What a 30-Day Reel Challenge Taught Me About Courage, Consistency, and Leadership

Written By Claudette Shatto

Let’s be honest—hitting “record” on a camera can feel just as intimidating as standing in front of a live audience. And yet, here I am, deep into a 30-day Instagram Reel challenge.

Every day this month, I have been posting on Instagram, sharing motivational messages, behind-the-scenes moments, and reminders to Brave Every Hill.

Why? Because I believe that courage and consistency aren’t just things we teach—they’re things we model.

This challenge is about more than content creation. It’s about alignment. The message of my children’s book Gazill Hill is rooted in bravery—facing your fears and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. And as a professor, speaker, and parent, I know that the best way to inspire others is to walk the talk.

My entrepreneur students are currently working through a 30-day rejection challenge—pushing themselves to hear “no” more often so they can build resilience and confidence. I wanted to mirror their courage in my own way. So, while they’re stepping out of their comfort zones in conversations, pitches, and professional asks—I’m doing the same every time I hit “post.”

What I’m Learning

Creating Reels every day has taught me a few things already:

  • Perfection isn’t required. What matters is showing up.

  • Your voice matters more than your lighting, hair or glam. The message is what resonates.

  • Courage is contagious. The more I share, the more messages I receive from others who feel inspired to try something bold.

Why This Matters for Kids and Educators

Whether I’m teaching in a college classroom, hosting a workshop, or reading Gazill Hill to a group of TK-1st graders, the message is the same: We can do hard things. We can do scary things. And we get stronger every time we try.

Bravery isn’t about being fearless—it’s about being willing to act in the face of fear. And consistency is what transforms a brave moment into a brave life.

I invite you to reflect:

  • How are you modeling courage in your daily life?

  • What’s one small way you can consistently show up, even if it feels uncomfortable?

I’m sharing the highs, lows, and lessons of this 30-day challenge on my Instagram—follow along, or even better, join me!

Claudette Shatto

Claudette has called Napa Valley home for over 25 years. She’s a professor of Business & Entrepreneurship at Napa Valley College, a keynote speaker, and the author of Gazill Hill, a multicultural children’s book that introduces leadership, courage, and a growth mindset to young readers.

Claudette was named Best Educator by the Napa Valley Register and received Napa Valley College’s Distinguished Teaching Award for her commitment to student success. Her passion project is teaching leadership and entrepreneurial thinking to children through school visits, community workshops, and storytelling. Whether she’s in a college classroom, leading a business workshop, or reading to first graders, Claudette is committed to helping students of all ages step into their potential.

Follow her journey on social @claudetteshatto.

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The Journey Behind Gazill Hill