In this episode, I’m sharing a raw excerpt from Never Play It Safe and digging into how playing it safe nearly cost me everything. I’m talking about the times I abandoned my real passions—trading what I loved for the illusion of safety. From dropping art and soccer for “practical” careers, to walking away from a dream photography gig, these decisions came with some heavy consequences. But every setback taught me something and helped me get back on track. If you've ever felt the pressure to play it safe or second-guessed your dreams, you’ll relate to this one.

Some highlights we dig into:

• Why we give up on what we love for what’s “safe”

• The real cost of following someone else’s path

• How to course-correct when you’ve drifted from your true self

Enjoy!

In this episode, we break down why success is often compared to digging for gold. It’s not about luck or talent—it’s about pushing past limits and believing in what’s possible, even when it feels out of reach. Using the story of Roger Bannister breaking the four-minute mile, we’ll talk about how to find your own breakthrough and make the impossible happen.

Some highlights we explore:

• How belief breaks barriers

• Knowing if you're on the right path or need to pivot

• The role of small habits in reaching big goals

Enjoy!

In this episode, I reveal why playing it safe might be the riskiest move you can make in your creative journey. I share my own experience of scrapping a finished manuscript just weeks before the deadline and what it taught me about embracing risk and pushing beyond comfort zones. I also get into why true growth comes from challenging the status quo. This isn’t just a philosophy; it’s a necessity for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their work and life.

Some highlights we cover:

• The illusion of safety and its hidden costs

• Redefining risk as a catalyst for creativity and innovation

• Practical steps to embrace discomfort and take bold action

Enjoy!

In today’s episode, I’m unpacking “10 Things Every Creator Should Know.” This is a dive into the hard-earned truths that can make or break your creative journey. We’re talking about the real stuff, the lessons that come from the trenches of creativity and entrepreneurship.

We delve into why clients can’t always tell you what they need and why aiming for ‘different’ rather than ‘better’ can set you on a path to true innovation. Discover why embracing big challenges leads to your best work, and why simplicity is your best friend in a world cluttered with complexity. Learn the art of bouncing back from mistakes with grace and speed, and understand why value should be your north star, not price.

Some topics we get into:

• Rethinking Expertise: Unpacking why the true expert in your creative journey is you, and how external advice should serve as a guide, not a gospel.
• Client Collaboration: Shifting the narrative on client interactions, emphasizing the importance of innovation over simply meeting expressed needs.
• Innovation Over Imitation: Encouraging a mindset that seeks out unique solutions and perspectives, rather than settling for incremental improvements.
• Embracing Challenge: Exploring how stepping out of your comfort zone and tackling bigger challenges can lead to unprecedented growth and creativity.
• Cultivating Taste: Strategies on how to develop a strong aesthetic sensibility and why it’s crucial in setting your work apart.

Enjoy!

In this episode, Steven Pressfield shares his insights on overcoming resistance and pursuing creative endeavors. An acclaimed author known for his works in fiction, non-fiction, and screenwriting, he gained recognition with his debut novel "The Legend of Bagger Vance" and his historical fiction novel "Gates of Fire." But for me, his groundbreaking book “The War of Art” impacted me like no other.

During the conversation, we dive deep into the concept of resistance and how it hinders our creative pursuits. Pressfield discusses the challenges of sitting down to create and the negative force that radiates off the keyboard. He shares his personal strategies for combating resistance, including the importance of turning pro and acting like a professional.

Some highlights we explore:

• The secret that real writers know about the difficulty of sitting down to write
• The distinction between amateurs and professionals in creative pursuits
• Overcoming adversity and self-doubt to continue creating
• The concept of "Put Your Ass Where Your Heart Wants to Be" and its impact on creative work

Enjoy!

Have you ever wondered how boredom can actually fuel your creative thinking? Well, in today's hyper-connected world, genuine moments of boredom are becoming increasingly rare. We're constantly bombarded with notifications, messages, and endless streams of content. But what if I told you that boredom, that very state we often dread, could be one of your most powerful tools for unlocking fresh ideas and making creative breakthroughs?

Key topics discussed in this episode:

• The myth of constant stimulation
• Boredom as the brain's reset button
• Historical geniuses and their relationship with boredom
• Cultivating constructive boredom through digital detox, mindful moments, journaling, and embracing routine

Enjoy!

In this episode, Andy Mitchell shares his insights on psychedelics, their potential applications, and his personal journey exploring their effects. Andy Mitchell is a recovering neuropsychologist and the author of the book "Ten Trips," which takes a comprehensive look at the world of psychedelics and their various settings.

Today we're diving into the fascinating world of psychedelics. Along with his experiences, Andy shares the history and cultural significance of psychedelics, the therapeutic potential of these substances, and the broader implications for mental health and personal growth.

Some highlights we explore:

• The transformative power of psychedelics in reshaping personal narratives and understanding of reality
• The broader cultural and historical context of psychedelic use and its impact on indigenous communities
• The intersection of science, spirituality, and philosophy in the study of psychedelics
• The importance of responsible and informed use of psychedelics for therapeutic purposes
• Personal anecdotes and experiences from Andy Mitchell's own journeys with psychedelics

Enjoy!

Remember when we were kids and we'd spend hours just tinkering around with stuff? No agenda, no pressure, just pure curiosity. Well, in this episode, we're diving deep into why tinkering matters and how it can unlock your creativity and break the routine.

In this episode, we get into:

• Skill Development: Flex your problem-solving muscles and witness firsthand how tinkering sharpens your abilities.
• Breaking the Monotony: Escape the daily grind and breathe new life into your routine by embracing the freedom of tinkering.
• Building Resilience: Embrace the beauty of making mistakes and learn how each stumble strengthens your resilience.
• and more!

Enjoy!

In this episode, Suneel Gupta shares his insights on finding success and joy in what you do, as discussed in his book "Everyday Dharma: 8 Essential Practices for Finding Success and Joy in What You Do". Suneel is a renowned speaker, bestselling author, and co-founder of the Gross National Happiness Center.

We dive deep into the concept of dharma, our inner calling, and how it can transform our lives. Suneel shares personal stories, history, science, and Eastern philosophy to guide us on a journey of self-discovery. He emphasizes the importance of living in alignment with our essence and finding our unique purpose.

Some highlights we explore:

• The misconception of the "arrival fallacy" and how it leads to emptiness
• Understanding the essence of dharma and its transformative power
• Balancing work and well-being for sustained success
• Ancient practices and rituals for discovering and living our sacred calling
• Letting go of anxieties and following our wildest ambitions

Enjoy!

In this episode, we delve into the importance of sharing and promoting your work as a vital part of the creative process. Discover how sharing not only showcases your value as a creator but also fuels a continuous flow of creativity. From planning your promotional activities to embracing the power of sharing, we explore how even the most successful creators engage in promotion while staying true to their identity.

Key topics discussed in this episode:

• The importance of sharing and promoting your work
• The circular flow of creativity in the Sharing Cycle
• The role of community in the creative process
• Effective transition from creating to promoting
• Celebrating your work while remaining authentic as a creator.

Enjoy!

In this episode, Matt Abrahams shares his expertise in communication and how to speak successfully when put on the spot. Matt is a leading expert in communication with decades of experience as an educator, author, podcast host, and coach. As a Lecturer in Organizational Behavior at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business, he teaches popular classes in strategic communication and effective virtual presenting. He has also helped countless presenters improve their communication skills, including those delivering IPO road shows and TED talks.

During our conversation, we delve into the power of spontaneous communication and how it can enhance our creativity and ability to convey ideas. Matt emphasizes the importance of mindset, managing anxiety, and being present in the moment. We explore the key ingredients of charisma and how they can be learned and practiced. Matt also shares practical strategies for structuring our messages and making them relevant and engaging.

Some highlights we explore:

• The impact of anxiety on spontaneous speaking
• The mindset shift from seeing communication as a threat to an opportunity
• The importance of listening and being present in conversations
• The role of structure in delivering effective messages

Tune in to this episode to learn actionable techniques for thinking faster and talking smarter in any spontaneous speaking situation. Get ready to boost your communication skills and confidently convey your ideas in the moment.

Enjoy!

In today's episode, we dive deep into a phenomenon that's become all too familiar in the modern age: feeling paralyzed in a world teeming with infinite creative possibilities. Imagine being faced with an eternal canvas yet feeling utterly lost about where to begin. But what if we told you that this overwhelming freedom can actually hinder creativity?

We explore the often-underestimated power of constraints and limitations in sparking innovation, pushing boundaries, and driving authentic creativity. Drawing inspiration from real-world examples, such as the 48 Hour Film Project and iconic photographers, we'll unveil the magic behind some of the world's most remarkable art - all birthed from constraints.

Join us as we discuss:

• The paradox of boundless creative freedom.
• Real-world examples of how limitations have birthed iconic art.
• Strategies for cultivating constraints in your creative journey.
• Why constraints, often seen as hurdles, can be the secret ingredient to unlocking unparalleled creativity.

Enjoy!

Jon Acuff is a New York Times bestselling author, INC Top 100 Leadership Speaker, and the host of the “All It Takes Is a Goal” podcast. His perspectives on success and lessons from failure are highly respected by fellow experts and everyday entrepreneurs alike. Just coming off the release of his latest book, 'All It Takes Is a Goal: The 3-Step Plan to Ditch Regret and Tap Into Your Massive Potential', Jon joins me on the show to discuss his journey, share insights from his newest work, and provide advice for entrepreneurs who want to create success.

 Highlights from our conversation:

• Jon's backstory, areas of expertise, and current professional endeavors
• Taking action on emotions rather than allowing them to define our paths
• The right way to set a goal and pursue it in a meaningful way
• Why consistency and positivity are key to achieving your big dreams

Enjoy!

In this episode, I sit down with Prentis Hemphill to explore the real meaning of healing—not as a destination, but as an ongoing process of restoring safety, belonging, and dignity in our lives. We dive into the importance of community, especially post-pandemic, and how reconnecting with our bodies through mindful practices can lead to true transformation. Prentis shares their journey, the questions that drive their work, and practical tips to help us all heal in a world that often feels disconnected.

Some highlights we explore:

• Healing as an ongoing process, not a final destination

• The power of community and connection in healing

• Practical ways to integrate mindful moments into your daily life

• And more!

Enjoy!

Excited to feature PLUNGE cold plunges and saunas http://www.plunge.com/chase as the sponsor for this episode. The best products on the market, bar none. I use them every day!    {enter code chase at checkout for an extra $150 off!]

When everything shut down during the pandemic, I turned to golf as a way to get outside and enjoy some fresh air. What was initially a fun thing to do during lock down, became a passion. I started to realize that the lessons I was learning on the course weren't just applicable to golf - they could be applied to life as well.

So, in this episode, I share with you seven lessons that have helped me in all aspects of my life.

Enjoy!

In this episode, Amy Edmondson, Novartis Professor of Leadership and Management at Harvard Business School, shares the importance of failing well and the challenges of admitting failure. She emphasizes the value of vulnerability and authenticity in building relationships and encourages taking smart risks. Edmondson also discusses the science behind failing and how self-awareness practices can help manage emotions and self-talk.

Amy Edmondson is a renowned researcher on psychological safety and has been named the #1 Management Thinker in the world by Thinkers50 in 2021. Her TED Talk “How to Turn a Group of Strangers into a Team” has been viewed over three million times.

Some highlights we explore:

• The three archetypes of failure: basic, complex, and intelligent
• The importance of embracing failures as discoveries and learning from them
• Reframing failure as a discovery
• The mindset needed to keep going despite failures
• How vulnerability and authenticity can build better relationships
• Taking smart risks and the risks of doing nothing

Enjoy!

In this episode, we're discussing the importance of consistency in the creative process. Consistency is the silent force that transforms average into excellence. It's the key to building an internal muscle of resilience and discipline that helps us persist through the challenges of the creative journey. We'll explore 5 ways to cultivate consistency, including creating a routine, embracing challenges, exploring your surroundings, engaging with your audience, and accepting imperfection.

Topics:

• The importance of consistency
• Creating a routine
• Embracing challenges
• Exploring your surroundings
• Engaging with your audience
• Accepting imperfection

Enjoy!

Chris Guillebeau is an unconventionally successful entrepreneur and New York Times-bestselling author. Learnings from his lifetime of self-employment and adventures in every country around the world (193 in total) before his 35th birthday have informed and inspired countless audiences to explore how alternative strategies and nonconformist paths can help one succeed in work and life. 

In this epsiode, we sit down to discuss his biggest strategies for thriving in an economy - and world - that seems to be constantly shifting.

Highlights from our conversation:

• The importance of questioning common assumptions about life and work
• Why most personal finance advice is just average and how to achieve exceptional results
• The power of unconventional strategies and nonconformist paths to success
• The concept of peak marketplace and how it affects the creator economy
• Practical tips for starting a profitable side hustle in less than a month

Enjoy!

In this episode, we're talking about the art of learning how to learn. Whether it's cooking, playing an instrument, or building a business, the learning process is the same. By understanding how you learn best, you can achieve proficiency and develop new skills for the rest of your life.

Some topics we dig into:

• The three phases of learning
• Cultivating curiosity and trial and error
• Scaled instruction through books, podcasts, and digital media
• The benefits of community and small group instruction

Enjoy!

In this episode, Seth Godin shares his thoughts on meaningful work and changing everything. Seth is a renowned author, entrepreneur, and thought leader, known for his work in marketing, leadership, and the post-industrial revolution. He has authored over 20 bestselling books and founded several companies, including Yoyodyne and Squidoo. In his new book, "The Song of Significance," Seth offers a soulful re-envisioning of work and leadership, challenging us to do better in ways that matter.

In our conversation, we dive deep into the challenges of work in the 21st century, including the rise of AI, economic instability, and disengagement. Seth argues that we've been measuring the wrong things, and we need to have an honest conversation with each other about why we're here and what matters. We explore the purpose of work and how we can make work matter again, with people who care.

Some highlights we explore:

• How AI is replacing mediocre work and what that means for the future of work
• The importance of measuring the right things and racing to invent tomorrow
• Why meaningful work is more important than ever
• The purpose of a corporation and what really matters in a job
• The importance of connecting with interesting problems and seeking meaning in our work

Enjoy!

Are you tired of chasing someone else's idea of success? In this episode, we're talking about how to define success on our own terms. We'll explore the importance of authenticity, personal style, and building a community to achieve personal growth. 

Some of the topics we get into: 

• The fleeting concept of success
• The importance of being authentic
• Developing personal style
• Building a community for success

Enjoy!

Professor of Psychology Thomas Curran knows a thing or two about the human mind. He's dedicated a large part of his career to the study of perfectionism and its effect on our lives. In his landmark study, the BBC saw fit to hail him as “the first to compare perfectionism across generations”. Curran's TED Talk on perfectionism has been viewed by millions of people around the world, and his research has been featured in a range of publications from the Harvard Business Review to New Scientist. In this podcast, the subject matter expert and I discuss the psychology of perfectionism, what it means for our lives and health, and how to overcome this debilitating state of mind.

Highlights from our conversation:

• Understanding what perfectionism is and why it exists
• The root feelings of perfectionism and their sources
• The self-perpetuating effects of perfectionism on our lives
• Embracing the concept of 'good enough' in an imperfect world

Enjoy!

Ever wondered what truly fuels the electrifying experience of watching a megaband like Metallica live? It's more than just the band members; it's the power of community.

In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of creative professionals and the communities that elevate their work to legendary status. Learn how to harness the strength of a community to amplify your own creative voice.

Some topics we dive into

• The unseen army behind Metallica's live performances.
• The importance of human connection in the creative process.
• Engaging with like-minded communities.
• The principle of reciprocity in building genuine relationships.
• Collaborating with individuals who align with your vision.
• Embracing vulnerability in the creative journey.
• The impact of surrounding yourself with uplifting individuals

Enjoy!

Dr. Caroline Leaf, a renowned cognitive neuroscientist and expert on mental health, dives deep into the fascinating topic of the power of the mind to change the brain and find mental peace. She recounts her personal journey and how her passion for understanding the mind-brain connection, mental health, and memory formation led her to become one of the most accomplished cognitive neuroscientists of our time.

Dr. Leaf emphasizes that the brain is not a fixed organ, and that managing the mess in our minds is crucial for our mental health. She goes on to explain how our thoughts can affect our brain chemistry, and how we can use this knowledge to our advantage by training our minds to think positively. Dr. Leaf also discusses the importance of understanding the different types of memory and how they impact our mental health.

Some highlights we explore:

• How our mind changes our brain
• The importance of managing our mental mess
• The 5-step Neurocycle process for healthy mind-management
• The impact of unmanaged stress and toxic thoughts on children's mental health
• Why social media curfews and bans won't protect your child from mental health issues
• The need for a scientific approach to mental health interventions

Enjoy!

In this episode, we unpack a concept that flips everything you’ve been taught about safety and security on its head. Drawing inspiration from Helen Keller’s words and my new book Never Play It Safe, we get real about why chasing safety is the biggest obstacle to living a rich, meaningful life. We’ll break down how the illusion of safety holds you back, keeping you from reaching your true potential. You’ll discover why leaning into discomfort, change, and risk is the key to unleashing your real power and creativity.

Some highlights we explore:

• The myth of safety and how it keeps you stuck in your career, relationships, and growth

• Real strategies to embrace risk, ignite your creativity, and start living boldly

• Powerful stories of transformation from those who chose to break free from the safety trap

Enjoy!

In this episode, we're talking about the art of making mistakes and how it can help us develop confidence, learn faster, and ultimately succeed.

Success is not about avoiding mistakes, it's about learning and adapting. But how can we learn to embrace failure and turn it into our greatest asset?

I was recently reminded of this not too long ago when I too fell into the trap of making the perfect plan only to realize it wasn’t panning out.

Enjoy!

In this episode, Ramit Sethi shares his insights on entrepreneurship and business. Ramit is the founder and author of IWillTeachYouToBeRich.com, a blog on personal finance and personal entrepreneurship. He is also the co-founder and vice president of community marketing for PBwiki, a venture-backed Silicon Valley startup. Ramit and I discuss various topics related to entrepreneurship and business, including negotiating, creating value, and the Briefcase Technique. We also delve into why creatives often struggle with representing themselves and how they can overcome this. Additionally, we talk about focusing on business growth while maintaining a focus on craft and identifying customers with the ability and willingness to pay.

Some highlights we explore:

• The importance of understanding the mindset of the other person in negotiations
• How to illustrate the value that you bring to the client
• The Briefcase Technique: showcasing your portfolio to blow clients' minds
• Overcoming creatives' struggles with representing themselves
• Balancing focus on craft with business growth
• Maximizing earnings by identifying customers with the ability and willingness to pay

Enjoy!

In this episode, we explore the power of curiosity. Curiosity is not just a trait, it's a superpower that allows us to push boundaries, learn more, and live a life filled with purpose. We discuss practical strategies to cultivate curiosity, including embracing the unknown, feeding your mind, embracing failure, asking questions, and writing.

Some topics we explore:

• The relationship between curiosity and knowledge
• The importance of embracing the unknown
• Strategies for feeding your mind
• The role of failure in cultivating curiosity
• The power of asking questions
• The benefits of writing for reflection and exploration

Enjoy!

In this episode, comedian Nate Bargatze joins me to discuss his rise to success in the world of stand-up comedy. Hailing from Tennessee, Nate's unique brand of clean, relatable comedy has earned him a loyal following and critical acclaim. We talk about his experiences touring nationally and internationally, working with comedy legend Chris Rock, and balancing his stand-up career with writing for television.

Some highlights we explore:

• The journey to becoming a stand-up comedian, including the challenges and lessons learned along the way
• Finding inspiration in family and childhood experiences to create comedy material
• The importance of clean comedy and relatability in connecting with audiences
• Touring the country and the world as a comedian, and adapting to different cultures and audiences
• Working with Chris Rock on the Total Blackout Tour, and the lessons learned from the experience
• Balancing a career in stand-up with writing for television, and the benefits of working in both mediums
• Nate's tips for crafting jokes and storytelling, including the importance of being authentic and finding your own unique voice

Enjoy!

In this episode, we dig into the importance of taking creative risks. We all know that some risk is necessary. Simply said, you cannot stand out and fit in at the same time. If you're not sharing your work, you're hiding, and this tends to compound on itself. Once you start hiding, you stop growing. 

Creativity requires taking risks and embracing failure. Failure is the forward propulsion toward success and the sooner we can change our perspective around it, we easier it is to muster the courage to face the fears that are holding us back. 

Some topics we get into:

• The danger of hiding and not sharing your creative work
• The importance of taking risks to grow as an artist
• The role of mistakes in the creative process
• The value of having fun and making an array of bets to play longer
• The importance of assessing risks and anticipating problems

Enjoy!

In this episode, Mel Robbins shares her insights on how to navigate uncertainty and stress in our lives. Mel is a leading voice in personal development and transformation, and the author of "The High Five Habit", a mechanism for transforming your life.

We discuss the impact of the pandemic on our neurology and how to find the path out of stress and anxiety. Mel shares her research on the connection between our nervous system and our brain's ability to function properly, and provides a simple trick to turn off our alarm system and turn on our calm, grounded, and creative nervous system.

We also dive into Mel's philosophies and practices for loving yourself and connecting with who you are at your core. She shares a morning routine that moves you out of anxiety and into a mode where you can be your most creative, productive, and authentic self, and a mantra that is backed by science to get you out of that duress moment and into a calm, neuro-regulated state.

Some highlights we explore:

• The impact of stress and anxiety on our neurology
• The connection between our nervous system and our brain's ability to function
• How to turn off our alarm system and turn on our calm, grounded, and creative nervous system
• Mel's philosophies and practices for self-love and connecting with who you are at your core
• A morning routine that moves you out of anxiety and into a mode where you can be your most creative, productive, and authentic self
• A mantra that is backed by science to get you out of that duress moment and into a calm state of mind

Enjoy!

In this episode, we talk about the dangers of setting mediocre goals and playing it safe. I share my experience with visualization and how it’s been a game changer in my life. We’ll review some ways you can use visualization to reflect on your own goals and dreams while seeing yourself take steps to achieve them.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• The benefits of visualization
• The dangers of playing it safe
• Overcoming limiting beliefs
• Setting big goals and taking risks
• The importance of habits and self-discipline in achieving goals

In this episode, adventurer and environmentalist Chelsea Yamase shares her journey of pursuing a life of adventure and creativity. Born and raised on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, Chelsea's deep connection to nature shaped her into the passionate advocate she is today. Chelsea shares stories of her experiences immersing herself in various landscapes, gaining knowledge about different ecosystems and their fragile balance, and how this led her to commit to environmental conservation. She also talks about finding fulfillment in adventure and nature, how to balance values when working with clients, overcoming fear and taking risks, and the power of social media in storytelling.

Some highlights we explore:

• Pursuing a life of adventure and creativity
• Finding fulfillment in the outdoors and nature
• Balancing values when working with clients
• Overcoming fear and taking risks
• The power of social media in storytelling
• The importance of mindfulness in living a fulfilled life

Enjoy!

In this episode, we dive into a topic that affects us all: procrastination. Have you ever found yourself staring at a blank screen, with a deadline looming? Suddenly, the urge to scroll through social media becomes irresistible and you end up pulling an all-nighter fueled by caffeine and sheer determination. But why do we put ourselves through this last-minute panic? Why do we allow procrastination to get the best of us?

We'll explore the Procrastination Cycle and how it keeps us trapped in its grasp. We'll also discuss the Present and Future Self, and how these concepts affect our motivation to complete tasks. But don't worry, I won't leave you hanging. We'll cover a few techniques to help build effective habits for beating procrastination.

Enjoy!

James Clear is a world-class writer and speaker, most well-known for his #1 New York Times bestselling book, 'Atomic Habits'. Since its release, he has traveled the globe sharing actionable insights with those looking to make a lasting change. James is a regular speaker at Fortune 500 companies and his work has been featured by the likes of Time magazine, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, and CBS This Morning. I recently had the honor of having him on the show to discuss his methodology and advice for aspiring successes.

Highlights from our conversation:

• Progress is the key element behind sustained effort and eventual success
• The value of learning to take things one step at a time
• James' personal journey of self-improvement while writing his book
• Understanding the links between passion, curiosity, and action

Enjoy!

In this episode, Professor Alison Fragale, an expert in organizational psychology, discusses the fascinating dynamics of power and status and how they shape our lives and well-being. We dive into the differences between power and status, why both are essential human needs, and how their presence or absence affects our mental and physical health. Professor Fragale shares actionable strategies to help anyone elevate their status, build influence, and navigate power dynamics with authenticity. We also touch on the challenges of gender and racial status, the importance of autonomy, and practical tactics like leveraging your network and social media to boost your influence.

Some highlights we explore:

• The critical difference between power and status, and how both impact your life.
• Practical strategies for building influence and maintaining authenticity.
• The role of gender, race, and autonomy in navigating power dynamics.

Enjoy!

Archimedes once said, "Give me a lever long enough and I can move the world." In this microshow, we explore the power of resourcefulness, and discuss five tips for unlocking your own ingenuity and creativity including finding hidden tools, evaluating ideas with a "hell yes or no" mentality, prioritizing physical health, paying attention to what you're paying attention to, and turning off the negativity switch.

Key topics discussed:

• Archimedes and the power of resourcefulness
• Paying attention to what you're paying attention to
• Turning off the negativity switch
• Trusting yourself

Enjoy!

Co-founder of Mindvalley, one of the internet's most popular life transformation platforms, Kristina Mänd-Lakhiani has made a name for herself in the world of self-improvement. Her work as an entrepreneur, writer, international speaker, artist, and philanthropist has inspired millions of people aound the globe to live better lives. In this podcast, we sit down to discuss her story, insights on personal development, and new book, 'Becoming Flawesome: The Key to Living An Imperfectly Authentic Life'.

Highlights from our conversation:

• Kristina's first-hand experience with personal transformation
• Learning to look at change the right way
• Why personal transformation doesn't have to look like personal reinvention

Enjoy!

In this episode, I chat with Hollywood editor and American Ninja Warrior Zack Arnold on his podcast Optimize Yourself about creativity and its importance in our lives. 

Creativity is a life amplifier and is fundamental to our lives, just like physical fitness, proper nutrition, and mindfulness is discussed. We delve into how creativity is a muscle that needs to be exercised regularly and that through creating small, daily things, we can develop this muscle and become more creative. Finally, we discuss the concept of creating a mosaic of all the unique things that we have done in our lives and how this can help us discover our creative calling.

Highlights from our conversation:

• What it means to be a creator
• How creativity can enhance one's life and wellbeing
• Accepting and pursuing the side of yourself that wants to make
• Becoming a master of your discipline by proxy
  

The Optimize Yourself Podcast is a must-listen for any creative entrepreneur. Check it out anywhere you listen to podcasts.

Enjoy!

Jenna Kutcher is a born-and-raised Minnesota wife, mother, and entrepreneur with a dual focus on livelihood and happiness. Creator and host of the top-rated Goal Digger Podcast, she’s helped thousands of people build a new definition of success while also chasing bold dreams through her work as a leading online personality and educator. Jenna joins me during this podcast to discuss her entrepreneurial journey and insight for aspiring creators.

Highlights from our conversation:

• Defining hustle and its place in entrepreneurship
• Why hustle isn't always a good thing
• Jenna's personal realizations and priority shifts as it relates to success
• How to create your own definition for success and live a life that leaves you feeling fulfilled

Enjoy!

The current economy is feeding fears in the creative community. Is this feast or famine cycle the new normal or can we make our own opportunities as creative entrepreneurs? We’re exploring how embracing new things and making mistakes supports success.

We’ve got Christopher Jared on with us again. He’s the VP of the Outside Creator Studio, which is responsible for the content, socials, and events for Outside Interactive. Christopher is an expert in the field of media and publishing. He has experience running a publishing group that produced free ski and snowboard magazines, was the CEO of ROAM, a venture-backed company, and founded Inkwell Media Company. 

Christopher has a ton of insight for us on many of the burning questions that I hear from our community. So, we’re going to explore some of those in this episode and see if we can get some ideas. 

We’re talking about the power of experimentation and more!

Highlights:

• Building New Skills and Experimenting
• Embracing Mistakes and Quick Recovery
• Self-Directed Curiosity and Execution as a Hiring Manager
• Taking Breaks from Technology and Engaging in Play

Enjoy!

Steve Turner is a world-renowned guitarist, most known as the cofounder of groudbreaking Seattle Punk and Grunge bands Green River and Mudhoney. Even after 35 years in the music scene, he's continued to propoagae the grunge genre he helped build into the twnety-first century with tour performances and new music. Steve recently sat down with me to discuss this illustrious career and his new book, Mud Ride. 

Highlights from our conversation:

• Background context on the grunge scene and how it came to be
• Steve's place in grunge and original goals when getting into music
• Exploring grunge culture and what it means for those who lived its early days first-hand
• Where the genre is headed and what Steve hopes for the future of music

Enjoy!

In this episode we talk the trap of constantly seeking out the next best thing, and how it can hinder our creativity and productivity.

As a creative myself, I totally understand how easy it is to get caught up in the excitement of a new idea or tool. But the truth is, constantly starting new projects before finishing old ones can leave you feeling unfocused and unproductive. That's why we're diving deep into this topic to help you prioritize your projects and stay focused on what really matters.

We discuss ways to acknowledge and manage what I call “Shiny Object Syndrome”, including prioritizing projects, setting clear goals, focusing on quality over quantity, creating a dedicated workspace, and celebrating small victories along the way. Trust me, these tips have helped me and my guests stay on track and achieve our creative goals.

Enjoy!

Over the course of a decade, Steve Chou has created multiple 7 figure businesses. During that time, he set out on a journey to build a life of balance. What he found was an endless schedule and work that wore him and his family down. A hard lesson to learn, but he did learn, and change.

It’s no surprise that Steve’s new book is called The Family First Entrepreneur. He delivers a series of simple principles that can guide your decisions to help you establish your own solid foundation to build the life you’ve dreamed of and support those you love.

He’s highly renowned for his work and leadership in the e-commerce space and has taught thousands of students how to profitably sell physical products online through ProfitableOnlineStore.com.

In today’s discussion, we get into the beginning of when he launched the blog, MyWifeQuitHerJob.com. Now it’s been featured in leading magazines such as Forbes Inc., The New York Times, Entrepreneur, and MSNBC and it’s grown into a popular podcast, rated among the top 25 marketing shows on all of Apple Podcasts.

Steve Chou who also carries a bachelor's and master's degree in electrical engineering from Stanford University runs BumblebeeLinens.com along with his wife. They put on an annual e-commerce conference called The Sellers Summit.

Highlights from the episode: 

• His wife quit her six-figure salary job — 3:04
• How much money is enough money? — 7:13
• The four-burner theory — 8:01
• Maximizing your leveraged time — 28:29
• The Family First Entrepreneur — 43:16

Enjoy!

No one is coming to save you. 

Experts are valuable when you’re learning new skills, but neither experts nor institutions are going to nurture you, guide you, or make your creative dream a reality. You’re on your own path. It’s all up to you.

In this episode we talk about the importance of taking control of your own learning and creative process. We explore the vast array of online learning resources available to help you develop the skills you need. Some key topics covered include:

• The changing world of education
• The value of self-directed learning
• Free and low-cost online learning resources
• Finding and joining communities to learn from others
• Going from general to specific in your learning process
• The importance of taking action and doing the work

Enjoy!

In this episode, Simone Stolzoff, independent journalist and author of "The Good Enough Job", shares her insights on how work has come to dominate American culture and how we can reclaim our lives in a world centered around work. Simone's work has been featured in The New York Times, The Atlantic, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, and numerous other publications.

Simone and I explore the dangers of treating work as a source of identity and meaning, and the importance of diversifying our sources of identity. We discuss how to define what we want our relationship with work to be, the value of active forms of leisure, and the benefits of trading money for time. We also talk about the role of work in our lives, and how it can lead to more creativity and better ideas when we invest in other aspects of ourselves.

Some highlights we explore:

• How to cultivate different sides of ourselves to become more resilient in the face of change
• The risks of a work-centric existence and how it can detract from our ability to be the best versions of ourselves
• The benefits of investing in relationships, hobbies, and passions outside of work
• How to define what we want our relationship with work to be
• The value of trading money for time to increase our sense of fulfillment
• The importance of understanding the role work plays in our lives and how it can lead to more creativity and better ideas

Enjoy!

In this episode, we’re breaking down the myth of hustle culture, showing how the constant grind is actually sabotaging your success. Through my own experiences and insights from visionaries like Arianna Huffington, we reveal the hidden costs this toxic mindset has on your health and creativity, and share a powerful shift that can help you reach your true potential.

Some highlights we explore:

• The hidden costs of hustle culture on your mental and physical health.

• Why working harder isn’t the answer to achieving your goals.

• The radical shift in mindset that can unlock your true potential.

Enjoy!

In this episode, we explore how to guard your dreams and stay focused on what truly matters.

Whether we realize it or not, life happens.

Interruptions and obstacles crop up: an implosion in your side hustle disrupts your day job, or a big challenge at your day job necessitates skipping creative work for several weeks in a row. 3-6 months can go by and the next thing you know, you can’t remember when the last time you spent real time on your dreams.

If this sounds familiar, it might be time to review what’s important to you, In this episode I provide a 6-step plan to help you reset and re-focus.

Enjoy!

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Gagan Biyani, CEO and co-founder of Sprig, Udemy, and Maven, about the ins and outs of entrepreneurship and building a successful company. We delved into a variety of topics, ranging from the importance of having a big vision and painting a picture of the future, to the benefits of bootstrapping versus raising venture capital. We also explored the role of passion in the workplace and the challenges that come with scaling a company. Overall, it was a fascinating conversation that shed light on the highs and lows of being an entrepreneur and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.

Some topics discussed:

• The importance of having a big vision
• Painting a picture of the future
• Building momentum over time
• Bootstrapping versus raising venture capital
• The importance of passion in the work you do
• The process of scaling a company

Enjoy!

In this episode, we talk about some key lessons I learned from one of the epic failures of my life. It took many years to process, and if I’m totally honest, still stings from time to time.

But that’s the way failures go sometimes, leaving us a in trail of could have, should haves in their wake. There is good news though. They also can be the seeds of future success.

We all know that failure is inevitable for anything worth doing. So we cannot let fear of failure stop us from trying. Instead, we can armor ourselves with a few key strategies to plan for success, but learn from failure.

Enjoy!