BREAKING IT TO THE CREW — before the grapevine runs

  1. The man it's about hears it FIRST — from you, in person. Never a text.

  2. Whole crew, one spot, same time. Say what happened and why — plain.

  3. Your part, out loud:  "Here's what's on me: ____________________."

  4. Cutting? One round, not a slow bleed.

  5. Go around. Let each man talk. Say it back till he nods.

  6. Two weeks out: check every man again. One talk isn't enough.