35. The Power of a Simple Phone Call

In Episode 35 of The Reset, Shaun shares a powerful lesson about how easily we overcomplicate things—especially when it comes to business, fundraising, and creating results.

During a recent breathwork and healing immersion, Shaun participated in a group challenge designed to test creativity and resourcefulness.

The rules were simple.

Each group started with $10 and had 30 minutes to raise as much money as possible for a chosen charity. The only restriction? They couldn’t donate their own money.

They had to use that $10 as a starting point to generate more.

Immediately, ideas began flying around. Shaun even dropped the prompt into AI to generate creative strategies. Suggestions came back quickly—approaching local businesses, offering value in exchange for donations, or tapping into personal networks.

But when the clock started ticking, something interesting happened.

Most of the ideas felt complicated.

Reaching out through social media.
Posting messages.
Sending voice notes.

All of those strategies had potential—but they relied on people seeing the message at the right time and choosing to respond.

And with only 30 minutes on the clock, time was everything.

As the challenge unfolded, one simple strategy stood out above the rest.

Pick up the phone and call someone.

One group member reached out to a contact directly. Others sent quick messages through their personal networks.

With just one minute left on the timer, a message came through—someone had transferred $50 toward the charity.

When the final numbers were added up, Shaun’s group had raised $250 in just 30 minutes, turning the original $10 into 25 times its value.

But the real lesson wasn’t about fundraising.

It was about how often we avoid the simplest actions because they feel uncomfortable.

Posting on social media is easy.
Sending an email feels safe.
Using technology can make us feel productive.

But the most effective action is often the one we hesitate to take.

Direct human connection.

Calling someone.
Sharing the vision.
Explaining why something matters.

When people can feel your intention and your purpose, they’re far more likely to engage.

That’s why understanding your “why” is so important.

For this challenge, the group was raising money for a toy library—an organization that helps provide toys and joyful experiences for children who may not otherwise have access to them.

Thinking about those children made the mission real.

And when the purpose is real, it becomes much easier to ask for support.

This episode is a reminder that success in business—and in life—often comes down to doing the things that feel uncomfortable but meaningful.

Making the phone call.

Having the honest conversation.

Taking direct action instead of hiding behind technology.

Because at the end of the day, real connection still creates the greatest impact.

If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might need the reminder to take action today.