Gratitude for Courage: A Thanksgiving Tribute to the Quiet Heroes

As we gather this Thanksgiving, setting tables with steaming pies and clinking glasses, it’s easy to overlook a certain kind of hero. They’re not sitting at our tables or starring in holiday commercials. They’re out there, on mountaintops and in deserts, in warzones and training facilities, quietly doing the jobs that most of us would rather not think about.

I’ve had the privilege recently of connecting with some of these extraordinary individuals. Each of them embodies courage in ways that both humble and inspire me, and this Thanksgiving, I want to honor them.

Let me tell you about a few.

The Teacher in the Wilderness Susan Purvis is a name you might not know, but she’s a force in the world of search and rescue. Picture this: someone’s life hangs in the balance, and a rescue team faces impossible odds—freezing winds, harsh terrain, and the unforgiving clock. That team? They’re better because Susan trained them. Her work ensures they’re prepared to face the unthinkable, to save lives when every second counts.

Susan doesn’t just teach skills; she teaches people to trust themselves when it matters most. That’s courage.

The Man Who Faces the Unseen Harold "Skip" Curtis at WMDTech works in a world where mistakes aren’t an option. His team disarms explosive devices. Pause and think about that for a moment. They walk into situations most of us would run from, equipped with not just tools but unshakable composure.

It’s not about being fearless—it’s about managing fear and moving forward anyway. That’s courage.

The Teacher of Frontline Heroes Marc Santo at PGI Tactical does something equally remarkable: he trains first responders to be their best when stakes are highest. He gives them the skills and confidence to act decisively, whether it’s a life-or-death moment or a challenge that simply can’t wait.

He’s proof that courage isn’t just in the act—it’s in preparing others to rise to the moment, too.

The Hall of Fame Ranger Then there’s Larry Moores , a man whose name appears in the Ranger Hall of Fame. Larry’s career spans decades of service, from leading in the field to now mentoring others through his work at YSG Inc. His life story reads like a guidebook on honor and leadership, but it’s his humility that stands out most.

To Larry, courage isn’t about medals or accolades. It’s about showing up every day and doing the work, no matter how difficult.

The Courage to Connect Meeting people like Susan, Skip, Marc, and Larry doesn’t just happen. It starts with a decision—a decision to seek out the people who inspire us, who challenge us to think bigger and live bolder. Surrounding yourself with individuals who share your values takes clarity, intention, and, yes, a bit of courage.

First, you have to know who you want to connect with. What values do they embody that resonate with you? Then, you have to take that step. Reach out. Start the conversation—not with what you can get, but with what you can give.

When we surround ourselves with people like these, something magical happens. Their courage becomes contagious. They raise our standards, push us out of our comfort zones, and help us see possibilities we couldn’t see alone.

This Thanksgiving As I sit down with my family this Thanksgiving, I’ll be thinking of these quiet heroes and so many others like them. The ones who climb mountains, defuse bombs, train others to act, and lead with honor. I’ll also be thinking about the ways we can create communities—families, teams, and companies—where courage is cultivated and celebrated.

Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: courage isn’t just for heroes. It’s for all of us. It’s in the small, daily choices we make to step up, speak out, and lift others along the way.

So here’s my Thanksgiving wish for you: may you find the courage to live boldly, connect deeply, and inspire those around you. And may you always remember the quiet heroes who show us what’s possible.

Live Large. Be Bold. Have Faith. Fear Nothing. Book a call today and let’s jump together into new heights.

Louis Katz is a keynote speaker and founder of The Courage Inside. He works with organizations to build courageous companies, inspiring leaders and employees alike to take bold steps toward transformative results.

The Holidays are Here, and They're Up to No Good

?? The holidays are here, and they’re up to no good.

It’s a well-known fact that speakers and emcees have a habit of dropping dead or landing in jail at the last minute. Now, what are you going to do?

Here’s the good news: I’m not just your backup plan—I’m your best plan.

? I show up on time. ? I stay sober. ? I deliver a message of humor, heart, and actionable everyday courage your audience will love.

My keynote, Fortune Favors the Bold, is perfect for holiday galas, team celebrations, or any event where you need an engaging speaker who inspires action (and laughter).

Want to make sure your event is a success?

?? Book a call here: thecourageinside.com/appointments

?? See me in action here: thecourageinside.com/videos

And here’s the kicker: Speakers don’t just fail during the holidays—this happens year-round. So, if you’re planning your next event (or need a last-minute rescue), let’s talk.

Let’s make your next event unforgettable.

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My First Christmas Song of the Season May Be My Last

I wanted something I could dance to up on stage, or post to YouTube without running afoul of the copyright lawyers. So I came up with Sugar Plum, Barely. It's a sweet little ditty, full of holiday spirits. There's even a cat in it. What could possibly go wrong?

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Leap of Courage Skydiving Experience

Imagine standing at the edge of an open door, 13,000 feet above the ground, your heart pounding, the rush of wind filling your ears. Below you lies the unknown, but you’re ready to jump—because courage is about facing fear with unwavering resolve. The Leap of Courage Skydiving Experience isn’t just about the thrill of free-falling; it’s about confronting your fears head-on and discovering just how far you can push yourself when you step outside your comfort zone.

Led by Louis Katz, keynote speaker and founder of The Courage Inside, this unique adventure combines the exhilaration of skydiving with actionable guidance on everyday courage. The experience starts with a pre-jump group Zoom call, where each participant shares one upcoming personal or professional goal that requires courage. Together, we’ll discuss the strategies to help you confront that challenge head-on, giving you the tools you need to approach it with confidence.

After the skydiving session, we’ll reconnect in a post-jump Zoom call, reflecting on how the leap impacted your mindset and discussing how the lessons from the experience can be applied to your specific goal. It’s more than just an adrenaline rush—it’s a transformative journey that equips you to tackle your fears and pursue bold new heights.

Are you ready to take the leap? Jump with us, face your fears, and emerge with a renewed sense of courage to conquer your biggest challenges.

Recent Highlights

Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse of my journey in fostering courageous companies and individuals. This video blends highlights from my keynote Fortune Favors The Bold with captivating visuals, including personal photos and exhilarating footage of the US Army Parachute Team, the Golden Knights. Plus, you'll hear the full version of my original song, Leap The Sky, which celebrates the fearless spirit that drives us to confront our fears and leap toward greatness. Let this be your inspiration for taking bold action!

Check out my Promo Reels playlist, featuring highlights from my recent Fortune Favors The Bold appearances. These clips capture the energy and impact of my keynotes, where I share tools and insights on building courageous companies and inspiring individuals. From engaging stories to bold visual elements, these reels bring the message of courage to life. Whether it's through storytelling or lessons learned from the fearless, each reel is designed to motivate and energize your own journey toward courageous action.