There’s something about walking into a room full of strangers that can make even the bravest among us feel like shrinking. And yet, a few months ago, there I was, clutching a bag with my books stuffed inside, trying to blend into the walls of Susie Helland’s Build Your Brave retreat. I told myself I’d just sit quietly, soak it all in, and definitely NOT put my books out for everyone to see.
Then came Susie.
If you don’t know Susie Helland, let me paint a picture for you: she’s the kind of woman who sees right through your “I’m fine” façade. She’s a boutique owner, a retreat leader, and the creator of spaces where women like you and me can show up, messy and scared, and leave feeling braver than we ever thought possible.
She’s also a professional drop-kicker. No, not in the WWE sense (although I wouldn’t put it past her), but in the sense that she will metaphorically drop-kick you into courage before you even know what’s happening.
The Day I Got Drop-Kicked into Bravery
So, there I was, quietly hiding my books under my chair, when Susie walked up, saw right through my antics, and said, “Where are your books?” I mumbled something about leaving them under my chair, hoping she’d let it slide. Spoiler alert: she did not.
The next thing I knew, she was dragging me—books and all—to a table where other women had put their goods. And just when I thought I could slip back into my seat unnoticed, she stood up and said, “Hey everyone, Tiff has written a book! Let’s hear about it!”
Cue panic.
But here’s the thing: standing there, shaking like a leaf, sharing my story about losing my brother and writing Dancing in the Rain, something shifted. Susie wasn’t just pushing me to share for the sake of it; she was reminding me that my story mattered. That I mattered.
And she was right. Because in that room, a woman approached me and had experienced the loss of her son the same way. That one connection became a lifelong friendship, and it reminded me why spaces like Susie’s retreats are so important.
Why Build Your Brave Matters
Susie created Build Your Brave retreats to help women feel seen, heard, and connected. Whether you’re grappling with loss, navigating a big life transition, or just trying to figure out who you are beyond the daily grind, these retreats are a place to rediscover your courage.
But don’t think you have to come with a heavy story to fit in. Some women come because they’re craving connection. Others are looking for clarity. And some, like me, are just trying to hide their books and avoid the spotlight.
What you’ll find, though, is magic. The kind of magic that happens when women show up, strip away the masks, and say, “Here I am. Messy, scared, but ready to grow.”
The Watermark Resort: A Healing Haven
Susie’s retreats are held at the stunning Watermark Resort in Osoyoos, BC, right on the water. Let me tell you, there’s something about being by the lake that just quiets the noise in your head. It’s the perfect backdrop for the deep conversations, belly laughs, and healing that happens over the course of the weekend.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, this retreat is the place to set it down.
The Courage to Show Up
One of the most beautiful things about these retreats is that you don’t have to come with a friend to feel like you belong. In fact, some of the most transformative moments happen when you walk in solo and let the magic unfold.
Susie has a way of creating spaces where vulnerability feels safe, where the walls come down, and where you realize you’re not alone in your struggles.
Why You Need to Go
I’ve attended one of Susie’s retreats, and let me tell you, it changed me. It reminded me that bravery isn’t about being fearless—it’s about showing up despite the fear. It’s about connecting, sharing, and realizing that even in our darkest moments, there’s light to be found.
So, if you’ve been on the fence, let this be your sign. Susie’s next Build Your Brave retreat is happening in April 2025, and it’s already 74% sold out. Don’t wait. Take the leap.
Final Thoughts
I walked into that retreat nervous and uncertain, but I walked out braver, lighter, and deeply connected to women who I now consider lifelong friends. If Susie could drop-kick me into courage, she can do the same for you.
You can find all the details about her upcoming retreat at www.susiehelland.com. And if you’re ready to rediscover your brave, trust me—this is the place to do it.
I’ll see you there. And this time, I promise I won’t hide my books.
❤️ Tiff xx
