Food School: Smarter Stronger Leaner.

The universal tension between seeking comfort and pursuing growth creates an internal tug-of-war we all experience. What if this conflict isn't a flaw, but a feature of our neurobiology designed to serve our triving?  Drawing from insights by neuroscientist Andrew Huberman and personal development pioneer Tony Robbins, this episode reveals how our brains are simultaneously wired for 2 opposing forces: homeostasis (maintaining balance and comfort) and reward-seeking (driving us toward exploration and growth). This biological reality explains why we can genuinely want two contradictory things at once - to stay comfortable and to challenge ourselves.  What's particularly fascinating is how different people are naturally calibrated on this spectrum.  Some individuals, like Richard Branson or Tony Robbins, appear wired for perpetual growth. For these "explorers," the answer to "When is it enough?" is simply "Never" - their fulfillment comes from the pursuit itself. Others naturally gravitate toward maintaining and improving existing conditions. Both tendencies serve important functions, and neither is inherently superior.  Understanding your natural tendencies can dramatically improve decision-making. If you recognize yourself as growth-oriented, you can stop questioning why comfortable situations never satisfy you for long. For those working with others - whether as managers, partners, or parents - this understanding helps position people according to their strengths rather than fighting their nature.  Share this episode with someone struggling with whether to stay comfortable or venture into something new.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Have you noticed how traditional carrots and sticks often fail to inspire true commitment?  There's a reason.  When leaders, parents, coaches, or anyone trying to motivate others relies solely on external rewards or threats, they might gain compliance but never excellence.  Through compelling research and practical examples, we uncover why questions that speak to identity ("Do you want to be a good helper?") dramatically outperform task-focused commands ("Can you clean your room?"), and how great leaders like Steve Jobs and innovative companies like Google apply these principles to bring out the best in people.  The heart of this episode offers 15 transformative questions, that you can use immediately to ignite motivation in yourself and others.  These aren't just theoretical concepts but practical tools for parents trying to inspire their children, leaders aiming to build high-performing teams, or individuals seeking deeper motivation for challenging personal goals.  We explore where in your life you feel most free to choose, what skills excite you to improve, and what legacy you want to leave in the hearts of those you influence.  By shifting from pushing to igniting internal fires, you'll discover how to create sustainable motivation that lasts long after external incentives fade away.     Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Have you ever wondered why you can spend hours playing video games but struggle to work on important life goals for even 30 minutes? What if you could harness that same engagement for your most meaningful pursuits?  In this captivating conversation with gamification pioneer Yu-Kai Chou, we uncover the hidden psychology that makes games so irresistible and learn how to apply these same principles to transform our work, habits, and lives.  Yu-Kai shares his remarkable journey from being a self-described "nerdy student" who spent thousands of hours leveling up game characters to becoming a world-renowned expert who has helped organizations like Google, Tesla, and the World Bank drive billions in business results through behavioral design.

You're stuck. You've been working hard, putting in the hours, reading the books, and yet... there's no meaningful progress toward your goals. What's going on?  The answer lies in a powerful concept from systems thinking that could completely transform how you approach any challenge.  Every system, whether it's your business, health journey, or relationship, has one critical bottleneck that's holding everything else back. This is your "number one constraint," and until you identify and address it specifically, all your other efforts might be wasted energy.  SO, how do you figure it out?  The episode introduces a powerful diagnostic question that cuts through confusion. The answer often points directly to your primary constraint. This simple framework works whether you're building a business, improving your fitness, or enhancing your relationships.  Most importantly, you'll understand why putting tremendous effort into solving the wrong problems leads nowhere, even when those efforts seem productive. By getting crystal clear about your destination and systematically identifying what's truly holding you back, you can finally make the progress that's eluded you.  Ready to break through what's really blocking your potential? Listen now, and discover how to focus your limited resources on what actually matters for your unique journey forward.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

What if the key to permanent fitness isn't found in extreme workouts or restrictive diets, but in understanding the psychology behind sustainable change?  After a decade coaching executives, entrepreneurs, and high-performers on health transformation, I've discovered that most people approach fitness backward, focusing on short-term tactics rather than building systems that last a lifetime.  This episode reveals the 7 evidence-based principles that determine whether you'll not only achieve your fitness goals but maintain them effortlessly for years to come.  We explore why exercise should never feel like punishment, how making your meals strategically "boring" can be your secret weapon, and why sleep may be the single most underrated factor in your transformation journey. You'll discover how to use behavioral science techniques like "if-then" planning to navigate challenging situations and learn why having specific strategies for your worst days matters more than what you do when motivation is high.  The truth is, in our current environment of endless choices and constant temptation, willpower alone is insufficient. By implementing these seven principles from environmental design to motivation clarity you'll build a comprehensive system that makes healthy choices automatic rather than exhausting.  Whether you're just starting your fitness journey or have been struggling with the same 10 pounds for years, these insights will transform how you approach health by working with your psychology instead of against it. The most sustainable changes don't feel like constant sacrifice but become integrated parts of a life you genuinely enjoy living.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

What happens when you stop trying to be good at everything and instead design your life around what you're naturally brilliant at?  Today we dive deep into the revolutionary concept of knowing your genius and strategically organizing your life around it to achieve success that only few can dream of - empowered by AI genius.  Breaking coffee plungers might seem like clumsiness, but what if these "flaws" are actually signposts pointing to your natural strengths? The traits that make us "elephants in china shops" in some contexts are often the very same qualities that make us exceptional in others. Those absorbed in deep thinking and pattern recognition might break a few things along the way, but they also see solutions that others miss.  This episode walks you through practical steps to identify your natural talents using proven assessment tools like DISC, CliftonStrengths, and the VIA Character Strengths Survey. We show you how to leverage modern AI tools to create personalized systems that both amplify your strengths and protect you from your blind spots. The goal isn't avoiding hard work, it's ensuring your efforts flow in the direction where you naturally excel.  Drawing inspiration from Yu-kai Chou's framework in "10 Hours of Play," we explore how extraordinary success comes from following your personal hero's journey.  Where are the doors wide open for your particular genius? How can you stop knocking on closed doors and instead find the places where your talents are valued like gold? When you operate in your zone of genius, hard work feels more like play as natural as swimming is for a fish.  Ready to transform your approach to success?  Take the strength assessments linked in our show notes, explore Cho's book, and use AI to build systems that support your natural brilliance.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Strategic focus might be the most underrated superpower in our full of opportunity world.  While most of us understand the importance of avoiding momentary distractions, few master what I call "macro focus" - the discipline of channeling your energy toward one strategic priority until meaningful progress is achieved.  Drawing from Alex Hormozi's insights on entrepreneurial success, this episode reveals a pattern I've observed across high performers: the biggest obstacle to extraordinary results isn't lack of ambition but ambition spread too thin.  How do you fix it? (Spoiler alert: we have an 8-step process)  When we try to pursue multiple offers, customer types, marketing channels, or goals simultaneously, we end up with mediocre outcomes across the board.  The alternative? Doing less AND achieving more.  This counterintuitive approach, concentrating your resources like a firehose rather than sprinkling them everywhere, transforms results in business, habit formation, and personal development.  I walk you through my evidence-based, 8-step process for developing this crucial skill.  The process draws from behavioral science, coaching methodologies, and real-world application.  It's not just conceptual, it's a practical system you can implement immediately to develop your macro focus muscle. By the end of this episode, you'll understand why limiting your focus isn't actually limiting at all but rather the leverage point that unlocks extraordinary achievement.  Ready to transform your approach to goals and stop leaking energy through scattered focus?  This episode provides the blueprint. Tune in!    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Ever feel like your life is a juggling act of career, fitness, relationships, and personal growth with too many balls in the air and not enough hands?  You're not alone. And this podcast is designed for you.  The struggle to make progress across multiple life domains simultaneously leaves many of us exhausted, overwhelmed, and on the fast track to burnout.  The solution isn't choosing between your goals or waiting for that mythical "perfect time" to focus on self-improvement. Instead, it's learning how to run more things on autopilot.  Our brain comes equipped with powerful automation software that, when properly leveraged, allows you to pursue multiple ambitions without depleting your mental resources.  Drawing from groundbreaking research by scientists at MIT, Stanford, and New York University, this episode unpacks 3 game-changing habit formation amplifiers that transform how you build automated behaviors.  You'll also discover why conscious decision-making drains your mental energy (did you know we make 200-300 food decisions daily?), and how shifting to automated habits can free your brain for truly creative and challenging work.  Ready to stop choosing between your goals and start making simultaneous progress across multiple domains?  Listen now, and learn how to transform your brain's natural automation capabilities into your secret weapon for sustainable, meaningful change. After implementing these strategies, you'll wonder how you ever managed without them!    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Ever wonder why your brilliant emails go unread or your fantastic ideas seem to fall on deaf ears?  The answer lies in cognitive budgeting - the brain's ruthless allocation of its limited energy resources.  Your brain is remarkably hungry, consuming over 20% of your daily energy despite being just 5% of your body weight. As we're bombarded with more information than ever before, our brains have become increasingly selective about what deserves attention. Like picky eaters at a buffet, we carefully choose where to spend our precious cognitive resources.  This episode dives into the fascinating science behind why people ignore most messages and how to ensure yours gets through.  I share practical insights on matching your communication to your audience's current interests and needs. You'll discover why timing is everything, why being clear beats being clever, and how to tailor your detail level to different types of audiences. Whether you're trying to improve your marketing emails, design better products and services, or simply get your family to listen to your ideas, understanding cognitive budgeting will transform your approach.  By respecting people's cognitive limitations and speaking to their actual interests, you dramatically increase your chances of not just being heard but actually influencing behavior.  Ready to make people actually pay attention to what you have to say?  Listen now, and share with someone who needs these insights.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

The technological landscape is transforming at breakneck speed, but what determines your success in this new world isn't your mastery of the latest AI tools - it's your AI-first mindset.  While everyone's focused on which AI applications to learn, we're neglecting something far more fundamental: the mental habits that will either propel us forward or anchor us in the past.  Your AI mindset, the questions you habitually ask, the stories you tell yourself, and the thoughts you cultivate, it shapes your preparedness for an AI-first future more than any technical skill. The key shift isn't learning to use AI faster; it's rethinking your relationship with these tools. Instead of outsourcing your thinking, the most powerful approach is using AI as a collaborator that amplifies your uniquely human capabilities.  Drawing from cutting-edge research, including MIT studies showing how passive AI use actually reduces brain activity, this episode provides a practical framework for effective AI collaboration. You'll discover how to preserve the creative, insightful aspects of your work while leveraging AI for refinement and enhancement.  Through real-world examples from writing, coaching, and content creation, you'll learn specific techniques for using AI to make your thinking sharper and your work better, not to replace your intellectual skills.  The most successful people in an AI-powered world won't be those who surrender their thinking to machines but those who become more intentional about how they think alongside their digital collaborators.  The future belongs to those who enhance their thinking with technology, not those who outsource it.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Ever wonder why it's so easy to fall into habits you know aren't good for you?   The answer lies in the Law of Least Effort, a fundamental principle governing not just human behavior but systems throughout nature.  The Law of Least Effort explains why we naturally choose "the bad thing", even when it doesn't serve our long-term goals.  This isn't a character flaw; it's hardwired into our biology.  The challenge?  We've created a world perfectly designed to exploit our lazy brain.  Food companies formulate products that override our satiety signals. Social media platforms engineer features that maximize scrolling time. Streaming services automatically play the next episode. In essence, we've built systems that keep our brain's addicted to the wrong thing.  I'll walk you through my 5-question framework for creating systems that work for you rather than against you. You'll learn practical strategies like commitment devices, accountability structures, and habit tracking that can help you overcome these challenges.  Whether you're struggling with phone addiction, mindless eating, or self-distracting productivity sabotage, these principles can help you design a life where doing the right thing becomes the path you take.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Why do we so often work incredibly hard without seeing the results we want?   The answer lies not in our effort, but in how we design that effort.  Drawing from an insightful MIT Sloan Management Review study on leadership development programs, this episode reveals 3 critical mistakes that prevent both organizations and individuals from achieving meaningful growth. These same principles explain why many of us struggle to reach personal and professional goals despite genuine commitment.  The first fatal flaw?... tune in to find out!  With this powerful framework you'll ensure your valuable time and energy create the future you truly desire, rather than simply keeping you busy with tasks that ultimately lead nowhere.  Are you just doing things, or are you designing efforts that add up to something meaningful?    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Feeling lost in the noise of a hyper-connected world? Too many things to do, to learn, to try, and seems like every place is taken and everything you want to do is done?  Actually, it's the best time to be uniquely you!  The secret to standing out in a noisy world isn't shouting louder, it's communicating clearer.  Be different.  This podcast is about HOW to actually do it.  What makes you uniquely you in a sea of sameness?  When everyone shares similar titles, credentials, or designations, how do you differentiate yourself?  This question plagues professionals across industries, from coaches and consultants to leaders and entrepreneurs. The answer lies not in what you call yourself, but in how you do things - your unique approach, methodology, and perspective.  Your uniqueness is born from your experiences, that beautiful tapestry of life events, challenges overcome, and lessons learned that no one else can precisely replicate. Just as two cups may serve the same function yet carry entirely different stories, two professionals sharing the same title can operate in completely different universes. The key is identifying and clearly articulating what sets you apart.  This episode offers 5 transformative questions to help you discover your edge.  Take out your journal, pause after each question, and discover what makes you not just another "generic white cup," but a distinctive offering that the right people will seek out with confidence. Because in a world where everything seems connected and available, the winners will be those who know how to communicate their difference clearly.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

We're obsessed with outcomes but rarely talk about the engine that creates them: consistent, tracked actions.  This transformative episode challenges the magical thinking around results. Every meaningful change, from fitness transformations to business growth to cultural shifts, follows the same fundamental principle.  Results aren't random; they're mathematical.  The episode explores how this principle applies across domains: business leaders tracking client conversations rather than just hoping for growth; cultural transformation requiring observable behavior changes; health improvements demanding sustainable daily practices. We examine how the "repeatable" aspect is often overlooked, causing initially successful changes to fail when they prove unsustainable. Most importantly, we discuss how to ensure your aspirations align with the level of reps you're willing to perform - Olympic medals require Olympic-level inputs.  Ready to transform wishful thinking into predictable results?  Tune in!    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Ever wonder why diets fail, business strategies collapse?  The answer lies not in the approach itself, but in how we think about implementing change.  Thinking in first principles, Elon Musk's favorite mental model that helped him build seemingly impossible businesses, transforms how we approach challenges across all domains.  When we stop following rules and shortcuts we don't understand and instead dig into the foundational elements of how things actually work, we create sustainable systems that adapt as our lives evolve.  Consider the difference between "thinking in diets" versus "thinking like a nutritionist."  The former might lead you to cut carbs without understanding their crucial role in brain function, hormone regulation, and overall health. The latter empowers you to make informed decisions based on your unique biology, lifestyle, and goals.  This same principle applies whether you're building a business, improving relationships, or transforming your fitness.  That's why personalized coaching works so effectively, it combines foundational principles with your specific context, strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations. Generic advice from the internet or social media can't account for your unique circumstances. Even advanced AI tools lack the lived experience necessary to fully grasp what implementation looks like in your particular life.  Ready to transform your thinking and create lasting change diet or business?  Tune in today! Grow into a better thinker.  Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Imagine organizations where relationships aren't just an afterthought but the foundation of everything. Where performance, innovation, and well-being flow naturally from meaningful human connections. That's the transformative vision Bryan shares in this profound conversation.Drawing from 30 years of talent management experience across five continents, Bryan reveals why focusing on relationships is the key to thriving workplaces.He makes a compelling case backed by science: "If anything you can die from, you die earlier if you're lonely." This biological imperative for connection extends directly to our work lives, where relationship quality determines everything from stress levels to problem-solving capacity.Bryan introduces his framework of four crucial organizational relationships: employee-employee, leader-employee, leader-leader, and company-employee.Each requires specific attention and nurturing to create environments where self-serving behaviors diminish and collaborative success flourishes. He explains why culture isn't something we directly fix but rather an outcome of our actions and relationships – similar to how winning emerges from proper execution, not from talking about winning.The conversation explores practical ways leaders can strengthen workplace relationships, from structured communication approaches that confirm understanding beyond simple head nods, to implementing the "relationships matter most" mindset inspired by John Gottman's research. Bryan offers immediately actionable advice: maintain a 5:1 ratio of positive to negative interactions, and always focus on commonality before differences.Perhaps most powerfully, Bryan emphasizes service as the cornerstone of thriving organizations. When we approach work with a mindset of serving our teams, our functions, and our organizations before ourselves, we create cultures where people find meaning, purpose, and fulfillment – and where business results naturally follow.Ready to transform your workplace culture through the power of relationships? isit Brian's website at bshtalentsolutions.com to learn more about his approach or purchase his book "Relationship Driven Cultures: Foster Unity, Enrich Self-Worth, and Build Resilience."___________________Bryan Miller BIO:Bryan brings nearly 30 years of talent management experience, serving as both head of talent management and a trusted consultant to small businesses, nonprofits, and Fortune 200 companies across five continents.  Known for his innovative, relationship-focused approach, he helps organizations strengthen cultures, align strategies, and drive performance from the front line to the C-suite.He has built talent functions from the ground up, led major change and project management initiatives, and consistently empowered teams through collaboration, development, and shared purpose.Bryan holds a BS in Business Administration from Penn State and an MS in Positive Organization Development and Change from Case Western Reserve. He has completed executive programs at Harvard and MIT and is certified in numerous assessments that guide his work in improving individual and team effectiveness.Bryan lives in Westerville, Ohio, with his wife, Sherri, and daughter, Hannah.Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Ever feel trapped in a cycle of perpetual busyness?  Wonder why, despite your best efforts, you never seem to have enough time to create better time management systems? The answer lies in what behavioral scientists call "the scarcity tunnel", a fascinating cognitive phenomenon that explains why the busier we get, the worse we become at managing our time.  When we're short on time, our brains enter a survival mode where only immediate tasks matter. Like a jar filling with pebbles, each small task occupies precious mental space, leaving no room for strategic thinking or system-building. This creates a cruel paradox: precisely when we most need innovative solutions to our time problems, we're least equipped to develop them.  This episode dives deep into the science of scarcity and its impact on decision-making.  You'll discover why even intelligent, capable people make shortsighted choices under pressure, and how this affects everything from financial decisions to daily time management. More importantly, you'll learn the counterintuitive step required to break free from this cycle, deliberately setting aside time for strategic thinking when you feel you have none to spare.  Your calendar doesn't lie; it reflects where your life is heading. By understanding the psychology behind time scarcity and implementing the practical strategies shared in this episode, you can escape the tunneling effect and build systems that create more meaning, impact, and fulfillment.  Don't just survive each day - design a life you'll be proud to look back on.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the showBrought to you by Angela Shurina Behavior-First Change Leadership & Culture Transformation ConsultantEXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Willpower is a lie that's been sold to us for generations.The truth?  Even Elon Musk doesn't wake up every morning relying on "discipline" to build rockets and trillion-dollar companies. Something far more powerful is at work.  Gamification expert Yu-kai Cho has identified 8 core drivers that move humans to action. This stuff make us want to do hard things consistently without the struggle of forcing ourselves through sheer willpower. When Yukai needed to write his book despite a packed schedule, he didn't set calendar reminders or try to "be more disciplined." Instead, he used used 8 core drivers to make doing irresistible.  The research is clear: willpower depletes quickly.  Even simple choices between cookies and carrots drain our mental resources. But by designing your environment, schedules, and processes to activate your unique motivational drivers, you transform difficult tasks from obligations into engaging challenges you actually want to pursue. This isn't just theory, it's the hidden mechanism behind every significant achievement and consistent behavior change.  Tune in - let's learn to push our buttons to win the game of life

Ever feel like you're constantly busy but not making real progress toward what matters most?  That's the frustration horizon planning solves.  Your time is the only truly finite resource you have, 24 hours a day that, once spent, you never get it back. While the demands and options competing for your time multiply endlessly.  Without a clear framework connecting your daily actions to your life's purpose, even the most productive days can leave you feeling empty.Introducing Horizon Planning Methodology.  Horizon planning creates that vital connection, working from your highest vision down to your daily calendar. Based on David Allen's Getting Things Done methodology but simplified for practical application, this system starts with your "North Star", identifying your purpose, principles, and the person you aspire to become. From there, it cascades through progressively shorter timeframes: your 3-5 year vision, 1-2 year goals, short-term projects, and finally, your daily actions.  The magic happens when these levels align.  Decision-making becomes faster and less stressful. Saying yes or no to opportunities feels clear rather than guilt-inducing. Most importantly, your limited time builds toward something meaningful instead of evaporating on endless urgent-but-unimportant tasks.  Ready to eliminate overwhelm and create more impact with your limited time?  Download our free horizon planning worksheet HERE and schedule your first planning session. Your future self, looking back on a life of purpose and meaningful achievement, will thank you.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

What truly determines success in creating lasting change? Contrary to popular belief, it's not motivation, willpower, or even your inherent abilities. The research reveals something far more fundamental: your ecosystem shapes your outcomes far more than your genetic makeup.  Your zipcode matters more than your genetic code.  How do we shape ecosystems that bring the best in us?  From Silicon Valley entrepreneurial ecosystems to Blue Zones where centenarians thrive. The social dimension of change proves particularly powerful, with studies showing proximity to high performers can boost your productivity by 15%, while nearby low performers can decrease it by 30%.  When designing for sustainable change – whether for yourself, your team, or your organization – we often focus on motivation and clear communication. But what happens when energy wanes, time disappears, and routines get disrupted? This episode introduces the critical concept of "guardrails" – systems designed specifically to prevent failure when people are at their worst.  Ready to transform how you approach change?  Discover why social accountability outperforms willpower, how to design ecosystems that naturally encourage positive behaviors, and practical strategies for creating guardrails that catch people when they fall. Whether you're a leader driving organizational transformation or someone committed to personal growth, these research-backed tools will fundamentally change how you approach the change process. Listen now to build systems that make change stick – even when the going gets tough.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Is this feeling of never catching up normal? What if nobody, not even that person you admire who seems to have everything together, has actually figured it all out?  This episode introduces a powerful 3-step Frustration List Technique that transforms how we handle the anxiety of unfinished tasks and unrealized potential.  Drawing from well-researched strategies in stress management, wellness, and productivity science, this approach creates immediate relief and sustainable progress.  The freedom comes not from completing everything, but from making peace with the unfinished nature of life while focusing your energy where it matters most.  Your brain doesn't need you to finish everything, it simply craves progress and attention on what's important. By implementing this technique, you'll experience more presence, joy, and fulfillment, even with a long list of things still undone.  Ready to stop feeling like you're always behind?  Listen now to discover how writing it down, sorting what matters, and taking small actions can transform your relationship with your to-do list and ultimately, with yourself.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Ever catch yourself frustrated by a lack of progress despite feeling like you're working hard? You're not alone. It's the most common reason for quitting ... early.  The disconnect between effort and results often comes down to a simple truth: we expect extraordinary outcomes from ordinary input.  Looking at myself in the gym mirror recently, I realized something powerful. I've achieved better physical results than most gym-goers not because I've obsessively chased fitness goals, but because I've consistently shown up for an hour every day.  This pattern holds true across all domains of achievement, whether building a business, advancing a career, or mastering a skill.  When my consulting clients express disappointment with their progress, I ask them one critical question: "Is it reasonable to expect the results you want from the work you've put in?"  Objectively?  There's a profound difference between subjective effort (how hard something feels) and objective effort (what's actually required).  To bridge this gap between action and achievement, I've developed a 3-step system that prioritizes repetitions done right over goal-fixation. More hard work won't get you there. More work with strategy will!  Ready to transform your approach to achievement?  Tune in!    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Ever wonder why thousands of people willingly sign up for grueling marathons and obstacle courses, yet struggle to maintain basic health habits?  Games!  The answer lies not in the level of difficulty, but in how our brains perceive challenges when they're framed as games rather than obligations.  In this fascinating exploration of gamification, we decode the psychological techniques that companies like Facebook use to keep you hooked, and how you can harness these same powerful tools to achieve your personal and professional goals. When you transform mundane tasks into compelling quests with clear win states, visible progress, and milestone celebrations, you tap into the brain's natural motivation systems.  The most disciplined people don't actually rely on discipline at all!  They craft personal missions that generate intrinsic motivation, making hard work feel like play.  Whether you're building healthier habits, developing professional skills, or pursuing ambitious personal goals, these gamification techniques can transform your approach to change.  Ready to level up your life?

Have you ever felt that nagging impatience when working toward an important goal? That almost physical itch wondering why success isn't happening faster?  You're not alone.  The truth is that transformative change rarely feels significant in the moment. While we expect to see daily improvement, real progress accumulates invisibly, only revealing itself after consistent effort over extended periods.  What do you do while waiting for progress to show up? How do you stay consistent? How do you know it's working?...  When we examine the journeys of those we admire—whether entrepreneurs, authors, or leaders—their success appears almost magical. What we don't see are the countless hours of imperceptible progress, the years of showing up when results weren't evident. Their "overnight" success typically represents decades of incremental improvement that went unnoticed by the world and sometimes even by themselves.  The answer?  Setting up better systems for tracking "the invisible" progress.  And that's not all!  Often, when pursuing goals that take decades, we decide to "entertain" ourselves with many other goals, just in case" this one doesn't work out.  Often, stealing that success we desire so much.  The episode also tackles another critical obstacle to achievement: our tendency to spread ourselves too thin. Much like trying to prepare a feast with only enough ingredients for one good meal, we dilute our impact when we distribute our finite resources—attention, energy, and time—across too many objectives. Research confirms that focusing on just one habit change dramatically increases success probability, while attempting multiple changes simultaneously often leads to complete failure. This explains why many people remain perpetually busy yet never achieve their most meaningful goals.  Ready to transform your approach to growth?  Listen now to discover practical strategies for tracking progress, maintaining motivation through invisible growth phases, and focusing your resources where they'll create the most significant impact.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  How to you practically become a better you?  You got your Enneagram, or results of StrengthsFinder, what's now? How do you develop new habits of being you... just different you?  This episode explores the disconnect between how we approach career development versus character development, and why that gap keeps us from becoming who we truly want to be.  What if the same systems that helped you excel professionally could transform your character?  Drawing from coaching experience with high-performing leaders, this episode unpacks a practical framework for developing traits like courage and discipline. You'll discover why most character development fails (hint: it's not your psychology) and how to create effective feedback loops that drive measurable growth.  You'll learn why focusing on just one character trait dramatically increases your chances of success. Rather than overwhelming yourself with multiple improvement areas, this targeted approach creates momentum that can transform how you show up in every aspect of life. Whether you're feeling stuck in patterns that limit your potential or simply ready to grow beyond your expertise into wisdom, this episode provides the roadmap for meaningful personal evolution.  Ready to finally make progress on becoming the person you aspire to be? Schedule that meeting with yourself today and work on your character development plan with this strategy.  Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Do you ever feel like you're stuck in a loop, making the same decisions day after day despite your best intentions to change?You're not alone.  In this episode we'll explore this fascinating fact how 75% of our daily thoughts are nearly identical to yesterday's, creating a cycle that keeps us living in our past rather than growing into our future.  Discover groundbreaking research that shows people with a close, friendship-like relationship with their future self make demonstrably better decisions today. Brain scans reveal that different neural pathways activate when we think about our future self as a friend rather than a stranger. This connection translates into healthier eating, better financial choices, and greater life satisfaction. I share insights from John Sonney's powerful "The Bridge" meditation technique that helps strengthen this crucial connection between your present and future selves.  The key to meaningful change, bringing our future selves into the present sooner lies in understanding the psychology of habit formation.  Whether you're struggling with health goals, productivity habits, or leadership development, these evidence-based techniques will help you bring your future self into your present reality much faster.  Ready to break free from recycling your past and start embodying who you're truly meant to become? Listen now and share this episode with someone who needs to hear this message.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

What if could upgrade performance at work, build deep relationships at home and in the workplace, heal loneliness everywhere by communicating 3 simple things?We're facing a crisis that's hiding in plain sight.It's not just loneliness or disengagement - it's what researcher Zach Mercurio calls a "mattering deficit." Despite our hyper-connected world, people simply don't feel seen, heard, and valued in their everyday interactions.The statistics are striking: one-third of people report persistent loneliness, 70% feel emotionally uninvested in their work, and half of students don't believe anyone would notice if they were absent. But Mercurio reveals that these aren't separate problems - they're symptoms of our collective failure to make each other feel significant.Why now?Since the early 2000s, digital communication has allowed us to bypass situations that once developed our human connection skills. We can respond to someone's bad news with a sad emoji rather than sitting with them, truly listening, and showing compassion. Zach Mercurio introduces a powerful framework - Notice, Affirm, Need - that transforms how we interact. Through compelling stories and research, Dr Mercurio demonstrates how small interactions can have profound impacts.A supervisor who keeps notes about team members' lives, a facilities manager who shows his team photos of people enjoying their work, or simply telling someone "if it wasn't for you..." can transform an ordinary exchange into one that fosters significance.Your next great act will happen in your next interaction. Don't overthink it. Instead of searching for the next big program or initiative, focus on optimizing how you notice, affirm, and need the people around you.Join the mattering movement and discover how making others feel significant creates a virtuous cycle that enriches everyone's lives.  _____________________Dr Zach Mercurio: https://www.zachmercurio.com/  Mattering Assessment for leaders and more book resources: https://www.zachmercurio.com/mattering/"The Power of Mattering" book equips leaders to unleash the hidden superpowers in each individual by addressing the fundamental human need to feel significant: https://www.zachmercurio.com/the-power-of-mattering/  Connect with Dr Zach Mercurio on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio/  More about Dr Zach Mercurio:  Dr Zach Mercurio is an author, researcher, and leadershipdevelopment facilitator specializing in purposeful leadership,mattering, and meaningful work. He advises leaders inorganizations worldwide on practices for building cultures thatpromote well-being, motivation, and performance.  Zach holds a Ph.D. in organizational learning, performance, andchange and serves as one of Simon Sinek's Optimist Instructors,teaching a top-rated course on creating mattering at work. Hisnew book is "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create aCulture of Significance." His previous book is "The InvisibleLeader: Transform Your Life, Work, and Organization with ThePower of Authentic Purpose.”  He's been featured in The Harvard Business Review, Forbes,Psychology TText Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  Ever noticed how hard it is to make healthy choices when you're feeling sick, tired, or overwhelmed?  That's exactly when self-leadership matters most - and precisely when it feels most challenging.  This episode reveals a research-backed emotional regulation technique that transforms how you care for yourself during difficult times.  Learn the powerful three-step process that helps you make better choices when your energy is low but the stakes are high. By shifting how you talk to yourself (hint: third-person self-talk is scientifically proven to enhance decision-making), you'll discover how to bridge the gap between what feels good momentarily and what truly serves your recovery and wellbeing.  The framework shared isn't just for sick days, it's a versatile approach for improving any self-care habit when motivation wanes. Whether you're struggling with fitness consistency, nutritional choices, sleep discipline, or boundary-setting, this episode provides practical tools to strengthen your self-leadership muscle.   What makes this approach particularly valuable is its simplicity and immediate applicability. You don't need special equipment, extensive preparation, or perfect conditions - just a willingness to engage with yourself differently.  Ready to become better at taking care of yourself, especially when you don't feel like it? Listen now and learn how to lead yourself toward the future you truly want to create. Your future self will thank you.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  What if the solution to your productivity struggles isn't found in the next AI tool, but in mastering something you already possess?   This episode explores a simple truth about personal growth and leadership: we've mistakenly believed that better tools, more knowledge, or the perfect system will finally help us get organized and reach our potential. Yet despite having access to all the knowledge we need to live better lives, most of us still struggle with consistency and follow-through.  Why is that?  The real operating system for success isn't external - it's internal.  Drawing from research on emotional regulation and insights from experts and entrepreneurs like Derek Sivers and Yu-kai Chou, we unpack how the most important human problem to "fix" isn't knowledge or access to tools - it's self-leadership.  At the heart of this episode is a practical five-step framework for emotional mastery to unlock self-leadership skills you need to get the most of all the tools and knowledge humanity has to offer - you'll discover how to cultivate your "emotional garden" to drive meaningful change.  Ready to move beyond the endless search for the perfect productivity system?  Join us to learn how emotional mastery creates the foundation for everything else in your life to work successfully.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  Every day we wake up to expanding to-do lists, countless open tabs, and the gnawing feeling that we're falling behind. Sound familiar?  It's not just you - it's the natural result of living in an accelerating world where AI, content, and expectations multiply faster than we can keep up.  But what if your frustration with "not getting things done" isn't a personal failure but simply the result of working against your brain's natural wiring?  In this episode we break down the behavioral science behind why willpower alone fails and how to deal with increasing forgetfulness :) - a practical four-step system will transform how you approach tasks and responsibilities.  Quit frustration - welcome to getting all the IMPORTANT done consistently and reliably.  Drawing from Stanford scientist BJ Fogg's groundbreaking behavior model (Behavior = Motivation + Ability + Prompt) and insights from neuroscience, We reveal why our brains function much like apps - without the right trigger, action simply doesn't happen. You'll discover why "what looks like resistance is often a lack of clarity" and how this insight can free you from the shame spiral of repeatedly forgetting important tasks.  Ready to transform your relationship with productivity and reclaim your sense of control? Listen now, and remember to share this episode with someone who might benefit from breaking free of overwhelm and building systems that actually work.  https://calendly.com/angelashurina/executive-momentum-360    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Have you ever wondered if your mind could actually heal your body?  Not through some mystical force, but through simple, deliberate attention?  Pain had become my unwelcome companion.  Despite no obvious injury, a nagging pain in my hip forced me to move differently, think differently, and ultimately feel different.  And through a very simple mindfulness practice I got rid of it.  The experience revealed a profound truth about our bodies: we're integrated ecosystems where everything connects.  As someone who battled frequent illness in younger years, I've witnessed firsthand how nervous system regulation dramatically improves immune function, energy levels, and even decision-making ability. When your nervous system remains in a state of tension, recovery processes never fully activate, cellular energy is wasted, and you're primed for short-term thinking rather than choices that benefit your long-term wellbeing.  Learning to control your nervous system might be the most important skill you can develop, with benefits ranging from pain elimination to enhanced immunity to better life choices.  This simple practice we talk about on this episode could transform your health and wellbeing more powerfully than any supplement or trendy wellness protocol. What might change in your life if you learned to truly listen to what your body is telling you?  Simple body scan protocol - on YouTube  Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  What if the secret to consistent healthy habits isn't iron discipline but simply the art of asking better questions?  This episode we dive into the science of strategic questioning that can completely bypass your willpower and naturally guide you toward choices that serve your highest goals.  I'm sharing my personal journey as someone with an intense sweet tooth (once consuming over a kilogram of chocolate in a single day!) - and I still manage to maintain fitness-magazine-ready physique 365/year. The magic lies not in superhuman restraint but in mastering specific questions at critical decision points.  The episode provides practical applications for both personal goals and leadership scenarios. When coaching others toward positive change, questions prove far more effective than direct instructions.  Whether you're struggling with health habits, professional goals, or simply making better daily choices, this episode offers a refreshingly different approach to change that feels natural rather than forced.  Try these questioning techniques today and experience how much easier change becomes when you engage your brain's natural programming instead of relying on willpower that's so short-lived.  Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:Have you ever felt frustrated by your inability to follow through on things you genuinely want to do?   That gap between intention and action isn't a character flaw - it's neurobiology at work.  What if you could reprogram your brain to automatically do the things that align with your goals and values?  In this episode, we dive deep into implementation intentions, a powerful psychological tool that creates neural pathways for better follow-through. This isn't about willpower or motivation; it's about understanding how your brain works and leveraging that knowledge to your advantage.  I share my personal struggles with consistency in podcast recording, language learning, client deliverables, and presentation preparation - and how implementation intentions transformed these areas of my life.  What makes this approach so effective is that it works with your brain's natural tendency toward efficiency rather than fighting against it.  What important action have you been struggling to take despite knowing its value?  Try implementation intentions and experience the difference between hoping you'll do better and actually programming yourself for success.  Share this episode with someone who could benefit from this research-backed approach to personal transformation, and let me know how it works for you!  Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Ever wondered why some people seem consistently productive and energized while others constantly bounce between burnout and recovery?   The answer isn't superhuman genetics or fancy supplements - it's understanding the fundamental science of energy management.  After working for 100+ consecutive days without a traditional day off, I've discovered something counterintuitive: sustainable productivity has nothing to do with motivation or willpower. It's about aligning with our biological design rather than fighting against it. Weekends are social constructs, but rest is biological. When you implement strategic, science-backed rest protocols throughout your day, you can maintain high energy levels without requiring complete disconnection.  This approach is validated by leaders like Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, who dedicates significant space in his productivity blog to health optimization. This isn't about pushing through fatigue—it's about preventing fatigue from accumulating in the first place.  Ready to transform how you work?  Book a free trial coaching session through this link in the show notes to discover the missing pieces in your energy optimization routine.  https://calendly.com/angelashurina/executive-momentum-360  Whether you're aiming to grow a business, advance your career, or simply live with more vitality, sustainable energy management is the foundation everything else builds upon.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

How do C-suite, busy leaders, entrepreneurs get work done and take care of themselves?  Do they get more hours in the day? Or some superhero secrets?  Strategic thinking.  It isn't just for boardrooms and business plans—it's the secret weapon for transforming every aspect of your life. When we apply the same thoughtful preparation to our health, relationships, and personal development that we do to our work projects, everything changes.  The power lies not in how well you squeeze more things into your calendar but in strategically choosing what deserves your attention and how to prepare for it well in advance. The most successful leaders apply this thinking across their entire lives, not just their professional responsibilities.  Because in the end, you'll never "find" more time—there will always be just 24 hours. The difference-maker is how strategically you invest those hours in what truly matters.  Tune in and learn from examples of my clients, myself and Sam Altman how to simplify strategy for achievement and life lived well.  Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  Behavior change is the foundation of all transformation, yet we often approach it backward. Instead of trying to change people's deeply-held beliefs or identities, the most effective approach starts with small, simple behavioral shifts that gradually reshape how people see themselves.And that changes what people choose to do or not do.Isn't this what sales are all about? An invitation to change?Drawing from behavioral science research and personal experience as a change consultant, this episode reveals why attempting to change people's minds directly often backfires by triggering resistance.    The key insight comes from understanding that our brains are wired to conserve energy - learn how the best salesmen and business owners use it when designing products.  This perspective shift has profound implications for anyone trying to create change. Instead of asking, "How can I persuade or motivate others?" start asking, "How can I make the desired behavior easier and simpler?" Stop expecting people to leap into new ways of thinking, and instead create pathways for them to tiptoe forward with minimal resistance.  Whether you're trying to transform yourself, your team, your organization, or sell more - this episode provides actionable tools that will start things moving.  Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  Feeling stuck? Lost your motivation? Questioning whether your efforts even matter?  You're not alone – and this episode might be exactly what you need to break through.  We all face moments when progress seems impossible and inaction feels like the only option.  Today, I'm sharing two game-changing mindset hacks that have transformed not only my approach to challenges but also helped countless clients overcome the biggest obstacle - resistance and inertia.  The Probability Mindset Hack and the Insanity Mindset Hack.  What makes these mindset shifts so powerful is their versatility.  Beyond personal growth, they function as persuasion tools in sales conversations, leadership challenges, and anywhere you need to inspire action. When someone is hesitating to make a decision, these simple questions create an undeniable logical framework that moves them from paralysis to progress.  Listen now, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear this message.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  We've all been there—vowing to completely transform our diet, fitness routine, and sleep habits all at once, only to abandon the whole plan days later.  What if the problem isn't your willpower but your approach?   In this eye-opening exploration of behavioral change, we explore why our brains actively resist massive lifestyle overhauls and how tiny, almost ridiculously small steps might be the secret to lasting transformation.  Drawing from the Japanese concept of Kaizen (continuous improvement through small steps), I explain the fascinating neuroscience behind why your brain treats big changes as threats.  The solution?  Actions so small they fly completely under your brain's radar.  Whether you're struggling with personal health goals or leading organizational change, this episode offers an evolutionary framework for making progress without triggering resistance.  You can change your life.  Just not one leap.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  A transformation director's honest feedback led to a pivotal realization that had been holding back my business for over a decade.  Despite years of successful client work and positive testimonials, I couldn't get to the next level.  Why is it?  I believe I finally got the answer.    The breakthrough came when I discovered Todd Brown's concept of the "Dominant Differentiator" – the idea that to stand out in a crowded marketplace, professionals need a clearly defined, named methodology that clients can understand and trust.     When you can articulate exactly how you deliver results through a defined process, you transform from being viewed as an interchangeable commodity to a premium solution provider.    This episode walks you through how to define your own unique methodology, why naming it matters, and how to communicate it effectively in your marketing and sales conversations. Whether you're a coach, consultant, or any type of professional or creative, developing this could be the missing piece that transforms your work into business results.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  What if I told you that laziness doesn't exist?  That what we think of as resistance—in ourselves and others—is actually just a lack of clarity?  This revelation turns conventional thinking about change on its head, offering a powerful new perspective for anyone struggling to make progress on important goals.  Drawing from classic change management wisdom and years of executive coaching experience, this episode introduces the transformative "3 P's of Clarity" framework that dissolves resistance by addressing its true causes.  Whether you're trying to adopt a personal habit or lead organizational transformation, these three elements make the difference between stagnation and momentum.  Through practical examples and actionable insights, you'll learn to diagnose which element is missing when you or others feel stuck.  The framework applies equally to personal goals like learning a language and organizational challenges like culture transformation. By trading judgment for curiosity about which "P" needs attention, you'll discover how clarity naturally generates momentum.  Ready to transform how you approach change?  Listen now, and never again mistake confusion for resistance.  Share this episode with someone who might benefit from knowing they're not lazy—they're just unclear about their next step toward meaningful change.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:Feeling uncomfortable with a new job, home, or relationship even though it's objectively better than what you had before?  You're not alone, and there's a neurological reason for it.  The Change Wired podcast tackles one of life's most universal experiences: transitions. Drawing from personal experience after moving to a new apartment, host Angela Shurina unpacks why our brains resist change at a biological level and how to make resistance smaller.   Armed with 15+ years of coaching experience, Angela shares a powerful 4-step framework anyone can use to navigate transitions more effectively, and lead others - family, team, organizations - through change smoother.    This episode offers particular value for leaders guiding teams through organizational changes. Understanding that resistance isn't personal but neurological can transform your approach to change management. The same principles that help us adapt to a new home apply to career shifts, relationship evolutions, and organizational transformations.  In a world where the pace of change continues to accelerate, mastering transitions isn't just helpful—it's essential. Whether you're facing a personal or professional transition, or leading others through change, this episode provides the blueprint for smoother, more productive adaptations.  Listen, apply, and share with someone who might benefit from understanding why new feels wrong, even when it's right.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  "We don't rise to the level of our goals. We fall to the level of our systems."   Ever heard this quote?  This profound truth, dating back to Stoic philosophy and championed by modern thinkers like James Clear, exposes why so many of us struggle to achieve our aspirations despite our best intentions.  The distinction is crucial: goals are simply desired outcomes – writing that book, building a business, achieving fitness – while systems are the daily routines and processes that actually lead us there. Without robust systems, our goals remain distant dreams rather than achievable realities.  On today's podcast we talk about the simplest yet most effective system to make sure you goals meet reality. It's the most powerful system-building tool at your disposal!  From those who consistently exercise for decades or maintain healthy eating habits to executives who avoid burnout - this pattern of success is universal. The world grows increasingly noisy and demanding, making deliberate system-building more essential than ever.   What systems are you using today?  Take the challenge: identify your key aspirations and create a system for each one based on today's episode learnings.  Remember, we don't magically rise to our goals – we fall to the level of our systems. Make yours exceptional!   Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  Your brain physically reshapes itself every single day—but are you giving it what it needs to evolve in the right direction? Neuroplasticity, your brain's remarkable ability to remodel itself in response to experiences, doesn't happen automatically. It requires specific conditions that many of us unknowingly sabotage through our daily habits.  Drawing from fascinating research with London taxi drivers whose brains physically grew larger in memory regions, this episode reveals the 4 lifestyle pillars that maximize your brain's ability to learn, adapt, and evolve. These aren't just theoretical concepts—they're practical strategies backed by neuroscience that can dramatically accelerate your personal growth.  Whether you're struggling with learning new job skills, seeking to break old habits, or simply wanting to optimize your cognitive performance, these four foundations form the cornerstone of effective brain change.  By implementing these science-backed strategies, you'll enhance not just what you know, but who you become.     Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Are you clear on what really matters—or just busy?  This episode is your permission to hit pause, zoom out, and get focused and what really matters to you.  Because clarity doesn't magically appear—it's built.   One question, one insight at a time.  I'll take you behind the scenes of what's worked (and what hasn't) for clients and leaders who finally broke free from overwhelm and started making progress that actually felt meaningful.  You'll hear:  

Why do some people see opportunity while others only see disaster—even when facing the exact same situation?  The difference isn't luck or circumstance; it's something entirely within your control: your focus.  In this insightful episode, you'll learn:  How your perspective shapes reality, explained through the powerful metaphors and neuroscience.  How "if only" thinking is sabotaging your potential, and what neuroscientist Andrew Huberman identifies as the most dangerous thought pattern holding you back.  A simple, transformative question that will help you to see more opportunity in the challenge you face now, eliminating anxiety and worry.  Ready to unlock a world of possibilities you've been overlooking?  Listen now to discover how changing your focus can transform your entire experience of life in a moment.  Press play and start seeing a different world all around you.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  "Research shows that exercise can be 1.5 more effective than therapy and medications combined for treating depression"    Your body and mind share an incredible connection—but how well are you actually using it every day?  Science now proves we have a built-in "remote control" for our nervous system, the capability of transforming our health, emotional balance, and decision-making.  But ... nobody ever taught us how to use it.  In this episode, you'll discover 3 tools for nervous system control:  A secret weapon against pain and powerful re-energizer—learn how a simple breathwork practice can shift your nervous system from chaos to calm, from drained to energized within moments.  An unconventional but powerful technique for better decisions—explore why talking to yourself in the second or third person (yes, seriously!) can revolutionize how you handle pressure in daily work-life.  Ready to unlock the ability to choose your physical and mental responses rather than react instinctively? Tune in to uncover the tools that give you immediate control over stress, decision-making, and overall wellness—without spending a dime.  Hit play, and take control of your mind-body connection today.  Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Navy SEALs—the world's most elite warriors—write and recite daily affirmations. A special kind of affirmations.  Why would they "waste" their time?  When these special operators face life-or-death situations, they need their best behaviors to activate automatically. Their solution? Programming their identity through powerful statements.  What are those statements? Tune in to find out!  University of Pennsylvania research reveals that repeating self-affirmations of this nature that Navy SEALs do physically rewires brain regions associated with identity, creating neural pathways that automatically generate desired behaviors.  This explains why willpower alone often fails us—we're fighting against our deeply held identity rather than changing it at the source.  What area of your life consistently frustrates you?  The solution might not be more information or motivation, but an identity upgrade. Try this Navy SEAL- approved technique will help you shift your automatic behaviors to begin shifting toward your goals without constant struggle.  Change happens in days, not years, when you rewire your identity. What will you program yourself to become?    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

What if the way you look at the world could change how you think?  Every week, I climb a mountain in Cape Town. At the top, everything shifts. The city looks smaller. My problems feel lighter. The higher I go, the bigger my perspective becomes. But here's the thing—you don't need a mountain to experience this shift.  Navy SEAL commander Rich Diviney, in his new book "Masters of Uncertainty" talks about how simply changing your gaze can rewire your brain. When you focus on a single object, your mind narrows in, locking onto details. But when you soften your gaze—seeing everything without focusing on anything—you activate a different part of your brain. Suddenly, you connect more dots, see patterns, and think beyond immediate obstacles.  This practice isn't just about problem-solving; it's about freedom. For me, true success isn't money or titles—it's living without compromise, expressing myself fully. Every decision I make comes down to one question: Does this expand or limit who I am?  Next time you feel stuck, pause. Shift your gaze. Step back. Look at the bigger picture. A new perspective might be all you need to keep going with a lighter heart.  Try it today. Then share this episode with someone who needs to see things differently.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE HEALTH AND OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH Change in days - not in years!

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  What if you could transform paralyzing uncertainty into decisive action?In this eye-opening exploration of mental focus, you'll learn how Navy SEALs navigate chaos and make critical decisions when stakes are highest.    Enter the DPO method (Duration-Pathway-Outcome), a neuroscience-backed approach that elite military operators use to create certainty in the most uncertain environments. By deliberately shifting your temporal horizon, you generate the confidence and motivation to move forward rather than freeze.  This uniquely human ability to shift focus across time—zooming in on immediate details, then zooming out to connect actions to larger goals—is what separates those who thrive from those merely surviving in today's accelerating change.  As unpredictability becomes our new normal, mastering this mental skill may be the most critical factor in your future success.  Ready to transform how you navigate uncertainty?  Try this Navy SEAL technique today and watch how this creates momentum toward your larger objectives.  Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE HEALTH AND OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH Change in days - not in years!

TUNE IN TO LEARN:  What separates those who achieve their goals from those who don't?  It's not luck or resources—it's mindset.  Let's dive deep into the psychology of achievement, revealing how to overcome many obstacles needed for your personal and business growth with great mental health feeling like a hero and having fun.  The hard truth?  You're not yet good enough for the dream you're pursuing—and that's exactly as it should be. Just as muscles don't develop by lifting lighter weights, your capacity for achievement doesn't expand by avoiding challenges. Every obstacle serves as the training ground where you develop the skills, resilience, and wisdom required for your next level.  Let's together unpack powerful mindset frames used by successful entrepreneurs and top achievers in different fields. These are universal ways of thinking of people who despite hard stuff win BIG.  The learning frame, the infinite game frame, the gains rather than gaps frame; the hero's journey frame, the evolution frame, the gratitude frame.  Most fascinating is how these psychological shifts actually change your biology—stress either strengthens or weakens your body depending entirely on your perception of challenges.  When you change your expectations into appreciation, the path to achievement—though still difficult—becomes infinitely more rewarding.    Text Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE HEALTH AND OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH Change in days - not in years!