“Who do you want to be in the desert with?”

This question—now mantra—has been echoing in my mind since I departed Black Rock City just over a week ago. Our time in the desert was challenging, of course, with floods, plagues (no not really), and plenty of fire. And yet, it was also one of the most meaningful and inspiring experiences that I have personally been a part of.?

When I tried to figure out why, I kept coming back to the same answer. It was the people who I was in the Desert with that made the difference. I was surrounded by a community of builders knit together around a vision of creating a city full of art and experience and connection. The challenges we faced acted as a filter: those who stayed beyond the rains banded together, facing unforeseen hurdles, seizing opportunities and, in the process, creating something even grander than we imagined.?

Of course, when you’re stuck in the desert facing extreme weather, who you are with is EVERYTHING. But the idea extends far beyond Burning Man: to relationships, to community, and importantly for me, to my company, Evernow. This isn't just a reflection; it's become a guiding principle. It's about choosing each and every person that I’m building something with and ensuring they are ready to get through the desert with me. For the remainder of this year and into the future, I'm focusing on determining who I truly want by my side—and equally important, who I don't.

For founders and leaders, this frame can be a beacon. It urges us to do the work of building and fostering teams where innovation and collaboration thrive. Where people are working together, looking out for each other, and focused on growth and understanding. We owe it to ourselves and to everyone on our teams to build a culture that could thrive in the desert. Because once we find those people who share our values and are prepared to venture into the unknown, united in purpose and spirit, there’s nothing we can’t do.?