We recently connected with Nicole Humber and have shared our conversation below.

Nicole, appreciate you joining us today. Any thoughts around creating more inclusive workplaces?

Creating an inclusive workplace starts with intentionally fostering a culture where people feel respected, heard, and valued. It’s about more than just checking boxes or meeting quotas; it’s about creating a space where everyone can be themselves without fear of judgment, where differences are seen as strengths, and where support is given not just in times of success but also in times of challenge.

One piece of advice I’d offer is to always lead by example. As a leader, your actions speak louder than your words. Be transparent, open to feedback, and demonstrate empathy in your decision-making. Ensure your team has the resources and support they need to grow both personally and professionally. This includes providing training that addresses unconscious bias, fostering clear communication, and recognizing different needs within your team.

As a small business owner, I’ve witnessed firsthand how inclusivity can directly impact morale and performance. Early on, I realized that fostering a diverse team with varied perspectives created an environment where innovation could thrive. But it wasn’t always smooth sailing—there were times when inclusivity wasn’t a priority, and that led to missed opportunities, miscommunication, and disengagement.

A turning point for me was when I hired someone who had a very different approach to work than what I was used to. Initially, it was a challenge to integrate her into the team, but with patience, understanding, and the support of her manager, she grew into a critical part of the team. This experience showed me how important it is to not just accept diversity but to actively support it. It’s those differences that make a team stronger, but they require attention and care to flourish.

The impact of inclusivity goes beyond just feeling good—it leads to tangible results. An inclusive workplace enhances team collaboration, reduces turnover, and creates a safe environment for everyone to share their ideas without fear. When employees feel heard and valued, they are more likely to be engaged, take initiative, and contribute to the growth of the business. In my own journey, I’ve seen how embracing diversity and making inclusivity a priority has directly contributed to the success and longevity of our team. It’s about people, and when you invest in your people, you see the results in your business.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Nicole Humber, and I’m the owner of Bravo Restoration (BRC), a company based in Sonoma County, California. We specialize in restoration services, including water damage, mold remediation, and bio-hazard cleaning. My journey into the restoration industry wasn’t exactly traditional. I started as a receptionist while going to school to pursue a career in social/human services (Social worker/lawyer/police officer), but I’ve always had a passion for helping people through difficult situations. When I saw an opportunity to make a positive impact by offering quality restoration services, I took the leap and bought my business from the previous owner over 8 years ago. What drew me in was the ability to not only solve real, immediate problems for people—often when they’re dealing with the aftermath of a disaster—but to build a company that values people, both employees and clients.

At Bravo Restoration, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, reliable service. We’re not just here to clean up damage; we’re here to support our clients through some of the most challenging moments of their lives, whether it’s a flooded home or a business struggling with mold. We approach each job with the understanding that it’s not just about the physical work—it’s about building relationships, providing peace of mind, and doing things right the first time.

What sets us apart is our commitment to a strong company culture and our focus on innovation. We’re a young company, but we’re driven by a clear mission: to provide top-tier customer service, foster professional growth, and maintain a strong team environment. Our employees are the heart of the business, and we believe that when our team feels supported, our clients receive exceptional service. Whether it’s in the field or in our office, we prioritize communication, integrity, and a customer-first mentality.

I’m particularly proud of the team we’ve built at Bravo. We’ve grown from working with insurance only out of multiple counties into a company that serves a variety of residential and commercial clients in Sonoma County allowing us to serve them and their best interests. We’ve been able to not only provide excellent service but also foster a workplace culture where people feel valued and encouraged to grow. One of the things I’m most proud of is the relationships we’ve built, both within our team and with our clients. The trust we’ve developed over the years has allowed us to make a real difference in our community.

For potential clients, I want them to know that when they choose Bravo, they’re not just hiring a restoration company—they’re hiring a team that cares. We understand that every job is unique, and we treat each project with the attention it deserves. We take the time to explain the process, ensure that all questions are answered, and provide a level of service that exceeds expectations. Our goal isn’t just to fix a problem, but to ensure that our clients feel confident and supported throughout the process.

For followers and fans, I want them to know that Bravo is about more than just restoration. We are committed to growing a company that values integrity, innovation, and community. We’re here to support each other, improve constantly, and make a lasting impact—whether it’s through our work or the way we engage with those around us.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

When I bought Bravo Restoration from the previous owner, I had no idea what I was getting into. I was young, naive, and eager to take on the challenge of running a company, but the reality hit me fast. The purchase required using all of our cash to pay the previous owner out, and unfortunately, there were a lot of problems to clean up. From subpar work quality to unhappy clients, unpaid subcontractors, and a general lack of structure, it felt like I was inheriting a mess rather than a business.

On top of that, I didn’t have the experience to know exactly how to turn things around. I hired an attorney and a business consultant to guide me, and both told me I had made a huge mistake and that the company wouldn’t survive. Their advice was disheartening, but rather than taking it as a reason to quit, I used it as fuel to prove them wrong.

I trusted my instincts, took risks, and leaned on the right people, although I did make a few wrong choices along the way. It wasn’t easy—there were employee turnovers, theft, lawsuits, and times when I couldn’t even pay myself. I faced bad reviews, tough decisions, and a constant uphill battle. But through it all, I knew that if I did the right thing by people—employees, clients, and those in my inner circle—things would eventually work out.

Fast forward to eight years later, and I can confidently say that we’ve turned things around. Today, we’re a profitable business with happy employees, satisfied clients, and a culture built on doing things the right way. We’ve weathered the storm, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished. It’s a testament to resilience, hard work, and sticking with what I believed in—even when the odds were stacked against us.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

Books, podcasts, and constantly maintaining the mindset that I can never stop learning have played a huge role in shaping my approach to management and entrepreneurship. I believe that continuous growth is essential, and I actively seek resources that help me develop both personally and professionally.

Some of the foundational books that have influenced my thinking include classics like How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie, which helped me understand the importance of building strong, authentic relationships, and The Power of Vulnerability by Brené Brown, which has taught me the value of being open and vulnerable as a leader. I’ve come to understand that vulnerability doesn’t make you weak—it builds trust and fosters connection with the people around you.

Another key focus for me has been understanding the individual personalities of those on my team. We use personality assessments regularly to better understand each other’s strengths and challenges, which helps us work more effectively together. It’s made a world of difference in how we communicate and collaborate.

One of my favorite business authors is Patrick Lencioni. His approach to business is both insightful and practical. He has a unique ability to weave fables that immerse you in real-life situations, followed by clear, actionable steps to improve. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team is a book that has become a staple in our company. The pyramid of Trust, Accountability, Conflict, Commitment, and Results is something we refer to often in everything we do. It’s shaped our culture, guided how we approach challenges, and reinforced the importance of being accountable to each other.

These resources, among others, have been invaluable in helping me navigate the complexities of leadership and running a business, and they continue to inspire me to grow every day.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bravorestoration.com
• Instagram: Bravo_Restoration
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BravoRestorationConstruction/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravo-restoration/
• Twitter: Bravo_BRC
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHgTpD3zcmRr8p1cG9ICmWg
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/bravo-restoration-and-construction-windsor

Image Credits

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