore resilience through the lens of neurophysiology, leadership, and adaptability in the age of AI. Ms. Morgan shares her powerful journey from growing up in the Soviet Union under high expectations to becoming a global consultant in organizational resilience and artificial intelligence readiness. Together, they unpack how understanding individual brain differences can transform leadership, team performance, and well-being. This conversation challenges the one-size-fits-all approach to growth and productivity, offering a more human-centered framework for integrating innovation, managing stress, and building antifragile organizations. Key Topics Antifragility and resilience in leadershipNeurophysiology and how people learn differentlyThe hidden cost of high achievementAdapting organizations to change and innovationThe AIQ framework and readiness for AI integrationWhy slow integration leads to sustainable growthRespecting individuality in teams and workplaces Timeline Summary [00:00 – 01:20] Introduction to antifragility, resilience, and Marina Morgan [01:21 – 05:40] Dr. Morgan’s early life, Soviet upbringing, and family influence [05:41 – 07:20] The personal cost of ambition and high expectations [07:21 – 10:02] Human-centered leadership and neurophysiological differences [10:03 – 11:20] AIQ framework and integrating innovation sustainably [11:21 – 12:12] The Morgan Impact and organizational resilience strategies [12:13 – 13:20] Final message on self-awareness, individuality, and antifragility Links & Resources The Morgan Impact – Organizational Resilience ConsultingConnect with Dr. Frank L. Douglas at a href="https://www.safehavendialogues-llc.com/" rel="noopener...

    13 min
  4. JAN 7

    The Antifragility Reframe - Episode 13: Jumping Without a Safety Net with Bryan Gile

    What if fear wasn’t your enemy—but your greatest training partner? In this episode of The Antifragility Reframe, Dr. Frank Douglas speaks with eight-time world record skydiver and executive coach Bryan Gile about mindset, fear, and the small daily actions that create unshakable belief. From jumping out of planes to building businesses, this conversation will reframe how you approach challenges, obstacles, and success itself. Watch now and learn how to build confidence that compounds. For any questions or inquiries regarding this video, please reach out to team@safehavendialogues-llc.com Follow us at: Facebook & Instagram Or visit our website at Safe Haven Dialogues LLC Episode Summary: What does it really take to perform at the top 1%—not just in extreme sports, but in business and life? In this episode of The Antifragility Reframe, Dr. Frank Douglas sits down with Bryan Gile, an eight-time world record–holding skydiver, executive coach, and author, to explore how elite athletic mindset translates into entrepreneurial success. Bryan shares his journey from growing up in the skydiving world to holding global records—and the surprising disconnect he experienced when his skydiving success didn’t initially translate into business results. From that gap, he developed a powerful and practical three-step system that helps individuals build unshakable belief through small, consistent actions. This conversation dives deep into mindset, fear, “bright shiny object syndrome,” and how true antifragility is built—not through motivation, but through disciplined mental practices and immediate action. Key Topics What elite skydiving teaches us about fear and performanceWhy entrepreneurs abandon goals instead of obstaclesThe danger of “bright, shiny goals”The mindset gap between athletic success and business successBryan Gile’s Three-Step System for building beliefHow small, immediate actions compound into confidenceAntifragility through realistic optimismWhy consistency beats talent every time Timeline Summary [00:00 – 01:00] Introduction and framing the mindset of a world-class skydiver [01:01 – 03:30] Bryan’s early life in skydiving and path to world records [03:31 – 05:30] The realization: elite athlete vs. struggling entrepreneur [05:31 – 07:45] Why entrepreneurs chase new goals instead of solving obstacles [07:46 – 08:50] Mindset, antifragility, and the need for systems—not willpower [08:51 – 11:30] The Three-Step System: awareness, reframing, immediate action [11:31 – 12:30] Final insights, book mention, and where to connect with Bryan Links & Resources span...

    13 min
  5. 12/17/2025

    The Antifragility Reframe - Episode 12: Living Forward: Finding Purpose, Growth, and Your “Porsche” with William Bissett

    When life shakes you, how do you respond—break or grow stronger? In this episode, Dr. Frank Douglas and wealth advisor William Bissett explore purpose, resilience, and the life-changing question: “What’s your Porsche?” If you’re seeking clarity, direction, or a deeper understanding of antifragility, this episode offers powerful stories and insights to help you live—and choose—more intentionally. For any questions or inquiries regarding this video, please reach out to team@safehavendialogues-llc.com Follow us at: Facebook & Instagram Or visit our website at Safe Haven Dialogues LLC Episode Summary: In this episode of The Antifragility Reframe, Dr. Frank Douglas sits down with William Bissett, President of Portus Wealth Advisors and host of Speaking of Startups. William shares how a series of unexpected encounters—from serving hors d'oeuvres to global power brokers to finding meaning in economics—reshaped his trajectory and led him toward a career rooted in purpose, service, and helping others build both wealth and wisdom. Together, they dive into the essence of antifragility: transforming setbacks, pressures, and uncertainties into growth. William reflects on powerful stories from clients whose life experiences—whether facing terminal illness or standing at a crossroads—offered profound lessons about living fully, choosing intentionally, and not postponing joy. Dr. Douglas and William explore the transformative question: “What’s your Porsche?”—a metaphor for the meaningful decisions and desires we delay, often until it’s too late. This is an inspiring conversation on purpose, opportunity, resilience, and how embracing the present can reshape the way we prepare for the future. Key Topics How unexpected encounters can shape direction and purposeFinding clarity after feeling lost or directionlessThe role of mentors, clients, and community in lifelong learningAntifragility: reframing setbacks into growth and opportunityWealth beyond finances—family, legacy, and personal meaningThe decade-by-decade reflection on life and living in the presentThe importance of not postponing joy: What’s your Porsche? Timeline Summary 00:04 — Introduction Dr. Douglas sets the stage and previews William Bissett’s transformative journey. 01:24 — A Lost Student Finds Direction William shares how chance encounters in Washington, D.C. sparked his interest in economics. 04:41 — The Career Pivot Returning to school with purpose, progressing from insurance to wealth management. 07:17 — Lessons From Clients William reflects on how clients shaped his understanding of growth, life, and legacy. 07:58 — Opportunity and Growth The origins of Portus Wealth Advisors and the philosophy that opportunities are everywhere. 08:40 — A Client’s Life Reflection A powerful decade-by-decade story from a client battling cancer, emphasizing living in the present. 11:34 — “What’s Your Porsche?” A story of a client who postponed joy—until it was too late—creating a powerful lesson about intentional living. 14:21 — Closing Reflection Dr. Douglas challenges the audience to rethink their choices and live an antifragile life. Links & Resources Learn more about a...

    15 min
  6. 12/10/2025

    The Antifragility Reframe - Episode 11: Rebuilding Trust When Organizations Break with Leah Brown

    In this powerful episode of The Antifragility Reframe, Dr. Frank L. Douglas sits down with mediator and restorative practitioner Leah Brown, FRSA, to uncover how organizations can genuinely repair harm, rebuild trust, and strengthen workplace culture. If you’ve ever witnessed dysfunction, unresolved conflict, or a lack of accountability in your workplace, this episode offers a grounded and transformative perspective on how repair should be done. For any questions or inquiries regarding this video, please reach out to team@safehavendialogues-llc.com Follow us at: Facebook & Instagram Or visit our website at Safe Haven Dialogues LLC Episode Summary: In this episode of The Antifragility Reframe, Dr. Frank L. Douglas sits down with Leah Brown, FRSA, founder of The WayFinders Group, an expert mediator and restorative practitioner specializing in repairing harm within organizations. Together, they explore workplace dysfunction—specifically, what happens when harm is done, trust is broken, and employees feel stripped of agency. Leah walks us through real situations she has mediated, including harassment grievances, leadership failures, and the cultural barriers that keep organizations from addressing root issues. This conversation reframes conflict as an opportunity—not for punishment—but for healing, growth, and stronger cultures. Leah also shares a powerful four-stage blueprint her team uses to move organizations from dysfunction to repair. If you lead people, work with teams, or are navigating harm within your workplace, this episode offers grounded, compassionate insight. Key Topics The reality of organizational dysfunction and lingering harmWhy acknowledgment is the foundation of workplace repairHow mediation differs from restorative practiceThe challenge of restoring agency to harmed employeesWhy HR limitations often prevent true organizational healingHow leaders can reframe conflict and cultivate psychological safetyLeah’s four-stage blueprint: Acknowledgement, Apology, Accountability, AmendsHow to help employees move from “what happened to me” to “how do I move forward stronger?” Timeline Summary [00:04] — Introduction: What happens when dysfunction harms an organization [01:08] — Meet guest Leah Brown, FRSA [02:11] — The complexity of organizational challenges and mediation [03:00] — A real case: harassment grievance and its aftermath [05:17] — Understanding outcomes: what harmed employees actually need [06:20] — Why desired outcomes are often unachievable without acknowledgment [07:41] — Is “preventing future harm” a realistic goal? [08:30] — Limitations of HR and workplace mediation [10:45] — Context matters: culture, leadership, and repeating patterns [11:07] — Reframing perspectives for both parties [11:53] — What happens after the conflict is “resolved”? [12:40] — Psychological safety, trust, and rebuilding relationships [13:27] — Leah’s closing insights on dysfunction and repair [13:42] — The four-stage blueprint for restoring trust Links & Resources The WayFinders Group – Organizational repair, mediation & restorative practiceConnect with Dr. Frank L....

    15 min
  7. 12/03/2025

    The Antifragility Reframe - Episode 10: Stopping to Rise Stronger with Faith Clarke

    What happens when stopping becomes the most powerful step you can take? In this episode of The Antifragility Reframe, Dr. Frank Douglas and organizational health expert Faith Clarke explore burnout, caregiving, and the journey toward restorative leadership. Through personal storytelling and practical wisdom, Faith reveals how slowing down created the clarity she needed to support her son—and eventually transform the way leaders build healthy, inclusive work cultures. If you’re a leader, caregiver, or changemaker on the edge of burnout, this conversation is for you. For any questions or inquiries regarding this video, please reach out to team@safehavendialogues-llc.com Follow us at: Facebook & Instagram Or visit our website at Safe Haven Dialogues LLC Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to help more people embrace antifragility! Episode Summary: In this illuminating episode of The Antifragility Reframe, Dr. Frank Douglas sits down with organizational health and inclusion specialist Faith Clarke for a powerful conversation on burnout, nourishment, and building restorative work cultures. Drawing from her deeply personal journey as a mother to a child on the autism spectrum, Faith shares how a single moment of “Stop World” became the turning point that transformed not only her parenting approach but also her entire philosophy on sustainable leadership and inclusion. Together, they explore why stopping—intentionally and safely—is essential for expanding perspective, accessing wisdom, and cultivating both personal and organizational well-being. Leaders, caregivers, and mission-driven professionals will find profound insight in this important conversation. Key Topics The emotional and physical toll of long-term caregivingThe importance of “stopping” as a pathway to clarity and resilienceWhy leaders must nourish themselves firstHow fear narrows perspective—and safety expands itMoving from “I” to “We” in problem-solvingUnderstanding and designing restorative work culturesInclusion beginning with the selfBuilding practices that support both personal needs and organizational missionThe ethical dilemma of extraction-based work environmentsPractical ways leaders can support employee well-being Timeline Summary [00:00 – 01:00] Opening and introduction to Faith Clarke’s work in organizational health and inclusion. [01:00 – 04:00] Faith shares her early caregiving challenges and the burnout she experienced parenting a child with autism. [04:00 – 06:00] The “Stop World” moment—how she paused everything to reclaim clarity and wellbeing. [06:00 – 08:30] Stopping as a way to reduce fear, expand perspective, and create access for inclusion. [08:30 – 10:30] Moving from the individual “I” to the productive “We.” How inclusion begins with the self. [10:30 – 12:30] What restorative work cultures look like and why leaders must nourish themselves first. [12:30 – 14:00] Practical measures for well-being at work—listening, relationships, autonomy, competence. [14:00 – End] Closing reflections and gratitude. Links & Resources Learn more and connect with Faith Clarke at Faithclarke.comInvitation for Women...

    14 min
  8. 11/26/2025

    The Antifragility Reframe - Episode 09: Rising Beyond Limits: 55-Year Journey of Antifragility with Kenneth James Kunken

    What does it take to rise stronger after life changes overnight? Meet Kenneth James Kunken, who became a quadriplegic at 18—but went on to earn three Ivy League degrees, break accessibility barriers, counsel individuals with disabilities, and become an accomplished lawyer. In this episode of The Antifragility Reframe, Dr. Frank Douglas dives into Kenneth’s 55-year journey of resilience, courage, access, and reinvention. This story will challenge everything you think you know about capability and possibility. Watch this if you need inspiration, perspective, or a reminder that adversity can create strength—not limit it. For any questions or inquiries regarding this video, please reach out to team@safehavendialogues-llc.com Follow us at: Facebook & Instagram Or visit our website at Safe Haven Dialogues LLC Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to help more people embrace antifragility! Episode Summary: In this powerful and deeply inspiring episode of The Antifragility Reframe, Dr. Frank Douglas speaks with Kenneth James Kunken, a quadriplegic for over 55 years, whose life story challenges assumptions about disability, access, purpose, and resilience. At 18, Kenneth suffered a life-altering spinal cord injury while playing football at Cornell University. Overnight, he went from athlete to quadriplegic. Yet through unimaginable adversity, Kenneth rebuilt his life—not by returning to who he was, but by discovering an entirely new version of himself. Together, Dr. Douglas and Kenneth explore: How severe loss built an unshakeable inner voiceThe shift from engineering to psychology and lawWhat access looked like before the ADA—and how he pushed through the barriersHis mission to multiply his impact through counseling, advocacy, and the Viscardi CenterHow expectations shape possibilities—and how he shattered them This is not just a story of survival. It’s a story of antifragility—becoming stronger because of challenge, not despite it. Key Topics Life before and after the spinal cord injuryRedefining identity after lossThe role of mentors and support systemsAccessibility challenges in the 1970sReturning to Cornell as the first quadriplegic graduateExpanding access vs. limiting expectationsCounseling, advocacy, and building career pathwaysBecoming an attorney despite societal doubtsGrowth outcomes through antifragility Timeline Summary [00:00 – 01:00] — Dr. Douglas introduces the episode and Kenneth’s extraordinary background [01:00 – 03:00] — Kenneth shares his injury story and early rehabilitation [03:00 – 06:00] — Returning to Cornell and shifting from engineering to counseling [06:00 – 08:30] — Adjusting to life in a wheelchair during the 1970s [08:30 – 11:00] — Becoming more vocal and confident in public settings [11:00 – 13:00] — Accessibility challenges before the ADA; becoming Cornell’s first quadriplegic graduate [13:00 – 15:00] — Work with the Viscardi Center and expanded roles [15:00 – 17:00] — Pursuing a law degree and breaking expectations [17:00 – End] — Dr. Douglas and Kenneth reflect on growth, possibility, and antifragility Links & Resources a href="https://viscardicenter.org/" rel="noopener...

    14 min

About

The Antifragility Reframe Podcast is a space for deep conversations with leaders, thinkers, and practitioners who thrive in uncertainty. While my previous show, The Reframe for Resilience Podcast, focused on how individuals and organizations can recover and “bounce back” from challenges, this new podcast goes further. We explore how adversity, stress, and volatility can actually make us stronger—not just something to withstand, but something to harness. At the heart of this shift is reframing: the ability to see challenges through a new lens. By reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth, we transform the very forces that might break us into catalysts that strengthen us. Key Difference: Resilience vs. Antifragility 1. Resilience - The ability to endure shocks and return to a prior state. Resilient people and systems withstand disruption and recover to baseline. • Mindset - “How can I reinterpret this so I can endure it and get through it?” 2. Antifragility - The ability to grow stronger because of shocks, stressors, and volatility. Antifragile people and systems use disruption as fuel for growth and innovation. • Mindset - “How can I reinterpret this so I can benefit from it and emerge stronger?” Resilience helps us survive. Antifragility helps us evolve. Reframing is the bridge — the mental shift that determines whether we return to where we were, or transform into something stronger. Invitation for Guests As a guest, you’ll have the chance to share your own story of growth through challenge, your insights on navigating volatility, and your strategies for transforming stress into strength. Together, we’ll inspire listeners to embrace uncertainty not with fear, but with curiosity and creativity.